| |
| United States Patent
|
6,832,712 |
| Turner |
December 21, 2004 |
Waterproof personal storage system
Abstract
A wearable waterproof storage system for protecting personal
accessories, such as mobile phones and wallets, from water damage
and/or the threat of theft. The system consists of a waterproof
pouch with a screw-on cap, sewn into a wearable outer protective
cover. Illustrated embodiments include a belted waist-pack and an
article of clothing consisting of short trousers. The system is
constructed from water-resistant and waterproof materials.
| Inventors: |
Turner; Thomas James
(Phoenix, AZ) |
| Appl. No.:
|
10/679,133 |
| Filed: |
October 2, 2003 |
| Current U.S.
Class: |
224/660 ;
224/230; 224/235; 224/662 |
| Current
International Class: |
A45C
11/22 (20060101); A45C 11/00 (20060101); A45F
3/00 (20060101); A45F 003/00 () |
| Field of
Search: |
224/230,235,236,660,662 2/67 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent
Documents
Primary Examiner: Elkins; Gary E.
Attorney, Agent or Firm:
Stoneman; Martin L.
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application is related to and claims priority from prior
provisional applications Ser. No. 60/417,680, filed Oct. 9, 2002,
entitled "WATERPROOF PERSONAL STORAGE SYSTEM", and Ser. No.
60/495,337, filed Aug. 14, 2003, entitled "WATERPROOF PERSONAL
STORAGE SYSTEM", the contents of which are incorporated herein by
this reference and are not admitted to be prior art with respect to
the present invention by the mention in this cross-reference
section.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A liquid-submersible personal storage system, suitable for
waterproof storage of personal accessories adjacent a body of a
wearer, comprising, in combination: a) at least one
liquid-impermeable case structured and arranged to encase the
personal accessories; b) wherein said at least one
liquid-impermeable case comprises i) at least one pouch, structured
and arranged to contain the personal accessories, said at least one
pouch comprising at least one access aperture structured and
arranged to permit access to the personal accessories enclosable
within said case, and ii) at least one cap structured and arranged
to removably seal said at least one access aperture; c) at least one
support structured and arranged to support said at least one
liquid-impermeable case adjacent the body of the wearer; d) wherein
said at least one support is structured and arranged so that, when
said at least one support is worn by the wearer, i) said at least
one cap is essentially parallel with an adjacent body portion of the
wearer, and ii) said at least one flexible pouch is in use
deformable between said at least one cap and the adjacent body
portion of the wearer; and e) wherein said at least one access
aperture is structured and arranged to permit passage of at least
one thumb and at least one finger of an adult hand.
2. The system according to claim 1 wherein: a) said at least one
access aperture comprises at least one screw-threadable engagement;
and b) said at least one cap comprises at least one screw-threadable
engager structured and arranged to threadably engage said at least
one screw-threadable engagement.
3. The system according to claim 2 wherein said at least one cap
comprises at least one grip assister structured and arranged to
assist the wearer in gripping said at least one cap.
4. The system according to claim 3 wherein: a) said at least one cap
further comprises at least one retainer structured and arranged to
retain said at least one cap to said at least one liquid-impermeable
case; and b) said at least one retainer is structured and arranged
to permit removal of said at least one cap and sealing of said at
least one access aperture by said at least one cap.
5. The system according to claim 4 wherein said at least one pouch
comprises at least one flexibly-conforming material structured and
arranged to flexibly conform to the adjacent body portion of the
wearer.
6. The system according to claim 5 wherein said at least one
flexibly-conforming material comprises at least one moldable
polymer.
7. The system according to claim 6 wherein said at least one
moldable polymer comprises blow-moldable low-density polyethelene.
8. The system according to claim 5 wherein said at least one support
comprises at least one cushion structured and arranged to cushion
the adjacent body portion of the wearer from the personal
accessories containable within said at least one liquid-impermeable
case.
9. The system according to claim 5 wherein said at least one support
comprises at least one protector structured and arranged to protect
said at least one access aperture.
10. The system according to claim 9 wherein said at least one
protector comprises at least one cover flap.
11. The system according to claim 10 wherein said at least one cover
flap comprises at least one fastener structured and arranged to
removably fasten said at least one protector in a position over said
at least one access aperture.
12. The system according to claim 11 wherein said at least one
fastener comprises at least one hook-and-loop fastener.
13. The system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one
support comprises at least one water-resistant outer cover
structured and arranged to substantially cover said at least one
liquid-impermeable case.
14. The system according to claim 13 wherein said at least one
liquid-impermeable case is permanently fixed to said at least one
support.
15. The system according to claim 13 wherein said at least one outer
cover comprises at least one neoprene sleeve.
16. The system according to claim 13 wherein said at least one outer
cover comprises at least one article of clothing.
17. The system according to claim 16 wherein said at least one
article of clothing comprises short trousers.
18. The system according to claim 13 wherein said at least one
support comprises at least one belt structured and arranged to
permit said at least one support to be maintained adjacent the body
of the wearer.
19. The system according to claim 18 wherein said at least one belt
comprises: a) at least one clasp retainer structured and arranged to
clasp and removably retain said at least one belt adjacent the body
of the wearer; and b) at least one length adjuster structured and
arranged to adjust the length of said at least one belt.
20. The system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one
support comprises at least one weep opening.
21. The system according to claim 15 wherein said at least one
neoprene sleeve comprises at least one weep opening structured and
arranged to allow fluid to pass through said at least one weep
opening.
22. The system according to claim 17 wherein said at least one
support comprises at least one weep opening.
23. A liquid-submersible personal storage system suitable for
waterproof storage adjacent the body of a wearer comprising in
combination: a) at least one personal accessory; b) at least one
liquid-impermeable case encasing said at least one personal
accessory; wherein said at least one liquid-impermeable case
comprises i) at least one pouch containing said at least one
personal accessory, said at least one pouch comprising at least one
access aperture permitting access to said at least one personal
accessory encased within said case, and ii) at least one cap to
removably seal said at least one access aperture; c) at least one
support to support said at least one liquid-impermeable case
adjacent the body of the wearer; d) wherein said at least one
support is arranged so that, when said at least one support is worn,
i) said at least one cap is essentially parallel with an adjacent
body portion of the wearer, and ii) at least one flexible pouch is
in use deformable between said at least one cap and the adjacent
body portion of the wearer; and e) wherein said at least one access
aperture permits passage of at least one thumb and at least one
finger of an adult hand.
24. The system according to claim 23 wherein said at least one
support comprises at least one weep opening structured and arranged
to allow fluid to pass through said at least one weep opening.
Description
BACKGROUND
This invention relates to providing a wearable waterproof storage
system for protecting personal accessories, such as mobile phones
and wallets, from water damage and/or the threat of theft.
Tourists, vacationers and aquatic-sport participants frequently find
themselves in a public aquatic environment, such as a beach or pool,
without an effective method for protecting personal valuables and
accessories. Persons who are swimming or wading in water and desire
to protect personal items, such as a mobile-phone, wallet, passport
and the like from water damage or theft, have few options. Often,
the person must choose between leaving the valuables in a dry area
while engaging in the water activity or, alternatively, holding the
valuables in a position that prevents or limits water damage. A
relatively compact, easily accessible and waterproof personal
storage system that can be worn about the body would permit safe and
convenient storage of personal items, while the wearer is engaged in
aquatic activities.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION
A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide
a system for the protected storage of personal accessories by
providing waterproof encasement about the stored personal
accessories. It is a further object and feature of the present
invention to provide such a system that may be securely worn about
the body of a person. It is another object and feature of the
present invention to provide such a system that provides easy access
to the protected personal accessories by utilizing a simple screw-on
cap arrangement. It is another object and feature of the present
invention to provide such a system that positions the screw-on cap
assembly away from the body of the wearer.
It is another object and feature of the present invention to provide
such a system that provides access of sufficient size to permit
passage of a thumb and at least one finger into the interior of the
waterproof encasement. It is another object and feature of the
present invention to provide such a system that may be worn around
the waist of a person. It is yet another object and feature of the
present invention to provide such a system that may be worn as an
article of clothing, such as a pair of shorts. It is yet another
object and feature of the present invention to provide such a system
that provides weep openings to allow fluid to drain from support
areas around the perimeter of the waterproof encasement.
A further object and feature of the present invention is to provide
such a system that is efficient, inexpensive and handy. Other
objects and features of this invention will become apparent with
reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a liquid-submersible personal storage system suitable for
waterproof storage of personal accessories adjacent the body of a
wearer, comprising in combination: at least one liquid-impermeable
case, structured and arranged to encase the personal accessories;
wherein such at least one liquid-impermeable case comprises: at
least one pouch, structured and arranged to contain the personal
accessories, such at least one pouch comprising at least one access
aperture structured and arranged to permit access to the personal
accessories enclosed within such case; and at least one cap
structured and arranged to removably seal such at least one access
aperture; at least one support structured and arranged to support
such at least one liquid-impermeable case adjacent the body of the
wearer; wherein such at least one support is structured and arranged
so that, when worn: such at least one cap is essentially parallel
with an adjacent body portion of the wearer; and at least one
flexible pouch is deformable, in use, between such at least one cap
and the adjacent body portion of the wearer; and wherein such at
least one access aperture permits passage of at least one thumb and
at least one finger of an adult hand.
Moreover, it provides such a system wherein: such at least one
access aperture comprises at least one screw-threadable engagement;
and such at least one cap comprises at least one screw-threadable
engager structured and arranged to threadably engage such at least
one access aperture. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein
such at least one cap comprises at least one grip assister
structured and arranged to assist the wearer in gripping such at
least one cap. Also, it provides such a system wherein: such at
least one cap further comprises at least one retainer structured and
arranged to retain such at least one cap to such at least one
liquid-impermeable case; and such at least one retainer is
structured and arranged to permit removal and sealing of such at
least one access aperture by such at least one cap.
In addition, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
pouch comprises at least one flexibly-conforming material structured
and arranged to flexibly conform to the adjacent body portion of the
wearer. And, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
flexibly-conforming material comprises at least one moldable
polymer. Further, it provides such a system wherein such at least
one moldable polymer comprises blow-moldable, low-density
polyethylene. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such
at least one support comprises at least one cushion structured and
arranged to cushion the adjacent body portion of the wearer from the
personal accessories contained within such at least one
liquid-impermeable case.
Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
support comprises at least one protector structured and arranged to
protect such at least one access aperture. Additionally, it provides
such a system wherein such at least one protector comprises at least
one cover flap. Also, it provides such a system wherein such at
least one cover flap comprises at least one fastener structured and
arranged to removably fasten such at least one protector in a
position over such at least one access aperture. In addition, it
provides such a system wherein such at least one fastener comprises
at least one hook-and-loop fastener.
Furthermore, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
support comprises a water-resistant outer cover structured and
arranged to substantially cover such at least one liquid-impermeable
case. And, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
liquid-impermeable case is permanently fixed to such at least one
support. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein such at
least one outer cover comprises at least one neoprene sleeve.
Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
outer cover comprises at least one article of clothing. Even
further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one article
of clothing comprises short trousers. Even further, it provides such
a system wherein such at least one support comprises at least one
belt structured and arranged to permit such at least one support to
be maintained adjacent the body of the wearer. Moreover, it provides
such a system wherein such at least one belt comprises: at least one
clasp retainer structured and arranged to clasp and removably retain
such at least one belt adjacent the body of the wearer; and at least
one length adjuster structured and arranged to adjust the length of
such at least one belt.
It also provides such a system wherein said at least one support
comprises at least one weep opening structured and arranged to allow
fluid to pass through said at least one weep opening. And, it
provides such a system wherein said at least one support comprises
at least one weep opening. It also provides such a system wherein
said at least one neoprene sleeve comprises at least one weep
opening structured and arranged to allow fluid to pass through said
at least one weep opening.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a liquid-submersible personal storage system
suitable for waterproof storage adjacent the body of a wearer,
comprising in combination: at least one personal accessory; at least
one liquid-impermeable case, to encase such at least one personal
accessory; wherein such at least one liquid-impermeable case
comprises: at least one pouch, to contain such at least one personal
accessory, such at least one pouch comprising at least one access
aperture arranged to permit access to such at least one personal
accessory enclosed within such case; and at least one cap to
removably seal such at least one access aperture; at least one
support arranged to support such at least one liquid-impermeable
case adjacent the body of the wearer; wherein such at least one
support is arranged so that, when worn: such at least one cap is
essentially parallel with an adjacent body portion of the wearer;
and at least one flexible pouch is deformable, in use, between such
at least one cap and the adjacent body portion of the wearer; and
wherein such at least one access aperture permits passage of at
least one thumb and at least one finger of an adult hand. It also
provides such a system wherein said at least one support comprises
at least one weep opening structured and arranged to allow fluid to
pass through said at least one weep opening.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a perspective view, partially in section, of a
waterproof personal storage system worn about the waist of a
submerged swimmer according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
FIG. 2 shows a front perspective view of the waterproof personal
storage system according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 shows a top view of the waterproof personal storage system of
FIG. 2.
FIG. 4 shows a diagrammatic view, partially in section, illustrating
a user accessing personal accessories stored within the waterproof
personal storage system of FIG. 2.
FIG. 5 shows a rear perspective view of the waterproof personal
storage system of FIG. 2.
FIG. 6 shows a sectional view through section 6--6 of FIG. 5.
FIG. 7 shows a front view, partially in section, of the waterproof
pouch retained within the waterproof personal storage system
according to the preferred embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 8 shows a sectional view through section 8--8 of FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of a compact waterproof personal
storage system according to another preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
FIG. 10 shows a perspective view, partially in section, of the
compact waterproof personal storage system of FIG. 9.
FIG. 11 shows a sectional view through section 11--11 of FIG. 9.
FIG. 12 shows a perspective view, partially in section, of a
waterproof personal storage system as an article of clothing worn by
a submerged swimmer according to another preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
FIG. 13 shows a detailed perspective view of the waterproof personal
storage system of FIG. 12.
FIG. 14 shows a sectional view through section 14--14 of FIG. 13.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODE AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF
THE INVENTION
FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic sectional view of waterproof personal
storage system 100 worn about the waist of a submerged swimmer 102,
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In the
embodiment of FIG. 1, waterproof personal storage system 100 is
preferably configured as a belt-supported waist pack 104, as shown.
Preferably, waterproof personal storage system 100 provides a means
for protected storage of personal accessories by providing secure
waterproof encasement about stored personal accessories, as shown.
Preferably, all materials used in the construction of waterproof
personal storage system 100 are waterproof and/or water-resistant to
permit prolonged and repeated submersion in water 110, as shown.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of waterproof personal storage system
100, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 1. Preferably,
the waist pack embodiment of waterproof personal storage system 100
consists of a sheath-like protective outer covering 106 (herein
embodying at least one support structured and arranged to support
such at least one liquid-impermeable case adjacent the body of the
wearer) that supports and encloses a flexible inner waterproof pouch
108, as shown. Inner waterproof pouch 108 preferably contains an
access aperture 120 through which the user may insert and remove
stored personal accessories 122 (as further described in FIG. 4
below). Removable screw-threaded cap 124 (herein embodying at least
one cap structured and arranged to removably seal such at least one
access aperture) is preferably used to seal access aperture 120 to
block the passage of water into inner waterproof pouch 108, as
shown. Preferably, protective cover flap 118 (herein embodying
wherein such at least one support comprises at least one protector
structured and arranged to protect such at least one access
aperture) is sewn or otherwise attached to protective outer covering
106 to cover and protect screw-threaded cap 124, as shown. One or
more fasteners, preferably hook-and-loop fasteners 126, are used to
securely position and retain protective cover flap 118 in place over
access aperture 120, as shown. Upon reading this specification those
of skill in the art will understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, such as availability of materials, user preference,
etc., other fasteners, such as snaps, zippers, buttons, magnets,
etc., may suffice.
Preferably sewn or otherwise attached to protective outer covering
106 is waist belt 112, which includes two-part connector 114 and
belt length adjuster 116, as shown. Under appropriate circumstances,
additional exterior detailing (such as indicia-containing banding
128) may be applied to waist belt 112, as shown. Preferably, weep
holes 133 may be provided in protective outer covering 106 to permit
fluid drainage.
FIG. 3 is a top view of waterproof personal storage system 100,
according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2. Preferably, waist
pack 104 has a compact body-conforming shape, as shown. In all
embodiments of the present invention, access to waist pack 104
through protective outer covering 106 is preferably oriented away
from the body of the wearer with screw-threaded cap 124 positioned
approximately parallel to the body of the wearer (herein embodying
wherein such at least one support is structured and arranged so
that, when worn: such at least one cap is essentially parallel with
an adjacent body portion of the wearer). Protective outer covering
106 is preferably constructed from a waterproof or water-resistant
material, preferably having both flexible and elastic qualities,
most preferably consisting of a closed-cell synthetic rubber, such
as neoprene. To provide a durable and attractive finish, a neoprene
"wet-suit"-type material, having a soft nylon fabric facing bonded
onto the outer surface of the water-impermeable neoprene material,
is highly preferred. Preferably, neoprene having a thickness of
about 1.5 mm to 2 mm is preferred, however, under appropriate
circumstances, a thickness of up to about 6 mm may preferably be
used if greater protection of inner waterproof pouch 108 is
required. Outer covering 106 is preferably assembled by sewing
multiple panels of neoprene fabric together using over-lock seam 129
(wherein two panels of neoprene are sewn along the edge as the two
panels are held together with both outside surfaces in contact).
Over-lock seam stitching results in a raised seam on the inside of
the outer cover, with no stitching visible on the outside. Under
appropriate circumstances, other methods of assembling protective
outer covering 106 may suffice, for example, blind-stitching,
flat-lock seaming, seam-taping and/or bonding may be used to form
seam 129. Under appropriate circumstances, other waterproof and
water-resistant outer covering materials or combinations of
materials may be used in the construction of protective outer
covering 106 (not limited to rubber, nylon, polyester,
polymer-coated and "Gortex" fabrics).
Furthermore, it is preferred that the protective outer covering 106
comprises weep openings 133 (embodying herein wherein said at least
one support comprises at least one weep opening) to allow water to
pass out of the protective outer covering 106 and to provide a means
for allowing the inner portion of the protective outer covering 106
to dry out (a weep opening being defined as an opening to permit the
giving off or leaking of fluid). Most preferably, multiple weep
openings 133 are provided in each waist pack 104, as shown.
Preferably, the weep openings 133 are circular, preferably about
one-eighth to about one-quarter inch in diameter. Preferably, a
small grommet having the desired central opening is utilized for the
weep opening and is preferably sewn into the outer covering 106.
When the outer covering is neoprene, the weep opening 133 is
preferably a small grommet opening (embodying herein wherein said at
least one neoprene sleeve comprises at least one weep opening
structured and arranged to allow fluid to pass through said at least
one weep opening). Upon reading this specification it will be
understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that under
appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as economics,
user preference, durability, etc., other methods of providing a weep
opening, such as sewn fabric openings, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic sectional view of user 130 accessing
personal accessories 122 stored within waterproof personal storage
system 100, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
Preferably, the inside diameter of access aperture 120 is sized to
permit user 130 to comfortably pass a thumb and at least one finger
into the interior portion 132 of inner waterproof pouch 108 and to
permit a wide range of personal accessories 122 to be passed through
the opening, as shown (herein embodying wherein such at least one
access aperture permits passage of at least one thumb and at least
one finger of an adult hand). It has been determined through
practical experimentation that an access aperture 120 having an
inside diameter of about 31/2" is preferable for most applications.
It should be noted that, under appropriate circumstances, access
aperture 120 may be of a greater or smaller diameter size to
accommodate specific storage applications (ranging from a minimum
diameter of about 2" to a maximum of about 6").
FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of waterproof personal storage
system 100, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
Preferably, back panel 132 of waist pack 104 consists of protective
outer covering 106 over resilient padding 134 (herein embodying
wherein such at least one support comprises at least one cushion
structured and arranged to cushion the adjacent body portion of the
wearer from the personal accessories contained within such at least
one liquid-impermeable case), as shown. Waist belt 112 is preferably
constructed from flat nylon webbing having a preferred width of
about 1", as shown. Preferably, two-part connector 114 is similar in
construction to side release buckle assembly No. P006, produced by
Universal Mercantile Exchange, Inc., of Baldwin Park, Calif., U.S.A.
Waist belt 112 is preferably attached to protective outer covering
106 by machine sewing along seams 136, as shown. Upon reading this
specification it will be understood by those of skill in the art
that under appropriate circumstances, such as user preference,
availability of materials, economics, etc., other means of fastening
waist pack 104 about the waist of the user, such as snaps, ties,
buckles, hook and loop fasteners, etc., may suffice. For example,
the ends of protective outer covering 106 may be formed into
belt-like extensions removably connected by hook-and-loop fasteners.
FIG. 6 is the sectional view 6--6 of FIG. 2 and FIG. 5 illustrating
a preferred interior configuration of waterproof personal storage
system 100, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2.
Preferably, inner waterproof pouch 108 is securely and permanently
positioned within protective outer covering 106; however, protective
outer covering 106 and inner waterproof pouch 108 are preferably
separate elements, without mechanical or similar bonding between the
two elements. This preferred arrangement permits a high degree of
flexibility and movement within inner waterproof pouch 108 (thereby
creating a versatile holder for containing a wide range of
accessories and further allowing inner waterproof pouch 108 to be
deformable, in use, between screw-threaded cap 124 and the adjacent
body portion of the wearer). Under appropriate circumstances, outer
covering 106 may be bonded to inner waterproof pouch 108, along the
perimeter of cover opening 138, to create a double protective layer
of waterproof material.
Preferably, access aperture 120 is positioned within a shallow,
integrally-formed, indentation 140 within inner waterproof pouch
108, permitting the top of screw-threaded cap 124 to reside
approximately flush with the outer face of inner waterproof pouch
108, as shown. As illustrated in FIG. 6, a pre-formed, resilient pad
142 is positioned between inner waterproof pouch 108 and back panel
132 to cushion the body of the wearer from accessories contained
within inner waterproof pouch 108. Preferably, resilient pad 142
consists of closed-cell molded foam, such as gas-blown neoprene.
Under appropriate circumstances, it may be preferred to omit
resilient pad 142 to provide, for example, a less costly or
especially compact waterproof personal storage system 100. FIG. 6
further illustrates protective cover flap 118 in the preferred
closed and secure position over access aperture 120 and
screw-threaded cap 124. The preferred applications of hook-and-loop
fasteners 126, sewn or otherwise attached to the perimeter of cover
opening 138 and the underside of protective cover flap 118, is also
shown.
FIG. 7 is a front view of a typical inner waterproof pouch 108 as
retained within waterproof personal storage system 100, according to
the preferred embodiments of the present invention. Preferably,
inner waterproof pouch 108 (herein embodying at least one
liquid-impermeable case, structured and arranged to encase the
personal accessories; wherein such at least one liquid-impermeable
case comprises: at least one pouch, structured and arranged to
contain the personal accessories, such at least one pouch comprising
at least one access aperture structured and arranged to permit
access to the personal accessories enclosed within such case) and is
a seamless design consisting of a flexible, liquid-impermeable,
blow-moldable, polymeric material, such as low-density polyethylene
(PE-LD). The preferred use of a blow-molding process in the
production of inner waterproof pouch 108 produces a seamless and
highly waterproof product, greatly reducing the potential of seam
failure and leakage. Under appropriate circumstances, other
materials (such as rubber, silicone rubber, or neoprene) and other
construction methods (such as thermal seaming) may be used to
accommodate such factors as production costs and/or ease of
assembly. Although the preferred inner waterproof pouch 108 is
illustrated as an essentially rectilinear molding, it should be
noted that the shape and size of inner waterproof pouch 108 is not
limited, and may be of alternate configuration, to meet the
requirements of specific storage applications.
Grip-assisting recesses 162 are preferably formed into the top of
screw-threaded cap 124 to assist the user in rotating the assembly
on and off, as shown.
FIG. 8 is the sectional view 8--8 of FIG.7 illustrating the
configuration of screw-threaded cap 124 of inner waterproof pouch
108, according to the embodiment of FIG. 7. Preferably,
screw-threaded cap 124 is constructed of a medium to high-density
moldable plastic polymer, such as polypropylene, and preferably
includes a set of integral threads 160, as shown. A grip-assisting
recess 162 (herein embodying wherein such at least one cap comprises
at least one grip assister structured and arranged to assist the
wearer in gripping such at least one cap) is preferably formed into
the top of screw-threaded cap 124 to assist the user in rotating the
assembly on and off, as shown. Preferably, lanyard 144 is used to
retain screw-threaded cap 124 to inner waterproof pouch 108, as
shown (herein embodying wherein such at least one cap further
comprises at least one retainer structured and arranged to retain
such at least one cap to such at least one liquid-impermeable case;
and such at least one retainer is structured and arranged to permit
removal and sealing of such at least one access aperture by such at
least one cap). Lanyard 144 preferably consists of a molded flexible
polymer element having a first end 146 secured to apertured tab 148
of inner waterproof pouch 108, and a second end 150 rotatably
attached to screw-threaded cap 124, as shown. Ring-shaped element
152 of second end 150 is preferably positioned within continuous
receiving channel 154 circumferentially formed within the perimeter
sidewall 156 of screw-threaded cap 124, as shown. Preferably,
lanyard 144 firmly retains screw-threaded cap 124 to inner
waterproof pouch 108 while permitting the user to freely rotate
screw-threaded cap 124 without risk of detachment and loss. Under
appropriate circumstances, other methods of retaining screw-threaded
cap 124 may be utilized (e.g., lanyard cord attachment to protective
outer covering 106). Preferably, access aperture 120 consists of
neck portion 158 having a complementary set of integral threads 161,
as shown (herein embodying such at least one access aperture
comprises at least one screw-threadable engagement; and such at
least one cap comprises at least one screw-threadable engager
structured and arranged to threadably engage such at least one
access aperture).
Under appropriate circumstances, various adjoining sections of neck
portion 158 and indentation 140 may have a greater wall thickness to
provide increased stiffness, thereby permitting portions of inner
waterproof pouch 108 to remain in its preferred shape, as shown.
Preferably, screw-threaded cap 124 is self-sealing when engaged on
neck portion 158. However, under appropriate circumstances, other
sealing means (such as, for example, applied gaskets) may be used to
increase water-resistance.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of compact waterproof personal storage
system 170, according to another preferred embodiment of the present
invention. Preferably, compact waterproof personal storage system
170 consists of a sheath-like protective outer covering 106
supporting and enclosing a flexible to semi-rigid inner waterproof
pouch 172 (herein embodying at least one liquid-impermeable case,
structured and arranged to encase the personal accessories; wherein
such at least one liquid-impermeable case comprises: at least one
pouch, structured and arranged to contain the personal accessories,
such at least one pouch comprising at least one access aperture
structured and arranged to permit access to the personal accessories
enclosed within such case), as shown. Preferably, inner waterproof
pouch 172 is approximately circular in shape, having an outer
diameter of about 5" to 61/2", and a thickness of 11/2" to 21/2", as
shown. Inner waterproof pouch 172 is preferably formed with an
access aperture 174 (not shown, covered by screw-threaded cap 176)
through which the user may insert and remove stored personal
accessories 122 (not shown). An attached screw-threaded cap 176
(herein embodying at least one cap structured and arranged to
removably seal such at least one access aperture), having a
preferred diameter of 4" to 51/2", is preferably constructed from
plastic and is used to block the passage of water through access
aperture 174. Upon reading this specification it will be understood
by those of skill in the art that under appropriate circumstances,
such as cost, ease of fabrication and storage application, other
sizes and configurations, such as square, triangular, waist-sized,
thigh-sized, backpack-sized, etc., may suffice.
Preferably sewn or otherwise attached to protective outer covering
106 is waist belt 178, which further comprises two-part connector
180 and belt length adjuster 182, as shown. As in the prior
embodiments of FIG. 1 through FIG. 7, protective outer covering 106
is preferably constructed from a "wet-suit"-type neoprene, however,
under appropriate circumstances, other materials, including nylon,
cotton, polyester, and rubber, may suffice. Preferably, waist belt
178 consists of narrow flat nylon webbing or cording, as shown.
Preferably, screw-threaded cap 176 is connected to inner waterproof
pouch 172 by lanyard 144, as described in the previous embodiment.
Grip-assisting indentations 184 are preferably formed into the outer
surface of screw-threaded cap 176, as shown.
Furthermore, as described above, it is preferred that the protective
outer covering 106 comprises weep openings 133 to allow water to
pass out of the protective outer covering 106 and to provide a means
for allowing the inner portion of the protective outer covering 106
to dry out. Most preferably, multiple weep openings 133 are
provided, as shown. Preferably, the weep openings 133 are circular,
preferably about one-eighth to about one-quarter inch in diameter.
Preferably, a small grommet having the desired central opening is
utilized for the weep opening and is preferably sewn into the outer
covering 106. Upon reading this specification it will be understood
by those of skill in the art that under appropriate circumstances,
such as economics, user preference, durability, etc., other methods
of providing a weep opening, such as sewn fabric openings, unbound
holes, etc., may suffice.
FIG. 10 is a partial perspective view of compact waterproof personal
storage system 170, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG. 9.
Grip-assisting indentations 184 are preferably formed into the outer
surface of screw-threaded cap 176, as shown. Screw-threaded cap 176
may, under appropriate circumstances, be constructed of thin,
lightweight metal or metallic-finished plastic. Injection or
blow-molding using a polymer, such as polyethylene, is preferably
used to form inner waterproof pouch 172. Preferably, inner
waterproof pouch 172 is securely sewn within protective outer
covering 106 (herein embodying at least one support structured and
arranged to support such at least one liquid-impermeable case
adjacent the body of the wearer), as shown. Inner waterproof pouch
172 preferably includes a raised annular neck portion 186 around
access aperture 174 having a set of integrally-formed receiving
threads 188, as shown.
FIG. 11 is the sectional view 11--11 of FIG. 9, illustrating a
preferred interior configuration of compact waterproof personal
storage system 170, according to the embodiment of FIG. 9.
Preferably, a pre-formed, resilient pad 142 is positioned between
inner waterproof pouch 172 and back panel 190 to cushion the body of
the wearer, as shown. Resilient pad 142 may also be used to permit
compact waterproof personal storage system 170 to retain a desired
shape, as shown. Under appropriate circumstances, other
shape-retaining assemblies (such as, for example, molded plastic
inserts) may be used to maintain the preferred shape of compact
waterproof personal storage system 170.
FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic sectional view of a waterproof personal
storage system 200 worn as an article of clothing 202 by a submerged
swimmer 102, according to a highly preferred embodiment of the
present invention. In the embodiment of FIG. 12, the preferred
article of clothing 202 is a pair of short trousers 204. It should
be noted that the scope of the present invention will include other
clothing embodiments that are preferably adapted to be worn by a
person. Further, the term "article of clothing" may preferably
include other outer body covering arrangements not limited to
bathing suits, wet/dry thermal suits, pants, shirts, vests and the
like.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of clothing-type waterproof personal
storage system 200, according to the preferred embodiment of FIG.
12. Preferably, short trousers 204 consist of a wearable outer cover
206 (herein embodying at least one support structured and arranged
to support such at least one liquid-impermeable case adjacent the
body of the wearer) consisting of one or more waterproof or
water-resistant fabrics that may preferably include cotton, nylon,
polyester or neoprene. Preferably, short trousers 204 are
constructed with pocket 208, adapted to support and retain inner
waterproof pouch 108 (not shown, contained by pocket 208) adjacent
to the body of the wearer, as shown. Preferably, pocket 208 permits
access to inner waterproof pouch 108 through pocket opening 210, as
shown. Unless otherwise noted, inner waterproof pouch 108 is
preferably identical in material and construction to the illustrated
inner waterproof pouch 108 of FIG. 1 through FIG. 8. Clothing-type
waterproof personal storage system 200 preferably includes
protective cover flap 212 (herein embodying wherein such at least
one support comprises at least one protector structured and arranged
to protect such at least one access aperture), sewn or otherwise
attached to wearable outer cover 206, as shown. Preferably,
protective cover flap 212 covers and protects screw-threaded cap 124
and access aperture 120, as shown. One or more fasteners, preferably
hook-and-loop fasteners 126, are used to securely position and
retain protective cover flap 212 in place over screw-threaded cap
124 and access aperture 120, as shown. Grip-assisting indentations
162 are preferably formed into the outer surface of screw-threaded
cap 124, as shown. Also, weep holes 133 may be provided in wearable
outer cover 206, as shown.
FIG. 14 is the sectional view 14--14 of FIG. 13, illustrating a
preferred configuration of the wearable waterproof personal storage
system 200, according to the embodiment of FIG. 12. Access to inner
waterproof pouch 108 through wearable outer cover 206 is preferably
oriented away from the body of the wearer with screw-threaded cap
124 positioned approximately parallel to the body of the wearer
(herein embodying wherein such at least one support is structured
and arranged so that, when worn: such at least one cap is
essentially parallel with an adjacent body portion of the wearer).
Preferably, inner waterproof pouch 108 is securely and permanently
positioned within pocket 208, however, pocket 208 and inner
waterproof pouch 108 are preferably separate elements without
inter-attachment or bonding. This preferred arrangement permits a
high degree of flexibility and movement within inner waterproof
pouch 108 (thereby creating a versatile container for holding a wide
range of accessories). Under appropriate circumstances, pocket 208
may be bonded to inner waterproof pouch 108, along the perimeter of
pocket opening 210, to create a double protective layer of
waterproof material. Preferably, a resilient pad 142 is positioned
between inner waterproof pouch 108 and wearable inner cover 214 to
protect the body of the wearer from accessories contained within
inner waterproof pouch 108. Preferably, resilient pad 142 consists
of closed-cell molded foam, such as gas-blown neoprene. Under
appropriate circumstances, it may be preferred to omit resilient pad
142 to provide, for example, a less costly or especially lightweight
embodiment of short trousers 204. It is noted that the wearable
outer cover 206 preferably comprises weep openings 133 and lanyard
144 as described above and as shown herein.
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments
of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of
this invention includes such modifications as diverse shapes and
sizes and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims
as read in connection with the above specification.
Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and
the below claims.
* * * * *
|
|