Adaptable bag system for professional mobility

Abstract

A modular adaptable bag system comprises a core bag 1 and an outer bag 3 removably attachable to the core bag via a docking frame (45, figure 11) mounted on the core bag. The docking frame including t

Description

FIELD OFTHE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention pertains to a modular bag system designed to enhance versatility, adaptability, and customization in luggage solutions. This system caters to various users, particularly professionals, aiming to address challenges related to conventional bag organisation, attachment, and adaptability to diverse travel and commuting needs. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the realm of luggage systems, conventional designs often lack the required adaptability to effectively organize belongings for varying daily and travel needs of businesspeople.

[0003] Professionals exhibit a propensity for transitioning between various bag types and designs to meet their diverse requirements. These preferences may entail using backpacks for ergonomic weight distribution or handbags for a more refined appearance. Handbags often feature additional straps for conversion into shoulder or crossbody bags. However, the storage of these unused straps within the bag or elsewhere consumes valuable storage space.

[0004] Furthermore, both handbags and shoulder bags, when used for extended periods of times, may give discomfort to users due to unbalanced weight distribution of the bag on the body of the user.

[0005] Moreover, individuals aiming to travel light face the dilemma of carrying multiple bags or attachments for varied settings, such as office visits, business meetings, or outings. This practice contradicts the essence of traveling light and proves space-consuming.

[0006] In the post-pandemic lifestyle, professionals seek enhanced agility in carrying their business essentials while maintaining a professional appearance. There's a growing demand for a practical, versatile, yet sophisticated solution that caters to the evolving needs of professionals in daily activities and travel. This demand manifests in the necessity for a more elegant and adaptable means of carrying business necessities. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] In general, the modular bag system features a core bag module serving as the central unit, equipped with attachment points enabling the secure attachment of various removable components. These components include a removable outer bag module, which can be affixed to the bag's exterior, a multi-part carry strap adaptable to diverse configurations, and a removable multimodal insert designed for interior storage organisation as well as standalone use.

[0008] Moreover, the system includes an X-shaped element affixed to the bag shell's rear, facilitating mounting atop luggage handles for seamless transport.

[0009] Secure attachment mechanisms, such as symmetrically positioned straps and fixture elements, ensure reliable attachment of components to the core bag module.

[0010] The outer bag module features asymmetrical design elements and straps with locking mechanisms, engaging the docking frame on the core bag module for secure attachment and customization options.

[0011] The multi-part carry strap's segmented structure allows for multiple carry modes, securely docking at specific points on the core bag module.

[0012] This modular bag system offers a comprehensive and customizable solution for professionals and travellers seeking adaptability, organization, and convenience in their luggage management needs.

[0013] The above aspects, advantages and features are of representative embodiments only. It should be understood that they are not to be considered limitations on the invention as defined by the claims. Additional features and advantages of the invention will become apparent in the following description, from the drawings, and from the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OFTHE DRAWINGS

[0014] The invention is illustrated by way of example and not limitation and the figures of the accompanying drawings in which like referenced denote like or corresponding parts and in which:

[0015] Figure 1 is a front view of the adaptable bag system in handbag configuration.

[0016] Figure 2 is the rear view of the adaptable bag system.

[0017] Figure 3 shows the removable multimodal insert from three perspectives: top view in the open configuration, front view in the closed configuration, side view in the closed configuration.

[0018] Figure 4 shows the rear view of the adaptable bag system when in backpack configuration.

[0019] Figure 5 shows the rear view of the adaptable bag system when in shoulder bag configuration.

[0020] Figure 6 shows the rear view of the adaptable bag system when mounted on top of a luggage.

[0021] Figure 7 shows the front and rear view of the outer bag module.

[0022] Figure 8 shows the rear view of the outer bag module, with straps and connecting mechanism which serve to affix the outer bag module to the docking frame on the front of the core bag module. These are shown in their closed and open state.

[0023] Figure 9 shows the rear view of the outer bag module when a segment of the multi-part carry strap is affixed to the outer bag module to convert it into a standalone purse.

[0024] Figure 10 shows the rear view of the outer bag module when a segment of the multi-part carry strap is affixed to the outer bag module to convert it into an upright standalone purse.

[0025] Figure 11 shows the front and rear view of the core bag module. On the front view, the docking frame for the outer bag module is shown. Additionally, on the front view, the attachment mechanism for affixing the multi-part carry strap is shown. On the rear view, the attachment mechanism for the multi-part carry strap is shown.

[0026] Figure 12 shows the front and the rear view of the core bag module with the affixed multi-part carry strap.

[0027] Figure 13 shows the rear view of the adaptable bag system with the luggage handle gripping mechanism in the form of an X element, covering a portion of the attachment mechanism for the multi-part carry strap.

[0028] Figure 14 shows alternative solutions for the luggage handle gripping mechanism.

[0029] Figure 15 shows front and rear view of the removable multimodal insert when in open configuration.

[0030] Figure 16 shows front, rear and side view of the removable multimodal insert when in closed configuration.

[0031] Figure 16 shows the multi-part carry strap. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS AND THE DRAWINGS

[0032] As shown in Figure 1 and 2, the adaptable bag system preferably includes at least one core bag module 1, at least one multi-part carry strap 2, and at least one removable outer bag module 3, with the X element 4 serving as a luggage handle gripping mechanism as shown on Figure 6.

[0033] On Figure 3, the removable multimodal insert 5 is shown in its open configuration. Further, Figure 3 shows the front view of the removable multimodal insert 5 in its closed configuration 5 and its side view 7.

[0034] The multi-part carry strap 2 is formed of three segments. The longest segment 8 has two sets of eyelets 12 and 27. The second longest segment 10 has one set of eyelets 11. The shortest segment 9 has one set of eyelets 46. The eyelets are holes in the multi-part carry strap 2 intended to enable removably affixing the multi-part carry strap 2 to the metal studs 20, 44, 26 and 27 in order to provide a minimum of following configurations: handbag, backpack and shoulder bag.

[0035] The multi-part carry strap 2 can be removed from the core bag module 1 in its entirety.

[0036] The adaptable bag system is shown in its backpack configuration on Figure 3, where the multi-part strap 2 is positioned to allow symmetrical alignment so as to serve as backpack straps.

[0037] When in handbag mode, the multi-part carry strap 2 is affixed to the rear of the core bag module 1 by aligning and affixing the eyelets 12 on the longest segment 8 of the multi-part carry strap 2 to the metal studs 27 positioned on the rear wall of the core bag module 1.

[0038] When in handbag mode, the longest segment 8 of the multi-part carry strap 2 is also affixed to the front of the bag by aligning and connecting the eyelets to the metal studs 20.

[0039] When in handbag mode, the second longest segment 10 of the multi-part carry strap 2 is affixed to the front of the core bag module 1 by aligning and connecting the eyelets 11 to the front metal studs 44.

[0040] Reconfiguration of the adaptable bag system from a handbag shown in Figure 1 into a backpack shown in Figure 4 is achieved by detaching the multi-part carry strap 2 from metal studs 26, 20 and 44, and driving the multi-part carry strap 2 through the angled straps 29 until alignment is achieved with a second pair of eyelets 27 on the multi-part carry strap 2 allowing for symmetrical positioning of the multi-part carry strap 2.

[0041] To reconfigure the adaptable bag system from a backpack shown in Figure 4 into a shoulder bag shown in Figure 5, the second longest segment 10 of the multi-part carry strap 2 needs to be repositioned 14 under the X element 4.

[0042] To mount the adaptable bag system atop a luggage as shown on Figure 6, the luggage handle needs to be driven under the X element 4.

[0043] The removable outer bag module 3 can be used as a standalone storage unit as shown on Figure 7.

[0044] The removable outer bag module 3 can be reconfigured into a purse as shown on Figure 9, by attaching the ends of the longest segment 8 of the multi-part carry strap 2, or the ends of the second longest segment 10, or the ends of the sequential combination of both longest segment 8 and second longest segment 10 to the fixing points 15 and 16.

[0045] The removable outer bag module 3 can be reconfigured into an upright purse as shown on Figure 10 by attaching the ends of the longest segment 8 of the multi-part carry strap 2, or the ends of the second longest segment 10, or the ends of the sequential combination of both longest segment 8 and second longest segment 10 to the fixing points 1 and 17.

[0046] The removable outer bag module 3 features an asymmetric design with one of its corners arched more than the remaining three. This allows for improved usability of the zipper on the outer bag module 3, making it easier for the user to open and close the zipper around the corner of the removable outer bag module 3, especially when in upright configuration.

[0047] On the rear of the removable outer bag module 3, two mounting straps 43 exist which are used to affix the removable outer bag module 3 to the corresponding channels 22 on the docking frame 45 of the core bag module 1.

[0048] The channels 22 on the docking frame 45 of the core bag module 1 are open on both ends of the docking frame, enabling the two corresponding mounting straps 43 of the removable outer bag module 3 to be driven through.

[0049] The mounting straps 43 of the removable outer bag module 3 are permanently affixed to the removable outer bag module 3 on one end and have one fastener 18 each on the other end of the mounting straps 43.

[0050] Corresponding to the fasteners 18 at the ends of the mounting straps 43, complementary fasteners 19 to the fasteners 18 are permanently affixed to the wall of the removable outer bag module 3. This allows the fasteners 18 to connect to complementary fasteners 19.

[0051] Upon driving the mounting straps 43 through the corresponding channels 22 on the docking frame 45, the fasteners 18 are connected to complementary fasteners 19. This enables the removable outer bag module 3 to be affixed to the core bag module 1.

[0052] When the removable outer bag module 3 is affixed to the core bag module 1, it does so above the section of the multi-part carry strap 2 where the multi-part carry strap 2 is removably attached to the front of the core bag module 1 by connecting eyelets 11 and 27 to metal studs 20 and 44.

[0053] The removable outer bag module 3 covering the points of attachment of multi-part carry strap 2 to the core bag module 1 is keeping the multi-part carry strap 2 in place and reducing the likelihood of unintended detachment of the multi-part carry strap 2.

[0054] The docking frame 45 has a minimum of two channels 22 which are used to removably affix the removable outer bag module 3. The docking frame 45 is attached to the front outer surface of the core bag module 1 preferably by stitching 21, which is also preferably used to create necessary channels 22.

[0055] A third channel 23 may alternatively also exist, to facilitate another connecting element (not shown) with the removable outer bag module 3.

[0056] On each side of the docking frame 45, symmetrically positioned are two pairs of metal studs 20 and 44. These are used to removably affix the multi-part carry strap 2 by engaging them with the eyelets 11 and 27.

[0057] On the rear side of the core bag module 1, four symmetrically positioned angled straps 29 exist, with their ends preferably sewn inside the wall 25 of the core bag module 1.

[0058] The angled straps 29 are fitted so that they offer enough width between their stitched ends, so that the relevant segments of the multi-part carry strap 2 can pass through and be held in place by the angled straps 29, limiting their movement.

[0059] The angle of the angled straps 29 is determined by the shape and form of the X element 4 so that the angled straps 29 are wholly covered by the X element 4.

[0060] Alternatively, instead of angled straps 29, four similar straps can exist without any angle applied to them.

[0061] The X element 4 is sewn to the wall of the core bag module 1 atop the angled straps 29.

[0062] As shown on Figure 13, the X element 4 has a magnet 30 positioned in the centre of the element.

[0063] Corresponding to the magnet 30 in the X element 4, an opposite charged magnet (not shown) exists within the wall of the core bag module 1, positioned directly under the magnet 30. This enables the magnets to engage and keep the middle of the X element 4 connected to the wall of the core bag module 1.

[0064] Alternatively, magnetic clasps or buttons can be used instead of magnet 30 and the corresponding magnet in the wall of the core bag module 1.

[0065] As shown on figure 14, alternative solutions may be employed to achieve the X structure of the X element 4. These may be two overlapping strips 31, permanently affixed to the bag at the far ends of each of the strips. Further, the variation may be in the shape and form of the X element 4.

[0066] Alternatively, the X element 4 may not be used at all for the embodiment of the adaptable bag system

[0067] Inside the core bag module 1, one or more pockets (not shown) may exist to house devices such as lap tops or tablets.

[0068] Inside the core bag module 1, permanently affixed to the surface of inner walls may be complementary fasteners (not shown) which allow the removable multimodal insert 5 to be removably affixed to by engaging the fasteners 35 and 36.

[0069] Alternatively, where the core bag module 1 has one or more pockets (not shown) to house devices such as laptops or tablets, complementary fasteners (not shown) which allow the removable multimodal insert 5 to be removably affixed by engaging the fasteners 35 and 36 may be permanently affixed to the outer surfaces of said pockets.

[0070] When removed from the core bag module 1, the removable multimodal insert 5, can be folded around its middle axis, so as to allow engagement of two groups of complementary fasteners 35 and 36, thus creating a folio as shown on Figure 15 and Figure 16, the pocketed part 33 of the removable multimodal insert 5 facing outwards.

[0071] On Figure 16, a folio made out of the folded removable multimodal insert 5 is shown, indicating where covered fasteners 35 and 36 exist.

[0072] The removable multimodal insert 5 also includes a cutting 39 which provides for an easier opening of the folio.

[0073] In a variation where the interior of the core bag module 1 houses a laptop pocket (not shown), the cutting 39 allows space for the laptop pocket flap to connect to the fastener located on the outer edge of the laptop pocket (not shown).

[0074] The sides 34 and 37 of the removable multimodal insert 5 are made out of a sturdier material, allowing them to retain shape and form even when the removable multimodal insert is used as a folio. The spine 38 connecting the sides is made of a flexible material allowing it to bend.

[0075] Alternatively, instead of fasteners 35 and 36 used to removably affix the removable multimodal insert 5 to the core bag module 1 interior, and to enable conversion to the folio by connecting fasteners 35 and 36 to each other, magnets can be used where these are permanently affixed under the surface of the removable multimodal insert 5 and under the interior surface of the core bag module 1.

[0076] For the convenience of the reader, the above description has focused on a representative sample of all possible embodiments, a sample that teaches the principles of the invention and conveys the best mode contemplated for carrying it out. The description has not attempted to exhaustively enumerate all possible variations. Other undescribed variations or modifications may be possible. For example, where multiple alternative embodiments are described, in many cases it will be possible to combine elements of different embodiments or to combine elements of the embodiments described here with other modifications or variations that are not expressly described. Many of those undescribed variations, modifications and variations are within the literal scope of the following claims, and others are equivalent.

Claims

Independent Claims1. An adaptable bag system comprising:(a) a core bag module having a plurality of attachment points, wherein the attachment points are configured to securely connect removable components in multiple configurations to meet varying user needs;(b) a removable outer bag module designed for attachment to the core bag module via a docking frame, the docking frame including at least two channels for guiding and securing mounting straps of the outer bag module, and constructed to prevent accidental detachment;(c) a multi-part carry strap comprising multiple detachable segments, each segment optionally including attachment means such as holes, metal eyelets, complementary fasteners, magnetic fasteners, or hidden magnets, wherein the strap is configurable into at least handbag and backpack configurations with ergonomic weight distribution;(d) An X-shaped luggage handle gripping mechanism affixed to the rear side of the core bag module, the mechanism comprising an X-shaped element formed from either a single continuous structure or overlapping straps, and optionally including a magnetic element or equivalent fastener positioned at the centre to provide stabilisation during transport on luggage handles; wherein the X-shaped element further conceals hidden channels positioned underneath it, the channels comprising stretchy straps configured to guide and position the multi-part carry straps, affixed to the core bag module to prevent lateral movement during transport;(e) a removable multimodal insert configured for interior organisation and standalone use, wherein the insert includes foldable rigid sidewalls, a flexible spine, a cutting for ease of access, and attachment means such as fasteners or magnets to secure it within the core bag module.

2. A luggage handle gripping mechanism for an adaptable bag system, comprising:(a) an X-shaped structure affixed to a bag module, the structure formed from either a single continuous element or overlapping straps secured at their ends, and optionally including a magnetic element or equivalent fastener positioned at the centre to provide stabilisation during transport on luggage handles; and(b) the X-shaped structure further concealing hidden channels positioned underneath it, the channels comprising stretchy straps configured to guide and position a multipart carry strap.

3. A method for reconfiguring an adaptable bag system comprising:(a) detaching a multi-part carry strap from a core bag module configured as a handbag;(b) guiding the strap through angled straps, comprising stretchy straps positioned on the rear of the core bag module and concealed beneath the X-shaped luggage handle gripping mechanism;(c) aligning and attaching the strap symmetrically to create loops suitable for use as backpack straps.

4. An outer bag module comprising:(a) a housing including internal compartments for organisation;(b) an asymmetrical design with a corner including an arched shape to facilitate easier access to closures and to ensure ergonomic use in vertical, horizontal, and diagonal carrying configurations; and(c) attachment means for integrating with other bag components or for standalone use, wherein the outer bag module is configurable into at least two standalone carrying configurations.

5. A multimodal insert comprising:(a) a foldable structure including rigid sidewalls and a flexible spine;(b) attachment means such as fasteners or magnets positioned on or sides the walls of the insert, wherein the attachment means are configured with matching counterparts on the interior of a core bag module for secure placement; and(c) the attachment means being positioned on the back of the insert and configured to interconnect when the insert is folded upon itself, thereby forming a standalone folio.Dependent Claims6. The adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the removable outer bag module comprises:(a) an asymmetrical design, including a corner with an arched shape to facilitate easier access to closures;(b) ergonomic use in vertical, horizontal, and diagonal carrying configurations; and(c) the ability to integrate with the system or function as a standalone product configurable into at least three carry configurations.

7. The adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the multi-part carry strap includes:(a) a longest segment with at least two attachment points, optionally comprising holes, metal eyelets or magnets;(b) a second segment with one attachment point, optionally comprising holes, metal eyelets or magnets;(c) a shortest segment with one attachment point, optionally comprising holes, metal eyelets or magnets, the segments being interchangeable to enable customisable configurations.

8. The adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the removable multimodal insert includes:(a) rigid side walls and a flexible spine, enabling it to fold into a standalone folio configuration;(b) attachment means such as fasteners, magnets, or hook-and-loop tapes positioned on or within the walls of the insert;(c) attachment means positioned on the back of the insert, configured to interconnect when the insert is folded upon itself, forming a standalone folio.

9. The adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the removable outer bag module is reconfigurable into a standalone purse by attaching a segment of the multi-part carry strap to fixing points located on opposite edges of the module.

10. The adaptable bag system of claim 9, wherein the standalone purse is further configurable into an upright configuration by attaching the multi-part carry strap to additional fixing points positioned on the module’s top edge.

11. The method of claim 3, further comprising the step of reconfiguring the adaptable bag system into a shoulder bag by detaching and repositioning the second segment of the multi-part carry strap beneath the X-shaped luggage handle gripping mechanism.

12. The adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the core bag module includes internal compartments configured to house electronic devices, including laptops, with flaps and fasteners for additional security and shock protection.

13. The adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the docking frame is affixed to the core bag module using stitching, rivets, screws or adhesive bonding to ensure durability under repeated use and heavy loads.

14. The adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the removable outer bag module includes internal compartments configured to store items such as stationery, electronics, and small personal belongings in an organised manner, with partitions to enhance item separation and accessibility.

15. The adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the X-shaped luggage handle gripping mechanism is replaceable and affixable to the core bag module using various means such as hooks or fasteners, and may be substituted with alternative gripping mechanisms, including hook-and-loop straps or elastic bands, to accommodate diverse luggage handle designs or user preferences.

16. The adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the removable outer bag module includes:(a) mounting straps affixed on one end to the removable outer bag module, each strap having a fastener on the opposite end;(b) corresponding channels positioned on the docking frame of the core bag module, the channels configured to guide and secure the mounting straps; and(c) complementary fasteners positioned on the removable outer bag module, wherein the fasteners on the mounting straps connect with the complementary fasteners to secure the removable outer bag module to the core bag module.

17. The adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the removable outer bag module, when affixed to the core bag module, conceals the attachment points of the multi-part carry strap, reducingthe likelihood of unintended detachment.

18. The adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the docking frame includes a third channel configured for additional fastening elements to enhance stability.

19. he adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the multi-part carry strap further includes adjustability features, allowing the length of the strap to be customised for ergonomic comfort across various configurations.

20. The adaptable bag system of claim 1, wherein the removable multimodal insert includes a cutting positioned to allow easier access to internal compartments while retaining structural rigidity.IntellectualPropertyOfficeApplication GB2317605.0Search report under Section 17 of the Patents Act 1977Date search completed: 11 July 2025Claims searched: 1,6-10,12-20International classificationSubclass and subgroup Valid from A45C13 / 26 01 / 01 / 2006 A45C13 / 30 01 / 01 / 2006 A45C3 / 06 01 / 01 / 2006 A45C7 / 00 01 / 01 / 2006 A45F3 / 04 01 / 01 / 2006Field of searchWorldwide search of patent documents classified in the following areas of the IPC:A45C, A45FDatabases used in the preparation of this search report:SEARCH-PATENTDocuments considered to be relevantPatent literatureCategory Relevant Document of relevanceclaimsA - US 2006 / 0180624 A1 SADOW A - CN 111012024 A LU A - KR 1020180096220 A LEE Non-patent literature Category Relevant claims Document of relevanceCategoriesLetter or DescriptionsymbolX Document indicating lack of novelty or inventive step.Y Document indicating lack of inventive step, if combined with anotherdocument of the same category.& Member of the same patent family. A Document indicating technological background. P Document published on or after the priority date but before the fling date of the present application. E Earlier application published on or after the filing date of the present application.

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