Abstract:
A lightweight, wearable container device made of fabric or like material that is designed to attach to any part of a user&#39;s clothing and is of sufficient dimensions to securely hold small personal effects, is provided. The device can be fabricated in different sizes suitable for holding household keys, car keys, credit cards, key cards, identification cards, employment cards, driver&#39;s licenses, insurance cards, medical instructions or special instructions. The reversibly attachable device is suitable for positioning at any desired location on a user&#39;s garment. Attachment means utilizing hook and loop mechanisms are provided.

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    The present invention relates to the field of container devices for carrying small personal items. In particular, the invention relates to a patch for holding keys, cards, driver&#39;s license and the like, wherein the patch is reversibly attachable to a fabric or clothing. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    People find it desirable to participate in outdoor activities for exercise. Such activities may include beachcombing, walking, jogging, running, pet walking, sailing, biking, attending an amusement park, watching sporting events, as well as a myriad of other pursuits. These activities are characterized by a short period of time when an individual leaves the home, or a hotel room, in pursuit of the activity before returning. Typically, individuals need to carry small articles, such as keys, key cards, credit cards, cash, coins and the like, during these periods. 
         [0003]    There are available a wide variety of devices that are intended to hold money, credit cards, keys and spare change. However, all designs employ a clip or hook for attachment of the device to the person of the individual. 
         [0004]    The following patents disclose devices retain keys or key rings: U.S. Des. Pat. No. 382,105; U.S. Des. Pat. No. 845,743; U.S. Des. 374,765; and, U.S. Des. Pat. No. 468,090. U.S. Design Pat. No. 364,269 (Sabosky) discloses a clip to hang keys with VELCRO® closure elements. U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 20050035005 discloses a money clip comprising a spare key chamber. 
         [0005]    U.S. Pat. No. 6,679,405 (Zalis-Hecker, et al.) discloses a pouch attachable to a shoe lace. Amphipod, Inc. (Seattle, Wash.) markets Micropak Rapid Access™ pouches that have a locking clip or hook designed to clamp onto standard waistbands or belts. 
         [0006]    One disadvantage of such pouches attached by a clip or hook to a waistband, belt or shoelace is that they are Further, they are dependent on the consumer wearing certain items of clothing and would not be useable by consumers engaged in activities, such as swimming, that are not compatible with the wearing of shoes or belts. In any event, such containers are attachable only to specific articles of clothing such as laced up shoes or belts and thus restrict the options available to a user in dressing for a particular activity. 
         [0007]    Another disadvantage of these types of carrier pouches is that they hang loosely off the user&#39;s body as the mode of attachment does not allow for a snug fit that would prevent the pouch from swaying, bouncing, sliding or otherwise causing discomfort in the user when the user is engaged in moderate to vigorous activities. Further, the user has to sacrifice comfort as they constantly feel the presence of a clip or hook on their person during their activities. 
         [0008]    What is needed is a lightweight container device for small items that is attachable to any article of clothing at any site with a fit that is unnoticeable to the user, and which does not sway, bounce or slide from the user&#39;s person as occurs when the attachment is via loops, hooks and the like. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    This invention provides a lightweight, wearable container device made of fabric or like material that is designed to attach to any part of a user&#39;s clothing and is of sufficient dimensions to securely hold small personal items, such as keys, credit cards, driver&#39;s license, and the like. 
         [0010]    The invention relates to a container device comprising: a body comprising a flexible material defining an interior volume and an opening providing access to the interior volume; a reclosable fastening mechanism secured to the flexible material adjacent the opening and operable to releasably retain the opening of the pouch in a closed state; an attachment means on one side of the body comprising a means to reversibly attach and detach the device from a location comprising a complementary attachment means, wherein the body has dimensions suitable for securely holding one or more personal effects. 
         [0011]    In some aspects, the dimensions of the body are sufficient for holding one or more household or car keys. In other aspects, the dimensions of the body are suitable for holding one or more of credit cards, key cards, identification cards, driver&#39;s licenses, insurance cards, medical instructions and special instructions. 
         [0012]    In preferred embodiments the attachment means comprises a hook and loop mechanism, such as VELCRO®. 
         [0013]    The invention also provides a method for reversibly attaching a container device comprising a body having dimensions suitable for securely holding one or more personal effects, wherein the container device comprises an attachment mechanism on one side of the body, the method comprising: positioning an attachment means at a preferred location, wherein the attachment means is complementary to an attachment means on a surface of the container device; and reversibly attaching the device to the location by contacting the complementary attachment means on the location with the attachment means on the device. 
         [0014]    When the attachment means comprises a hook and loop mechanism, such as VELCRO®, the complementary attachment means can be positioned by heat activation. 
         [0015]    These and other aspects will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiment taken in conjunction with the following drawings, although variations and modifications therein may be affected without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the disclosure. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0016]    The following drawings form part of the present specification and are included to further demonstrate certain aspects of the present disclosure, the inventions of which can be better understood by reference to one or more of these drawings in combination with the detailed description of specific embodiments presented herein. 
           [0017]      FIG. 1  is a perspective frontal view of a smaller embodiment of the container device suitable for holding keys and the like, with the flap for securing the contents in a closed position. The closure mechanism  140  is indicated. 
           [0018]      FIG. 2  is a perspective rear view of a smaller embodiment of the container device suitable for holding keys and the like. The attachment mechanisms  250  and  252  are indicated. 
           [0019]      FIG. 3  is a perspective frontal view of a larger embodiment of the container device suitable for holding cards and the like, with the flap for securing the contents in a closed position. The closure mechanism  350  is indicated. 
           [0020]      FIG. 4  is a perspective rear view of a larger embodiment of the container device suitable for holding cards and the like, with the flap for securing the contents in a closed position. The closure mechanisms  440  and  442  are indicated. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
       [0021]    The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of the invention, and in the specific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used to describe the invention are discussed below, or elsewhere in the specification, to provide additional guidance to the practitioner regarding the description of the invention. For convenience, certain terms may be highlighted, for example using italics and/or quotation marks. The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaning of a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the same context, whether or not it is highlighted. It will be appreciated that same thing can be said in more than one way. Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for any one or more of the terms discussed herein, nor is any special significance to be placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein. Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one or more synonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is illustrative only, and in no way limits the scope and meaning of the invention or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the invention is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification. 
         [0022]    Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. In the case of conflict, the present document, including definitions will control. 
         [0023]    The present invention is now described with reference to illustrative embodiments. For this reason, numerous modifications can be made to these embodiments and the results will still come within the scope of the invention. No limitations with respect to the specific embodiments described herein are intended or should be inferred. 
         [0024]    The container device of the invention may be made of different lightweight and flexible materials. Suitable materials include cotton, cotton blends, nylon, polymers, plastic, reinforced paper, suede, fur, microfiber, leather, PVC, linen, silk, corduroy or any combination of natural or synthetic materials. In some embodiments, the container is fabricated from lightweight, strong, flexible and durable fabric material(s) such as cotton or cotton blends, denim, nylon, GORE-TEX® (available from W. L. Gore &amp; Associates, Inc.), or canvas, that can withstand the daily wear. 
         [0025]    The container device is designed to coordinate with any outfit. The container device may be fabricated in different colors, patterns, textures and designs or a combination thereof. The fabric or material may be printed, embossed, embroidered, appliqued, painted, photo transferred and/or decorated or ornamented in any other way. 
         [0026]    To form a container device, the material is folded and/or joined to form a pouch or bag defining an interior space and a reclosable fastener is provided at the opening, for securing the contents of the pouch. The enclosure formed is roomy, wide-mouthed, and optionally cushioned and/or moisture resistant. 
         [0027]    The container device is designed to conveniently carry a variety of small objects. While the container device can be made in any size or shape imaginable including abstract, geometric, or any combination thereof, the shape and design on the container devices are dictated by the shape and size of the items they are designed to carry as a snug fit without room for the items to move around loosely is desirable. 
         [0028]      FIG. 1  shows a front perspective view of a container device  100  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. The embodiment is a smaller version of the device designed primarily for holding keys, cash, coins and the like. 
         [0029]    The container is defined by a rectangular shape typical of household or car keys with a longer dimension  110  and a shorter dimension  120 . Typically the longer dimension  110  is 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4 or 5 times the length of the shorter dimension. In some embodiments the longer dimension  110  is 10, 11, 12, 13, or more cm while the shorter dimension  120  is 5, 5.2, 5.5, 6, 7, 8 or more cm. 
         [0030]    The interior compartment has sufficient space to hold a key, coins or bank notes in a manner that is intended to prevent the contents from shifting. The contents of the inner compartment are secured by a flap  130  which can be held in place by a fastening mechanism  140 . In one embodiment the fastening mechanism comprises a hook and loop system such as VELCRO®. Other fastening mechanisms such as zippers, snaps, ties, button and/or any other form of closure can also be used. More than one form of fastening mechanism can be employed for closing the opening of the container device. 
         [0031]    Some container devices are constructed with side or bottom gussets that expand when the container is filled. 
         [0032]      FIG. 2  shows a rear perspective view  200  of the same container device  100 . The embodiment is a smaller version of the device designed primarily for holding keys, cash, coins and the like. The closure flap  230  and the fastening mechanism  240  are not accessible from the rear of the device. 
         [0033]    The surface of the rear perspective of the container defined by a rectangular shape with a longer dimension  210  and a shorter dimension  220  further contains an attachment mechanism  250 . In some embodiments a second attachment mechanism  252  is employed to enhance security and stability. Preferably this is a reversible attachment mechanism. In some preferred embodiments a hook-and-loop closure sometimes sold under the mark VELCRO® is employed. 
         [0034]    A hook and loop closure mechanism employs a reversible mating of a hook element with a loop element. In some embodiments, the hook element is present on the rear surface attachment mechanism  250  and/or  252  of the container device. In these cases, the compatible loop element can be positioned at any place on the user&#39;s clothing where attachment of the device is desired. The position for attachment on the clothing is typically determined by a location that least interferes with the intended activities of the user and is accessible with relative ease. 
         [0035]    In other embodiments, the loop element is associated with the rear surface attachment mechanism  250  and/or  252  of the container device. In these cases, the compatible hook element is placed on the user&#39;s clothing. In a third embodiment, each of the rear surface attachment mechanisms  250  and  252  of the container device contain a different hook or loop element. This enables positioning of the container devices in a fixed orientation on the article of clothing. 
         [0036]    The location on the article of clothing where the device can be placed is determined by the location of the complementary hook strip or loop strip. VELCRO® strips can be attached by heat activation and thus placed by simply ironing on. Other fastening mechanisms can include sewing stitching, adhesive and the like. 
         [0037]      FIG. 3  shows a front perspective view of a container device  300  in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the invention. The embodiment is a larger version of the device designed primarily for holding credit cards, key cards, identification, medical or special instructions, cash, coins and other like personal effects that the user may carry. 
         [0038]    The container is defined by a rectangular shape typical of household or car keys with a longer dimension  320  and a shorter dimension  330 . Typically the longer dimension  110  is 1, 1.2, 1.4, 1.5, 1.7, 2, or 3 times the length of the shorter dimension. In some embodiments the longer dimension  320  is 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, or more cm while the shorter dimension  330  is 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, or 10 cm. In some embodiments the sealed end  310  between the longer  320  and shorter 330 dimensions forms a taper. 
         [0039]    The interior compartment has sufficient space to hold personal effects in a manner that prevent the contents from shifting. The contents of the inner compartment are secured by a flap  340  which can be held in place by a fastening mechanism  350 . 
         [0040]    In some embodiments the front surface of the container device further comprises a see-through window that allows viewing of identification. In some embodiments, identification includes one or more of name, address, employment, phone number, employee identification number and medical facts. 
         [0041]    Examples of such fastening mechanisms  350  include hook-and-loop closures sometimes sold under the mark VELCRO®. Other refastenable strip-form fastening mechanism that can be used on the container devices features mating arrays of discrete, interlocking stems or fastening elements. These include the common rib-and-groove closures sometimes sold under then mark ZIP-LOC®, zippers, buttons, snaps, eyelets, grommets, and snap tape. Some container devices are constructed with side or bottom gussets that expand when the container is filled. 
         [0042]      FIG. 4  shows a rear perspective view  400  of the larger container device  300 . The surface of the rear perspective of the container defined by a rectangular shape with a longer dimension  420  and a shorter dimension  430  further contains an attachment mechanism  440 . In some embodiments a second attachment mechanism  442  is employed to enhance security and stability. Preferably this is a reversible attachment mechanism. In some preferred embodiments a hook-and-loop closure sometimes sold under the mark VELCRO® is employed. 
         [0043]    A hook and loop closure mechanism employs a reversible mating of a hook element with a loop element. In some embodiments, the hook element is present on the rear surface attachment mechanism  440  and/or  442  of the container device. In these cases, the compatible loop element can be positioned at any place on the user&#39;s clothing where attachment of the device is desired. The position for attachment on the clothing is typically determined by a location that least interferes with the intended activities of the user and is accessible with relative ease. 
         [0044]    In other embodiments, the loop element is associated with the rear surface attachment mechanism  440  and/or  442  of the container device. In these cases, the compatible hook element is placed on the user&#39;s clothing. In a third embodiment, each of the rear surface attachment mechanisms  440  and  442  of the container device contain a different hook or loop element. This enables positioning of the container devices in a fixed orientation on the article of clothing. The location on the article of clothing where the device can be placed is determined by the location of the complementary hook or loop strip. VELCRO® strips can be attached by heat activation and thus placed by simply ironing on. Other fastening mechanisms can include sewing stitching, adhesive and the like. 
         [0045]    The container devices are designed for placement on any desired location on a garment. Typical garments include shirts, T shirts, shorts, pant, skirts, jeans, swimwear, hats, caps, sweat shirts, sweatpants, shoes, socks, stockings, leggings, athletic wear, and any other article that may be on a user&#39;s person at the time the container is intended for use. The container device is also intended for easy transfer from one location to another. Thus, the container device can be positioned on a back pack, golf bag, camping gear or any other item a user may carry. 
         [0046]    These and other design determinations may vary as trend and consumer preferences require. The preferred structure of the container device comprises a lightweight material suitable for ease of carrying on one&#39;s person and also ideal for inserting and extracting it from one location to another. Exterior fabrications of the container device may vary in pattern, color, texture or other design preferences so that it can match aesthetic preferences. However, a preferred exterior fabrication of the container device would lend itself to a smooth transition from one outer covering to another. 
         [0047]    It is understood that outer coverings may be constructed in a variety of configurations and forms with a multitude of pockets, hardware, design elements, fabrications and functions according to a variety of fashion and usage considerations. Examples may be, but are not limited to, an embodiment constructed of canvas, nylon, microfiber, leather, PVC, linen, silk, corduroy or any combination of natural or synthetic materials. A plurality of colors, materials, print themes, designs or textures may be used so as to coincide with fashion trends, holidays, special occasions, other fashion accessories or utilitarian considerations. 
         [0048]    The disclosed lightweight container device can be used for shopping trips, walks, sporting events, as well as various other indoor and outdoor activities. It can be used for both for day to day activities, vacations, or for special events. For example, the present invention can be used to carry various accessories during swimming, diving, snorkeling, dog/pet walking, sporting events, camping, hiking, yard duty, life guarding, gardening, fishing, coaching, grocery/window shopping, walking, recreational bike riding, school, work, beach/outdoor activities/festivities, roller blading, cleaning the house, skate boarding, hunting/fishing, golfing, running, jogging and the like. 
         [0049]    All publications, patents and patent applications cited in this specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. 
         [0050]    Although the foregoing invention has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings of this invention that certain changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit or scope of the appended claim.