Patent Publication Number: US-8539692-B1

Title: Construction for a permeable flexible liner for a modular preserver system

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a Continuation-in-Part Application which incorporates by reference all of the subject matter of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 12/321,176, entitled “Modular Preserver System” filed Jan. 14, 2009 now U.S. Pat. No. 8,099,879. This application also incorporates by reference all of the subject matter of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/204,739, entitled “Modular Preserver System” filed Jan. 9, 2009. This application further incorporates the subject matter of Continuation-in-Part Application which claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 12/286,264, entitled “Preserver Including An Expandable Bladder” filed Sep. 29, 2008 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,930,897. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     This invention relates to a preserver system, and more particularly, to the construction for a permeable flexible liner for the modular preserver system, which is adapted maximize the draw of moisture from all interior surfaces of the protective covering, such as a shoe, boots, gloves, a helmet, a shin guard, a head band, wrestling head gear, and the like. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     Various solutions have been proposed to deodorize, and remove moisture from a shoe. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,291,669 to Khoury et al. discloses a shoe preserver having a wicking portion and an absorbing portion retained within a flexible porous covering. However, the shoe preserver of Khoury et al. is not expandable to snugly fit within shoes of various sizes and shapes. Khoury et al. shoe preserver is not modular and not specifically made for a particular size and shape of a shoe. Furthermore, since the Khoury et al. shoe preserver is not expandable, it cannot completely come in contact with all interior surfaces of a shoe thereby limiting the ability of the shoe preserver to maximize that moisture drawn from within the shoe. Khoury et al. also fails to provide any protective covering to shield objects that would otherwise come in contact with a dirty shoe. 
     Likewise, the following other conventionally devices are also not modular and also fail to provide any protective covering over the shoe and/or solution to maximize the amount of moisture being drawn from within the interior of a shoe. U.S. Pat. No. 3,131,036 to Hirschberg discloses a shoe drying device having a porous semi-rigid plastic foam wherein the foam defines a cavity which is filled with a powdered desiccant material. U.S. Pat. No. 896,536 to Hayden discloses a shoe tree having an absorbent sponge material surrounded by a porous fabric, wherein a wooden block or piece is disposed within the sponge material to provide for insertion and removal of the shoe tree. U.S. Pat. No. 2,173,528 to Beale discloses a disinfectant pad including an absorbent material enclosed by a porous covering. 
     There is still a longstanding need to solve this problem. In accordance with this invention, an exemplary construction for a permeable flexible liner for the moisture absorbing preserver modular system. The permeable flexible liner construction is adapted to suitably fill the enlarged space defined by a forefoot of person&#39;s foot. The permeable flexible liner contributes to deodorizing and substantially maximizing the draw of moisture from all interior surfaces of various protective coverings, such as a shoe, boots, gloves, a helmet, and the like. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     A construction for a permeable liner within a modular shoe preserver system having interchangeable components. The preserver adapted to snugly fit within a shoe including a permeable covering, a permeable liner and an absorbing material. 
     The permeable liner is disposed within the permeable covering. The permeable liner is constructed from an expandable material having a closed heel end and an open toe end adapted to receive an absorbent material. In construction, the open toe end of the permeable liner is folded various times before it is closed to define a forefoot end having a material mass substantially thicker and wider than the remainder of the permeable liner that resembles that of a forefoot. The absorbing material is disposed within the permeable liner to withdraw moisture from an interior surface area of the shoe. 
     These and other objects, features, and/or advantages may accrue from various aspects of embodiments of the present invention, as described in more detail below. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Various exemplary embodiments of this invention will be described in detail, wherein like reference numerals refer to identical or similar components or steps, with reference to the following figures, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates a side view of the preserver in a deflated state in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a side view of the preserver in an inflated state in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a side view of the preserver in an inflated state including an enclosed compartment for an absorbent material in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a laid-open view of the permeable flexible liner forming a compartment for receiving a bladder therein in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a closed view of the permeable flexible liner including a compartment disposed with the absorbent material and a bladder wrapped therein in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of a deflated bladder including an inlet valve for receiving a source of air in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a side view of an inflated bladder including an inlet valve for receiving a source of air depicting the distributed pressure force on the bladder in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a side view of a deflated bladder including a pump disposed outside of the shoe preserver in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 9  is a side view of an inflated bladder including a pump disposed inside of the shoe preserver in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of an integrated pump system and a flexible strap connected for transport of a pair of preservers in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 11  is side view of a fluid line of the pump system attached to the bladder, and the flexible strap secured to the preserver at an attachment point in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-section view of a preserver and the flexible strap adapted for use with a boot in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 13  is a cross-section view of a preserver and the flexible strap adapted for use with a pair of gloves in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a cross-section view of a preserver and the flexible strap adapted for use with a helmet in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 15  is a bottom cross-section view of the preserver and the flexible strap adapted for use with the helmet in accordance with this invention. 
         FIGS. 16 and 17  illustrate the use of a rigid liner in accordance with the modular preserver system of this invention. 
         FIGS. 18 and 19  illustrate another exemplary embodiment for providing a rigid liner on the preserver in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 20  shows even another exemplary embodiment for a rigid liner in disposed around a permeable flexible liner in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 21  illustrates yet another exemplary embodiment for the permeable flexible covering of the preserver in accordance with this invention. 
         FIGS. 22 through 24  show at least four exemplary illustrations for various openings in the permeable flexible covering in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 25  illustrates a compact housing adjustably connected by a fastener to the flexible strap in accordance with the modular preserver system of this invention. 
         FIG. 26  depicts an alternative construction for the compact housing in accordance with the modular preserver system of this invention. 
         FIG. 27  depicts a pair of compact housing elements from which a pair of compact covers extend and cover a pair of shoes in accordance with the modular preserver system of this invention. 
         FIG. 28  demonstrates another exemplary use for being able to connect the compact housings to each other in accordance with the modular preserver system of this invention. 
         FIGS. 29 and 30  illustrate yet another example for a compact cover in accordance with this invention. 
         FIGS. 31 and 32  show an alternative exemplary embodiment in which a compact housing is fastened onto a surface of the preserver in accordance with this invention. 
         FIG. 33  depicts an alternative design in which the flexible strap and the loop fastener attached to the preserver may be interconnected in accordance with the modular preserver system of this invention. 
         FIGS. 34-36  depict the implementation of a stirrup  94  in accordance with this invention. 
         FIGS. 37 ,  38  and  39  depict various alternative constructions for use with the compact housings and the compact coverings in accordance with this invention. 
         FIGS. 40-41  illustrate the use of indicia in accordance with the modular preserver system of this invention. 
         FIG. 42  illustrates an exemplary illustration of a permeable flexible liner. 
         FIGS. 43-45  illustrate a contoured permeable flexible liner adapted to maximize the absorption area within the shoe. 
         FIG. 46  shows construction of a contoured permeable flexible liner being filled by an absorbing material. 
         FIGS. 47-49  depict an exemplary showing of the contoured permeable flexible liner disposed within the permeable flexible covering. 
         FIGS. 50-51  illustrate other exemplary shapes the permeable flexible liner may take in accordance with this invention. 
         FIGS. 52-53  depict a permeable flexible liner constructed as a one-piece modular sheet having a number of various contiguous permeable flexible liners attached to each other. 
         FIG. 54  shows the flexibility of the various pouches of the modular sheet being compactly rolled for modular use. 
         FIG. 55  demonstrates the modular sheet rolled and placed into a shoe. 
         FIG. 56  shows a length of cloth includes a pocket into which a piece of the modular sheet is placed into the pocket 
         FIG. 57  illustrates the soiled protective covering placed within the folded cloth and over the moisture absorbing modular sheet 
         FIGS. 58 and 59  illustrate the modular sheet cut down into a small permeable flexible liner pouch onto which the finger of the protective covering can be wrapped around. 
         FIGS. 60-61 , shows the soiled protective covering placed within the folded cloth and being gripped to, and secured by, a strap on a pouch. 
         FIG. 62  shows a permeable flexible liner pouch cut down to fit comfortably within the grip of the protective covering, and the protective covering being placed within the modular sheet. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS 
     Particular embodiments of the present invention will now be described in greater detail with reference to the figures. 
     In accordance with this invention, it is to be understood that the preserver described herein may be adapted for use with various different types of protective coverings, and that the various embodiments described and shown herein are not intended to cover all modifications and changes within the scope and spirit of the invention. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an exemplary shoe preserver  10  for a shoe  2  in a deflated state. As shown in the deflated state, the preserver  10  resembles the shape of a shriveled foot and includes a toe portion, a heel portion, a sole portion, and a tongue portion. The shoe preserver  10  further includes a permeable flexible covering  20 , an absorbing material  30 , and a bladder  40 . 
       FIG. 2  depicts the shoe preserver  10  in an operable inflated state in accordance with this invention. As shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the permeable flexible covering  20  is substantially configured in the shape of a foot. The permeable flexible covering  20  includes a toe end  22  sized to be disposed within the forefoot of the shoe  2  and a heel end  24  sized to placed within the heel portion of the shoe  2 . 
     As shown in the deflated state in  FIG. 1 , the permeable flexible covering  20  is sized and resembles a shriveled foot. The permeable flexible covering  20  and the permeable flexible liner  34  are made from a resilient expandable material and can be expanded to fill the entire volume defined by the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2  (as shown in  FIG. 2 ). In the deflated state of  FIG. 1 , the shoe preserver  10  only nominally comes into contact with the internal surface area  4  of the shoe  2 . However, in operation and as shown in  FIG. 2 , when the bladder  40  of the shoe preserver  10  is inflated, the permeable flexible covering  20  and hence the shoe preserver  10  expands and fills the entire volume and internal surface area  4  of the shoe  2 . In the inflated state, the shoe preserver  10  comes into direct contact with all of the internal surfaces  4  of the shoe  2 . 
     The permeable flexible covering  20  and the permeable flexible liner  34  may be formed from any number of flexible porous material, including but not limited to for example, nylon, spandex, cotton, polyester, polyester swiss pique, and/or any other flexible expandable and porous material, now known or later discovered in accordance with this invention. Another aspect of the permeable flexible liner  34  and the permeable flexible covering  20  is to use a material that is capable of providing sufficient flexibility so that when the bladder  40  (as described in more detail later) expands, the permeable flexible covering  20  can likewise expand to fill the internal compartment of the protective covering such that all internal surfaces may come into contact with the expanded permeable flexible covering  20 . The permeable flexible covering  20  may also be capable of allowing aromatic scents there though while preventing the material substance containing the aromatic and/or deodorant from escaping across the permeable flexible covering  20  from within the preserver  10 . 
     The absorbing material  30  is disposed within the permeable flexible covering  20  and is provided to withdraw and retain moisture from within the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2 . The absorbing material  30  may be selected from any number of absorbent, including but not limited to for example, sponge, cotton, foam, gel, cedar chips, a wicking material, and any other suitable absorbent material that biases moisture from the interior surface area of a shoe into the absorbing material, now known or later discovered in accordance with this invention. 
     It is within the scope of this invention to integrate a separate and/or combined wicking member (not shown) with the absorbing material  30  such that the absorbing material  30  will act to draw, or/or retain moisture from the wicking member from the interior of the shoe  2  into the absorbing material  30 . 
       FIGS. 3-5  illustrate another aspect of this invention in which the absorbing material  30  may be constructed to be self contained separate unit within a permeable flexible liner  34 . The flexible liner  34  may be positioned between the permeable flexible covering  20  and the bladder  40 . In this construction, the absorbing material  30  may be disposed to evenly encase the bladder  40  such that the absorbing material  30  within the permeable flexible liner  34  may be evenly distributed within the interior volume of the shoe  2  when the bladder  40  is expanded. 
     The permeable flexible liner  34  may be formed as a compartment  35  by stitching  8  the permeable flexible liner  34  to form the compartment  35  into which the absorbing material  30  may be received, as shown in  FIG. 4 .  FIG. 5  depicts the permeable flexible liner  34  in a closed configuration through whish the inlet vale  42  is extended through an orifice  36  in the permeable flexible liner  34 . 
       FIGS. 6-7  illustrate the bladder  40  in a deflated and an inflated state, respectively. The bladder  40  includes an inlet valve  42  adapted to receive air from an external source, which in turn expands the shoe preserver  10  to a size that completely fills the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2 , as shown in  FIG. 2 . 
     The bladder  40  may be inflated in a variety of different ways. In  FIG. 6 , the bladder  40  is shown substantially deflated having little air disposed therein. In  FIG. 7 , the bladder  40  is shown substantially inflated by an external source of air. In the shoe  2 , the inflated bladder  40  is expanded so that the permeable flexible covering  20  completely fills the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2 . The bladder  40  is positioned so that when it is inflated the bladder is located central to the absorbing material  30  and urges the absorbing material  30  against the inner surface area of the shoes  4 . 
     The bladder  40  may be inflated by manually blowing air into the inlet valve  42  by mouth until the permeable flexible covering bladder  40  expands from the deflated to the inflated state (as shown in  FIGS. 6-7 ) to completely fill the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2 . Alternatively, and as described later, the bladder may be filled by an external pump. 
     The internal air disposed within the bladder  40  creates an internal pressure force (F, as shown in  FIG. 7 ) within the bladder  40  that is transferred to the shoe preserver  10  that is evenly distributed outward throughout the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2 . The internal pressure force (F) causes the shoe preserver  10  to be securely wedged into the shoe  2 . As a result of the built up internal pressure force (F) and the resultant forces acting against the shoe preserver  10 , the shoe preserver  10  is securely lodged within the shoe  2  and therefore prevented from slipping out of the shoe  2 . The internal pressure force (F) generated by the air pressure in the bladder  40  is substantially strong enough to overcome the exertion of a significantly strong perpendicular forces directed out of the ankle opening of the shoe  2 , which would otherwise cause the shoe preserver  10  to be dislodged from the shoe  2 . 
       FIGS. 8-9  depict a simplified pump  50  as another exemplary source for producing air within the bladder  40 . In  FIGS. 8-9 , the pump  40  is integrated as a part of the inlet valve  42  attached to the bladder  40 . As shown, the bladder  40  may be inflated by repeatedly compressing a resilient bulb  68  of the pump  50  until the shoe preserver  10  completely fills the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2 . 
     The pump  50  may be implemented in a variety of different constructions. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 8-9 , the pump  50  may be integrated as part of the inlet valve  42  and the bladder  40 . The pump  50  may be disposed within (as shown in  FIGS. 8-9 ) the shoe preserver  10  and/or on an outer surface (not shown) of the preserver  10  in accordance with this invention. 
     The location of the pump  50  within the preserver  10  is optimally positioned so that the pump  50  is accessible for use when the preserver  10  is installed in the shoe  2 . Various design constructions may be implemented to optimally position the pump  50  in an accessible position when the pump  50  is disposed within the preserver  10 . For example, the pump  50  and/or portion thereof may be positioned by being fastened into the preserver  10 , such as by being sewn  8  therein (as shown in  FIGS. 8-9 ). As shown in  FIGS. 6-7 , the inlet valve  42  to the bladder  40  may be optimally positioned to stand adjacent to the ankle opening of the shoe  2 . In use, the pump  50  may be attached to the bladder  40  through the ankle opening as shown in  FIGS. 1-2 . In the alternative, a pouch and/or compartment (not shown) may be formed in which the pump  50  may be placed so that it is always accessible so that the user can inflate the preserver  10 . 
     In the alternative, the pump  50  may be a separable component constructed to work in combination with the preserver  10 ,  100 ,  200 ,  300 ,  400 ,  500  as a separate pump system component disconnected from the preserver, as shown in  FIGS. 12-15 . It is to be understood that various types of pumps may be used in accordance with this invention, including but not limited to, a bicycle pump, an electric pump, a manual pump and/or any other pump now known or later discovered in accordance with this invention. 
       FIGS. 10-11  depict the pump  50  as a separate pump system  150 . In particular and as shown in  FIG. 11 , the pump system  150  includes a pump  50  having an inlet  53  and an outlet  54  for receiving, and dispensing air. A pair of fluid lines  51 ,  52  is shown extending from the pump  50 . A first fluid line  51  extends from the outlet  54  of the pump  50  adjacent to a first attachment point  55  at a first distal end  56  in which a first outlet valve  57  is disposed. The first outlet valve  57  is adapted to be received by the inlet valve  42  on the bladder  40 . 
     Likewise, a second fluid line  52  extends from the outlet  54  of the pump  50  to a second attachment point  58  at a second distal end  59  in which a second outlet valve (not shown, but similar in construction and operation to the first fluid  51  previously described in  FIG. 11 ) is disposed. The second outlet valve is also adapted to be received by the inlet valve  42  on the other shoe preserver  10 . 
       FIG. 10  further illustrates an interconnecting flexible strap  60  in which a pair of shoe preservers  10  may be carried. The interconnecting flexible strap  60  includes a first distal end  56  having a first attachment point  55  adapted to engage a loop fastener  62  on the preservers  10 . The interconnecting flexible strap  60  also includes a second distal end  59  with a second attachment point  58  adapted to engage the other preserver  10 . Although the first attachment point  55  is depicted on a first side of the shoe preserver  10 , it is to be understood that the attachment points  55 ,  58  and the associated loop fasteners  62  may be secured on any side of the shoe preserver  10 . 
     Although depicted as a loop fastener  62 , the various attachment points  55 ,  58  of the interconnecting flexible strap  60  may be implemented for use, including but not limited to integrating: snaps, stitches, hook and loop fasteners, adhesives, and/or any other suitable fastener, now known or later discovered in accordance with this invention. 
     The interconnecting flexible strap  60  may be constructing from any number of various materials, including but not limited to nylon, cotton, plastic, and/or any other durable material for carrying various loads. Likewise, the interconnecting flexible strap  60  may be constructed to include various snaps, stitching, hook and loop fasteners, adhesives, and the like. The flexible strap  60  may be universal and detachable among the various embodiments of this invention. 
     In more detail,  FIG. 10  illustrates the combination of the interconnecting flexible strap  60  and the pump system  150 . As shown, the pump system  150  may be integrated within the interconnecting flexible strap  60 . As such, the modified interconnecting flexible strap  60  serves the dual purpose of carrying the shoes  2  including the shoe preservers  10  wedged within the shoes  2 , as well as to provide a pumping mechanism to inflate the bladder  40  within the shoe preservers  10 . 
     In use, the bladder  40  is expanded so that the permeable flexible covering  20  can completely fill the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2 . As mentioned before, a pressure force (F) is evenly distributed outward from the bladder  40  throughout the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2  causing the shoe preserver  10  to be securely wedged into the shoe  2 . Consequently, the shoe preserver  10  will be precluded from slipping out of the shoe  2  upon exertion of a sufficient perpendicular force exerted, in the direction of, and along the interconnecting flexible strap  60  during transport of the shoe  2 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 11 , and in accordance with another aspect of this invention, a deodorant  70  may be disposed within the shoe preserver  10  to impart a pleasant odor to the shoe  2 . The deodorant  70  may also be disposed within the permeable flexible covering  20  in order to deodorize the shoe  2  as the absorbing material  30  operates to withdraw moisture from the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2 . 
     The deodorant  70  may integrated in a variety of different forms, including but not limited to for example, a gel, a powder, cedar chips, a fluid deodorant and/or any other deodorant, now known or later discovered, in accordance with this invention. 
     Although the preservers  10  are previously described with respect to shoes, it is to be understood that a variety of different embodiments are possible. For example, this invention may be used in combination with any type of protective covering, including but not limited to, a boot, a glove, and/or a hat. 
       FIG. 12 , by way of example, illustrates the use of a pair of boot preservers  100  used in combination with a pair of boots  12 . In an un-inflated state, the boot preserver  100  resembles the shape of a shriveled sock that can be easily inserted within each of the boots  12 . As shown in  FIG. 13  in an inflated state, the boot preservers  100  include a permeable flexible covering  20 , an absorbing material  30 , a bladder  40 , a pump  50 , and an interconnecting flexible strap  60 . The various components that make up the boot preservers  100  include all of the features and functionality of the other preservers  10 ,  200 ,  300  described herein. 
     In use, the pump  50  is integrated as a part of the inlet valve  42  of the bladder  40 . As shown, the bladder  40  may be inflated by repeatedly compressing a resilient bulb  68  in the pump  50  until the permeable flexible covering  20  completely fills the interior surface area  4  of the boot  12 . 
     A flexible strap  60  may be attached to the various boot preservers  100  which will make holding and finding the pair of boots  12  easy. The flexible strap  60  may be modified to carry other accessories commonly used when wearing a pair of boots, such as a gloves, a jacket, a scarf, ear muffs, a hat and the like. 
     As shown in more detail in  FIG. 10 , a first distal end  55  of the flexible strap  60  includes a first attachment point  56  adapted to engage the boot preserver  100 . Likewise, a second distal end  59  of the flexible strap  60  includes a second attachment point  58  adapted to engage the boot preserver  100 . 
       FIG. 13  illustrates the use of a glove preserver  200  used in combination with a pair of gloves  22 . In an un-inflated state, the glove preserver  200  resembles the shape of a shriveled hand that easily fits within each of the gloves  22 . As shown in the inflated state, the glove preserver  200  includes a permeable flexible covering  20 , an absorbing material  30 , a bladder  40 , a pump  50 , and an interconnecting flexible strap  60 . The various components that make up the glove preserver  200  include all of the features and functionality of the other preservers  10 ,  100 ,  300  described herein. 
     In use, the pump  50  is integrated as a part of the inlet valve  42  of the bladder  40 . As shown, the bladder  40  may be inflated by repeatedly compressing a resilient bulb  68  in the pump  50  until the permeable flexible covering  20  completely fills the interior surface area  4  of the glove  22 . 
     A flexible strap  60  may be attached to the various glove preservers  200  which will make holding and finding the pair of gloves  22  easy. The flexible strap  60  may be modified to carry other accessories commonly used when using a pair of gloves, such as a jacket, a scarf, ear muffs, a hat and the like. 
     As shown in more detail in  FIG. 10 , a first distal end  55  of the flexible strap  60  includes a first attachment point  56  adapted to engage the glove preserver  200 . Likewise, a second distal end  59  of the flexible strap  60  includes a second attachment point  58  adapted to engage the glove preserver  200 . 
       FIGS. 14-15  illustrate the use of a helmet preserver  300  used in combination with a helmet  32 . In an un-inflated state, the helmet preserver  300  resembles the shape of a shriveled ball suitable to be easily inserted within the helmet  32 . As shown in an inflated state, the helmet preserver  300  includes a permeable flexible covering  20 , an absorbing material  30 , a bladder  40 , a pump  50 , and an interconnecting flexible strap  60 . The various components that make up the helmet preserver  300  include all of the features and functionality of the other preservers  10 ,  100 ,  200  described above. 
     In use, the pump  50  is integrated as a part of the inlet valve  42  of the bladder  40 . As shown, the bladder  40  may be inflated by repeatedly compressing a resilient bulb  68  in the pump  50  until the permeable flexible covering  20  completely fills the interior surface area  4  of the helmet  32 . 
     A flexible strap  60  is attached to the helmet preserver  300  that can be easily gripped to carry the helmet  32 . The flexible strap  60  may also be modified to carry other accessories, such as gloves, a jacket, riding pants and the like. 
     As shown in more detail in  FIG. 10 , a first distal end  55  of the flexible strap  60  includes a first attachment point  56  adapted to engage the helmet preserver  300 . Likewise, a second distal end  59  of the flexible strap  60  includes a second attachment point  58  adapted to engage the helmet preserver  300 . 
     An aspect of this invention is to create a modular preserver system in which the various components of this invention may be separably replaced. That is, any portion of the preserver  10 , the permeable flexible covering  20 , the permeable flexible liner  34  and absorbent, the bladder  40  and associates pump system  50 , the flexible strap  60 , the compact housing  80 , the compact cover  82 , the stirrup  94 , and/or any of the other components in the embodiments described herein and/or modifications and additions within the scope of this invention may be interchangeable and separably replaced. 
       FIGS. 16 and 17  depict the use of a rigid liner  70  to provide a frame to the form of the preserver  10  in accordance with the modular preserver system of this invention. The advantage of integrating a rigid liner  70  is to provide rigidity to the preserver  10  is so that when the preserver  10  is pushed toe first into the shoe  2 , the toe end  22  of the preserver  10  will easily slide into the shoe  2  without being folded or disoriented, which would make installation of the preserver within the shoe  2  more difficult. The pattern of the rigid liner  70  may mimic the pattern of a foot, and/or the like. It is within the scope of this invention to utilize a more rigid material for constructing the permeable flexible covering  20 . As such, a suitable rigid material will also make installation of the preserver  10  easier into the shoe  2 . 
       FIGS. 16 and 17  illustrate an exemplary embodiment for the rigid liner  70 . As shown, the rigid liner  70  includes a first rigid backbone  70   a  which, as shown, extends along the top surface of the preserver  10  from the toe end  22  to the heel end  24 . Disposed between the toe end  22  and the heel end  24  of the preserver  10  are various rigid members  70   b  which laterally extend from the rigid backbone  70   a  outward along the contour of the preserver  10  to provide a sufficiently rigid frame. Although the various rigid members  70   b  are shown on the upper side of the preserver  10 , it is understood that the rigid members  70   b  may extend completely around the preserver  10  and may be joined at the rigid backbone  70   a . Since use of the preserver  10  is interchangeable, either side of the preserver  10  may be used as the top and the bottom and vice-versa. Accordingly, the rigid backbone  70   a  members and/or rigid members  70   b  may be disposed on what would appear as an underside of the preserver  10 . Likewise, one or more rigid backbone  70   a  members and/or rigid members  70   b  may be integrated with this embodiment. It is further understood that any type of suitable rigid member system may be integrated onto the preserver  10 . 
       FIGS. 18 and 19  illustrate another exemplary embodiment for providing a rigid liner  70  on the permeable flexible covering  20  of the preserver  10 . That is the rigid liner  70  extends approximately around a circumference of the permeable covering forming a frame which substantially covers the toe end  22  and the heel end  24  of the permeable flexible covering  20 . It is to be understood that the term “rigid” used in the rigid liner  70  is one in which the rigidity of the liner is substantially rigid and may be flexibly expanded and/or manipulated into various shapes to account for the normal expansion, contraction and bending of the preserver  10  in use. For example, where the bladder is used above, the rigid liner  70  has the capacity to expand and contract as necessary. 
     A first exemplary showing of the rigid liner  70  frame depicts the use of the rigid liner  70  being extended around a circumference of the preserver  10  forming a frame which covers both the toe end  22  and the heel end  24  of the preserver  10 . 
       FIG. 19  shows another exemplary embodiment in which the rigid liner  70  is disposed approximately around a portion of the circumference of the permeable flexible covering  20  of the preserver  10 . That is, the rigid liner  70  encircles the heel end  24 , and only a portion of the toe end  22  of the preserver  10 . This configuration allows entry of the preserver  10  to be effortlessly aligned within the opening of the shoe  2 . As mentioned above, any type of suitable rigid member system may be integrated onto and/or as part of the preserver  10 . 
       FIG. 20  shows another exemplary configuration for the rigid liner  70 . In  FIG. 20 , the rigid liner  70  is integrated as part of the permeable flexible liner  34  which is disposed within the permeable flexible covering  20  of the preserver  10 . The permeable flexible liner  34  is shown disposed within the permeable flexible covering  20  of the preserver  10 . The rigid liner  70  is depicted as integrated onto the permeable flexible liner  34 . In use, the rigid liner  70  of the permeable flexible liner  34  provides the rigid strength necessary to easily push the preserver  10  into the shoe  2 . 
     The rigid liner  70  may be constructed in a variety of different ways. The rigid liner  70  may be configured so that it is expandable. The rigid liner  70  may be constructed so that it may be expanded up to a predetermined shape to fit within a predetermined size of a shoe  2 . The rigid liner  70  may be constructed from, but not limited to, a metal, a polymer, rubber, an elastic material, a fabric, a stitching which gathers and builds-up of firm material ridge, and/or any other suitable material capable of providing rigid support to the preserver  10 . The rigid liner  70  may be formed in various configurations, such as a ribbing, a stitching, a tubing, a layering of a material, any combination thereof and/or any other suitable mode for providing a frame. 
       FIG. 21  shows various exemplary constructions for the permeable flexible liner  34 , and the permeable flexible covering  20  of the preserver  10 . The permeable flexible covering  20  illustrates the implementation of various openings  72 ,  73   a ,  73   b  and  74 . An opening  72  is shown disposed in the heel end  24  of the permeable flexible covering  20  adapted to receive the permeable flexible liner  34 . 
     Alternatively, the permeable flexible liner  34  may be inserted through a second opening  74  as shown on a side of the permeable flexible covering  20 . Although the permeable flexible covering  20  in  FIG. 21  is shown to resemble the shape of a foot, it is within the scope of this invention construct the permeable flexible covering  20  to resemble a more generic cylindrical-like shape. The foot like shape of the permeable flexible covering  20  and permeable flexible liner  34  having wide sections at the toe end  22  and the foot end  24  of the permeable flexible covering  20 , and a narrow portion disposed in between, will be described in more detail with respect to  FIGS. 42-49 . 
     In such a construction, the side opening  74  allows insertion of the permeable flexible liner  34  into the permeable flexible cover  20  easier that having to try and force the permeable flexible liner  34  into the permeable flexible covering  20  from the heel end  24  through the narrow midsection and on through to the toe end  22 . 
     In another construction, a top opening may be formed like a duvet opening  73 . That is, a first inner opening flap  73   a  is overlapped by a second outer opening flap  73   b . The first inner opening flap  73   a  may be formed of a first portion  73   c  stitched  8  into the edges of the permeable flexible covering  20  to form the first inner opening flap  73   a . The second outer opening flap  73   b  may be formed of a second portion  73   d  stitched  8  into the edges of the permeable flexible covering  20  to form the second outer opening flap  73   b . The permeable flexible liner  34  would be installed within the permeable flexible covering  20  by opening both the overlapped second outer opening flap  73   b  and then the first inner opening flap  73   a  to create an opening to permit the permeable flexible liner  34  to be placed within the interior of the permeable flexible covering  20 . Although shown disposed at the top of the permeable flexible covering  20 , the duvet opening  73  may be located at any position on the permeable flexible covering  20  to allow access to the permeable flexible liner  34 . 
     The permeable flexible liner  34  may be installed within the permeable flexible covering  20  of the preserver  10  through at least one of the various openings  72 ,  73   a ,  73   b ,  74 . For convenience of understanding, the openings  72 ,  73   a ,  73   b ,  74  are shown, but only one opening is needed to receive the permeable flexible liner  34 . Although these openings  72 ,  73   a ,  73   b ,  74  are shown, it is to be understood that any number of openings, and positioning for various openings in the permeable flexible covering  20 , is possible in accordance with this invention. 
       FIGS. 22 through 24  illustrate at least four exemplary constructions for providing various openings  72 ,  74 ,  76 ,  78 .  FIG. 22  depicts the opening  72  in the heel end  24  of the permeable flexible covering  20  having an open mouth construction adapted to receive the permeable flexible liner  34  therein. The opening  72  may be constructed in a variety of different methods. For example, the opening  72  may be constructed to be biased closed. In order to insert the permeable flexible liner  34  within the opening  72  of the permeable flexible covering  20 , the biased closed opening  72  may be overcome by applying an opening force F o  to the mouth of the opening  72  so that the biased closed element may overcome and will be forced open as shown in  FIG. 22 . The biased element may be a spring integrated into the opening  72 . 
       FIG. 23  depicts an alternative zipper opening  76  disposed in the permeable flexible covering  20 . The zipper opening  76  may be provided on any part of the permeable flexible covering  20  to allow ingress and egress of the permeable flexible liner  34  within the permeable flexible covering  20 . 
       FIG. 24  illustrates yet another exemplary securing mechanism. For exemplary purposes, the securing mechanism in  FIG. 24  will be described with respect to a Velcro opening  78 . As shown, the Velcro opening  78  includes a first securing member  78   a  disposed on a first permeable flexible liner portion  20   a . A second securing member  78   b  is disposed on a second permeable flexible liner portion  20   b.    
     In operation, the first securing member  78   a  and the second securing member  78   b  may be secured together to close the opening  78  in the permeable flexible covering  20 . It is to be understood that various types of securing mechanisms may be employed, including but not limited to: Velcro, snaps, a button, a zipper, a sleeve or a pocket, and/or any other type of mechanism capable of securing the permeable flexible covering  20  of the preserver  10  closed. 
       FIG. 25  illustrates a compact housing  80  adjustably connected by a fastener  85  to the flexible strap  60 . As shown, a lid  81  including a latch  83  is open and a compact cover  82 , adapted to be stored within the compact housing  80 , is shown uncompressed and wrapped around a shoe  2 . An aperture  84  may be disposed in the compact cover  82  to allow a user access to the shoe  2  and other components inside of the compact cover  82 . 
     An advantage to integrating the compact housing  80  with a compact cover  82  is to store and provide a protective cover over a dirty or moist shoe  2  from other objects that would normally come into contact with the soiled shoe  2 . For example, an avid runner will oftentimes run over mud, feces, water, oil and the like. These contaminants become lodged in the sole of the shoe  2  and remain there for some time causing unsanitary havoc to the surfaces that come into contact with the sole and/or exterior of the soiled shoe  2 . When the runner finishes their run, they will typically take their shoes off and place them in a vehicle (such as, on a seat, the floor or in the trunk), in their home on a floor and/or some other the location. Unfortunately, the shoes covered with these filthy contaminants will inevitably spread the collected dirt onto others surfaces the shoes come into contact with. Thus, at least one advantage of integrating the compact cover  82  is to contain the contaminants and/or other pollutants collected by the shoes  2  within the compact cover  82 . Likewise, the compact cover  82  protects the surrounding surfaces that would otherwise come into direct contact with the shoes  2 . Covering the moist shoe  2  also facilitate directing the moisture toward the preserver  10  disposed within the shoe  2  and promotes a quicker moisture collection and more sanitary drying process of the shoe  2 . 
     Various types of materials may be used to construct the compact cover  82 , including but not limited to, a plastic, polymer, a fabric and/or any other suitable material capable of covering the shoe  2 . The compact cover  82  may also be constructed of a gas or liquid permeable material to allow proper aeration of the shoe  2 . It is to be noted that, although the compact cover  82  is shown attached to the compact housing  80 , the compact cover  82  may be separable and completely detached from the compact housing  80 . 
       FIG. 26  depicts an alternative construction for the compact housing  80 . As shown, the compact housing  80  includes a fastener  85  portion which secures the flexible strap  60 . Various methods for fastening the flexible strap  60  to the fastener  85  may be used which are commonly available. The compact housing  80  also includes a first connector  86  portion suitable for connection with a second connector  87  portion. The second connector portion  87  may be disposed on any number of different components in this modular preserver system  500 . 
       FIG. 27  depicts a pair of compact housing  80  elements from which a pair of compact covers  82  extend and cover a pair of shoes  2  in accordance with the modular preserver system. As shown, a user may easily carry a pair of covered soiled shoes  2  with the flexible strap  60  and would not have to worry about getting themselves dirty while carrying the shoes  2  because the compact covers  82  protect the user from any of the residual contaminant on the shoes  2 . 
       FIG. 28  demonstrates another exemplary use in which the compact housings  80  may be compactly connected to each other. In  FIG. 28 , the first connector  88  and the second connector  89  portion of the pair of compact housings  80   a ,  80   b  shown are illustrated by a hook and latch type securing mechanism. 
     A user adjust the length of the flexible strap  60  between the pair of shoes  2  housed within the compact covers  82 . Each of the compact housings  80   a ,  80   b  may be independently adjusted on the flexible strap  60  as desired.  FIG. 28  shows the first and second compact housings  80   a ,  80   b  adjusted so that a handle portion  61  formed by the shortened and closed flexible strap  60  is small enough to comfortably carry the shoes  2 . For example, if a user carries the pair of shoes  2  shown in the modular preserver system  500  of  FIG. 27  over their shoulder or by carrying the flexible strap  60  by hand, the extended length of the flexible strap  60  will allow the shoes  2  to clumsily sway back and forth from the users hand or shoulder. However, if the user desires to reduce the swaying back and forth by the pair of shoes  2 , the user may cinch up the shoes  2  along the flexible strap  60  by adjusting the compact housings  80   a ,  80   b  upward along the flexible strap  60  thereby reducing the pendulum length at which the shoes may sway on the flexible strap  60 . As shown in  FIG. 28 , the flexible strap  60  is shortened by approximately the lengths  60   a  and  60   b . This excess length may be housed within the compact cover  82 . As a result, the modular preserver system  500  configuration shown in  FIG. 28  is more compact and may be carried closer to the user&#39;s body, thereby minimizing the uncomfortable sway of the shoes  2 , and making it easier to transport the shoes  2 . 
       FIGS. 29 and 30  illustrate yet another example for a compact cover  82  in accordance with this modular preserver system  500 . In this embodiment, one compact cover  82  is large enough to cover both pairs of shoes  2 . 
     An alternative fastener mechanism is also shown. The fastener mechanism depicted herein is configured as a locking pin  90  and a sleeve housing  91 . In  FIG. 30 , the sleeve housing  91  is adapted to receive the flexible strap  60  within a sleeve  92  of the sleeve housing  91 . The flexible strap  60  may be adjusted within the sleeve housing  91  as desired and the locking pin  90  may be engaged to secure the flexible strap  60  within the sleeve housing  91 . Similar to the configuration shown in  FIG. 28 , the pair of shoes  2  may be compactly carried closer to the user&#39;s body, thereby minimizing the pendulum-like sway and making it easier to transport the shoes  2 . 
     Although the compact housings  80  and the compact coverings  82  are previously described with respect to shoes, it is to be understood that a variety of different embodiments are possible. This invention may be used in combination with any type of protective covering, including but not limited to, boots, gloves, helmets, hats, and the like. 
       FIGS. 31 and 32  show an alternative exemplary embodiment for the modular preserver system  500  in which a compact housing  80  is fastened onto a surface of the preserver  10 . As shown in  FIG. 31 , the compact housing  80  may include a closure flap  80   c  provided to allow egress and ingress of a compact cover  82 . 
     In  FIG. 32 , the shoe preserver  10  is installed in a shoe  2  and situated in a position so that the compact housing  80  is accessible when installed in the shoe  2 . In use, the closure flap  80   c  of the compact housing  80  may be opened and the compact cover  82  may be pulled out from an opening  81   a  within the compact housing  80  and stretched out over the heel end  24 , under the bottom of the shoe  2 , back over the toe end  22  of the shoe  2  and over the top of the shoe  2  where the compact cover  82  is brought to rest adjacent to the compact housing  80 . 
     The compact cover  80  is shown attached to the compact housing  80  at fastened points  82   a . An attachment point  55  on the flexible strap  60  may be connected to a loop fastener  62  disposed on the preserver  10 . Placement of the compact housing  80  on the preserver  10  may be located in any suitable location so long as the compact cover  82  may be accessed from within the compact housing  80  when the preserver  10  is installed in the shoe  2 . 
       FIG. 33  depicts an alternative design in which the flexible strap  60  and the loop fastener  62  attached to the preserver  10  may be interconnected. As shown, the flexible strap  60  is connected to a first connector  86  portion. The first connector  86  portion is adapted to mate with a second connector  87  disposed on a surface of the preserver  10 . The flexible strap  60  may be adjustably positioned within a fastener on the first connector  86  portion to shorten or lengthen the flexible strap  60  length between the pair of preservers  10  disposed within the pair of shoes  2 . It is to be understood that various fasteners commercially available may be used to replace the fastener mechanism shown in the embodiment of  FIG. 33 . 
       FIGS. 34-36  depict the implementation of an elastic strap disposed about the preserver  10 , herein referred to as stirrup  94 . The stirrup  94  may be used with any combination of the previously described embodiments. In  FIG. 34 , the stirrup  94  is shown in a rest position and the stirrup  94  is attached to the preserver  10  at fastener  95 .  FIG. 35  illustrates the stirrup  94  stretched outward to encircle a shoe  2  and/or other object. 
     In  FIG. 36 , the stirrup  94  is wrapped around the compact cover  82 , which in turn is wrapped around the preserver  10  disposed within a first shoe  2 . On a second shoe  2 , the stirrup  94  is wrapped around both, a second shoe  2  and a preserver  10  disposed therein. The advantage of providing the stirrup  94  wrapped around the preserver  10  and the shoe  2  is to ensure that the preserver  10  will not slip out of the shoe  2  in use. The application of the stirrup  94  secures the placement of the preserver  10  with sufficient strength to overcome the exertion of a significantly strong force (such as by the weight of the shoe  2  or a jarring force) directed out of the ankle opening of the shoe  2 , which would otherwise cause the shoe preserver  10  to be dislodged from the shoe  2 . 
     Likewise, the stirrup  94  supplies a snug fit between the preserver  10  and the shoe  2 . That is, the stirrup  94  applies a distributed pressure force F S  into the preserver  10  and urges the preserver  10  against the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2 . The internal pressure force F S  causes the shoe preserver  10  to be securely wedged into the shoe  2 . Forcing the preserver  10  against the interior surface area  4  of the shoes  2  also promotes absorption of the moisture from the shoe  2  into the absorbent material  30  disposed within the preserver  10 . Although not shown, it is to be understood that the stirrup  94  may be stretched and wrapped around more than one shoe (e.g., a pair of shoes) at a time. 
       FIGS. 37 ,  38  and  39  depict various alternative constructions for use with the compact housings  80  and the compact coverings  82 .  FIG. 37  shows a compact cover  82  extending from a compact housing  80  having a lid  81  adapted for use to cover a boot  100 . Likewise,  FIGS. 38 and 39  illustrate a compact cover  82  extending from a compact housing  80  having a lid  81 , and adapted for use to cover a glove  200  and a helmet  400 , respectively. The compact housings  80  and the compact coverings  82  shown in  FIGS. 37-39  may include all of the features and functionality of the other embodiments described above with respect to  FIGS. 25-36 . 
       FIGS. 40-41  depict the use of and process of incorporating marking indicia  99  on various components of the modular preserver system  500  in accordance with this invention. The indicia may be any type of indicia, include, but not limited to trademarks, promotional and product identifying indicia, and the like. The indicia may be provided to facilitate the sale of a component of the modular preserver system  500  by any identifiable person or entity in the stream of commerce of the modular preserver system  500 , such as but not limited to, a supplier of products, a distributor, a third party involved in preparing the product, a potential consumer to which the modular preserver system  500  is to be sold. The indicia may be associated with the component of the modular preserver system  500 . Likewise, collateral materials marked with indicia may also be provided within the scope of this modular preserver system  500  invention. 
     As shown, indicia  99  may be provided on: the flexible strap  60 , the compact cover  82 , the preserver  10 , and/or any other component in accordance with this modular preserver system  500 . 
     The indicia  99  disposed on the various components of the modular preserver system  500  may be composed of a variety of different shapes, colors and sizes. The indicia  99  may take any desired shape, including but not limited to, circles, rectangles, squares, triangles, designs, a logo, a brand, a mascot, and/or any obtuse shape, design or other printed indicia and the like. The indicia  99  may include, for example, a trademark, a service mark, a name, an emblem, a logo, a banner, an advertisement, a business, the military, a university, a mascot, ribbons, flowers, a sport, a school, a local establishment, a character, hobby and/or any other type indicia of interest. 
     The indicia  99  may printed on the various components of the modular preserver system  500  in any number of plausible ways, such as for example, but not limited to silk screening and/or any other printing process now known or later developed. 
       FIG. 40  further illustrates another exemplary use for the compact housing  180 . The compact housing  180  may be adapted to conveniently and portably carry various items  182 , such as but not limited to money, keys, and the like. By way of illustration, the compact housing  180  depicts money ($) being stored within the compact housing  180 . Likewise, a fastening mechanism, such as a hook  183  is shown attached to the compact housing  182  capable of carrying a key, or the like. The compact housing  182  may serve a variety of uses capable of carrying and storing various objects in a compact and secure manner in accordance with this invention. 
     Referring back to  FIG. 41 , the permeable flexible covering  20  may be produced in various sizes and shapes to accommodate varying shoe sizes. Similar to the design of the permeable flexible covering  20  shown in  FIG. 3 , the design of the permeable flexible covering  20  is depicted as being self-contained. Thus, it is within the scope of this modular preserver system  500  to produce the permeable flexible covering  20  separable from the various other components of the preserver  10 . For example, the permeable flexible liner  34  and absorbent may be interchangeable and may be replaced by various sizes and shaped permeable flexible liners  34  to accommodate the varying shoe sizes. 
     The absorbent material in the permeable flexible liner  34  may also be selectively replaced with different types, and/or new absorbents when the previous absorbent properties may need replacing. The amount of absorbent material may be selected based a variety of different factors, including but not limited to, size of the shoe the absorbent is to be inserted into, the weight of the absorbent material, and the like. 
     Various deodorants, disinfectants, and/or other suitable materials may also be integrated with the preserver. By way of example, a deodorant may be integrated into the permeable flexible liner  34  so that various scents may be selected and combined with the preserver  10  to refresh the shoe  2  and/or other protective covering. Other suitable materials may be used in combination with the permeable flexible liner  34 , such as an anti-bacterial, microbial, fungi reducing agent, a disinfectant, and the like. 
     The permeable flexible covering  20  may also be designed to be interchangeable. The permeable flexible covering  20  is versatile in that any side of the permeable flexible covering  20  may be used as the lower or top portion, and visa-versa. When replacement of the permeable flexible covering  20  (and/or other component) may be required due to wear and tear, only that component may be replaced, and the remainder of the components may be preserved and reused in accordance with this modular preserver system  500 . 
     By separably encasing the absorbent  30  within the permeable flexible liner  34 , dust and debris from the absorbent  30  may be more effectively used since the contents within the permeable flexible liner  34  cannot escape. The permeable flexible liner  34  may be designed of a porous material to allow moisture to be absorbed within the permeable flexible liner  34 . Likewise, the porous material of the permeable flexible liner  34  may allow for a deodorant included within the permeable flexible liner  34  to permeate across the permeable flexible liner  34  into the shoe  2 . In use, the absorbent and deodorant material within the permeable flexible liner  34  will not be able to escape from within the permeable flexible liner  34 . The permeable flexible liner  34  may be constructed of varying porosity to efficiently manage the enclosed material. 
       FIG. 42  illustrates yet another aspect of the modular preserver system in which the various components of the preserver  10  may be separable manufactured and replaced. Any of the components, such as the permeable flexible covering  20 , the permeable flexible liner permeable flexible liner  34  including the absorbing material  30 , the toe portion  225 , the bladder  40  and/or any other part of the preserver  10  may be separably replaced in accordance with this invention. 
     The advantage of the modular preserver system is to be able to extend the life of the preserve by caring for the various components of the system and being able to reuse them individually. Since the absorbing material  30  in the permeable flexible liner  34  is a self contained unit, the various components of the modular preserver system can be disassembled, separately washed and/or cleaned in order to increase the life expectancy and efficiency of the various individual components of the modular preserver system in accordance with this invention. 
     Conventional preservers are constructed as a single inseparable unit, and there is no ability to clean the preserver and/or reuse any portion of a conventional preserver. As commonly understood, the absorbing material within a preserver has a predefined life span before its moisture absorbing properties deplete and become useless. Unfortunately, with conventional preservers once the absorbing material properties in the preserver was used, the entire preserver unit was destroyed and the entire unit had to be thrown away. At least in part, this is because it is not possible to separate the absorbing material in a conventional inseparable preserver unit. Consequently, there is no modular process for separating the conventional preserver and/or wash the conventional preserver in a washer and/or other cleaning device. Any attempt to do so would destroy the absorbing material within the conventional preserver. The modular preserver system of this invention overcomes these disadvantages. 
     For example, in  FIG. 42 , the absorbing material  30  disposed within the permeable flexible liner  34  may be constructed as a separable element from the toe portion  225  and the remainder of the preserver  10 . The absorbing material  30  may be filled within the permeable flexible liner  34  and stitches  8  may be applied to the toe end  22  to close the permeable flexible liner  34 . As with any human foot, the heel end  24  of the foot is generally narrower than the toe end  22  of the foot. The entire length of the permeable flexible liner  34  is constructed substantially the same width from the heel end  24  to the toe end  22 . The toe end of the permeable flexible liner  34  is positioned and/or may be secured to the toe portion  225  of the permeable flexible liner  34 . The toe portion  255  may be constructed from a variety of different materials, including but not limited to, foam, cotton, and/or any other fabric capable of absorbing moisture and/or wicking material. 
     In an attempt to mimic the contour of a human foot, it is further with thin the scope of this invention to shape the contour of the permeable flexible liner  34  to more closely resemble an actual human foot. By way of example, in  FIG. 42 , the edge  22   a  of the toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34  does not smoothly merge with the edge  225   a  of the toe portion  225 . Instead a gap  227  is present between the edge  225   a  of the toe portion  225  and the edge  22   a  of the toe end toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34 . As a result, when the permeable flexible liner  34  and the toe portion  225  are assembled adjacent to each other within a permeable flexible covering  20 , the gaps  227  may prevent the permeable flexible liner  34  and the toe portion  225  from maximizing the absorption of the moisture from the shoe  2  into which the moisture is to be collected. 
       FIGS. 43-49  illustrate an exemplary modification to the construction shown in  FIG. 42 . In  FIGS. 43-49 , the construction of the permeable flexible liner  34  of the preserver  10  may be configured to better resemble the anatomical contour of a user&#39;s foot. As with a normal foot, the heel end  24  of the foot is smoothly contoured narrower than the toe end  22  of the foot. 
       FIGS. 43-44  illustrate a contoured permeable flexible liner  34  adapted to maximize the absorption area within the shoe  2 . That is, the permeable flexible liner  34  and the toe portion  225  are contoured as a combined pair that reduces the gaps  227  (as shown in  FIG. 42 ) between the toe edge  22   a  of the toe end of the permeable flexible liner  34  and the edge  225   a  of the toe portion  225  to maximize the absorption material contact within the shoe  2  by maximizing the contact with the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2  in order to draw in and collect as much of the moisture possible. By reducing the gaps  227 , and maximizing the surface area of the permeable flexible covering  20  coming into contact within the interior surface area  4  of shoe  2 , superior absorption of the moisture within the shoe  2  is achieved. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 43-46 , the contoured foot construction for the exemplary permeable flexible liner  34  maximizes the contact surface area of the absorbing materials within the permeable flexible liner  34  and the toe end  225  of the permeable flexible covering  20  within the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2 . A maximum amount of moisture is absorbed from the shoe  2  and/or other coverings from which moisture is to be absorbed because the permeable flexible covering  20  will come into contact with all of the interior surface areas  4  of the shoe  2  and/or other coverings (as shown in  FIGS. 12-15 ). 
     In brief, and as shown in FIGS.  45  and  47 - 48 , the toe end  22  of the  34  is uniquely constructed to have a larger mass of material  224  than the heel end  24  portion of the permeable flexible liner  34 . Referring to  FIGS. 47-48 , the larger mass of material  224  enables the edge  22   a  of the toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34  to substantially align better with the edge  225   a  of the toe portion  225  so as to eliminate any gaps  227  (such as those shown in  FIG. 42 ). 
     Referring to an exemplary contoured construction shown in  FIGS. 43-45 , the permeable flexible liner  34  includes having a first heel end  24  closed and narrower than the outwardly widened open toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34 . The outwardly widened toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34  has an opening  221  disposed in an extended material flap  222  that is adapted to receive the absorbing material  30  within the permeable flexible liner  34 . 
       FIG. 46  depicts another exemplary construction for the permeable flexible liner  34  having an extended material flap  222  that extends outward to define a pair of spread winged portion  34   a  which, when the extended material flap  222  is folded, as will be described later, will also produce the built up mass of material  224  contoured construction for the toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34 . As shown in  FIG. 46 , during construction of the contoured permeable flexible liner  34 , a predetermined quantity of the absorbing material  30  may be filled through a spout  228 , or the like, into the open toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34 . 
     The permeable flexible liner  34  may take a variety of different shapes, however, the principle features and advantages of the unique humane appendage contoured construction for the permeable flexible liner  34  are similar. Once the desired amount of the absorbing material  30  has been filled into the opening  221  of the toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34 , the spout  228  may be removed and the permeable flexible liner  34  may be sealed. This construction for the permeable flexible liner  34  is versatile (as shown by this alternative configuration). The construction for various sizes and shapes of shoes (or other protective coverings) is possible since the permeable flexible liner  34  may be filled with more or less absorbing material  30  based on the size and shape of the shoe  2  the preserver  10  is intended to be inserted within. 
     Referring back to  FIG. 43 , the absorbing material  30  is filled through the opening  221  in the outwardly widened toe end  22  of the extended material flap  222  in the permeable flexible liner  34 . The absorbing material  30  is filled to a predetermined volume which may be varied on a variety of factors, such as the size and shape of an intended shoe, the presence or absence of a bladder, as well as a variety of other factors. Once the predetermined amount of absorbing material  30  has been filled within the permeable flexible liner  34 , the toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34  may be stitched  8  and/or rolled prior to stitching. 
     It is to be understood that the extended material flap  222  may be disposed at any position along the permeable flexible liner  34  in order to allow the absorbing material  30  to be filled therein. For exemplary purposes, in  FIG. 45 , an extended material flap  222   a  having an opening  221   a  is shown extending from the side of the permeable flexible liner  34  to allow the entry and filling of the absorbing material  30 . As such, it the extended material flap  222   a  and the opening  221   a  may be disposed at any location on the permeable flexible liner  34  in accordance with this invention. Likewise, similar construction may be used for filling the permeable flexible covering  20  with the permeable flexible liner  34 , as briefly mentioned in  FIG. 21 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 44-45 , in order to compact the absorbent material  30  within the permeable flexible liner  34 , the extended material flap  222  and the opening  221  is sequentially folded over causing the absorbing material  30  disposed within to be substantially compacted within the flexibly expanding permeable flexible liner  34 . Likewise, the folded material  220  of the extended material flap  222  eventually builds up a substantial thickness forming the mass of material  224  at the toe end  22  which is built up to form the contour of the forefoot of the preserver  10 . The built up mass of material  224  effectively eliminates any gaps  227  from forming between the permeable flexible liner  34  and the toe portion  225  of the preserver  10 . 
     In more detail,  FIG. 44  shows the opening  221  of the extended material flap  222  being folded back toward the heel end  24  of the permeable flexible liner  34 . As the opening  221  of the extended material flap  222  is continually folded back, the mass of material  224  is gradually built up at the toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34  and the contour of the forefoot of a human foot is thereby formed. 
       FIG. 45  shows the opening  221  and the extended material flap  222  at the toe end  22  of permeable flexible liner  34  folded to a desired predetermined location. As such, the mass of material  224  formed from the folded extended material flap  222  is contoured into a widened forefoot mass built up at the toe end  22  of the flexible liner permeable flexible liner  34  that resembles the human forefoot. 
       FIGS. 47-49  illustrates the widened forefoot mass of material  224  at the edge  22   a  of the toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34  is as wide as the edges  225   a  of the toe portion  225 . Consequently, no gap  227  (as shown in  FIG. 42 ) is formed between the widened forefoot mass of material  224  and the toe portion  225  end absorption material since the edges  225   a  of the toe portion  225  are substantially the same width as the edge  22   a  of the toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34 . Together, the permeable flexible liner  34  and the toe portion  225  and its absorption material substantially fill the permeable flexible covering  20  as shown in  FIGS. 48 and 49 . The benefit of this construction is a better fit within the permeable flexible covering  20  and within the shoe such that when the permeable flexible covering  20  is inserted into the shoe  2 , a maximum amount of moisture absorption is enhanced and removed from the interior surface area  4  of the shoe because the entire permeable flexible covering  20  will be in contact the interior surface areas  4  of the shoe  2 . 
     Also shown in  FIGS. 47-49 , it is to be understood that the toe portion  225  may be formed in the shape of toes. The toe portion  225  may be secured within the toe end  22  of the permeable flexible covering  20  by stitching  8  the toe portion  225  into position and shape. In such a construction, the toe portion  225  and the permeable flexible liner  34  act together to absorb any moisture disposed within the shoe  2 . The toe portion  225  may be integrated within the permeable flexible liner  34  adjacent to the absorbing material  30 . The toe portion  225  may be separated from the absorbing material  30  but within the permeable flexible liner  34 . The separation may be stitched  8 , a bond, and/or any other type of separator and/or adhesive capable of separating the toe portion  225  from the absorbing material  30 . Alternatively, the toe portion  225  may be secured in a removable manner so that the toe portion  225  can be replaced as necessary without replacing the absorbing material  30  or permeable flexible liner  34 . 
       FIGS. 50-51  shows that it is to be further understood that the permeable flexible liner  34  may be constructed in a plurality of different shapes in addition to the other shapes shown. In particular, the permeable flexible liner  34  may be designed in the shape of a unitary integrate contoured foot with or without toes being constructed in the toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34 . In both illustrations, the permeable flexible liner  34  is filled with an absorbing material  30  from the heel end  24  to the toe end  22  of the permeable flexible liner  34 . With this construction, the permeable flexible liner  34  can easily be replaced without having to replace the permeable flexible covering  20 . 
       FIGS. 52-53  depict yet another aspect of this invention in which the permeable flexible liner  34  and the absorbing material  30  disposed therein is constructed as a one-piece separable and modular sheet  310  constructed by a number of various contiguous permeable flexible liners  34  attached to each other. The modular sheet  310  includes a plurality of pouches  334  that make up the various permeable flexible liners  34 . 
     As before, it is important to understand that the advantage of incorporating the modular sheet  310  within the modular preserver system is to be able to extend the life of the modular preserver system by caring for the various individual components of the system, and being able to reuse them individually. Since the absorbing material  30  in the modular sheet  310  is a self contained unit, the various other components of the modular preserver system can be disassembled, separately washed and/or cleaned thereby increasing the life expectancy and efficiency of the various individual components of the modular preserver system in accordance with this invention. 
       FIG. 52  discloses a front view of the modular sheet  310  of permeable flexible liners  34 ,  FIG. 53  depicts a rear view of the modular sheet  310  of permeable flexible liners  34 . The modular sheet  310  may be formed in a plurality of ways. For exemplary purposes, the modular sheet  310  may be made up of a first expandable panel of material  314  (as shown in  FIG. 52 ), and a second panel of material  316  (as shown in  FIG. 53 ). The various pouches  334  that make up the permeable flexible liners  34  are connected to each other at a seam or joint  312 . The various materials used for the modular sheet  310  may be selected from any of the various materials described above with respect to the permeable flexible covering  20  and permeable flexible liner  34  of this invention. 
       FIG. 54  shows the flexibility of the modular sheet  310 . The joints  312  in the modular sheet  310  between each of the pouches  334  is sufficiently durable to hold the various pouches  334  together, while flexible enough to allow the various pouches  334  to pivot and/or bend relative to each other so that the modular sheet  310  can be compactly rolled like a sheet for modular use. 
     The joints  312  defining the various individual pouches  334  are not limited to being formed by stitching, but may be formed in a variety of different ways including being glued, welded, bonded and/or any other method for securing two panels of fabric together in accordance with this invention. 
       FIG. 55  demonstrates an exemplary use for the modular sheet  310 . As shown, the modular sheet  310  is rolled and placed into a shoe  2 . The advantage of this embodiment is that the modular sheet  310  can be modified to fit within, or outside of, a variety of different size shoes  2  and protective coverings. As shown in  FIG. 53 , the modular sheet  310  can be cut by a cutting implement  318  to a desired size, such as in  FIG. 55  to fit within the shoe  2  rolled up to fill the interior surface area  4  of the shoe  2 . 
     It is important to realize that the use of the flexible modular sheet  310  is agnostic among a variety of different protective coverings  302  because the protective covering  302  is versatile in the size and shape that the modular sheet  310  can be cut down to and manipulated to fit within a variety of different size spaces. For example, the modular sheet  310  can be cut short, rolled tight into a small roll and placed within a narrow confinement of a glove. On the other hand, the modular sheet  310  can be used in a larger quantity and rolled to fit within a larger area, such as the opening and internal compartment of a helmet. Likewise, the other advantages realized employing the modular sheet  310  is the ability to enclose a protective covering  302  within the modular sheet  310  and draw moisture from the outside of the protective covering  302  as well as will be described in more detail below. Clearly, the modular sheet  310  has numerous widespread applications, for example, withdrawing the moisture from shoes, boots, gloves, helmets, shin guards, head bands, wrestling head gear, and any other type of protective covering  302  or gear that collects moisture. 
       FIG. 56  shows another exemplary embodiment for use with the modular sheet  310 . In this example, a length of cloth  320 , such as a towel, includes a pocket  322 . A piece of the modular sheet  310  is shown cut down (such as in  FIG. 53 ) and placed into the pocket  322 . By employing the modular sheet  310  with the cloth  320 , the modular sheet  310  can be later separated and the cloth  320  can be separately washed and cleaned as will become apparent in the exemplary embodiments below. 
     As shown, the cloth  320  may include a water resistant panel  324 . The advantage of providing the water resistant panel  324  is to provide an environment that traps moisture within the interior of the enclosed modular sheet  310  and/or the water proof cloth  320 . As shown in  FIG. 61 , when the enclosure and/or container  326 , the modular sheet  310  and/or the water proof cloth  320  is closed over the protective covering  302  a moisture enclosed environment is created. As such, the absorbing material  30  disposed within the walls of the container  326 , within the pouch  334 , and/or within the modular sheet  310  is capable of drawing the maximum amount of moisture from the soiled protective covering  302  because the moisture is locked within the moisture enclosed environment. As a result, all of the moisture will flow from the soiled protective covering  302  into the absorbing material  30  in an accelerated manner as there is no where else the moisture can travel outside of the moisture locked environment. 
     Various advantages are provided by this exemplary embodiment. Since the outer panels of the container  326 , modular sheet  310  and/or cloth  320  trap moisture within the interior of the various enclosures, the various enclosures can be safely stored without soiling areas surrounding the enclosure, such as a car, a closet and/or any other location. While in use, the moisture within the enclosure is prevented from seeping out of the enclosure and across the across the fabric. As shown in use in  FIG. 57 , a soiled protective covering  302 , such as a glove, may be placed within the cloth  320  and over the moisture absorbing modular sheet  310 . The cloth  320  may then be folded over the protective covering  302  so that the protective covering comes into contact with the moisture absorbing modular sheet  310 . The immediate contact between the protective covering  302  and the modular sheet  310  will cause the moisture within the protective covering  302  to be drawn out of the protective covering  302  and into the modular sheet  310 . Therefore, the protective covering  302  will be dried as a result of the accelerated moisture being drawn from the protective covering  302  into the modular sheet  310 . 
     Although shown as a cloth  320 , it is to be understood that the cloth  320  may be any type of enclosure such as a bag, a container  326  (as shown in  FIG. 61 ) and/or any type of sub-enclosure. 
     Sporting enthusiasts will find substantial use with this exemplary embodiment. The sporting enthusiast will be able to place a modular sheet  310  into the cloth  320  and wrap up their soiled articles of clothing in the cloth  320  and have their soiled articles dried in an accelerated manner than was ever possible conventionally. 
       FIGS. 58 and 59  illustrate another example in which the modular sheet  310  is cut down into a small permeable flexible liner pouch  334  onto which the finger of the protective covering  302  can be wrapped around. FIG. shows a simplified depiction of the fingers of the protective covering protective covering  302  being wrapped around the pouch  334 , and  FIG. 59  shows the fingers of the protective covering  302  being wrapped around a modified pouch  334  having a securing strap onto which the fingers of the protective covering  302  can be secured. 
       FIG. 60 , shows as before shown in  FIG. 57 , the soiled protective covering  302  is placed within the cloth  320 . In  FIG. 61 , the cloth  320  is then folded over the protective covering  302  with the permeable flexible liner pouch  334  in its grip and secured by a strap  336  to the pouch  334 . The immediate contact between the protective covering  302  with the pouch  334  and the cloth  320  will cause the moisture within the protective covering  302  to be drawn out of the protective covering  302  and into the moisture absorbing pouch  334 . Therefore, the protective covering  302  will be dried as a result of the accelerated moisture being drawn from the protective covering  302  into the modular sheet  310 . 
       FIG. 62  shows an alternative exemplary embodiment in which the cloth  320  is replaced with the moisture absorbing modular sheet  310 . Here, a permeable flexible liner pouch  334  has been cut down to fit comfortably within the grip of the protective covering  302 , and the protective covering  302  is grasping onto the pouch  334  and is placed within the modular sheet  310 . As in  FIGS. 57 and 60 , the soiled protective covering  302 , may be placed within the modular sheet  310 . 
     The modular sheet  310  may then be folded over the protective covering  302  so that the protective covering  302  is compressed against and comes into contact with the moisture absorbing modular sheet  310  as well as the pouch  334  as it is wrapped within the modular sheet  310 . In this manner, immediate contact between the protective covering  302 , the permeable flexible liner pouch  334  and the modular sheet  310  will cause the moisture within the protective covering  302  to be drawn out of the protective covering  302  at an accelerated pace and into the modular sheet  310  and the pouch  334  within the clasp of the protective covering  302 . As such, the entire outer surface area of the protective covering  302  will be in contact with the accelerated moisture absorbing properties of both the modular sheet  310  and the pouch  334 . It is also possible to cut down another portion of the modular sheet  310  and place it within the interior surface areas of the protective covering  302 . 
     It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that changes or modifications may be made to the above described embodiments without departing from the broad inventive concepts of the invention. It is understood therefore that the invention is not limited to the particular embodiments which are described, but is intended to cover all modifications and changes within the scope and spirit of the invention.