Abstract:
A backpack assembly that includes a backpack adapted to carry sports equipment with a foldable seat and roller segment secured thereto. The backpack has an internal bag frame to support the sports equipment. The backpack also has a sports-ball-securing segment and an insulated pouch for food and beverages. The foldable seat is secured to the bag frame to provide a seat that can fold out for the participant or spectator to sit upon. The roller segment automatically engages such that the bag can be tipped and rolled by the participant or spectator when the foldable seat is stored. When the foldable seat is deployed, the roller segment automatically disengages to provide a stable platform for the seat.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation application and claims priority benefit, with regard to all common subject matter, of earlier-filed U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/598,967, filed on Jan. 16, 2015, and entitled “BACKPACK ASSEMBLY WITH BACKPACK, FOLDABLE SEAT, AND ROLLERS,” which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,332,852 on May 10, 2016. The identified earlier-filed patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety into the present application. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    1. Field 
         [0003]    Embodiments of the invention relate to backpacks and other bags. More specifically, embodiments of the invention relate to a backpack assembly that is a backpack with a foldable seat and rollers attached thereto. 
         [0004]    2. Related Art 
         [0005]    Children and adults across all demographics play sports for recreation and exercise. Many of these events provide no seating and little space to sit. A solution for players to carry their needed items and be able to sit down is needed. Many of these sports require specialized clothing and equipment. For example, a certain sport may require a ball or disc, a uniform, a special pair of shoes, various padding components, a specialized implement (such as a baseball bat), boundary markers, and safety equipment. The participants may also require personal items such as food, beverages, medication, and inhalers. As such, there is a need for a convenient and efficient method to store and move the personal items and the specialized clothing and equipment from the participant&#39;s home to the location of the sport. 
         [0006]    Many of these sports are played at recreational facilities, schools, churches, gymnasiums, and parks. Many of these locations do not provide adequate seating for participants and spectators. Some locations provide seating for participants or spectators, but not both. Because seating is usually inadequate, many participants and spectators will bring a seat to sit upon during the game or intermissions. This is yet another item that must be carried by the participant and/or spectator to the location. 
         [0007]    Many of these sports are played by children and teenagers, which means that a parent or guardian is often present for the practice and/or game. For instances in which a parent or guardian does not accompany the child (such as an after-school program, for example), the child has difficulty carrying the personal items, specialized clothing and equipment, and the seat. Even if present, the parent or guardian may also have difficulty carrying the equipment. 
         [0008]    The prior art fails to provide a solution to these problems. Most backpacks or other bags of the prior art do not provide a foldable seat for the convenience of the user, requiring the user to carry or strap on a seat. This solution is difficult, time-consuming, and prone to loss. Some seats of the prior art provide attached bags and compartments, but these bags are often too small and not adapted for carrying sports equipment. Also, some backpacks provide rollers for ease of use by the user, but the rollers are permanently positioned, such that the backpack does not provide a stable base for sitting upon. 
       SUMMARY 
       [0009]    Embodiments of the invention solve the above-mentioned problems by providing a backpack assembly that includes a backpack adapted to carry sports equipment with a foldable seat and a roller segment secured thereto. The backpack has an internal bag frame to support the sports equipment. The backpack also has a sports-ball-securing segment and an insulated pouch for food and beverages. The foldable seat is secured to the bag frame to provide a seat that can fold out for the participant or spectator to sit upon. The backpack assembly transitions between the backpack mode and chair mode in one simple motion. The roller segment automatically engages such that the bag can be tipped and rolled by the participant or spectator when the foldable seat is stored. When the foldable seat is deployed, the roller segment automatically disengages to provide a stable platform for the seat. 
         [0010]    Embodiments of the invention are directed to the backpack assembly. In some embodiments, the backpack assembly comprises the backpack, the foldable seat, and the roller segment. In other embodiments, the backpack assembly comprises the backpack and the foldable seat, with no roller segment. In still other embodiments, the backpack assembly comprises a bag frame and the foldable seat, so the user can attach a backpack thereto. In yet further embodiments, the backpack assembly comprises the backpack, the foldable seat, and the roller segment, but the backpack is not specifically adapted to carrying sports equipment. 
         [0011]    This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Other aspects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the embodiments and the accompanying drawing figures. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES 
         [0012]    Embodiments of the invention are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, wherein: 
           [0013]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of one embodiment of the backpack assembly in the sitting position, as viewed from a front, top, and left side; 
           [0014]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the backpack assembly of  FIG. 1 , as viewed from a front, top, and right side; 
           [0015]      FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the backpack assembly of  FIG. 1 , as viewed from a back, top, and left side; 
           [0016]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the backpack assembly of  FIG. 1 , as viewed from a back, bottom, and right side; 
           [0017]      FIG. 5  is a left side view of the backpack assembly of  FIG. 1 ; 
           [0018]      FIG. 6  is a back side view of the backpack assembly of  FIG. 1 , specifically illustrating the foldable seat; 
           [0019]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the backpack assembly of  FIG. 1  in the carrying position and depicting exemplary contents of the backpack, as viewed from a front, right side; and 
           [0020]      FIG. 8  is a perspective view of the backpack assembly of  FIG. 7 , as viewed from a back, left side. 
       
    
    
       [0021]    The drawing figures do not limit embodiments the invention to the specific embodiments disclosed and described herein. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the invention. 
       DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0022]    The following detailed description references the accompanying drawings that illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. The embodiments are intended to describe aspects of the invention in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments can be utilized and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the invention is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. 
         [0023]    In this description, references to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or “embodiments” mean that the feature or features being referred to are included in at least one embodiment of the technology. Separate references to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” or “embodiments” in this description do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment and are also not mutually exclusive unless so stated and/or except as will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the description. For example, a feature, structure, act, etc. described in one embodiment may also be included in other embodiments, but is not necessarily included. Thus, embodiments of the invention can include a variety of combinations and/or integrations of the embodiments described herein. 
         [0024]    Turning to the Figures, and specifically  FIG. 1 , embodiments of the invention comprise a backpack assembly  10 . The backpack assembly  10  comprises a backpack  12  that includes a compressible bag  14 , a bag frame  16 , and a pair of flexible straps  18 ; a foldable seat  20  that includes an upper support  22 , a lower support  24 , and a flexible sheet  26 ; and a roller segment  28 . The components of the backpack assembly  10  are discussed in much more detail below. Although embodiments of the invention are described with respect to a backpack assembly for wearing on a user&#39;s back, embodiments of the invention may also be applicable to any bag having an integrated seat as described herein. 
         [0025]    The backpack assembly  10  is generally adapted to carry sports equipment  30  (or other equipment discussed below) for a user. This provides convenience for the user because a set of their sports equipment  30  remains in the backpack assembly  10  and transported to an activity location. The user positions the backpack assembly  10  from a carrying position (as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6 , in which the foldable seat  20  is stored) to a sitting position (as illustrated in  FIGS. 7-8 , in which the foldable seat  20  is deployed). The user may then sit upon the foldable seat  20 . 
         [0026]    As discussed above, the backpack assembly  10  is adapted to carrying the necessary specialized equipment and clothing for the sport. Some backpack assemblies  10  may therefore be adapted to a particular sport, such as soccer, football, or tennis. Other backpack assemblies  10  may be adapted to generic sports. This specialized equipment for which the backpack assembly  10  may be adapted include sports balls, or other game devices, such as soccer balls, baseballs, softballs, footballs, tennis balls, discs, pucks, etc.; specialized game implements, such as baseball bats, tennis rackets, lacrosse sticks, jai alai cestas, ice skates, inline skates, cleats, etc.; and specialized safety equipment, such as bicycle helmets, football helmets and pads, baseball catcher&#39;s equipment, shin guards, face masks, rock climbing harnesses and rope, etc. The backpack assembly  10  may be adapted to hold the specialized equipment by presenting a certain pocket, opening, compartment, strap, clip, carabiner, or other retaining device of a size and shape to accommodate the specialized equipment. 
         [0027]    While this disclosure focuses on embodiments of the invention directed to sports, other embodiments of the invention may be directed to other fields and uses. The sports applications are therefore only an exemplary field for the invention. Other fields and uses will be briefly discussed; however, it should be appreciated that the invention could be applied to fields and uses beyond those discussed. Some of the other fields and uses could include the following: traveling, camping, hunting, fishing, military, construction, education, outdoor events, boating, business, gardening, farming, amusement parks, spectator seating, etc. 
         [0028]    Some embodiments of the invention are directed to the field of luggage and travel. Travelers spend long periods of time inside airports, bus stations, train stations, etc. Many of these locations are busy and provide inadequate seating for the number of travelers present during peak times. The backpack assembly  10  provides a seat for a user that is traveling so that the user is not forced to sit on the floor or stand for long periods of time. The backpack assembly  10  may also adapted for traveling by, for example, being of a suitable size and dimensions to fit into an aircraft&#39;s overhead bin. 
         [0029]    Some embodiments of the invention are directed to the fields of camping, hunting, and fishing. While camping, hunting, or fishing, the user must carry a significant amount of equipment to a remote location. The user then remains at this remote location for several hours or days. The backpack assembly  10  provides a convenient seat for the user to utilize at the remote location, and is adapted to carry the specialized equipment such as firearms, ammunition, tackle boxes, fishing poles, knives, tents, sleeping bags, food, water, etc. 
         [0030]    Some embodiments of the invention are directed to the field of the military. Military personnel perform numerous tasks while in remote locations. For example, a forward observer observes artillery and mortar fire from an observation post. The forward observer must carry a significant amount of specialized equipment for observing and calling-for fire, and must have a stable and comfortable place to sit for the observations. As another example, a security guard may carry equipment to a remote location, such as the top of a building, to observe activity. As yet another example, military staff must perform administrative and logistical tasks, such as performed on a laptop computer, from any remote location. The backpack assembly  10  of embodiments is adapted to meet these needs. 
         [0031]    Some embodiments of the invention are directed to the field of construction. A construction worker must bring specialized tools to the work site such as saws, hammers, wrenches, air-powered tools, electrically-powered tools, etc. Many work sites do not provide a seat for breaks or certain tasks that can or must be performed from the seated position. The backpack assembly  10  of one embodiment is adapted to meet this need. For example, the backpack assembly  10  may include an internal power pack or air compressor for powering the tools. 
         [0032]    The components of the backpack assembly  10 , as briefly introduced above, will now be discussed. As noted above, the backpack assembly  10  comprises the backpack  12 , the foldable seat  20 , and the roller segment  28 . The backpack  12  provides at least one pocket in which the user can store the sports equipment  30 , with one or more pockets or compartments being adapted for the specialized equipment for that sport. The foldable seat  20  is permanently and deployably secured to the bag frame  16  of the backpack  12 . In embodiments of the invention, when the backpack assembly  10  is in a carrying position, the foldable seat  20  is substantially parallel with, and adjacent to, the bag frame  16 . The user may then place the backpack assembly  10  on his back (such that the folded foldable seat  20  is adjacent to his back) or tip the backpack assembly  10  and maneuver it via the roller segment  28  and a telescoping handle  32 , discussed below. When the backpack assembly  10  is in a sitting position, the foldable seat  20  is pivoted away from its substantially parallel orientation to an angled orientation that presents a general K-shape, as illustrated in  FIG. 5 . 
         [0033]    As best illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the backpack  12  of the backpack assembly  10  comprises the compressible bag  14 , the bag frame  16 , and the pair of flexible straps  18 . The compressible bag  14  provides a main compartment  34  for the storing of sports equipment  30 . The bag frame  16  provides rigidity to the backpack  12 , provides stability for a user sitting upon the foldable seat  20 , and prevents the contents of the compressible bag from pressing against the user&#39;s back. The pair of flexible straps  18  allows the user to easily carry the backpack  12 . 
         [0034]    The compressible bag  14  is generally oriented in a vertical direction. The compressible bag  14  presents a front segment  36 , a back segment  38 , a top segment  40 , a bottom segment  42 , and two side segments  44 . The sports equipment  30  (or other items) is stored in the interior of the backpack  12 . An interior of the compressible bag  14  may comprise the main compartment  34  and at least one secondary compartment  46  (which may be within the main compartment  34 , exterior to the main compartment  34 , or both). The interior can be accessed through any number of openings. The openings may be secured via zippers, clasps, hook and pile tape, strings, elastic, snaps, etc. 
         [0035]    The compressible bag  14  is formed of a flexible material, such as canvas, cotton duck, cotton, polyester, nylon, ballistic nylon, cordura, other fabric, or a combination thereof. At least a portion of the compressible bag  14  may be reinforced with a durable material, such as a polymer or a metal. Portions of the compressible bag  14  may be rigid or semi-rigid, as discussed below, and may be formed of a plastic or other polymer. While the bag is compressible, it substantially keeps its shape due to the bag frame  16  and the rigid or semi-rigid portions discussed below. 
         [0036]    As best illustrated in  FIG. 4 , in some embodiments the bottom segment  42  of the compressible bag  14  is substantially rigid. The substantially rigid bottom segment  42  aids in the compressible bag  14  keeping its shape and provides a steady base when the backpack assembly  10  is in the sitting position. The substantially rigid bottom segment  42  also prevents or reduces damage to the bottom segment  42  of the compressible bag  14 . The substantially rigid bottom segment  42  may be formed of a hardened plastic or other polymer, or may be formed of a metal. In some embodiments, only a portion of the bottom segment  42  is substantially rigid. In yet other embodiments, none of the bottom segment  42  is substantially rigid, instead a portion of the bag frame  16  extends beyond the bottom segment  42  to provide a stable base for the foldable seat  20 . The rigid bottom segment may present rounded or arcuate sides. The rigid bottom segment may also present stabilizer segments  48  to prevent the backpack assembly  10  from tipping. The rigid bottom segment may also be secured to the bag frame  16 , as discussed below. In some embodiments of the invention, the rigid bottom segment hinges for collapsible storage of the backpack assembly  10  (not illustrated). The hinge may be located at or near the bag frame  16  and be adapted to pivot upwards. 
         [0037]    Some embodiments of the backpack  12  include a sports-ball-securing segment  50 , as best illustrated in  FIGS. 1, 2, 5, and 7 . The sports-ball-securing segment  50  is specially adapted to secure a sports ball, such as a soccer ball, basketball, or football. The sports-ball-securing segment  50  is a compartment of the interior of the compressible bag  14  that is separate from, but adjacent to, the main compartment  34 . There may be at least one additional divider (not illustrated) to retain the contents of the sports-ball-securing segment  50  separate from the contents of the main compartment  34 . The sports-ball-securing segment  50 , in one embodiment, is located on the front segment  36  of the compressible bag  14 . The sports-ball-securing segment  50  prevents a portion of the sports ball from occupying the space in the main compartment  34 . The sports-ball-securing segment  50  also provides quick and easy access to the sports ball, instead of requiring the user to dig the sports ball out of the bottom of the main compartment  34  (where it might otherwise be). In other embodiments of the invention, the sports-ball-securing segment  50  may be adapted to secure any of the specialized equipment discussed herein, or their equivalents. For example, a binocular-securing segment (not illustrated) may be adapted to securely hold binoculars for a hunter or military service member and allows them to be quickly accessed from the exterior of the compressible bag  14 . As another example, a hammer-securing segment (not illustrated) may be adapted to securely hold a hammer for a construction worker. 
         [0038]    The sports-ball-securing segment  50  may present a semi-rigid shape. The semi-rigid shape is complementary to the shape of the sports ball. In one embodiment as illustrated in  FIGS. 2 and 7 , the sports-ball-securing segment  50 , which is adapted for a soccer ball, may present a semi-rigid dome on the exterior of the front segment  36  of the compressible bag  14 . The soccer ball has a similar circumference to that of the dome, such that the soccer ball fits into the interior of the dome in a substantially complementary way. In another embodiment, the dome is of a similar size and shape as a basketball. In yet another embodiment, the sports-ball-securing segment  50  is adapted for a football (not illustrated) and presents a semi-rigid cone in lieu of the dome. 
         [0039]    In some embodiments of the compressible bag  14 , at least one of the secondary compartments  46  is insulated, as illustrated in  FIGS. 2 and 7 . This secondary compartment  46  is adapted to receive and hold food items and/or drink items for the user. This secondary compartment  46  provides thermal insulation to keep the food and/or drink items cold or hot. This secondary compartment  46  may be located externally to the main compartment  34 , as illustrated in  FIG. 2 , for quick access by the user. In other embodiments, the insulated secondary compartment  46  is internal to the main compartment  34 . In still other embodiments, such as a backpack assembly  10  adapted to be a rolling cooler with a seat, the main compartment  34  is insulated and the secondary compartments  46  are not insulated. 
         [0040]    In some embodiments of the invention, the backpack  12  presents at least one individualized nametape (not illustrated) on the exterior. The individualized nametape may be originally manufactured on the backpack  12  and/or it may be selectively removable via hook and pile tape (also known as VELCRO) or a zipper. The individualized nametape may also include team names, logos, mascots, school names, etc. The individualized nametape identifies the owner of the backpack assembly  10  and/or the team for which they play for quick and easy recognition and to display team spirit. In one embodiment, a first individualized nametape is removably secured to the back segment  38  of the compressible bag  14  via hook and pile tape and a second individualized nametape removably secured to the front segment  36  of the compressible bag  14  via two zippers. 
         [0041]    Embodiments of the backpack  12  comprise two flexible straps  18 . The flexible straps  18  provide a convenient carrying handle for the user to carry the backpack  12 . Each flexible strap  18  presents a top end  52  and a bottom end  54 . The top end  52  is secured to the back segment  38  near the top segment of the backpack  12 . The bottom end  54  is secured to the side segment  44  near the bottom segment. In other embodiments, the top end  52  may be secured to the side segment  44  near the top segment, or to the top segment. In other segments, the bottom end  54  may be secured to the back segment  38  near the bottom segment, or to the bottom segment. The top end  52  of each flexible strap  18  may also be secured to the top end  52  of the other flexible strap  18 , such that there is a single attachment point for the two top ends  52  of the flexible straps  18 . 
         [0042]    In some embodiments, each top end  52  of the flexible straps  18  is separable from the bottom end  54  by releasing a middle securing segment (not illustrated). The middle securing segment of each flexible strap  18  may be secured by a hook and pile tape. This provides the advantage of making the flexible strap  18  quick and easy to remove. In other embodiments, the flexible strap  18  is selectively removable from the backpack  12 . 
         [0043]    In some embodiments, each flexible strap  18  presents a length that is adjustable. The length may be adjusted by reducing the length of the lower end via a standard plastic strap adjuster. In other embodiments, not illustrated, there is a single flexible strap  18  for carrying the backpack  12  in the manner of a messenger bag or purse. In still other embodiments, not illustrated, the flexible straps  18  are similar to those of a duffel bag, including two hand-gripping straps secured to the top segment  40  of the backpack. In yet other embodiments, there are no flexible straps and the backpack  12  is moved exclusively via the roller segment  28  discussed below or via a handle. 
         [0044]    The bag frame  16  provides structure and stability to the backpack  12 , and is best illustrated in  FIG. 8 . The bag frame  16  is rigid structure that is located at least partially within the backpack  12 . The bag frame  16  may be formed of a metal, such as aluminum, or a polymer, such as plastic. The bag frame  16  is generally rectangular in shape, and may present arcuate corners. The bag frame  16  is oriented vertically, such that the backpack  12  is also generally oriented vertically. The bag frame  16  acts as a seat support when the backpack assembly  10  is in the sitting position. The bag frame  16  therefore provides structural support for the foldable seat  20 . In other embodiments, the bag frame  16  is external to the backpack  12 . 
         [0045]    The foldable seat  20  will now be discussed. The foldable seat  20  provides the user with an available seat wherever the user is with the backpack assembly  10 . The foldable seat  20  is therefore sturdy enough to support an adult person, for example up to 300 pounds. The user need not remember to bring a seat because the foldable seat  20  is secured to their backpack assembly  10 . The foldable seat  20  is adapted to be in two positions: the carrying position, and the sitting position. When in the carrying position, the foldable seat  20  is folded (i.e., not deployed or engaged) substantially vertically, such that the backpack assembly  10  can be easily stored and carried on the user&#39;s back, arms, and/or shoulders. The various components of the foldable seat  20  are each substantially parallel and adjacent to each other. When in the sitting position, the foldable seat  20  is unfolded (i.e., deployed and engaged) in a substantial K-shape, as discussed below, such that the user can sit upon the foldable seat  20 . In other embodiments, the foldable seat  20  in unfolded into another shape, such as an X-shape, tripod, etc. 
         [0046]    In embodiments of the invention, the foldable seat  20  is pivotably and permanently secured to bag frame  16  of the backpack  12 . The foldable seat  20  comprises the upper support  22 , the lower support  24 , and the flexible sheet  26 . As best illustrated in  FIGS. 6 and 8 , the upper support  22  and the lower support  24  provide structural stability for the flexible sheet  26 , upon which the user sits when the backpack assembly  10  is in the sitting position. Both the upper support  22  and the lower support  24  present a cross-sectional shape adapted to carry the load. In various embodiments of the invention, the cross-sectional shape may be circular, elliptical, square, rectangular, triangular, or other shape. In one embodiment, the upper support  22  and the lower support  24  each present a complementary shape at cross-section such that they interfit together to present a small, compact envelope when the backpack assembly  10  is in the carrying position. Both the upper support  22  and the lower support  24  may be formed of a metal, such as aluminum, or a polymer, such as plastic. The upper support  22 , lower support  24 , and bag frame  16  may all be formed of the same material. In other embodiments of the invention, the foldable seat  20  is selectively removable by the user, such that the user can remove the foldable seat  20  if it is not needed. 
         [0047]    The upper support  22  is rigid so as to support a portion of the weight of the user. The upper support  22  is pivotably secured to the bag frame  16 . There may be an opening in the back segment  38  of the compressible bag  14  to allow at least one upper-support interface  56  of the bag frame  16  to be disposed externally to the backpack  12  so that the upper support  22  may be pivotably secured thereto. The upper support  22  is oriented in a generally upward direction from the upper-support interface  56 . 
         [0048]    Referring to  FIG. 6 , in embodiments of the invention, the upper support  22  is generally U-shaped so as to present a first upper arm  58 , a second upper arm  60 , and an upper traversing segment  62 , which is primarily covered in  FIG. 6  by the seat. Each of the first upper arm  58  and the second upper arm  60  presents a distal end  64  and a proximal end  66 . The upper traversing segment  62  presents a first end  68  and a second end  70 . The distal end  64  of the first upper arm  58  is pivotably attached to the upper-support interface  56  of the bag frame  16 . The proximal end  66  of the first upper arm  58  is secured or otherwise integrally formed to the first end  68  of the upper traversing segment  62 . The distal end  64  of the second upper arm  60  is pivotably secured to another of the upper-support interfaces  56 . The proximal end  66  of the second upper arm  60  is secured or otherwise integrally formed to the second end  70  of the upper traversing segment  62 . Therefore, the first upper arm  58 , the second upper arm  60 , and the upper traversing segment  62  form a general U-shape. The ‘top’ of the U-shape is pivotably secured to the two upper support  22  interfaces of the bag frame  16 . The transitions between the upper traversing segment  62  and the respective arm may be rounded or arcuate, as illustrated in  FIG. 6 . In other embodiments, the upper support  22  is substantially V-shaped, rectangular, square, elliptical, triangular, or other shape. 
         [0049]    The lower support  24  is also rigid so as to support a portion of the weight of the user. The upper support  22  is pivotably secured to top segment  40 . The top segment  40  therefore presents a lower-support interface  72 . The lower support  24  is oriented in a generally downward direction from the lower-support interface  72 . 
         [0050]    In embodiments of the invention, the lower support  24  is generally U-shaped so as to present a first lower arm  74 , a second lower arm  76 , and a lower traversing segment  78 . Each of the first lower arm  74  and the second lower arm  76  present a distal end  80  and a proximal end  82 . The lower traversing segment  78  presents a first end  84  and a second end  86 . The distal end  80  of the first lower arm  74  is pivotably attached to the lower-support interface  72  of the upper support  22 . The proximal end  82  of the first lower arm  74  is secured or otherwise integrally formed to the first end  84  of the lower traversing segment  78 . The distal end  80  of the second lower arm  76  is pivotably secured to another of the lower-support interfaces  72 . The proximal end  82  of the second lower arm  76  is secured or otherwise integrally formed to the second end  86  of the lower traversing segment  78 . Therefore, the first lower arm  74 , the second lower arm  76 , and the lower traversing segment  78  form a general U-shape. The transitions between the lower traversing segment  78  and the respective arm may be rounded or arcuate, as illustrated in  FIG. 6 . In other embodiments, the lower support  24  is substantially V-shaped, rectangular, square, circular, or other shape. 
         [0051]    As viewed from the side as illustrated in  FIG. 5 , the bag frame  16 , the upper support  22 , and the lower support  24  form a general K-shape when the backpack assembly  10  is in the sitting position. There are therefore two relevant angles in the K-shape, relative to the substantially vertical bag frame  16 . The first angle is the angle between the bag frame  16  and the upper support  22 . The first angle may be more than 80 degrees, 10-80 degrees, 20-70 degrees, 30-60 degrees, 40-50 degrees, etc. The second angle is the angle between the upper support  22  and the lower support  24 . The second angle may be 40-140 degrees, 60-120 degrees, 80-100 degrees, etc. In some embodiments, the first angle and/or the second angle are adjustable so as to alter the height of the adjustable seat. 
         [0052]    In some embodiments of the invention, not illustrated, the lower support  24  is pivotably attached to the bag frame  16 , and the upper support  22  is pivotably attached to the lower support  24 . As such, the bag frame  16 , the upper support  22 , and the lower support  24  for an upside-down K-shape when viewed from the side. In yet other embodiments, not illustrated, the upper support  22  and the lower support  24  are secured to each other near the center of their respective first arms and second arms, and either the upper support  22  or the lower support  24  is also pivotably secured to the bag frame  16 . 
         [0053]    In some embodiments of the invention, two secondary lower support bars  88  are pivotably attached to the lower support  24  and to the bag frame  16 . The two secondary lower support bars  88  ensure that the two respective arms  74 ,  76  of the lower support  24  remain parallel to the bag frame  16 . The two secondary lower support bars  88  also provide additional support to the user sitting upon the foldable seat  20 . 
         [0054]    The flexible sheet  26  is the portion of the foldable seat  20  upon which the user sits when the backpack assembly  10  is in the sitting position. The flexible sheet  26  is connected at a proximal end  90  to the backpack  12  and/or the bag frame  16 . The flexible sheet  26  is connected at a distal end  92  to the upper support  22 . In some embodiments, the flexible sheet  26  at least in part covers the upper support  22 . The flexible sheet  26  covers the upper support  22  and is secured to another portion of itself and/or the cushion described below. When the backpack assembly  10  is in the sitting position, the flexible sheet  26  is pulled tight, or substantially tight, between the upper support  22  and the backpack  12 /bag frame  16 , so as to support at least a portion of the weight of the user sitting upon the flexible sheet  26  of the foldable seat  20 . 
         [0055]    The flexible sheet  26  is generally rectangular so as to present two long sides  94  and two short sides  96 . One of the short sides  96  is supported along its length by the backpack  12  and/or the bag frame  16 . The other short side  96  is supported along its length by the upper support  22 . The two long sides  94  are not directly supported. Therefore, as the user sits on the flexible sheet  26 , the two long sides  94  bow or bend beneath the weight of the user, but provide a stable seat. However, it should be appreciated that in one embodiment the flexible sheet  26  is substantially square such that the long sides  94  and short sides  96  present substantially the same length. In other embodiments, the flexible sheet  26  is another shape, such as a triangle or an oval. 
         [0056]    In some embodiments of the invention, the foldable seat  20  further includes a carrying cushion  98 . The carrying cushion  98  is disposed within an interior of the U-shaped upper support  22 , the U-shaped lower support  24 , or both. When the backpack assembly  10  is in the carrying position, the carrying cushion  98  is positioned against the user&#39;s back. Some embodiments of the carrying cushion  98  also prevent the lower traversing segment  78  from being directly against lower back. 
         [0057]    In embodiments of the invention, the carrying cushion  98  comprises a plurality of cushion segments  100 . At least one cushioning segment is disposed on the upper support  22  and at least one cushioning segment is disposed on the lower support  24 . As the backpack assembly  10  is selectively positioned by the user into the carrying position and the sitting position, the at least one cushioning segment remains parallel to and disposed on its respective upper or lower support  22 ,  24 . When the backpack assembly  10  is in the carrying position, and the upper support  22  and lower support  24  are therefore substantially parallel, the plurality of cushioning segments are substantially planar. When the backpack assembly  10  is in the sitting position, and the upper support  22  and lower support  24  are presenting the second angle (discussed above), at least one of the cushion segments  100  is at an angle relative to at least one other cushion segment  100  that is substantially similar to the second angle. Positioning the carrying cushion  98  on the foldable seat  20 , instead of directly on the backpack  12 , provides a space between the carrying cushion  98  and the back segment  38  of the compressible bag  14 . The space allows the carrying cushion  98  to flex and conform to the shape of the user&#39;s back. 
         [0058]    In some embodiments, the carrying cushion  98  presents a pair of openings  102  for the flexible straps  18 . Because the flexible straps  18  must pass from back segment  38  near the top segment to the side segment  44  near the bottom segment, the flexible straps  18  of some embodiments pass through at least a portion of the carrying cushion  98 . Each of the pair of openings  102  is elongated and of a substantially similar shape as a horizontal cross-sectional shape of the flexible strap  18 . In other embodiments, the flexible straps  18  pass around the carrying cushion  98  instead of through it. In some embodiments, the carrying cushion  98  is disposed on the backpack  12  in lieu of being disposed on the foldable seat  20 . 
         [0059]    In some embodiments of the invention, the foldable seat  20  further includes at least one cushion support bar for the carrying cushion  98 . In one embodiment, a lower cushion support bar traverses between two roller arms  104 , as discussed below, to cause the roller segment  28  to automatically deploy. The lower cushion support bar is secured to the bottom of the carrying cushion  98 , such that the bottom of the carrying cushion  98  remains substantially straight. 
         [0060]    In one embodiment, an intermediate cushion support bar traverses from the first lower arm  74  to the second lower arm  76  of the lower support  24 . The intermediate cushion support bar is secured to an intermediate portion between two cushion segments  100  of the carrying cushion  98  to displace the cushion  98  substantially at the aforementioned second angle while the backpack assembly  10  is in the sitting position. 
         [0061]    In one embodiment, an upper cushion support bar traverses between the first upper arm  58  and the second upper arm  60 . The upper cushion support bar is secured to an upper portion of the carrying cushion  98  and/or to the flexible sheet  26 . In some embodiments, the carrying cushion  98  and the flexible sheet  26  are a single continuous component. 
         [0062]    Embodiments of the invention comprise the roller segment  28 . The roller segment  28  allows the backpack assembly  10  to be easily moved by the user without having to lift the backpack assembly  10 . The roller segment  28  comprises two roller arms  104 , two rollers  106 , and two lower-support attachment points  108 . Each roller arm  104  presents a distal end  110  and a proximal end  112 . A roller interface is disposed at the distal end  110  of each roller arm  104  for rotatably securing the roller  106 . The lower-support attachment point  108  is disposed at the proximal end of each roller arm  104 . 
         [0063]    The roller segment  28  of some embodiments is selectively positionable in an engaged position (as illustrated in  FIGS. 7 and 8 ) and a stored position (as illustrated in  FIG. 1-6 ). When in the engaged position, the roller arm  104  is rotated downward about the lower-support attachment points  108 . This allows the roller  106  of the roller segment  28  to be in contact with the ground. When in the stored position, the roller arm  104  is rotated upward about the lower-support attachment points  108 . This prevents the roller  106  of the roller segment  28  from being in contact with the ground, such that the roller  106  will not destabilize the foldable seat  20 . 
         [0064]    In embodiments of the invention, the roller segment  28  is automatically positioned into the engaged position and the stored position by the cushion support bars. When the backpack assembly  10  is in the carrying position, the roller segment  28  is in the engaged position. When the backpack assembly  10  is in the sitting position, the roller segment  28  is in the stored position. As the user alters the position of the backpack assembly  10 , the aforementioned second angle (between the upper support  22  and lower support  24 , as discussed above) changes. Each end of the lower cushion support bars is rotatably attached to the distal end  110  of the respective roller arm  104 . Two engaging bars  114  are rotatably secured to distal end  110  of the respective roller arms  104 . The two engaging bars  114  are also rotatably secured to the intermediate cushion support bar at a location other the location in which the lower support  24  is rotatably secured to the upper support  22 . As the second angle changes, the engaging bars  114  push or pull the distal end  110  of the roller arm  104  away from or toward the ground. 
         [0065]    In other embodiments, the roller segment  28  is selectively placed in the engaged and stored positions by the user independent of the position of the backpack assembly  10 . In yet other embodiments, the roller segment  28  is not selectively interchangeable between positions. The roller  106  of the roller segment  28  of these embodiments may be in contact with the ground so long as the backpack assembly  10  is in contact with the ground. In some embodiments the rollers  106  of the roller segment  28  are ruggedized and adapted to travel over rough terrain, by, for example, presenting a tread, having a larger diameter, and being formed of a cushioning polymer. 
         [0066]    In some embodiments of the invention, the backpack  12  includes the telescoping handle  32 , as best illustrated in  FIG. 8 . The telescoping handle  32  presents a proximal end  116  and a distal end  118 . The telescoping handle  32  is formed of a handgrip  120  disposed at the distal end  118  and a plurality of elongated segments. The elongated segments of the plurality are successively disposed within each other. The telescoping handle  32  extends out of and retracts into the at least a portion of the backpack  12 . When the telescoping handle  32  is in a retracted position, with the plurality of elongated segments substantially within each other, it is stored, as discussed below. When the telescoping handle  32  is in an extended position, it is adapted to be held by the user via the handgrip  120 . The telescoping handle  32  extends in an substantially vertical upward direction from the backpack  12 . The telescoping handle  32  is secured at the proximal end  116  to the backpack  12 . In some embodiments, as illustrated in  FIG. 8 , the telescoping handle  32  is substantially T-shaped, with the handgrip  120  disposed horizontally at the distal end  118  of the telescoping handle (which is oriented vertically). In other embodiments, not illustrated, the telescoping handle is substantially an upside-down U-shape, with the handgrip  120  disposed at the distal end  118  of two substantially parallel telescoping handles. 
         [0067]    In some embodiments of the invention, the telescoping handle  32  is stored within a handle opening (not illustrated) in the backpack  12 . The handle opening is located in the top segment of the backpack  12 , such that the telescoping handle  32  may extend out of and retract into the backpack  12 , as discussed above. The handle opening may be secured via one of the structures discussed above or an equivalent. The handgrip  120  may retract within the handle opening, or remain atop the top segment of the back, when the telescoping handle  32  is in the retracted position. 
         [0068]    The telescoping handle  32  may lock into the extended position, lock in the retracted position, or both. The handgrip  120  may present a release button (not illustrated) for unlocking the lock. With the telescoping handle  32  locked it the extended position, the user tips the telescoping handle  32  away from the substantially vertical upward direction and in a backward direction. In this tilted position, the weight of the backpack assembly  10  is on the at least one roller  106 . The user can then pull or push the backpack assembly  10 . 
         [0069]    In some embodiments of the invention, the bag frame  16  further comprises two retaining clips  122  to retain the backpack assembly  10  in the carrying position. The retaining clips  122  extend from the bag frame  16  backward toward the foldable seat  20 . The retaining clips  122  present an interior shape that is complementary to a cross-sectional shape of the upper support  22  and/or the lower support  24 . In one embodiment, the retaining clip  122  is C-shaped and the upper support  22  and/or lower support  24  presents a circular shape at cross-section. As the user places the backpack assembly  10  into the carrying position, the user presses (either directly or indirectly) the upper support  22  and/or lower support  24  into the opening of the C-shaped retaining clip  122 , deforming the C-shape slightly to allow the support to pass through the opening. The retaining clip  122  then remains around the upper support  22  and/or lower support  24 , and therefore the backpack assembly  10  remains in the carrying position, until physically pulled away by the user. 
         [0070]    In some embodiments of the invention, the lower support  24  further comprises two flexible strap retainers  124  to prevent the tangling of the flexible strap  18  in the foldable seat  20  during repeated alterations between the two positions. The flexible strap retainer  124  includes two anchor points and at least one expandable string disposed therebetween. Each flexible strap  18  runs under the respective flexible strap retainer  124 . The flexible strap  18  is disposed beneath at least one expandable string (i.e., between the expandable string and the lower support  24 ), for example, by detaching the center of the flexible strap as described above. The flexible strap retainers  124  of one embodiment are optional for use by the user. 
         [0071]    While already discussed throughout, a method of using the backpack assembly  10  will now be given more detail for clarity. The user can manipulate the backpack assembly  10  to be in either of two positions. In the carrying position (as illustrated in  FIGS. 7-8 ), the foldable seat  20  is folded and substantially adjacent to the bag frame  16 . The retaining clips  122  keep the backpack assembly  10  in the carrying position. In the carrying position, the user can place the pair of flexible straps  18  around each of the user&#39;s respective shoulders. The user can then transport the backpack assembly  10  to various locations without having to hold the foldable seat  20  or the contents of the compressible bag  14  in the user&#39;s hand. Upon removing it from the user&#39;s shoulders, the backpack assembly  10  sits vertically and stably on the ground due to the substantially rigid bottom that is secured to the bad frame. When it is vertically sitting on the ground, the user can manipulate the backpack assembly  10  into the seated position (as illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6 ) by pulling the upper support  22  and/or lower support  24  out of the retaining clips  122  or otherwise releasing a lock mechanism. The user then continues to pull in one simple motion until the flexible sheet  26  becomes substantially taut and the foldable seat  20  is in the substantial K-shaped configuration discussed above. The user may then sit upon the flexible sheet  26  of the foldable seat  20 . The user may also, regardless of the position of the backpack assembly  10 , place items into and remove items from the compressible bad via the openings discussed above. 
         [0072]    In other embodiments of the invention, not illustrated, the backpack assembly  10  comprises a frameless backpack and the foldable seat  20 . In these embodiments, when the backpack assembly  10  is in the carrying position, the upper and lower supports  22 ,  24  act as the bag frame for the comfort of the user. When the backpack assembly  10  is in the sitting position, the foldable seat  20  may utilize a securable traversing support (not illustrated) to keep the supports in a stable deployed configuration. 
         [0073]    In other embodiments of the invention, not illustrated, the backpack assembly  10  comprises the bag frame  16  and the foldable seat  20 . In these embodiments, there is no backpack or compressible bag supplied with the backpack assembly  10 . Instead, the user is invited or instructed to secure a backpack that the user already owns (or concurrently purchases) to the backpack assembly  10 . In this manner, the backpack assembly  10  can add the features described herein to any existing backpack for increased versatility and customization. The bag frame  16  of these embodiments may provide straps, clips, or other attachment points for securing the bag frame  16  to the user&#39;s backpack. In some embodiments of the invention, the backpack  12  is provided but is detachable from the bag frame  16 . For example, the customer may purchase the bag frame  16  and the foldable seat  20  along with a soccer-specific backpack  12 . The user then assembles the backpack  12  onto the bag frame  16  and foldable seat  20 . 
         [0074]    Although embodiments of the invention have been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the attached drawing figures, it is noted that equivalents may be employed and substitutions made herein without departing from the scope of the invention as recited in the claims. 
         [0075]    Having thus described various embodiments of the invention, what is claimed as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent includes the following: