BACKPACK COVER WITH ADJUSTABLE INTEGRAL PROTECTION SYSTEM FOR SHOULDER STRAPS AND STRAPS

Abstract

Backpack cover with an adjustable integral protection system for shoulder straps and webbing, characterized in that it comprises a main body (1) of waterproof material configured to cover the body of a backpack, at least one extension (2a - 2b) projecting from the main body (1) forming a horizontal extension, where said extension (2a) incorporates a rail (3) that allows the horizontal sliding of protective elements, a plurality of protective elements (4b) configured to slide along the rail (3), where each protective element (4b) comprises a fastening portion (4a) slidably attached to the rail (3), a wrap-around portion (4b) configured to surround a shoulder strap or webbing of the backpack by means of a fold, and closing means (5) located on the inner face of the wrap-around portion (4b), where the extension (2a - 2b) is configured to act as a protective element covering the rail (3) and the fastening portions (4a) of the protective elements (4b).

Description

BACKPACK COVER WITH ADJUSTABLE PROTECTION SYSTEM INTEGRAL FOR SUSPENDERS AND STRAPS TECHNICAL SECTOR The present invention relates to an improved backpack cover designed to protect backpacks from rain, fog, moisture, and snow. More specifically, it relates to an adjustable, all-around protection system that includes means for covering not only the main body of the backpack but also the shoulder straps and fastening straps, with the ability to adapt to different backpack models and brands. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Conventional backpack covers on the market generally consist of an oval-shaped, waterproof bag or cover that fits over the main body of the backpack. These devices have a significant drawback: they leave the shoulder straps, as well as the waist and chest straps, completely exposed to the elements. This problem is particularly relevant for hikers and mountaineers who don't use full-body ponchos, but instead prefer waterproof jackets that allow for greater freedom of movement. In rainy or snowy conditions, while the main body of the backpack remains dry thanks to a conventional rain cover, the shoulder straps and webbing become completely soaked, which is uncomfortable for the user and can cause premature wear and tear on these components. Additionally, different backpack models and brands vary in the exact position where the shoulder straps emerge from the backpack body, as well as in the placement of the waist and chest straps. This variability makes any protective solution with fixed positions unsuitable for universal use. EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION The present invention solves the aforementioned problems by means of a backpack cover comprising an adjustable integral protection system, characterized by: Main body: A bag or cover made of waterproof material (1) sized to cover the body of the backpack, similar to conventional backpack covers. Extension system with adjustable rails: The main body (1) comprises between two and four extensions (2a-2b) that project from the main body, forming horizontal extensions. Each extension (2a-2b) incorporates a rail (3), preferably made of a resistant textile webbing similar to that used in backpack straps, which allows the horizontal sliding of the shoulder strap protection elements. The extensions (2a-2b) are configured to act as "hood"-type protective elements that cover and protect the rail system from the elements, while also providing rain protection to the back of the backpack, which is in contact with the back, and allowing the free movement of the protective appendages to fit the handles of different backpack models and brands. Extension settings: - An upper extension (2a) on the upper part of the main body for the protection of the shoulder straps - Side extensions (2b) for waist strap protection - Optionally, an additional extension (2c) for the protection of chest or belly straps on backpacks that have this type of fastening. Protective elements for straps (handle covers): Multiple protective elements (4b) configured to slide along the rails (3). Each protective element (4b) comprises: - A fixing portion (4a) slidably attached to the rail (3), located on the outer face of the protective element that is exposed to the elements - A wrap-around portion (4b) extending from the fastening portion and configured to encircle the corresponding strap or band by means of a fold. - Fastening means (5) located on the inner face of the wrap-around portion. These fastening methods may be Velcro, buttons, clips, hooks, or any other fabric fastening system. Operation of the adjustable system: The protective elements (4b) can slide freely along the rail (3) until they are positioned at the exact point where each shoulder strap or webbing of the specific backpack being used emerges. Once positioned, when the locking means (5) are closed around the shoulder strap, the protective element (4b) adopts a tubular configuration that wraps around the strap and is fixed in position, without the need for additional locking systems on the rail. Closure system: The closure means (5) preferably consist of velcro strips or other closure systems arranged on the inner face of the protective elements (4b), allowing a watertight and adjustable closure that adapts to different strap thicknesses. ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION The invention provides the following advantages: 1. Universal adaptability: The sliding rail system allows the backpack cover to be adapted to any model or brand of backpack, regardless of the specific position of its straps and harnesses. 2. Comprehensive protection (100%) of the backpack, including shoulder straps and webbing that are normally exposed in conventional systems. 3. Protection of the adjustment system: The extensions act as protective "hood" type elements that keep the rails and fixing areas dry. 4. Ease of adjustment: The user can position each protective element in the exact location needed quickly and intuitively. 5. Improved user comfort, as the straps remain dry throughout the activity. In humid climates and on long treks where there wouldn't be enough drying time overnight, it ensures comfortable and dry use of the equipment for the duration of the activity. 6. Increased durability of backpack components by protecting them from moisture. 7. Versatility: Especially useful for users who prefer standalone raincoats instead of full-body ponchos. 8. Extended compatibility: A single backpack cover model can be used with multiple different backpacks. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1: Front view of the backpack cover showing the main body (1), the upper extension (2a) with its rail (3), and the sliding protective elements (4b) protecting the upper shoulder straps. The handle cover system at the top of the backpack, where the straps meet the body near the head, is shown. The extension extending from the main body of the backpack cover has the rail ends sewn to it on both sides, where the upper ends of the handle cover will be attached. This allows the upper ends to slide along the rail to adapt to the straps of different backpack models and sizes. Figure 2: Detailed view of a protective element (4) in the open position, showing the attachment portion (4a) to the rail, the wrapping portion (4b), and the Velcro system (5) on the inner face. Figure 2 shows the same system for backpacks with straps and adjustments at the bottom, which are positioned around the user's torso. The system is the same: the rail (3), adaptable to different strap thicknesses and heights, runs along the extensions (2b). This type of supplementary straps is more common in mountaineering and hiking equipment, although the backpack cover model will be made for both types: for backpacks with this system as well as for those with only shoulder straps. Figure 3: Side view of the system showing how the extension (2) acts as a protective "hood" over the rail (3) and the fastening elements. Figure 3 shows the side view of the protection system. We can see that the extension (2a) protects the anchoring system and visually confirms the adaptation of the protective appendage (4a) to the backpack handle. Figure 4: View of the complete backpack cover installed on a backpack, showing the different extensions (2a, 2b) and the comprehensive protection of the system. Figure 4 represents the entire body of the backpack and its appendages covered by the backpack cover with integrated shoulder strap covers. The attachments to cover the chest straps (2c) are supplementary and would be added with an anchoring system such as buttons to the shoulder strap covers (4b) if necessary. PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION In the preferred embodiment, the backpack cover is made of waterproof textile material (for example, nylon or polyester with a waterproof coating). The main body (1) has a configuration similar to conventional backpack covers, with a shape adapted to the volume of the backpack. Extension and rail system: Several extensions (2) emerge from the main body (1) in the form of horizontal and vertical projections of waterproof material. The upper extension (2a) projects vertically from the top of the main body. The side extensions (2b) project horizontally from the sides of the main body at the level of the waist straps. Optionally, an additional extension (2c) for chest straps may be included. Each extension (2a-2b) incorporates a rail (3) on its underside. The rail (3) is preferably made of a durable textile webbing, similar to the webbing used on backpack straps, which is attached to the extension by stitching at its ends or along one of its edges, creating a guide system along which the protective elements can slide. Alternatively, the rail may be made of: - A tunnel formed by textile material sewn to the extension that allows the passage of a tape or strap. - A semi-rigid guide fixed to the extension - Any other system that allows the controlled horizontal sliding of the protective elements Protective elements (handle covers): Multiple protective elements (4b), preferably between 2 and 6 units distributed across the different extensions according to the specific backpack's requirements. Each protective element (4b) is made of the same waterproof material as the main body. The fixing portion (4a) of each protective element is attached to the rail (3) in such a way as to allow free sliding along the entire length of the rail. This attachment is made on the outer face of the protective element, i.e., the face exposed to rain. In this way, the extension (2a-2b) acts as a "hood" that protects both the rail and the fixing points. The wrapping portion (4b) extends vertically from the fixing portion (4a) with a length sufficient to completely wrap around the corresponding strap or belt. On the inner face of the wrapping portion (4b) there is a first strip of velcro (5) and in the closure area there is the complementary strip, so that when the wrapping portion is folded around the strap, both strips fit together providing an adjustable and watertight closure. Preferred extension settings: The upper extension (2a) is preferably long enough to span the entire width of the top of the backpack, allowing the shoulder strap protectors to be positioned anywhere along that width. The extensions follow standard shoulder strap dimensions, being neither too wide nor too narrow, but offering slightly more flexibility to accommodate thicker backpacks without being excessively loose. If the strap is narrower, there will simply be a slight increase in flexibility, but the protection will remain the same. The side extensions (2b) are positioned at the usual height of the waist straps on hiking backpacks, with sufficient length to accommodate the varying positions of these straps on different models. The width of the handle follows the same guidelines as the top extensions. The optional extension (2c) is positioned midway between the shoulder straps and the waist straps, typically at the user's chest height. HOW TO USE 1. The user places the main body (1) of the backpack cover over the backpack body in the conventional way 2. For each strap or shoulder strap of the backpack, the user identifies the exact position where it emerges from the body of the backpack. 3. The user slides the corresponding protective element (4b) along the rail (3) until it is aligned with the position of the tie rod 4. The user wraps the wrapping portion (4b) of the protective element around the strap 5. The user closes the Velcro or other fastening system (5) on the inside, adjusting the tension according to the thickness of the strap. At this point, the protective element takes on a tubular shape and is fixed in position. 6. The procedure is repeated for all suspenders and straps that you wish to protect. 7. The backpack is completely protected from rain and snow, with all adjustment elements protected under the "hood"-type extensions. REALIZATION VARIANTS Variant 1 - Additional locking system: Although the basic system does not require additional locking mechanisms on the rail thanks to the fixation provided by the Velcro closure, optionally complementary locking systems can be included on the rail, such as clips, snap buttons, or fixing cords. Variant 2 - Telescopic rails: The rails can be telescopic or adjustable in length to fit backpacks of different sizes. Variant 3 - Protective elements of variable length: The protective elements can be manufactured in different lengths to fit braces of different dimensions. Variant 4 - Modular system: The protective elements can be detached from the rail using quick-release systems, allowing the user to configure the exact number of protective elements needed according to the specific backpack.

Claims

1. Backpack cover with an adjustable integral protection system for shoulder straps and webbing, characterized in that it comprises a main body (1) of waterproof material configured to cover the body of a backpack, at least one extension (2a - 2b) projecting from the main body (1) forming a horizontal extension, wherein said extension (2a) incorporates a rail (3) that allows the horizontal sliding of protective elements, a plurality of protective elements (4b) configured to slide along the rail (3), wherein each protective element (4b) comprises a fastening portion (4a) slidably attached to the rail (3), a wrap-around portion (4b) configured to surround a shoulder strap or webbing of the backpack by means of a fold, and closing means (5) located on the inner face of the wrap-around portion (4b),where the extension (2a - 2b) is configured to act as a protective element covering the rail (3) and the fixing portions (4a) of the protective elements (4b).

2. Backpack cover according to claim 1, characterized in that the closure means (5) comprise Velcro strips arranged on the inner face of the enveloping portion of the protective elements (4b).

3. Backpack cover according to claim 2, characterized in that the closure means (5) comprise a first Velcro strip arranged in a first area of ​​the inner face of the enveloping portion and a second complementary Velcro strip arranged in a second area of ​​the inner face, such that both strips engage when the enveloping portion is folded around the shoulder strap or belt.

4. Backpack cover according to any of the preceding claims,characterized in that it comprises an upper extension (2a) projecting from the top of the main body (1) for the protection of shoulder straps, side extensions (2b) projecting from the sides of the main body (1) for the protection of waist straps, and optionally an additional extension (2c) for the protection of chest or belly straps.

5. Backpack cover according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fixing portion (4a) of each protective element (4b) is attached to the rail (3) on the outer face of the protective element that is exposed to the elements, such that the extension (2a - 2b) protects said attachment by acting as a hood.

6. Backpack cover according to any of the preceding claims,characterized in that the rail (3) consists of a resistant textile strip attached to the extension (2a - 2b) that allows the protective elements (4b) to slide.

7. Backpack cover according to claim 6, characterized in that the resistant textile strip is similar to the straps used on backpacks.

8. Backpack cover according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the rail (3) consists of a tunnel formed by textile material sewn to the extension (2a - 2b) that allows the protective elements (4b) to pass through and slide.

9. Backpack cover according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the rail (3) consists of a semi-rigid guide attached to the extension (2a - 2b).

10. Backpack cover according to any of the preceding claims,characterized in that the protective elements (4b) are fixed in position along the rail (3) by the closing action of the fastening means (5) around the shoulder strap or webbing, adopting a tubular configuration.

11. Backpack cover according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that each extension (2a - 2b) has a sufficient length to allow the positioning of the protective elements (4b) at any point along the width or height of the backpack where the shoulder straps or webbing may emerge.

12. Backpack cover according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the extensions (2a - 2b) are rigidly attached to the main body (1) by stitching, forming an integral piece.

13. Backpack cover according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the waterproof material is a textile fabric with a waterproof coating.

14. Backpack cover according to claim 13,characterized in that the waterproof material is nylon or polyester with a waterproof coating.

15. Backpack cover according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises between 2 and 6 protective elements (4b) distributed in the different extensions (2a - 2b).

16. Backpack cover according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the protective elements (4b) are detachable from the rail (3) by means of quick-release fastening systems.