Patent Publication Number: US-2009230006-A1

Title: Containers

Description:
The present invention relates generally to containers and particularly, although not exclusively, to containers formed as cases or holders for conveying articles or equipment. The container of the invention may be formed as an insert for a carrying case for electronic or electrical equipment. The present invention finds particular, although not exclusive, application in the structure of a carrying case for a computer. 
     In recent times the prevalence of the so-called lap-top or portable computers has increased greatly, and many people find it a great convenience to be able to carry a small, portable computer from one work place to another, or between their place of work and home, to allow them greater freedom and flexibility in organising their working life. Computers, however, are relatively shock-sensitive items of high value which must be treated with care in order to preserve their functionality. Such shocks and impacts would at least damage or distort their casing, and at worst cause internal damage possibly resulting in malfunction or even total breakdown of the computer. 
     Specialist luggage in the form of carrying cases for computers is available on the market, and this very often incorporates padded or lined wall structures which serve at least to some extent to absorb impacts or shocks encountered during travelling, for example should the user place the computer in its carrying case heavily on the ground, or even drop it or have it knocked from their grasp. 
     In known containers the dimensions of the region in to which an article is placed to be protected is fixed. Accordingly the size of the region is set for a particular size of article. In order to function optimally the dimensions of the protected region are closely matched to the size of the article so that potentially damaging movement is prevented. 
     The present invention seeks to provide a container, suitable for, but not exclusively for, carrying computers, sensitive electronic equipment, medical equipment, cameras, sports equipment, musical instruments, fragile contents, portable screens, glass items and the like shock-sensitive equipment or contents. 
     According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a container having cushioning means which define at least in part a protected region for protecting the contents of the container against damage, in which the dimensions of the protected region are adjustable. 
     The present invention therefore provides a container in which the protected region can be adapted for differently sized articles. This therefore avoids the requirement for multiple containers if different articles are to be accommodated. 
     The container may comprise a protection system which is ‘active’. By this is meant that the protected region of the container can adapt to differently sized contents and can be moved to abut and press firmly against the contents. 
     The cushioning means may be biased towards a contracted position and movable towards an expanded position. 
     The container may be constructed so that the protected region can be tightened, in use, with the contents in place. There may be provided tensioning means for applying tension to the cushioning means within the protected region. The tightening may be reversible to allow removal of an article. 
     The dimensions of the protected region may be adjustable, in use, with the contents in situ. This allows the cushioning means to be moved so that they are forced against the contents. In other words, the contents can be placed in the container and then the cushioning means are moveable to hold the contents firmly and ‘grip’ them. Once the cushioning means reach a required position it may be securable in position so that it remains in an optimal maximally contracted position. 
     The container may be formed as an insert for a primary container. The primary container may also protect the article, or the container may comprise the sole source of protection. For example, the container may be in the form of a sleeve, cradle or sling into which a lap-top computer can be inserted and then the container together with the computer are placed in a protective carrying case. 
     Alternatively, the container may itself comprise a primary container such as a carrying case within which is formed the adjustable protected region according to the present invention. 
     The cushioning means may comprise one or more movable cushioning units. 
     The cushioning means may comprise two or more cushioning units which are movable relative to each other. In this way the dimensions of the protected region can be varied. For example, relative separation and approach of the cushioning units may be used to adjust the width of a protected region. 
     The cushioning units may be formed as a surround which engage the periphery of an article. 
     The cushioning means may be movable in one or more planes. 
     The cushioning means may be fixable in position to set or pre-set the protection region. 
     The cushioning means may comprise a pair of L-shape cushioning units. When placed together such units can form a generally U-shape sling-like element. 
     Dependant on the types of article which are to be accommodated by the container one or more dimensions (height, length, width) of the protected region may be variable. 
     There may be cushioning means provided on some or all faces of a container and the position of some or all of the cushioning units may be adjustable. 
     The present invention also comprehends a container in the form of a protective insert which can be introduced into otherwise known primary containers (padded or otherwise) for the purpose of increasing the ability of the primary container to absorb shocks and protect the contents held in the insert from impact. 
     The cushioning means may comprise one or a plurality of enclosed volumes housing a fluid or gel and defined by an at least partly resilient envelope. 
     One advantage of the use of enclosed volumes for shock absorption lies in the fact that the fluid may be retained in the envelope under pressure, and the appropriate pressure required for specific circumstances may be chosen in dependence on the nature of the contents to be conveyed and the particular form of the envelope. 
     The enclosed volume/s may comprise sealed units (i.e. permanently inflated) or may comprise units which are inflatable and deflatable. 
     The enclosed volumes may be formed as separate pockets or enclosures independent from one another and housed within a larger enclosure. The individual envelopes may be of any convenient shape from spherical or tetrahedral to rectangular “cushion-shape” elements, and the larger enclosure within which they are contained may comprise a separate compartment within the container or carrying case. The number of individual elements within a given volume of the larger enclosure will, therefore, determine the size of the larger enclosure and therefore the extent to which it protrudes into a protected region. The number of elements may also determine the degree of resistance to movement of an article since the ability of the separate pockets or envelopes to move in relation to one another will depend on the proportion of the enclosure filled by such elements. 
     An envelope defining a fluid-containment volume may comprise a layer of flexibly resilient material defining at least one wall of each of a plurality of individual fluid-containment volumes or pockets. Alternatively, the envelope defining the fluid-containment volume may comprise two layers of flexibly resilient material with a plurality of partitions separating the space between them into a plurality of individual fluid-containment volumes. 
     As well as this, the material from which at least a part of the container is made may itself be formed with one or a plurality of fluid-containment volumes which receive and retain fluid, preferably but not exclusively under pressure. 
     An envelope defining the fluid-containment volume may alternatively comprise two layers of flexibly resilient material with a plurality of partitions separating the space between them into a plurality of individual fluid-containment volumes. 
     At least some of a plurality of fluid-containment volumes may intercommunicate with one another although, alternatively, the volumes may be all entirely independent of one another. 
     In view of its intended use to absorb impacts and shocks, the volume envelopes are preferably made of a material sufficiently resistant to tearing or rupture as to be substantially non-rupturable in use. 
     The term “fluid” is to be understood to include (but without limitation) gas, liquid or gel. Of course other materials, including solids and semi-solids, could also be used to form cushioning means. 
     The gas within the containment volume is conveniently air but other gases may be used if preferred or if their particular properties lend themselves to such use. 
     The gel may be any semi-solid colloidal solution or jelly, although certain properties are seen as advantageous. 
     In one embodiment the gel of choice may exhibit inverse thixotropic properties upon experiencing shock loading. 
     The gel may include a coloured dye. This may be especially desirable when used in combination with a container having transparent sections that expose the cushioning means. Further, the colour of the coloured dye may be indicative of properties of the gel. 
     The cushioning means may incorporate at least two different cushioning materials, the said two materials having different physical properties. 
     The cushioning materials may be housed together or separately in one or more enclosed volumes. The cushioning materials may comprise a solid, semi-solid liquid, gas or gel material. 
     The at least two different cushioning materials may comprise: air and gel; air and foam; gel and foam; or air, gel and foam. 
     The cushioning means may be formed as a separate and removable insert which can be fitted to and removed from the container. Alternatively, the cushioning means may be formed integrally as part of the structure of the container. 
     The cushioning means may be formed integrally as part of the structure of the container. 
     The cushioning means may be formed as a separate and removable insert which can be fitted to and removed from the container. Such an insert may be formed as a shaped element, for example at least partly conformed to the shape of the intended components (which is especially useful in the case of dedicated computer cases) and separated into the plurality of individual compartments. 
     In embodiments where the cushioning means is formed from a self-supporting material, such as foam, a resilient envelope may not necessarily be employed. However, even in such cases an envelope may still be employed for purposes such as protecting the cushioning material and concealing it from view. 
     The container may further comprise a restraining strap to secure a contained item within the container. 
     The position of the cushioning means relative to the remainder of the container may be adjustable to allow alteration of the dimensions of the protected region. Alternatively or additionally the size of the cushioning means and/or the extent to which it protrudes into a protection region may be variable. 
     According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a lap-top computer protection means comprising a container as described herein. 
     According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of protecting an item comprising the steps of placing the item in a protective insert container and placing the insert container in a primary container. 
     According to an alternative aspect of the present invention there is provided a storage member for a container, the storage member comprising one or more storage areas and having releasable attachment means for attachment to a container. 
     By providing a separate storage member which is releasably connectable to a container the storage member can be transported together with the container and then removed and used separately. 
     The storage areas may comprise, for example, pockets, zipped pockets, slots or flaps. 
     The releasable attachment means may comprise a hook and loop fastener arrangement such as Velcro (RTM). Alternative releasable attachment means comprise, for example, clips, hooks or clamps. The form of the attachment means should be such that the storage number can quickly and easily be attached and detached for transportation or use. 
     The storage member may be adapted to be resistant to one or more factors. For example, the storage member may be formed so as to be fireproof, bulletproof or shockproof. 
     The storage member may be waterproof and such or may include a portion which is waterproof. Accordingly, at least a part of the storage number may be formed from or coated with a waterproof material. 
    
    
     
       The present invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a container in the form of a protective sleeve and shown in a contracted position; 
         FIG. 2  is a plan view of the protective sleeve of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  shows two L-shape cushioning units forming part of the sleeve shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the sleeve shown in  FIG. 1  in an expanded position; 
         FIG. 5  is a plan view of the sleeve shown in  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  shows the cushioning units of  FIG. 3  in a spaced apart relationship; 
         FIGS. 7A to 7C  illustrate how the insert shown in  FIGS. 1 to 6  moves from a contracted position to an expanded position upon insertion of an article to be protected; 
         FIGS. 8A to 8E  show a container formed according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG. 9  is a section of a container having cushioning units formed according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates the movement of a base unit forming part of the container shown in  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a plan view of the container shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10  with lateral cushioning units shown in an outermost position; 
         FIG. 12  is a plan view of the container shown in  FIG. 11  with the cushioning units shown following an inner translational movement; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective partial section of the container shown in  FIGS. 9 to 12  illustrating the movement of a base cushioning unit; 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of a container formed according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of the container of  FIG. 14  shown with a front, cover section removed to reveal the structure of a base section; 
         FIG. 16  is a section of a cushioning unit forming part of the container of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a front view of the cover section of  FIG. 16  shown attached to the base section; 
         FIG. 18  is a front view of a container formed according to an alternative embodiment shown in a contracted configuration; 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of the container of  FIG. 18  shown inserted in a further container; 
         FIG. 20  is a front view of the container of  FIG. 18  shown in an expanded configuration; 
         FIG. 21  is a perspective view of the container of  FIG. 20  shown inserted in the further container shown in  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 22  is a top perspective view of a container formed according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG. 23  is a bottom perspective view of  FIG. 22 ; 
         FIG. 24  is a top perspective view of the container shown in  FIGS. 22 and 23  shown in an open position; 
         FIG. 25  is a bottom perspective view of the container of  FIGS. 22 to 24  shown with lateral flaps in an open position; 
         FIG. 26  is a section of a zipper member used to close the lateral flaps shown in  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIG. 27  is an exploded section of the cushioning unit for use in conjunction with the container shown in  FIGS. 22 to 25 ; 
         FIG. 28  is a section of the cushioning unit of  FIG. 27  shown assembled in an in-use configuration; 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of a cushioning insert incorporating the cushioning unit of  FIG. 28 ; 
         FIGS. 30A to 30C  illustrate the steps in incorporating the insert of  FIG. 29  into the container of  FIGS. 22 to 25 ; 
         FIG. 31  is a perspective view of a protective sleeve of the type shown in  FIGS. 1 to 7  shown inserted into a carrying case; 
         FIG. 32A  is a plan view of a carrying case container formed according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention shown accommodating a first, larger item; 
         FIG. 32B  is a plan view of the carrying case shown in  FIG. 32A  adapted to accommodate a second, smaller item; 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view of a carrying case container formed with an inflatable cushioning element; 
         FIG. 34  is a section of a wall forming part of a container according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 35  is a perspective view of a cushioning unit formed according to the present invention; 
         FIG. 36  is a section of the cushioning unit of  FIG. 35  taken along line XXXVI-XXXVI; 
         FIG. 37  is a front view of a storage member formed according to an alternative aspect of the present invention; 
         FIG. 38  is a rear view of the storage member shown in  FIG. 37 ; 
         FIG. 39  is a side view of the storage member shown in  FIGS. 37 and 38 ; 
         FIG. 40  is an underplan view of the storage member shown in  FIGS. 37 to 39 ; 
         FIG. 41  is a front view of a storage member formed according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG. 42  is a perspective view of the storage member shown in  FIG. 41 ; 
         FIG. 43  is a perspective view of a storage member formed according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG. 44  is a perspective view of a storage member formed according to an alternative embodiment; 
         FIG. 45  is an exploded schematic view of the storage member shown in  FIG. 44 ; 
         FIG. 46  is a plan view of an insert layer forming part of the storage member shown in  FIG. 45 ; and 
         FIG. 47  is a plan view of a rear panel shown in  FIG. 45  incorporating the inserts shown in  FIG. 46 . 
     
    
    
     Referring first to  FIGS. 1 to 3  there is shown a container generally indicated  10  in the form of a protective sleeve. 
     The container  10  comprises front and rear panels  11 ,  12 . The panels  11 ,  12  are generally square and have opposite upper and lower sides  11   a,    11   b  and opposite lateral sides  11   c,    11   d  (only panel  11  is described in detail below). 
     The panels  11 ,  12  are spaced by two opposing L-shape cushioning units  15 ,  16 . The cushioning units  15 ,  16  are formed as tubular envelopes housing pressurised air. 
     The L-shape cushioning units  15 ,  16  each comprise a longer leg  15   a,    16   a  and a shorter leg  15   b,    16   b.    
     The L-shape is formed by bending the tubes to form comers  15   c,    16   c.    
     The longer leg  15   a  of the unit  15  runs along the length of the lateral side  11   c  of the panel  11  (and therefore along the corresponding side of the panel  12 ). The corner  15   c  of the unit  15  corresponds to the intersection of the lateral side  11   c  and the lower side  11   b  of the panel  11 . The shorter leg  15   b  continues from the corner  15   c  alongside the lower side  11   b  to approximately the mid-point of the lower side  11   b.  The unit  16  is arranged in exactly the same way as the unit  15  in that it runs alongside the lateral side  11   d  and to the mid-point of the lower side  11   b  at which point the shorter leg  16   b  meets the shorter leg  15   b.    
     The panels  11 ,  12  are joined along their lower sides by a U-shape strap  20  and at the bottom of the lateral sides by U-shape straps  21 ,  22 . The straps  20 ,  21 ,  22  are formed from an elastic material. In addition, towards the top of the upper side  11   a  the exterior side of the panel  11  is provided with two loops  23 ,  24  at either lateral side. The panel  12  is provided with corresponding loops (not shown) and between each pair of loops on the panels  11 ,  12  a strap  25 ,  26  is passed. At each end of the straps  25 ,  26  is an enlarged head  27 ,  28  each of which has a projecting nose portion  27   a,    28   a  which prevents their heads  27 ,  28  from passing through the loops  23 ,  24 . In the configuration shown in  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 2  the length of the straps  25 ,  26  is such that there is an excess of material and the heads  27 ,  28  are pulled through the loops  23 ,  24 . 
     The panel  11  is provided with a fastener  29  in the form of hook and loop fastener. The panel  12  is provided with a flap  30  which can be pulled over onto the panel  11  where it can be attached to the fastener  29  as shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 4 to 6  the container  10  illustrated in  FIGS. 1 to 3  is shown in an expanded configuration with a protected region of increased dimensions. 
     The increase in dimensions of the protected area is achieved by relative separation of the two L-shape cushioning units  15 ,  16 . The movement of the units  15 ,  16  causes the straps  21 ,  22  to be stretched and causes the straps  25 ,  26  to be pulled through the loops  23 ,  24  to the point at which the nose portions  27   a,    28   a  abut against the loops  23 ,  24  and restrict further movement. The shorter leg portions  15   b,    16   b  of the units  15 ,  16  slide on top of the strap  20 . The extent of the strap  20  is such that the ends of the portions  15   b,    16   b  are retained in the expanded configuration. 
     The longer leg portions  15   a,    16   a  of the units  15 ,  16  are connected to respective lateral sides of the panels  11 ,  12  by gusset members  13 ,  14 . The gusset members  13 ,  14  extend between the panels  11 ,  12  and are joined at approximately their mid-point to the portions  15   a,    16   a.  The gusset portions  13 ,  14  allow the inward and outward movement of the units  15 ,  16  whilst remaining attached to the panels  11 ,  12 . 
     According to the principles described in relation to  FIGS. 1 to 6  a container can be moved between expanded and contracted positions and placed at any position intermediate the expanded and contracted positions to accommodate articles of differing sizes. The heads  27 ,  28  may have attachment means for attachment to the panels once the required separation of the cushioning units has been selected to hold the container stably in position. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 7A to 7C  the movement of the container  10  between the contracted and expanded positions is illustrated. 
     In  FIG. 7A  the container  10  is shown in the contracted position illustrated in  FIGS. 1 to 3  in which the cushioning units  15 ,  16  are adjacent each other. In order for an article having a width greater than that defined between the portions  15   a,    16   a  the top opening defined between the panels  11 ,  12  is widened. The opening is widened by moving the free ends of the leg portions  15   a,    16   a  away from each other. Accordingly the leg portions  15   a,    16   a  pivot about the corners  15   c,    16   c  so that they are inclined as shown in  FIG. 7B . In this position the straps  25 ,  26  are moved through the loops  23 ,  24  to the maximum extent so that the nose portions  27   a,    28   a  abut against the loops  23 ,  24 . In addition, the gussets  13 ,  14  move outwardly with the portions  15   a,    16   a.    
     Once the position shown in  FIG. 7B  has been achieved an article can be lowered through the opening between the panels  11 ,  12  and as such the article will slide down the inside of the gussets  13 ,  14 , pushing on the leg portions  15   a,    16   a  progressively so that the leg portions  15   b,    16   b  are pulled apart and the leg portions  15   a,    16   a  assume the parallel configuration shown in  FIG. 7C  against the resilience of the straps  21 ,  22 . The relative maximum expanded positions of the cushioning units could be pre-set by fixing the heads in position prior to insertion of an article. Alternatively, an article could be inserted into the container and then the straps could be moved to pull the cushioning units inwards before securing the straps. This forces the units against the article and holds it firmly in place. Once the article is maximally inserted the flap  30  can be pulled over the opening and secured to the fastener  29  of the panel  11  as shown in  FIG. 7C . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 8A to 8B  there is shown a container  110  formed according to an alternative embodiment 
     The container  110  comprises a generally C-shape (in section) foam padded front panel  111  and a generally rectangular foam padded rear panel  112 . The container is open at one end and closed at the other by a base panel  112   a.    
     Within the interior of the container  110  are two opposing L-shape cushioning units  115 ,  116  movable between expanded positions shown in  FIGS. 8B and 8C  and contracted positions shown in  FIGS. 8D and 8E . 
     The cushioning units  115 ,  116  are connected to the front panel by fabric straps  121 ,  122  which are stitched to the front panel  111  at the open end of the container. The straps  121 ,  122  are flexible and can crumple into expansion gaps  121   a,    122   a  formed between the front panel  111  and the longer leg portions  115   a,    116   a  of the units  115 ,  116 . 
     The front panel has two eyelets  104  through which are threaded fastening straps  125 ,  126 . The straps  125 ,  126  pass into the interior of the container around the sides of the longer leg portions  115   a,    116   a  and are attached to the interior face of the rear panel  112 . 
     The straps  125 ,  126  can move freely through the eyelets  1034  from the position shown in  FIGS. 8B and 8C  to the position shown in  FIGS. 8D and 8E . 
     Because the straps  125 ,  126  are fixed to the rear panel  112 , when they are pulled through the eyelets in the direction illustrated in Figures SD and  8 E, they cause the units  115 ,  116  to be pulled inwards. Similarly the straps  125 ,  126  can pass back through the eyelets  104  to allow the units to expand into the gaps  121   a,    122   a  as shown in  FIGS. 8B and 8C . 
     The straps  125 ,  126  are backed with hook and loop fasteners and the exterior face of the front panel  111  has corresponding hook and loop fastener patches  125   a,    126   a.  Accordingly an article can be placed in the container  110  and thereafter the straps  125   a,    126   a  can be pulled through the eyelets  104  to cause the units  115 ,  116  to be moved inwards until they are compressed against the article. When the units  115 ,  116  are moved to a maximum contracted position (defined by the article) the straps  125 ,  126  are secured in position to the patches  125   a,    126   a.    
     A retaining strap  127  extends between the panels  111 ,  112 . The strap  127  is fixed to the rear panel  112  and releasably fixed to the front panel  111 . This allows the strap to be released and pulled over the top of an article, then fixed to the front panel  111  to hold the article in place. 
     To remove the article this process is reversed to release the “gripping” forces provided by the units  115 ,  116 . 
     In this way the container provides “active” protection of an article. Not only is the position of the protective material adjustable, but it is actively moveable to engage the article and in a sense apply a clamping force which means the cushioning units confirm to the article i.e. it is a snug fit. It is particularly advantageous to be able to adjust the dimensions of the interior of the container with the article in situ because there is no requirement to pre-set the dimension (which may not be accurate) for a particular article. 
       FIGS. 9 to 13  show a container  210  formed according to an alternative embodiment. The container  210  comprises a flat rear panel  212  and a front panel  211  having a shallow elongated U-shape in section (as shown best in  FIGS. 11 and 12 ). A top flap  236  (see  FIG. 9 ) can be used to open and close the container. 
     The interior of the container  210  includes two generally cylindrical lateral cushioning units  215 ,  216  and a cylindrical base cushioning unit  217 . The flap  236  includes a fixed cushioning unit  218 . Each of the units  215 ,  216 ,  217 ,  218  comprises a gel-filled bag. 
     The lateral units  215 ,  216  are independently laterally movable within the container interior and the base unit  217  is moveable up and down independently of the lateral units to allow the shape, size and position of a protected region to be adjusted. 
     In order to allow the base unit  217  to be lifted a fabric tab  219  is provided (see  FIGS. 10 and 13 ) and is connected at one end to the unit  218 . The other end of the tab  219  extends out of the container to allow it to be grasped (see  FIG. 10 ) and can be secured in position following use (see  FIG. 13 ) by releasable attachment means such as velcro (RTM). The tab can be lifted after an item has been placed in the container so that the base  217  is lifted sufficiently for the item to be held tightly between the base  217  and fixed  218  units. 
       FIGS. 14 to 17  show a container  310  formed according to an alternative embodiment. 
     The container  310  comprises a flat rear panel  312  and a front panel  311  having a shallow elongated U-shape in section. 
     The rear panel  312  incorporates a U-shape cushioning unit  301  having side sections  301   a,    301   b  and a base section  302  extending along the sides and bottom of the panel  312 . 
     The unit  301  is retained on the panel by a U-shape base strap  320  and two lateral elastic straps  321 ,  322 . In addition, two lateral elastic restraining chords  303   a,    303   b  are attached to the panel  312  and pass around the free ends of the unit  301 . The chords  303   a,    303   b  are passed through eyelets  304  in the front panel  311  and held together by a clip  305  having hooks at opposing ends. 
     The unit  301  is shown in more detail in  FIG. 16  and comprises a generally cylindrical body formed from plastics material. 
     The base section  302  is corrugated which allows its length to be changed so that the side sections  301   a ,  301   b  can be moved towards and away from each other as shown by the arrows. 
     In use when the side sections  301   a,    301   b  can be forced apart against the resilience of the straps  321 ,  322  and the chords  303   a,    303   b  as the base section  302  expands and flattens to increase the area of a protected region. 
     The base panel  312  extends beyond the open end of the front panel  311  as a result of a trapezoidal extension section  31  le having a central opening  31  if which allows the container  310  to be attached to a hook or the like, for example for display purposes. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 18 to 21  there is shown a container  410  according to an alternative embodiment. 
     The container  410  comprises a base  405   a  which supports a body  405   b  which is generally oval in section. The body  405   b  comprises two spaced lateral panels  405   c,    405   d  joined at their end by central panels  405   e,    405   f.    
     The bights of the U-shape panels  405   c,    405   d  accommodate generally cylindrical cushioning units  415 ,  416 . 
     The base  405   a  and panels  405   c,    405   d  are formed from an elastic material. The central panels  405   e ,  405   f  are formed from an inelastic material. Accordingly the cushioning units  415 ,  416  can be moved from the contracted position shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19  to the expanded position shown in  FIGS. 20 and 21  by stretching the sections  405   c,    405   d  and base  405   a.  The stretching of the sections  405   c,    405   d  is facilitated by loops  405   g  situated at the open end of the bights of the sections  405   c,    405   d  to allow them to be pulled apart. 
     The base  405   a  is fixed in position and the cushioning units  415 ,  416  can be moved laterally to allow the width of the container  410  to be stretched outwardly when an item is introduced and then return due to the elasticity of the panels  405   c,    405   d  when an item is removed. 
     In  FIGS. 19 and 21  the container  410  is shown inserted into a primary container  435  (the container  435  is represented in terms of its interior space). The container  435  provides a cushioning unit  435   a  upon which the base  405   a  rests when the container  410  is inserted. In this embodiment therefore part of the cushioning is provided by the container  410  and part of the cushioning is provided by the primary container  435  into which the container  410  is inserted. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 22 to 30  there is shown a container and a cushioning insert for a container according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. 
     Referring first to  FIGS. 22 to 25  there is shown a container  510 . The container  510  comprises generally rectangular front and rear panels  511 ,  512  having opposite upper and lower sides  511   a,    511   b  and opposite lateral sides  511   c,    511   d  (only panel  511  is described in detail below as the two halves of the container  510  are identical). 
     A sling  506  formed from neoprene extends along the sides  511   b,    511   c,    511   d,  in a generally U-shape configuration and is fixed to the panels  511 ,  512 , in this embodiment by stitching. 
     The sling  506  comprises lateral sections  506   a,    506   b  and a base section  506   c.  Windows  506   d,    506   e  are formed at the intersection of the sections  506   a,    506   b  with the base  506   c.  Windows  506   f,    506   g  are formed approximately mid-way along each of the lateral section  506   a,    506   b.  A pad  506   h  is provided approximately mid-way along the base section to give additional strength and to form a gripping area. 
     A flap  530  is fixed to the rear panel  512  and extends over the opening defined between the sides  511   a ,  512   a  of the panels  511 , 512 . The flap  530  includes a hook and eye fastener  530   a  which can attach to a corresponding fastener  530   b  on the external face of the panel  511  (see  FIG. 24 ). 
     Each of the lateral sides  506   a,    506   b  is longitudinally split into two flaps  506   a   1 ,  506   a   2 ,  506   b   1 ,  506   b   2  (as shown best in  FIG. 25 ). The flaps can be moved between an open position (shown in  FIG. 25 ) and a closed position (shown, for example, in  FIG. 24 ). The flaps can be secured in the closed position by a zipper arrangement  508  shown in more detail in  FIG. 26 . 
     The zipper arrangement  508  is formed at the intersection of two flaps  506   b   1 ,  506   b   2 . The edges of the flaps  506   b   1 ,  506   b   2  are turned over and co-operating zipper tracks  508   a,    508   b  are stitched to the turned edges so that the tracks are held on the undersides of the flaps. A zipper tab  508   c  is provided to run on the track  508   a.  The tab  508   c  is concealed by the cusp formed between the turned over flap edges so that the zipper arrangement is as inconspicuous as possible. 
       FIG. 27  shows a cushioning unit  509  formed to fit into the container shown in  FIGS. 22 to 26 . The unit  509  is made up of five discrete sub-units: two lateral units  509   a,    509   b;  two corner units  509   c,    509   d;  and a base unit  509   e.  In use the unit  509  is arranged to form a U-shape cushioning structure as shown in  FIG. 28  with the sub-units  509   a,    509   b  arranged to lie in the lateral sling sides  506   a,    506   b,  the corner sub-units  509   c,    509   d  arranged to lie at the intersections between the lateral sling sides  506   a,    506   b  and the sling base  506   c  and the base sub-unit  509   e  arranged to lie along the sling base  506   c.    
     In order to hold the sub-units of the cushioning unit  509  together and to allow them to move with respect to each other they are held in a neoprene sock  509   i  shown in  FIG. 29 . 
     The installation of the cushioning unit  509  into the contain  510  is illustrated in  FIG. 30A to 30C . 
     In  FIG. 30A  the container  510  is shown with both pairs of lateral flaps in the open position. A cushioning unit is slid along the sling base  506   c  until the base  506   c  is approximately half way along the length of the unit  509 . 
     In  FIG. 30B  the lateral sub-units  509   a,    509   b  of the unit  509  are bent upwards and pass between the flaps. Thereafter the flaps are closed and zipped together using the zipper arrangements  508  to complete the installation as shown in  FIG. 30C . 
     Because of the nature of the material from which the container is formed and the structure of the cushioning unit, the base can move up and down and both sides can move inwards and outwards to allow adjustment of the protected region inside the container. The resilience of the material from which the container is formed means that it is resiliently biased to a contracted position in which the protected region is at a minimum volume. Inserting an item to be protected forces the protected area to increase only by the extent required and the cushioning material is biased towards the item to ensure a close fit. The protection provided by the container is therefore “active” in that it adapts to the size and shape of an inserted item. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 31  a container  110  of the type shown in  FIGS. 1 to 7  is shown in conjunction with a carrying case  135 . 
     The construction of the case  135  is such that it is not the familiar “clam-shell”, but rather it is the top wall  136  that carries a handle (not shown) and that serves as the point of access to the interior of the case, being releasably connectable to the side wall  137 . Other forms of container, such as backpacks, messenger bags, drop-in cases, trolleys and laptop cases are also compatible with the teachings of the present invention. 
     The interior of the case  135  houses the insert. The case itself has no specific cushioning means although in other embodiments the case may provide additional protection. 
     The container is therefore formed as an insert for a primary container in the form of a carry case. 
       FIGS. 32A and 32B  show schematically a container in the form of a carrying case  640  comprising a soft fabric enclosure including two main substantially parallel enclosure side walls  641 ,  642  and top  643  and bottom  644  walls. The top wall  643  is provided with a carrying handle  648 . A rear enclosure panel  645  form a base and a front enclosure panel (not shown) forms a lid. Four flexible pockets  646  are secured in each of the case corners. The pockets  646  can be opened so that fluid-filled envelopes  647  (or other cushioning means such as foam) can be inserted or removed to change the size of the pockets. A resealable pocket opening may be provided for this purpose 
       FIG. 32A  illustrates a lap top computer  650  fitted into the case  640 . The computer  650  is preferably larger than the area immediately available between the pockets  646  and so displaces the envelopes; this ensures that the computer is held firmly in position away from the extremities of the case, and is protected at its corners. 
     In  FIG. 32B  a lap top computer  651  of smaller dimensions than that shown in  FIG. 31  is fitted in the case. In  FIG. 32  the pockets have been increased in size by filling more envelopes  647  into each pocket  646  to reduce the dimensions of the protected region in the interior of the case so that the smaller computer can be firmly retained. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 33  a carrying case  740  comprises a soft fabric enclosure having two main substantially parallel major walls  745 ,  749  one of which, the wall  745  has a surrounding perimetrical edge comprising respective end walls  741 ,  742  and top and bottom walls  743 ,  744 . The top wall  743  is provided with a carrying handle  748 , for which purpose the top wall  743  may be reinforced below by means (not shown) which give it sufficient stiffness to resist the load imposed on it by the handle  748 . 
     It should be appreciated that the material from which the case  740  is made comprises a relatively flexible abrasion-resistant sheet material that may be a woven fabric or natural or artificial fibres, or may be an extruded homogenous material such as a plastics sheet. 
     The wall  749  has a fabric flap  755  that defines a pocket  756  therein. A generally rectangular laminar panel  757  is formed as an inflatable envelope, and is of sufficient dimension to cover a majority of the wall  749 . The panel  757  is inserted into the pocket and the flap  755  is releasably secured to the wall  749  by any convenient means such as hook and eye fasteners. The panel  757  is provided with a valve  758  allowing it to be inflated or deflated. By changing the level of inflation of the panel, and hence the size of the panel, the interior space of the case can be adjusted. 
     In other embodiments the panel  757  is formed as part of the structure of the container, for example by bonding the panel  757  to the wall  749  or by sewing the panel into the pocket. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 34  cushioning means formed as part of the structure of a movable container wall  860  are illustrated. The upper surface of the wall  860  is composed of a plurality of individual envelopes or pockets  861  each having a rectangular plan form, and each being substantially independent from its neighbours and secured to the underlying wall by welding, adhesive or other suitable means. The envelopes  861  may alternatively be integrally formed with the wall so that no separate bonding of edges is required. The envelopes  861  have respective domed tops  862  and define a containment volume  863  within which is housed gas under pressure. The array of domed tops  864  form a substantially continuous (although in practice discontinuous) support surface for an item to be carried in a container, such as a portable or lap top computer. The resiliently flexible laminar material of which the envelopes  861  are composed allows the enclosed volumes  863  to change shape when the shape of the envelope  861  is distorted, for example due to pressure by contact with an applied force. Compression of the gas within the containment volume  863  allows the element as a whole to absorb the shocks and impacts to which the wall  860  may be subject in use, especially if, for example, the container were dropped whilst housing a relatively heavy computer. The container wall  860  is adapted to be movable relative to a protected region it partly defines so as to change the dimensions of the region. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 35 and 36  a cushioning insert element comprising cushioning means suitable for use in a container according to the present invention is illustrated. The element  965  comprises substantially parallel upper and lower major faces  966 ,  967 , end walls  968 ,  969  and longitudinal side walls  970 ,  971 . The major faces  966 ,  967  exhibit an array of slight bulges  972 . 
     The internal structure of the element  965  can be seen in  FIG. 36 . The major faces  966 ,  967  are spanned by a plurality of transverse partitions  973  and longitudinal partitions  974  separating the interior volume of the element  965  into a plurality of cells or pockets  975 , each of which contains a gas (preferably air) under pressure. In other embodiments (not shown) cushioning elements are provided on all faces of the container. 
     In use the cushion element  965  acts as a resilient mattress to cushion any impact to which the container may be subject in use, for example by being set down heavily or by being dropped, thereby absorbing the shock of impact and protecting the interior contents, which typically may be a computer as discussed above, from damage. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 37 to 40  there is shown a storage member generally indicated  1070  formed according to an alternative aspect of the present invention. 
     The storage member  1070  comprises a generally rectangular wallet-or case-type article. 
     The storage member comprises a base panel  1071  of an elongate oval shape. Extending from the two rectilinear sides of the base  1071  are a front and rear panel  1072 ,  1073  which converge to give a frusto-conical section defining an opening opposite the base  1071 . A zipper track  1074  traverses the opening between the upper ends of the panels  1072 ,  1073  so that the interior of the storage member  1070  can be accessed. The panels  1072 ,  1073  are joined by end panels  1075  (only one is shown in  FIG. 39 ) which are gusseted to allow for expansion if required. 
     The rear panel is provided with a fastener element  1076  in the form of a hook and loop fastener adapted for attachment to a co-operating fastener on a container (not shown) such as a lap top computer case, briefcase, suitcase or the like. The fastener element  1076  is a releasable fastener so that the storage member  1070  can be easily attached and detached as required. In addition, the rear panel  1073  is provided with two loops  1077 ,  1078  which can be hooked over suitable projections or the like on a container for increased stability. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 41  there is shown a storage member  1170  formed according-to an alternative embodiment. 
     The storage member  1170  is very similar to the storage member  1170  shown in  FIGS. 37 and 38  except that the front panel  1173  is provided with additional storage areas. The storage areas comprise a zipped pocket  1178 , pockets  1179  with openings covered by flaps, slots  1180  for receiving credit cards or business cards, an open pocket  1181  for receiving airline tickets  1182  and the like and a pen/pencil holder  1183 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 42  there is shown a storage member  1270  formed according to an alternative embodiment. The storage member  1270  comprises a front and rear panel  1272 ,  1273  joined together to give a gusseted arrangement along their two lateral sides. The upper sides of the panels  1272 ,  1273  form an opening for receiving documents or other articles. The front panel  1272  is provided with further storage areas in the form of credit card slots  1280 , a pocket  1281  for receiving airline tickets  1282  and the like and a pen/pencil holder  1283 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 43  there is shown a storage member  1370  formed according to an alternative embodiment. 
     The storage member  1370  comprises a base  1371  with two upstanding enclosure panels  1372 ,  1373 . Opposite the base  1371  the panels  1372 ,  1373  define a generally U-shape opening along which runs a zipper track  1374 . Attachment loops  1377 ,  1378  are provided on the rear panel  1373  for attachment to a container. Additional releasable attachment means in the form of hook and loop fasteners, clips or the like may also be provided. In this embodiment, the material from which the base  1371  and panels  1372 ,  1373  are formed is waterproof so that the storage member  1370  is waterproof. The zip arrangement  1374  is also capable of preventing the ingress of water to the interior of the storage member  1370 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 44 , a storage member  1470  formed according to an alternative embodiment is shown. 
     The storage member  1470  comprises a front and rear panel  1472 ,  1473  permanently joined around their perimetral edges with the exception of a zipper track  1474  which defines an opening. The front panel  1472  includes an external pocket  1485  and may include one or more internal pockets (not shown). 
     Opposite the zipper track  1474  the storage member  1470  is provided with a U-shape shoe  1486  formed from a semi-rigid material to create a hand-grip region. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 45  there is shown an exploded view of the main body of the storage member  1470  shown in  FIG. 44  excluding the hand grip  1486 . The front panel  1472  is formed from a plastics material such as poly vinyl chloride. A liner panel  1490  is used to cover the interior surface of the front panel  1472 . The material from which the liner  1490  is formed may be chosen for a particular purpose, such as an anti-static function, waterproof function or desiccating function as appropriate for the contents. In some embodiments the liner  1490  is interchangeable to give different properties to the interior of the storage member. The rear panel  1473  may also have a liner. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 46 and 47  the construction of the rear panel  1473  is illustrated. The rear panel  1473  comprises a major external panel  1473  and an internal panel  1491  of mesh or netting which is provided with the attachment loops  1477 ,  1478 . 
     The netting panel  1491  is laid onto the interior surface of the major panel  1473  and the edges of the panel  1473  are folded over as illustrated by the arrows before being stitched into position as shown in the Figure. 
     In alternative embodiments the netting layer  1491  may be substituted for a cushioning layer which provides protection for the contents of the storage member  1470 .