Wearable foldout map and document holder

Abstract

A Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder (the “invention”) for storing a map or reference document while engaged in activities, such as skiing. The invention provides the user a way to reference a map without removing gloves and without risking loss of the user's wallet, keys and other items normally stowed in jacket pockets. The invention comprises a base member and an enclosure flap that are pivotally attached. The enclosure flap may be selectively secured to the base member to form an enclosure. A folding document carrier is attached to the enclosure flap and base member. When folded, the folding document carrier is contained within the enclosure formed between the enclosure flap and base member. When opened, the user may reference a map through the transparent upper surface of the folding document carrier. Adjustable straps allow the user to wear the invention or attach it to their personal effects.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]Not applicable.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]Not applicable.REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISC APPENDIX[0003]Not applicable.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0004]1. Field of the Invention[0005]For skiers and other persons who enjoy outdoor recreation during winter months, consulting a map is often problematic. For skiers in particular, to access a trail map, they must put down their ski poles, remove gloves, and carefully remove the map from a pocket to avoid dropping keys or other personal effects in the snow. Checking a map while riding a chairlift creates the risk that a dropped glove will be forever lost. In severe weather, exposing flesh creates the risk of frostbite. Similar problems arise while hiking in cold or inclement weather and during other outdoor recreation activities. There are existing inventions (described below) that seek to address the pr...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The Wearable Foldout Map and Document Holder is a device that allows skiers to carry a map or other reference document comfortably while skiing and easily reference it without removing it from the invention. The invention includes a display pouch that can display a lift ticket or other document, and a folding document carrier that can be attached to the base member or enclosure flap. The invention is made of lightweight, flexible material and can be easily strapped onto the user's forearm or personal effects. The invention provides a solution to the inconvenience and risks associated with carrying a map or document while skiing. It also allows for easy access to the map or document without exposing the contents of a pocket or backpack."

Problems solved by technology

While many of the above-referenced inventions provide convenient pockets for viewing a map or other document, none fully address the fact that typical ski area trail maps and similar reference documents are often quite large relative to the length and circumference of the average person's arm.

To allow the user to view most or all of the terrain depicted on many trail maps, existing inventions must be large and awkward to wear.

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