Patent Publication Number: US-8991598-B2

Title: System for storing devices with elongated shafts

Description:
PRIORITY/CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/553,022, filed 28 Oct. 2011, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The disclosure generally relates to the field of devices for storing devices with elongated shafts. Particular embodiments relate to bags for storing golf clubs. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Modern golf club bags have a number of drawbacks in the terms of design and utility. First and foremost is the way golf clubs must be inserted and extracted from a standard golf club bag to be used by the golfer. Virtually all golf club bags have one opening located at the top of the bag through which clubs are inserted and removed. When a golf club bag is placed on a golf cart raising it off the ground the height of the top opening is also raised, which can cause problems to insert and remove golf clubs for golfers that are shorter in height or have limited physical movement in their shoulders due to injury or medical conditions. It is virtually impossible for many golfers with these top opening bags to grab a golf club in one position with one hand and extract it. To grab a golf club just below the head and remove it from the bag requires the point at which the golfer is gripping the club to be raised almost seven to eight feet in the air. Therefore, the process usually requires two hands or almost a throwing motion upward and re-gripping the club at certain intervals in order to extract it from the top opening. 
     Some prior golf bag designs attempted to overcome this above drawback through incorporation of a permanent opening in the front of the golf bag. However, because the opening is permanent in nature, the golfer does not have the ability to close this opening for the purpose of keeping out the elements while on the golf course or keeping the golf clubs within the bag during travel or storage. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Several exemplary systems for storing a device having an elongated shaft and a shank portion are described herein. 
     An exemplary system for storing a device having an elongated shaft and a shank portion comprises a body portion and a cover portion. The body portion being generally cylindrical in shape. The body portion comprising a closed bottom portion connected to an open top portion via a sidewall portion. The sidewall portion defines an opening there-through extending from the open top portion towards the closed bottom portion. The cover portion having a generally open-ring shape. The cover portion having an open position and a closed position. The cover portion closing at least a portion of the opening when in the closed position. The cover portion spaced apart from the opening when in the open position. 
     Optionally, the diameter of the cover portion is greater than the diameter of the body portion. 
     Optionally, the cover portion comprises a plurality of cover portions, and each of the plurality of cover portions close at least a portion of the opening when in the closed position. 
     Optionally, the bottom portion comprises a base means, a central portion and an interior bottom surface. 
     Optionally, the sidewall portion comprises an internal surface and an external surface. 
     Optionally, the sidewall portion is generally circular in shape vertically below the opening, and generally arc-shaped in cross-section vertically along the opening&#39;s vertical height. 
     Optionally, the opening defines a first edge opposite a second edge. 
     Optionally, the system comprises a body connector portion for connecting the cover portion to the body portion. Further optionally, the body connector portion comprises at least one track attached to the body portion which the cover portion travels around. Further optionally, the cover portion comprises a plurality of cover portions, wherein each of the plurality of cover portions close at least a portion of the opening when in the closed position, wherein the body connector portion connects adjacent cover portions together. 
     Optionally, the cover portion further comprises a handle for enabling a user to move the cover portion from the closed position to the open position. 
     Optionally, the system further comprises a support element for supporting the body portion, the support element connecting to the bottom portion of the body portion, the support element extending away from the bottom portion. Further optionally, the support element further comprises an open-ring shaped retention ring for supporting the top portion of the body portion. Further optionally, the support element is located on the opposite side of the body portion as the opening. 
     Optionally, the system further comprises a back plate connecting with the support element. Further optionally, a shoulder strap connects to the back plate. 
     Optionally, the body portion further comprises a horizontal shaft spacer portion adjacent the open top portion. Further optionally, the horizontal shaft spacer portion comprises shaft engaging means for receiving and retaining the shank portion of an elongated shaft. Further optionally, the horizontal shaft spacer portion comprises a series of retainer modules, each retainer module comprising an upper retainer, a bottom retainer, and a compressible planar disc received between the upper retainer and the bottom retainer. It is preferred that the planar disc is moveable side-to-side as well as being compressible. 
     Another exemplary system is for storing a device having an elongated shaft having an end portion. The system comprising a body. The body comprising a sidewall connecting between an open top and a closed bottom. The sidewall comprising an interior sidewall surface. The closed bottom comprising an interior base surface. The interior base surface comprising an upwardly extending a center spacer portion. The center spacer portion having a center surface. The center surface spaced apart from the interior sidewall surface and defining a retention channel there-between. The end portion configured for insertion into the body through the open top portion. The end portion configured for insertion into retention channel, held by a friction fit between the interior sidewall surface and the center surface. 
     Optionally, the center spacer portion has a generally curved cross-sectional shape. 
     Optionally, the center spacer portion has a generally conical cross-sectional shape. 
     Optionally, the center spacer portion has a generally frustoconical cross-sectional shape. 
     Optionally, the device is a golf club. 
     Additional understanding of the devices and methods contemplated and/or claimed by the inventor can be gained by reviewing the detailed description of exemplary devices and methods, presented below, and the referenced drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a first perspective view of a first exemplary system for storing devices with elongated shafts. 
         FIG. 2  is a second perspective view of the first exemplary system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a third perspective view of the first exemplary system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a fourth perspective view of the first exemplary system of  FIG. 1 , including a plurality of golf clubs stored therein. 
         FIG. 5  is a fifth perspective (partial) view of the first exemplary system of  FIG. 1 , showing the insertion of a golf club therein. 
         FIG. 6  is a sixth perspective (partial) view of the first exemplary system of  FIG. 1 , showing the golf club stored therein. 
         FIG. 7  is a plan view of the first exemplary system of  FIG. 1 , as further shown in  FIG. 5 , showing the insertion of a golf club therein. 
         FIG. 7A  is a partial plan view of the view illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 7B  is a partial plan view of the view illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 7C  is a partial plan view of the view illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 8  is a seventh perspective view of the first exemplary system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 8A  is a sectional view of the view illustrated in  FIG. 8  along line  8 A- 8 A. 
         FIG. 8B  is a sectional view of the view illustrated in  FIG. 8  along the line  8 B- 8 B. 
         FIG. 9A  is a partial, sectional view of the view illustrated in  FIG. 8A  along the line  9 A-A. 
         FIG. 9B  is a partial, sectional view of the view illustrated in  FIG. 8A  along the line  9 B-B. 
         FIG. 9C  is a partial, sectional view of the view illustrated in  FIG. 8A  along the line  9 C-C. 
         FIG. 9D  is a partial, sectional view of the view illustrated in  FIG. 8A  along the line  9 D-D. 
         FIG. 9E  is a partial, sectional view of the view illustrated in  FIG. 8A  along the line  9 E-E. 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a second exemplary system for storing devices with elongated shafts, showing a connection with a vehicle, including a plurality of golf clubs stored therein. 
         FIG. 11  is a plan view of the second exemplary system of  FIG. 10 , including a plurality of golf clubs stored therein. 
         FIG. 12  is a first side view of the second exemplary system of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 13  is a second side view of the second exemplary system of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 14  is a sectional view of a third exemplary system for storing devices with elongated shafts, including a plurality of golf clubs stored therein. 
         FIG. 15  is a second, partial, sectional view of the third exemplary system of  FIG. 14 , including a plurality of golf clubs stored therein. 
         FIG. 16  is a partial, perspective view of a variable pitch conical spacer used with the third exemplary system of  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 17  is a third sectional view of the third exemplary system of  FIG. 14 , including a plurality of golf clubs stored therein. 
         FIG. 18  is a sectional view of a fourth exemplary system, including a plurality of golf clubs stored therein. 
         FIG. 19  is an exploded, first perspective view of the second exemplary system of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 20  is a second perspective view of the second exemplary system of  FIG. 10 , including a plurality of golf clubs stored therein. 
         FIG. 21  is a third perspective view of the second exemplary system of  FIG. 10 , including a plurality of golf clubs stored therein. 
         FIG. 22  is a fourth perspective view of the second exemplary system of  FIG. 10 , including a plurality of golf clubs and an umbrella stored therein. 
         FIG. 23  is a first perspective view of a fourth exemplary system for storing devices with elongated shafts. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following description and the referenced drawings provide illustrative examples of that which the inventor regards as his invention. As such, the embodiments discussed herein are merely exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention, or its protection, in any manner. Rather, the description and illustration of these embodiments serve to enable a person of ordinary skill in the relevant art to practice the invention. 
     The use of “e.g.,” “etc,” “for instance,” “in example,” and “or” and grammatically related terms indicates non-exclusive alternatives without limitation, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The use of “including” and grammatically related terms means “including, but not limited to,” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The use of the articles “a,” “an” and “the” are meant to be interpreted as referring to the singular as well as the plural, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a cover portion” includes two or more such cover portions, and the like, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The use of “optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described element, event or circumstance may or may not be present/occur, and that the description includes instances where the element, event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The use of “exemplary” means “an example of” and is not intended to convey a meaning of an ideal or preferred embodiment, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. 
     The figures illustrate a number of different exemplary systems for storing devices with elongated shafts. The “devices with elongated shafts” illustrated in the figures are golf clubs. Other devices with elongated shafts include, but are not limited to, fishing poles. 
       FIGS. 1 through 9 , illustrate the first exemplary system  10  for storing devices  2  with elongated shafts  4 .  FIGS. 10 through 13 , and  18  though  22 , illustrate the second exemplary system  100  for storing devices  2  with elongated shafts  4 .  FIGS. 14 through 17  illustrate the third exemplary system  200  for storing devices  2  with elongated shafts  4 .  FIG. 18  illustrates the fourth exemplary system  300  for storing devices  2  with elongated shafts  4 . The exemplary illustrated systems are similar to one another, except as detailed below. In this description, and in the drawings, similar structures are labeled with identical numbers for simplicity. These systems ( 10 ,  100 ,  200 ,  300 ), for simplicity, referred to collectively as the “system,” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. 
     The device  2  having an elongated shaft  4 , a shank portion  6 , and an end portion  8 . The end portion  8  may include a grip portion  7 . 
     The system comprising a body portion  20  and at least one cover portion  50 . The body portion  20  illustrated in these Figures is generally cylindrical in shape. Such a generally cylindrical shape is preferred, but other shapes would likewise be suitable, including oval, triangular and polygonal. The body portion  20  comprising a closed bottom portion  22  connected to an open top portion  30  via a sidewall portion  40 . In the exemplary system  10  illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the body portion is rigid. The space between the closed bottom portion  22  and the open top portion  30  defining an interior chamber. 
     An opening  42  is defined through the sidewall portion  40 . In the exemplary system shown, the opening  42  extends from the open top portion  30  towards the closed bottom portion  22 . The figures showing an open-topped opening  42  having a pair of generally vertical sides (first side  41  opposite second side  43 ) and a generally horizontal bottom side  45 . Other configurations and shapes of openings could be used. The opening  42  illustrated in  FIG. 1 , extending from the top portion downwards generally 80% to 90% of the height of the body portion, and would be 3.0 to 6.0 inches (7.62 cm to 15.24 cm) in width. While these measurements specifically mentioned here, a person having ordinary skill in the art would adjust all such measurements as necessary in making a particular system for use for a particular purpose. 
     When the system is a golf club bag, a user is able to retrieve and return their golf clubs via the front of the golf club bag (through the opening  42 ) instead of the top of the golf club bag. This allows the golfer much easier access to their clubs during a round of golf or during practice. In addition, the system affords golfers that have a difficult time putting clubs into the top of a standard bag due to physical limitations or height or injury or limited range of motion a much easier alternative. 
     The sidewall portion  40  comprises an interior sidewall surface  44  and an external surface  46 . In the system  10  illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 4 , the sidewall portion  40  is generally circular in shape vertically below the opening bottom side  45 , and generally arc-shaped vertically along the opening&#39;s  42  vertical height (between the first side  41  and second side  43 ), where the body portion is generally arc-shaped. The interior sidewall surface  44  could comprise indicia (e.g., logo, artwork). The bottom side  45  (or the bottom portion  22 ) could comprise a track, ledge or other surface protruding in a perpendicular fashion for supporting the cover portion  50 . 
     The cover portion  50  is for covering (closing) the opening  42 . The cover portion  50  illustrated in these Figures having a generally open-ring or “arc” shape, having a cover opening  58 . The cover portion  50  having an open position (illustrated in  FIG. 1 ) and a closed position (illustrated in  FIG. 8 ). The cover portion  50  closing at least a portion of the opening  42  when the cover portion  50  is in its closed position. The cover portion  50  spaced apart from the opening  42  (not closing) when the cover portion  50  is in its open position. 
     In the system  100  illustrated in  FIGS. 10 through 13  and  18  through  22 , the cover portion(s) ( 50 ,  52 ,  54 ) each comprising an outside surface ( 55 ,  155 ,  255 ). The outside surface(s) can be configured for connection with an accessory. For instance,  FIGS. 10 , and  19  through  21  illustrate a container  56  attaching to the outside surface  255 , a panel  57  attaching to the outside surface  155 , and a container  156  attaching to the outside surface  55 . The containers  56 ,  156  could be rigid sided, cloth bags, or other suitable structure. The panel  57  could be decorative, for instance including a logo (e.g., the user&#39;s favorite sports team logo). The cover portions can be fixedly or removably attached to the outside surface(s). In one example exemplary system, the connection comprises the use of a hook-and-loop style releasable connector, allowing the user of the system to add/remove accessories as desired. The accessories (e.g., container  56 , panel  57 , container  156 ) may have a semi-rigid form or backing on them that would match the circular nature of the rotator to which they will be installed or adhered to. This backing or form to the pockets allows the pockets to retain their original shape and full volume and eases attachment to the desired position on the cover portion. 
     In an exemplary system, the width of the cover opening  58  generally corresponds with the width of the opening  42 . In such a configuration, when the cover portion  50  is in its “open” position, none of the cover portion  50  covers the opening  42 , as illustrated in  FIG. 8A . 
     In the system illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 4 , the open-ring shaped cover portion has a first diameter, whereas the generally cylindrically-shaped body portion  20  has a second diameter. As can be seen from these Figures, the first diameter is larger than the second diameter, so that the cover portion  50  can fit around the body portion  20 , being located external to the body portion  20 . In other exemplary systems (not illustrated), the body portion  20  may have a larger diameter than the cover portion, so that the cover portion  50  can be located internal to the body portion. 
     The cover portion  50  illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 4  does not vertically cover the entire opening  42 . A second cover portion  52  and a third cover portion  54  are provided for working with the cover portion  50  to cover the opening  42 . Each of the plurality of cover portion ( 50 ,  52 ,  54 ) close at least a portion of the opening  42  when in the closed position. While these Figures illustrate the use of three cover portions, other embodiments may have one, two, or more cover portions. 
     In such a configuration, the rotatable cover portion(s) enable the system to convert from an open position where the contents are accessible to a closed position where contents are protected from weather, damage from outside forces, and unauthorized access.  FIG. 23  (described infra) illustrates the cover portions “flipped” 180 degrees. 
     The cover portion  54  illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 6  comprising a handle  51 . The handle  51  for enabling a user to move the cover portion  54  from its closed position to the open position. Other types and forms of handles could be utilized. Such a handle  51  is optional. 
     Further optionally, the first end  53  of the cover portion  50  may comprise an overlap portion  59  which is configured for allowing the cover portion  50  to overlap the first side  41  of the sidewall portion  40  to form a gap-free connection when in the closed position. 
     In another exemplary system (not illustrated), the system includes a locking mechanism for locking the cover portion(s) in a desired position. For instance, the cover portion(s) could be locked in the “closed” position where the opening is covered. 
     In the system illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 4 , adjacent cover portions ( 50  to  52 ,  52  to  54 ) slidably connect with each other via one or more cover connector portions. The cover connector portions  60  for connecting the cover portion  50  to the body portion  20 . Referring to  FIGS. 9A through 9E , illustrated are five different cover connector portions.  FIG. 9A  illustrating a butt joint.  FIG. 9B  illustrating a tongue-and-groove style cover connector portion.  FIG. 9C  illustrating the lower cover connector portion having a point received in a channel defined in the upper cover connector portion.  FIG. 9D  illustrating the lower cover connector portion having a recess into which a tab defined in the upper cover connector portion is received.  FIG. 9E  illustrating the upper cover connector portion comprising a ball bearing assembly received into a channel defined in the lower cover connector portion. 
     Optionally, the cover portion(s) ( 50 ,  52 ,  54 ) can connect with the body portion  20  via a body connector portion  25 . For instance, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the cover portion  54  connects with the base means  24  at a body connector portion  25 . The body connector portion  25  comprising the connection between the upper portion (for instance, the bottom side  45 ) of the base means  24  and the lower portion of the cover portion  54 . As illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 4 , the cover portion  54  able to slide along the bottom side  45 . In other embodiments, the body connector portion  25  could comprise other suitable structures, for instance, bearings, tongue and groove connections, etc. The illustrated cover portion(s) ( 50 ,  52 ,  54 ) each comprising an outside surface ( 55 ,  155 ,  255 ). 
     The illustrated shroud cover  62  sized to generally extend between the first side edge  71  of the support element  70  to the first side  41  of the opening  42 , with the first side edge  65  generally abutting the first side edge  71 . Such an abutment may have an overlap, connection, ball socket system, or other orientation serving to mate the shroud cover  62  with the support element  70 . Optionally, the shroud cover  62  could be positioned on the opposite side of the opening. 
     The shroud cover  62  spaced apart from the external surface  46  of the body portion  20  so as to allow the cover portion(s)  50  to pass there-between. The shroud cover  62  connecting at the base means  24  via a hook-and-loop style connector  63  and at the retention ring  72  via a mechanical connector  64  ( 164 ). Other types and styles of connectors/connections are possible. The shroud cover  62  providing additional attachment space for one or more additional accessories, for instance container  256 . 
       FIG. 19  further illustrating a shroud cover  62  configured for attaching to the body portion  20 . The shroud cover  62  having a first side edge  65  and a second side edge  66 . While the illustrated shroud cover  62  has an arc-shaped cross-section, other shapes are possible. 
     In such a configuration, a locking means (not illustrated) could be provided for locking the cover portion(s)  50  to the shroud cover  62 . Examples of exemplary locking means include mechanisms that serve to lock the slider into place when it is inserted in the slot (e.g., magnets, spring retention apparatuses, hook-and-loop fabric, mechanical locking mechanisms). 
     Alternatively, a separate connector portion could be provided, or one that extends from the sidewall, or the back connector, etc. For instance, the connector portion could comprise at least one track attached to (or extending from) the body portion that the cover portion travels around. 
     The bottom portion  22  comprises a base means  24 , a center spacer portion  26  and a center spacer portion surface  27 . 
     The center spacer portion  26  and the center spacer portion surface  27  forming a vertical alignment apparatus for assisting the vertical alignment of devices stored in the system. The center spacer portion  26 , in the exemplary system illustrated in  FIGS. 1 through 4 , rests upon, upwardly extends from, or is otherwise connected to the center spacer portion surface  27 . The center spacer portion surface  27  spaced apart from the interior sidewall surface  44 , thereby defining a retention channel  28  there-between. 
     In use, the end portion  8  of the device  2  can be inserted into the body portion  20  through the open top portion  30  or through the opening  42 . The end portion  8  can then be advanced into the retention channel  28 , where the end portion  8  is pressed into contact with both the interior sidewall surface  44  and the center spacer portion surface  27  of the center spacer portion  26 . The end portion  8  releasably held in place by a friction fit between the interior sidewall surface  44  and the center spacer portion surface  27 . In such a configuration, the center spacer portion  26  has an acute angle relative to the interior sidewall surface  44 . 
     By utilizing such a friction fit, coupled with the utilization of the horizontal shaft spacer portion  90  to hold the other end of the shaft, the device  2  is protected from damage due to contacting other devices stored in the system at the same time, particularly when the system is transported over uneven terrain. An additional benefit is the noise reduction inherent in preventing devices from banging against one another during transport. 
     The center spacer portion  26  serves to automatically force the end portions  8  of the shafts  4  toward the interior sidewall surface  44 . Such a configuration allows end portions  8  of differing sizes (e.g., diameters) to be accommodated for, wherein a shaft having a larger diameter end portion  8  would be stored higher in the retention channel  28 , while shafts having a smaller diameter end portion would be stored lower in the retention channel  28 . If such shafts had similar lengths, the result would be that the shafts having a larger diameter end portion  8  would extend further out of the open top portion  30  than shafts having a smaller diameter end portion  8 . 
     The shape of the center spacer portion  26  can vary based upon the application (e.g., to accommodate different end portion sizes, to accommodate different length shafts, to have some shafts positioned higher than others). As illustrated in the exemplary system  10  ( FIGS. 1 ,  2 ,  4 ,  5 ,  6 ,  7 ,  7 A,  7 B,  7 C,  8 ,  8 A, and  8 B), in the exemplary system  100  ( FIGS. 11 and 22 ), and in the exemplary system  200  ( FIGS. 14 ,  15  and  17 ) and  22 , the center spacer portion  26  can comprise a generally frustoconical shape. The center spacer portion could have other shapes, including but not limited to generally curved, generally conical, generally frustoconical, and pyramidal. 
       FIG. 16  illustrates a variable pitch conical spacer  29  which can be placed upon the center spacer portion  26  (as illustrated in  FIG. 17 ), so as to create a variable pitch for the center spacer portion.  FIG. 18  illustrates utilization of a variable pitch spacer  129  instead of the combined center spacer portion  26  and variable pitch conical spacer  29  illustrated in  FIG. 17 . 
     In other exemplary systems (not illustrated), instead of utilizing a center spacer portion  26  and interior sidewall surface  44  to form the retention channel, the retention channel can instead comprise structure attached to, or extending from the interior sidewall surface. 
     In  FIG. 15 , a riser  99  is illustrated. The riser  99  serving to elevate vertically the shafts of the devices stored therein, for instance, when a child&#39;s golf clubs are utilized instead of adult sized golf clubs. This elevation accomplished by positioning the center spacer portion  26  higher within the interior chamber  23 . The use of a riser  99  allowing shorter length devices to be able to reach and connect with both the retention channel  28  and the horizontal shaft spacer portion  90 . In a first exemplary riser  99 , the riser  99  is solid. In a second exemplary riser, the riser comprises a storage chamber proving additional storage. 
     In another exemplary system, an interior sidewall surface spacer (not illustrated) is placed inside the interior chamber  23  within or adjacent the retention channel  28  and against or adjacent the interior sidewall surface  44 . The spacer serving to narrow the retention channel  28 , making the end portion  8  of a device  2  inserted therein contact center spacer portion surface  27  in a higher position, therefore raising the shaft higher, and making the opposite end of the shaft protrude higher from the open top portion  30 . The spacer could have a uniform thickness along its length, could have a different thickness, or could taper from one thickness to another. The spacer could be arc shaped, circular, or otherwise shaped. In such a configuration, the spacer allows the center spacer portion  26  to be adjustable for individual clubs or a series of clubs. 
     The center spacer portion  26  can comprise an accessory connector  31 , such as a recess defined in the center spacer portion  26  for receiving an accessory such as the extendable umbrella  79  illustrated in  FIG. 22 . Optionally, the end portion of the umbrella  79  could be inserted into the retention channel  28  with the shaft of the umbrella  79  connected into the horizontal shaft spacer portion  90 . 
     The system further comprises a support element  70  for supporting the body portion  20 . The support element  70  illustrated in the Figures connecting to the bottom portion  22  of the body portion  20 . The support element  70  having, as illustrated in  FIGS. 8A and 8B , a first side edge  71  and a second side edge  73 . The support element  70  extending away (upwards) from the bottom portion  22 . 
     In the exemplary system, the support element  70  is generally curved and serves as a guide for the cover portion(s)  50 , keeping them adjacent the body portion  20 . The support element  70  further comprises an open-ring shaped retention ring  72  for supporting the top portion  30  of the body portion  20 . In the exemplary system  10  illustrated in  FIG. 1 , the retention ring  72  is a stiff internal ring attached to the inside or outside of the body portion  20  which has an opening corresponding to and aligned with the opening  42 . It is preferred that retention ring  72  be separated from the body portion  20  by a series of spacers or other spacing mechanism creating a void or space between the retention ring  72  and the body portion  20 . This void being the appropriate size to allow the upper edge of the uppermost cover portion to move and rotate within the void. 
     In the exemplary system  10  illustrated in  FIGS. 6 and 8A , the support element  70  is located on the opposite side of the body portion  20  as the opening  42 . While the system illustrated in the drawings discloses a single retention ring  72 , in other exemplary systems, multiple retention rings are present along the opening. 
     In exemplary systems, the support element  70  may further comprise a back plate  80 . The back plate  80  for providing the system with a connection with a connection system  101  (described infra). In the exemplary system  10  illustrated in  FIG. 3 , and the exemplary system  100  illustrated in  FIGS. 12 and 13 , the back plate  80  comprises a body  81  mounted on the support element  70 . In other exemplary systems, the support element  70  could itself comprise the connection with the connection system  101 . 
     The body  81  comprising at least one strap connector  82  for connecting with the connection system  101 .  FIG. 13  showing a first strap connector  82 , a second strap connector  182 , a third strap connector  183 , and a fourth strap connector  184 . The back plate  80  further serving as a guide for the cover portions. In exemplary systems, the support element  70  comprises a mounting location (e.g., via connectors  74 ,  75 ) for support connections, such as a shoulder strap  78 . 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 1 ,  7 ,  7 A,  7 B and  7 C, in an exemplary system  10 , the body portion  20  may further comprise a horizontal shaft spacer portion  90  adjacent the open top portion  30 . The horizontal shaft spacer portion  90  is for receiving and retaining the shank portion of an elongated shaft  4  of a device  2 , and spacing it apart from the shank portion of an adjacent elongated shaft. Spacing apart the devices  2  prevents them from contacting one another when the system is moved, thereby decreasing the potential damage and noise caused by the devices impacting one another. The horizontal shaft spacer portion  90  further providing a manner of organizing the devices  2 . 
     As illustrated in the Figures, the horizontal shaft spacer portion  90  is illustrated (in the Figures) as attached to the top inner circumference of the body portion  20 , adjacent to the open top portion  30 . The exemplary systems ( 10 ,  100 ,  200 ,  300 ) illustrating the elongated shafts as the shafts of golf club. As indicated in this disclosure, the elongated shafts could comprise shafts other than golf club shafts. 
     The horizontal shaft spacer portion  90  is semi-circular in shape matching the tube body and tube body opening. The horizontal shaft spacer portion  90  comprises an inner ring  93 . In the illustrated exemplary spacer portion, the inner ring  93  is located on sidewall portion  40 . The inner ring  93  serves as a buffer between the device shafts and the body portion  20 . 
     The horizontal shaft spacer portion  90  further comprises a plurality of shaft retainer modules ( 92 ,  192 ) which are spaced apart from one another. While they are “spaced apart,” in exemplary spacer portions, adjacent shaft retainer modules may contact one another. The shaft retainer modules ( 92 ,  192 ) connected to the inner ring  93 . In exemplary horizontal shaft spacer portions, one or more of the upper retainer, bottom retainer, and/or compressible planar disc may be formed of or connected to the inner ring  93 . 
     The shaft retainer modules  92  ( 192 ) comprising an upper retainer  94  ( 194 ), a bottom retainer  96  ( 196 ), and a compressible planar disc  95  ( 195 ) received between the upper retainer  94  ( 194 ) and the bottom retainer  96  ( 196 ). The upper retainer  94  ( 194 ) and the bottom retainer  96  ( 196 ) support the compressible planar disc  95  ( 195 ) and allow the compressible planar disc  95  ( 195 ) to resist upward and/or downward motion if the shaft is moved vertically when held between the shaft retainer modules  92  ( 192 ). A recess  97  is defined proximal to the sidewall portion  40 , between the adjacent shaft retainer modules ( 92 ,  192 ). The upper retainer  94  ( 194 ) and bottom retainer  96  ( 196 ) can comprise a single piece defining a recess between for receiving the compressible planar disc  95  ( 195 ), or can comprise separate pieces (illustrated in the figures) spaced apart to define the recess. 
     In the illustrated system, a mechanical fastener (e.g., screw, pin, bolt, rivet) extends through the sidewall portion  40  and/or the inner ring  93  and into the planar disc  95 , thereby attaching the planar disc  95  to the sidewall portion  40  and/or the inner ring  93 . In such a manner, the planar disc  95  attaches to the inner ring  93  at a single place, thereby enabling the planar disc  95  to slightly move laterally based on its one point connection to the sidewall portion  40  and/or the inner ring  93 . This slight side-to-side movement, in cooperation with the compressibility of the planar disc  95 , work together to better hold the shaft in place. While the disclosed system shows both compressibility and slight movement, in exemplary systems, one, both or neither may be present. 
     Alternatively to join the pieces together/adjacent one another, other types of mechanical fasteners could be used, an adhesive could be utilized, sonic welding, the pieces could be molded together, the pieces could be molded separately and joined together, etc. A person having ordinary skill would know how best to join these pieces, and all pieces in the system, together based upon the prospective use, environment, and other considerations. 
       FIG. 7A  illustrates a shaft  4  not being held by the horizontal shaft spacer portion  90 . In  FIG. 7B , the shaft  4  is inserted between the first shaft retainer module  92  and the second shaft retainer module  192 . The compressible planar discs ( 95 ,  195 ) are shown compressing as the shaft  4  is inserted towards the recess  97 . In  FIG. 7C , the shaft  4  is inserted further into the recess  97 , with the compressed compressible planar discs ( 95 ,  195 ) holding the shaft  4  within the recess  97 . 
     The connection system  101  is for connecting the system to an object  9  such as a golf cart. Modern golf club bags are reliant on strapping systems which are provided on golf carts in order to secure them to a golf cart. These strapping systems wrap around the bag. When the system is utilized with such an existing golf cart strapping system, the strap would cross the opening  42 . To overcome this issue, in the connection system  101  comprises a first support strap  104  attached to the body portion  20  at a first connection point  106  via a first connection means adjacent a first side of the system, and a second support strap  105  attached to the body portion  20  at a second connection point  107  via a second connection means adjacent a second side of the system. The first support strap  104  comprising a connector  102  for connecting with the object  9  at a first side  11  at a first connection point, the second support strap  105  comprising a connector  103  for connecting with the object  9  at a second side  12  at a second connection point. 
     The length of the first support strap  104  and second support strap  105  adjustable so as to allow the system to be releasably fixed to the object  9 . An example of one manner of adjusting the length of the support straps is illustrated in the Figures, namely the support straps  104 ,  105  having a connector  102  for connecting with the back plate  80 . The connection system  101  connecting with the back plate  80  via connector  102 , connector  102  able to latch onto the body  81  at a connector  82  via a hook portion  110 . The back plate  80  illustrated in  FIG. 13  having four connectors ( 82 ,  182   183 ,  184 ). By varying the connector  82  utilized, the length of the support straps  104 ,  105  can be varied. In the exemplary connection system  101  illustrated in  FIG. 13 , the connector  102  further comprising a flange  98  for connecting with an adjacent connector on the body  81 , such as the second connector  182 . The flange  98  for limiting unintentional movement of the connector  102  when connected to the body  81 , thereby decreasing the chances that the connection system  101  will unintentionally detach from whatever it is affixed to. 
     The support straps  104 ,  105  illustrated in the Figures comprising the two ends of the same support strap. Because the support straps  104 ,  105  comprise the same support strap, the length of the first strap  104  can be adjusted to be longer than the second support strap  105 , if so desired. In other exemplary systems, the support straps may comprise separate support straps which may or may not be connected together. 
     The connection system  101  comprising a first tubular guide  108  and a second tubular guide  109 , the tubular guides attached to the retention ring  72 . The tubular guides following the outer circumference near the open top portion  30  of the system. The tubular guides for guiding the support straps from their connection with the back plate to the opening side of the system. It is preferred that the tubular guides be installed with voids between the body portion and the tubular guides, thereby allowing the tubular guides to be used as handles. 
     In another exemplary system, the first support strap connects to a first side of the retention ring, and the second support strap connects to a second side of the retention ring, whereby a separate means for shortening/lengthening the support straps is provided. 
       FIGS. 10 ,  11 ,  19 , and  22  illustrate the attachment of an external club holder tube  85  to the outside surface of the system  100 , preferably on the same side as the shroud cover  62 . The external club holder tube  85  can be removed and placed on the other side of the opening, if so desired. 
     The external club holder tube  85  comprising an upper portion  88  rotatably attached to a lower portion  86 . The lower portion  86  stationary, comprising a connection for connecting with the system. It is preferred that the upper portion  88  be configured for insertion into the lower portion  86  in a manner that allows the upper portion  88  to turn or rotate within the lower portion  86 . The upper portion  88  comprising an opening  87  for receiving the end portion of a device  2  having an elongated shaft  4 . The upper portion  88  further comprising a connector  89  for connecting with the shank portion of the device  2 . Preferably, the connector  89  is configured like the horizontal shaft spacer portion  90 . After the end portion is inserted into the opening, the upper portion  88  can be rotated relative to the lower portion  86 , thereby covering the opening and securing the end portion of the device therein. It is preferred that the lower portion comprises an inverse cone at the bottom that serves to secure the bottom of the end portion  8 . The upper portion  88  can also turn in a fashion that would turn the opening  87  of the tube toward the body portion  20  thereby reducing the chance that the shaft  202  could fall out. 
     The cover portions can alternatively be “flipped” (in comparison to what is illustrated in  FIG. 1 ) and installed on the body portion so that the opening can be closed in the opposite direction, as illustrated in  FIG. 23 . The exemplary system  300  of  FIG. 23  having a body portion  120  and at least one cover portion  150 . The body portion  120  comprising a closed bottom portion  122  connected to an open top portion  130  via a sidewall portion  140 . The space between the closed bottom portion  122  and the open top portion  130  defining an interior chamber. 
     An opening  142  is defined through the sidewall portion  140 . In the exemplary system shown, the opening  142  extends from the open top portion  130  towards the closed bottom portion  122 . The Figure showing an open-topped opening  142  having a pair of generally vertical sides (first side  141  opposite second side  143 ) and a generally horizontal bottom side  145 . Other configurations and shapes of openings could be used. 
     The cover portion  150  is for covering (closing) the opening  142 . The cover portion  150  illustrated in these Figures having a generally open-ring or “arc” shape. The cover portion  150  having an open position and a closed position. The cover portion  150  closing at least a portion of the opening  142  when the cover portion  150  is in its closed position. The cover portion  150  spaced apart from the opening  142  (not closing) when the cover portion  150  is in its open position. 
     In the system  300  illustrated in  FIG. 23 , three cover portions  150 ,  152 ,  154  are utilized. The cover portion  150  does not vertically cover the entire opening  142 . A second cover portion  52  and a third cover portion  54  are provided for working with the cover portion  150  to cover the opening  142 . Each of the plurality of cover portion ( 150 ,  152 ,  154 ) close at least a portion of the opening  142  when in the closed position. While this Figure illustrates the use of three cover portions, other embodiments may have one, two, or more cover portions. 
     The cover portions  150 ,  152 ,  154  illustrated in this Figure each comprising a handle  151 . The handle  151  for enabling a user to move the cover portion ( 150 ,  152 ,  154 ) from its closed position to the open position. Other types and forms of handles could be utilized. Such a handle  151  is optional. 
     In another exemplary system, the device comprises a baseball bat. 
     In another exemplary system, the device comprises a fishing pole. 
     Any suitable structure and/or material can be used for the components of the system, and a skilled artisan will be able to select an appropriate structure and material for the system in a particular embodiment based on various considerations, including the intended use of the system, the intended arena within which the system will be used, and the equipment and/or accessories with which the system is intended to be used, among other considerations. 
     The inventor has determined that conventional polymeric and metal materials are suitable for use in the various components of the system. For example, the body portion, cover portion, center spacer portion, and associated components can be injection-molded from suitable plastics known in the art, including material having low friction characteristics that are rigid. For example, the horizontal shaft spacer portion, and associated components can be formed from resilient and/or compressible materials. For example, the support straps could be elastic cord, or non elastic material (e.g., cord, wire, strapping). Materials hereinafter discovered and/or developed that are determined to be suitable for use in storage devices/systems would also be considered suitable for use in a system according to a particular embodiment. 
     It is noted that all structure and features of the various described and illustrated embodiments can be combined in any suitable configuration for inclusion in a system according to a particular embodiment. For example, a system according a particular embodiment can include neither, one, or both of a side opening/cover portion and a center spacer portion described above. For example, a system according a particular embodiment can include neither, one, or both of a side opening/cover portion and a horizontal shaft spacer portion described above. For example, a system according a particular embodiment can include neither, one, or both of a horizontal shaft spacer portion and a center spacer portion described above. For example, a system according a particular embodiment can include neither, one, or both of a side opening/cover portion and a connection system described above. For example, a system according a particular embodiment can include neither, one, or both of a connection system and a horizontal shaft spacer portion described above. For example, a system according a particular embodiment can include neither, one, or both of a connection system and a center spacer portion described above. 
     Furthermore, a system according to a particular embodiment can include the center spacer portion and one or more of the cover portion, the horizontal shaft spacer portion, and the connection system described above, in combination with one or more of the center spacer portion, the cover portion, the horizontal shaft spacer portion, and the connection system described above. 
     Furthermore, a system according to a particular embodiment can include the cover portion and one or more of the center spacer portion, the horizontal shaft spacer portion, and the connection system described above, in combination with one or more of the center spacer portion, the cover portion, the horizontal shaft spacer portion, and the connection system described above. 
     Furthermore, a system according to a particular embodiment can include the horizontal shaft spacer portion and one or more of the cover portion, the center spacer portion, and the connection system described above, in combination with one or more of the center spacer portion, the cover portion, the horizontal shaft spacer portion, and the connection system described above. 
     Furthermore, a system according to a particular embodiment can include the connection system and one or more of the cover portion, the horizontal shaft spacer portion, and the center spacer portion described above, in combination with one or more of the center spacer portion, the cover portion, the horizontal shaft spacer portion, and the connection system described above. 
     The foregoing detailed description provides exemplary embodiments of the invention and includes the best mode for practicing the invention. The description and illustration of these embodiments is intended only to provide examples of the invention, and not to limit the scope of the invention, or its protection, in any manner.