Patent Publication Number: US-11395536-B2

Title: Golf bag strap systems and methods to manufacture golf bag strap systems

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/459,074, filed Jul. 1, 2019, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 29/675,117, filed Dec. 28, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. D890,524, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 29/654,534, filed Jun. 25, 2018, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 29/634,924, filed Jan. 25, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. D844,994, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 29/612,038, filed Jul. 27, 2017. 
     U.S. application Ser. No. 16/459,074, filed Jul. 1, 2019, is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/050,260, filed Jul. 31, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,610,002, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/539,640, filed Aug. 1, 2017. 
     U.S. application Ser. No. 16/050,260, filed Jul. 31, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,610,002, is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 29/634,924, filed Jan. 25, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. D844,994, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 29/612,038, filed Jul. 27, 2017. 
     U.S. application Ser. No. 16/459,074, filed Oct. 24, 2019, claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/693,286, filed Jul. 2, 2018. 
     The disclosures of the above-mentioned U.S. Applications are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     COPYRIGHT AUTHORIZATION 
     The present disclosure may be subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the present disclosure and its related documents, as they appear in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all applicable copyrights. 
     FIELD 
     The present disclosure generally relates to bag straps, and more particularly, to golf bag strap systems and methods to manufacture golf bag strap systems. 
     BACKGROUND 
     A golf bag may be carried by an individual with one or more carry straps attached to the golf bag. The golf bag may hold golf clubs, golf balls, and golf accessories. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  depicts a perspective view of a golf bag according to an embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein. 
         FIG. 2  depicts a perspective view of a golf bag strap system according to an embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein. 
         FIG. 3  depicts a perspective view of a strap connector according to an embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein. 
         FIG. 4  depicts a top view of the strap connector of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 5  depicts a bottom view of the strap connector of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 6  depicts a front side view of the strap connector of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 7  depicts a rear side view of the strap connector of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 8  is a cross sectional view of the strap connector of  FIG. 3  taken at line  8 - 8  of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 9  is a cross sectional view of the strap connector of  FIG. 3  taken at line  9 - 9  of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 10  depicts a perspective view of a strap connector according to an embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein. 
         FIG. 11  depicts a top view of the strap connector of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 12  depicts a front side view of the strap connector of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 13  depicts a rear side view of the strap connector of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 14  depicts a cross sectional view of the strap connector of  FIG. 10  taken at line  14  of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 15  depicts a cross sectional view of the strap connector of  FIG. 10  taken at line  15  of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 16  depicts a bottom exploded view of the strap connector of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 17  depicts a top exploded view of the strap connector of  FIG. 10 . 
         FIG. 18  depicts a perspective view of a strap connector according to an embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein. 
         FIG. 19  depicts another perspective view of the strap connector of  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 20  depicts a top view of the strap connector of  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 21  depicts a bottom view of the strap connector of  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 22  depicts a front side view of the strap connector of  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 23  depicts a rear side view of the strap connector of  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 24  depicts a left side view of the strap connector of  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 25  depicts a right side view of the strap connector of  FIG. 18 . 
         FIG. 26  depicts a bottom view of a strap connector according to an embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein. 
         FIG. 27  depicts a bottom view of a strap connector according to an embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein. 
         FIG. 28  depicts a bottom view of a strap connector according to an embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein. 
         FIG. 29  depicts a bottom view of a strap connector according to an embodiment of the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein. 
     
    
    
     For simplicity and clarity of illustration, the drawing figures illustrate the general manner of construction, and descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure. Additionally, elements in the drawing figures may not be depicted to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. 
     DESCRIPTION 
     In general, golf bag strap systems and methods to manufacture golf bag strap systems are described herein. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , a golf bag  100  may include a bag body portion  101  and a strap system  102  coupled to the bag body portion  101 . The bag body portion  101  may receive one or more golf clubs  105  through a top end portion  103  and may include one or more compartments  104  for storing golf balls, golf accessories, personal items, etc. The strap system  102  may include a first strap  110 , a second strap  120 , and a strap connector  200 . The first strap  110  and the second strap  120  may be connected to the bag body portion  101  and may cross over each other inside the strap connector  200 . The first strap  110  and the second strap  120  may move freely in the strap connector  200  relative to each other and without contacting each other to self-adjust the location of the strap connector  200 , and hence the configuration of the strap system  102 , without any manual adjustment by an individual using the golf bag  100 . The first strap  110  and the second strap  120  may include respective integrated padding  112  and  122 , movable pads or cushions (not shown), and/or one or more buckles (generally shown as buckles  130 ) for adjusting the length of the first strap  110  and/or the second strap  120 . The ends of the first strap  110  and/or the second strap  120  may be fixedly or movably (e.g., pivotally) attached to the golf bag  100 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 3-9 , the strap connector  200  may include a front portion  301 , a rear portion  302 , a top portion  303 , a bottom portion  304 , and opposing side portions  305  and  306 . The strap connector  200  may include a body portion  310 , a first strap arm portion  320  extending diagonally relative to the body portion  310 , and a second strap arm portion  340  extending diagonally relative to the body portion  310 . The first strap arm portion  320  may be transverse to the second strap arm portion  340 . The first strap arm portion  320  and the second strap arm portion  340  may define an X-shape configuration, which may be symmetrical or substantially symmetrical relative to a first center axis  512  and a second center axis  514  of the body portion  310 . The first center axis  512  may be transverse to the second center axis  514 . Accordingly, the strap connector  200  may have vertical and/or horizontal symmetry. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 3-9 , the first strap arm portion  320  may include a first channel  322  extending through the entire length of the first strap arm portion  320 . The first channel  322  may be substantially straight and may include a first opening  324  at a first longitudinal end  325  of the first strap arm portion  320  and a second opening  724  at a second and opposite longitudinal end  725  of the first strap arm portion  320 . The first opening  324  and/or the second opening  724  may have any shape. The first and second openings  324  and  724  may be slits positioned between the top portion  303  and the bottom portion  304  of the strap connector  200 . The first and second openings  324  and  724  may extend across the respective first and second longitudinal ends  325  and  725  in a sideways direction toward a corresponding one of the opposing side portions  305  and  306  of the strap connector  200 . The first and second openings  324  and  724  may be similar in size and may be located at similar vertical positions (i.e., vertically aligned) on the first and second longitudinal ends  325  and  725  of the first strap arm portion  320 , respectively. Accordingly, the first and second openings  324  and  724  may visually coincide if the first strap arm portion  320  is viewed in a longitudinal direction from the first longitudinal end  325  to the second longitudinal end  725 , or vice versa, as generally indicated in  FIG. 4  by bidirectional arrow  411 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 3-9 , the first channel  322  may be a closed channel except for the first opening  324  and the second opening  724 . The first channel  322 , including the first opening  324  and the second opening  724 , may have a width that is greater than the width of the first strap  110  and a height that is greater than the thickness of the first strap  110 . Accordingly, any portion of the first strap  110  may move or slide freely inside the first channel  322  in either direction generally indicated by bidirectional arrow  411 . The interior walls of the first channel  322  may have a smooth surface or be constructed from a low friction material so as to not hinder the free movement of the first strap  110  inside the first channel  322 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 3-9 , the second strap arm portion  340  may include a second channel  342  extending through the entire length of the second strap arm portion  340 . The second channel  342  may be substantially straight and may include a first opening  344  at a first longitudinal end  345  of the second strap arm portion  340  and a second opening  744  at a second and opposite longitudinal end  745  of the second strap arm portion  340 . The first opening  344  and/or the second opening  744  may have any shape. The first and second openings  344  and  744  may be slits positioned between the top portion  303  and the bottom portion  304  of the strap connector  200 . The first and second openings  344  and  744  may extend across the respective first and second longitudinal ends  345  and  745  in a sideways direction toward a corresponding one of the opposite side portions  305  and  306  of the strap connector  200 . The first and second openings  344  and  744  may be similar in size and may be located at similar vertical positions (i.e., vertically aligned) on the first and second longitudinal ends  345  and  745  of the second strap arm portion  340 , respectively. Accordingly, the first and second openings  344  and  744  may visually coincide if the second strap arm portion  340  is viewed in a longitudinal direction from the first longitudinal end  345  to the second longitudinal end  745 , or vice versa, as generally indicated in  FIG. 4  by bidirectional arrow  421 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     The second channel  342  may be a closed channel except for the first opening  344  and the second opening  744 . The second channel  342 , including the first opening  344  and the second opening  744 , may have a width that is greater than the width of the second strap  120  and a height that is greater than the thickness of the second strap  120 . Accordingly, any of the second strap  120  can move or slide freely inside the second channel  342  in either direction generally indicated by bidirectional arrow  421 . The interior walls of the second channel  342  may have a smooth surface or be constructed from a low friction material so as to not hinder the free movement of the second strap  120  inside the second channel  342 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 3-9 , the first channel  322  and the second channel  342  may be vertically offset from each other with respect to their distances relative the top and bottom portions  303  and  304  of the strap connector  200 . For example, the vertical position at which the first and second openings  324  and  724  of the first channel  322  are located on the first strap arm portion  320  may be lower than the vertical position at which the first and second openings  344  and  744  of the second channel  342  are located on the second strap arm portion  340 . In other words, the first and second openings  324  and  724  of the first channel  322  may be closer to the bottom portion  304  of the strap connector  200  compared to the first and second openings  344  and  744  of the second channel  342 . Accordingly, the first channel  322  containing the first strap  110  may extend through the body portion  310  below the second channel  342  containing the second strap  120 . Alternatively, the first and second channels  322  and  342  may be vertically offset such that the first channel  322  extends through the body portion  310  above the second channel  342 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 3-9 , the body portion  310  may include a center portion  816  that separates the first channel  322  and the second channel  342 . Accordingly, the first strap  110  and the second strap  120  may be prevented from contacting each other by virtue of separate strap pathways through the first strap arm portion  320 , the body portion  310 , and the second strap arm portion  340 . Thus, the first strap  110  and the second strap  120  may freely move or slide in the first channel  322  and the second channel  342 , respectively, without any hindrance or any contact with each other. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 10-17 , the strap connector  200  is generally similar to the one shown in  FIGS. 3-9  with a few exceptions as described below. Accordingly, similar parts of the strap connector  200  of  FIGS. 10-17  and  FIGS. 3-9  are denoted with the same reference numbers. For example, the vertical position at which the first and second openings  324  and  724  of the first channel  322  are located on the first strap arm portion  320  may be higher than the vertical position at which the first and second openings  344  and  744  of the second channel  342  are located on the second strap arm portion  340 . Accordingly, the first channel  322  and the first strap  110  may extend through the body portion  310  above the second channel  342  and the second strap  120 . Alternatively, the first and second channels  322  and  342  may be vertically offset such that the first channel  322  and the first strap  110  extend through the body portion  310  below the second channel  342  and the second strap  120 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 10-17 , the first channel  322  may include one or more openings other than the first opening  324  and the second opening  724 . The one or more openings may have any shape. In one example, the first channel  322  may include a third opening  1024  and a fourth opening  1124  inside the strap connector  200  at or proximate the body portion  310 . The third opening  1024  may be a slit positioned between the top and bottom portions  303  and  304  of the strap connector  200 . The third opening  1024  may be at a first interior sidewall  1412  of the body portion  310  and may extend between the front and side portions  301  and  305  of the strap connector  200 . The fourth opening  1124  may be a slit positioned between the top and bottom portions  303  and  304  of the strap connector  200 . The fourth opening  1124  may be at a second interior sidewall  1512  of the body portion  310  and may extend between the rear and side portions  302  and  306 . In one example, the third and fourth openings  1024  and  1124  of the first channel  322  may be generally aligned with each other and may be substantially parallel, parallel, or non-parallel to each other. The third and fourth openings  1024  and  1124  may be generally aligned with the first and second openings  324  and  724  of the first channel  322  and may be substantially parallel, parallel, or non-parallel thereto. The third and fourth openings  1024  and  1124  may be similar in size and may have similar vertical positions (i.e., vertically aligned) as the first and second openings  324  and  724  of the first channel  322 . Accordingly, the first, second, third, and fourth openings  324 ,  724 ,  1024 , and  1124  of the first channel  322  may visually coincide if the first strap arm portion  320  is viewed in a longitudinal direction from the first longitudinal end  325  to the second longitudinal end  725 , or vice versa, as generally indicated in  FIG. 11  by bidirectional arrow  1111 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 10-17 , the first channel  322 , including the first, second, third, and fourth openings  324 ,  724 ,  1024 , and  1124 , may have a width that is greater than the width of the first strap  110  and a height that is greater than the thickness of the first strap  110 . Accordingly, any portion of the first strap  110  may move or slide freely inside the first channel  322  in either direction generally indicated by bidirectional arrow  1111 . The interior walls of the first channel  322  may have a smooth surface or be constructed from a low friction material so as to not hinder the free movement of the first strap  110  inside the first channel  322 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 10-17 , the second channel  342  may include one or more openings other than the first opening  344  and the second opening  744 . The one or more openings may have any shape. In one example, the second channel  342  may include a third opening  1044  and a fourth opening  1144  inside the strap connector  200  at or proximate the body portion  310 . The third opening  1044  may be a slit positioned between the top and bottom portions  303  and  304  of the strap connector  200 . The third opening  1044  may be at a third interior sidewall  1414  of the body portion  310  and may extend between the front and side portions  301  and  306  of the strap connector  200 . The fourth opening  1144  may be a slit positioned between the top and bottom portions  303  and  304  of the strap connector  200 . The fourth opening  1144  may be at a fourth interior sidewall  1514  of the body portion  310  and may extend between the rear and side portions  302  and  305  of the strap connector  200 . In one example, the third and fourth openings  1044  and  1144  of the second channel  342  may be generally aligned and may be substantially parallel, parallel, or non-parallel to each other. The third and fourth openings  1044  and  1144  may be generally aligned with the first and second openings  344  and  744  of the second channel  342  and may be substantially parallel, parallel, or non-parallel thereto. Additionally, the third and fourth openings  1044  and  1144  of the second channel  342  may each be adjacent the third and fourth openings  1024  and  1124  of the first channel  322 . The third and fourth openings  1044  and  1144  may be similar in size and may have similar vertical positions (i.e., vertically aligned) as the first and second openings  344  and  744  of the second channel  342 . Accordingly, the first, second, third, and fourth openings  344 ,  744 ,  1044 , and  1144  of the second channel  342  may visually coincide if the second strap arm portion  340  is viewed in a longitudinal direction from the first longitudinal end  345  to the second longitudinal end  745 , or vice versa, as generally indicated in  FIG. 11  by bidirectional arrow  1121 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 10-17 , the second channel  342 , including the first, second, third, and fourth openings  344 ,  744 ,  1044 , and  1144 , may have a width that is greater than the width of the second strap  120  and a height that is greater than the thickness of the second strap  120 . Accordingly, any portion of the second strap  120  may move or slide freely inside the second channel  342  in either direction generally indicated by bidirectional arrow  1121 . The interior walls of the second channel  342  may have a smooth surface or be constructed from a low friction material so as to not hinder the free movement of the second strap  120  inside the second channel  342 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 10-17 , the first and second channels  322  and  342  may be closed off or separate from each other except for inside an interior space  1060  of the body portion  310 . Accordingly, the first and second straps  110  and  120  may be contained separately within the first and second strap arm portions  320  and  340 , respectively, and may share the interior space  1060  of the body portion  310 . As described herein, the first and second channels  322  and  342  may be vertically offset from each other inside the body portion  310 . Accordingly, despite sharing the interior space  1060  of the body portion  310 , the first and second straps  110  and  120  may be suspended inside the body portion  310  at different vertical positions, and hence, may freely move relative to each other without contacting each other inside the body portion  310 . For example, the first strap  110  may be suspended above or below the second strap  120  depending on the relative vertical offset between the first and second channels  322  and  342 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 10-17 , the strap connector  200  may be assembled from a top piece  1610  and a bottom piece  1710 . The top piece  1610  may substantially define an upper portion or upper half of the strap connector  200 . The top piece  1610  may include a top portion  1612  and a top peripheral wall  1620  extending downward from the top portion  1612 . The top portion  1612  may have an X-shape configuration and the top peripheral wall  1620  may be contoured to the shape of the top portion  1612 . With the exception of a first top wall portion  1621 , a second top wall portion  1622 , a third top wall portion  1623 , and a fourth top wall portion  1624 , the remaining portions of the top peripheral wall  1620  may include a guide portion  1625  defining a lower extent thereof. The guide portion  1625  may taper away from the remaining portion of the top peripheral wall  1620 . The first and second top wall portions  1621  and  1622  may correspond to an upper portion of the first and second longitudinal ends  325  and  725  of the first strap arm portion  320 , respectively, whereas the third and fourth top wall portions  1623  and  1624  may correspond to an upper portion of the first and second longitudinal ends  345  and  745  of the second strap arm portion  340 , respectively. The first and second top wall portions  1621  and  1622  may have similar lower extents  1631  and  1632 , respectively. The lower extents  1631  and  1632  may be flat and may be positioned higher than the guide portion  1625 , positioned evenly (e.g., at the same height or substantially the same height) with the guide portion  1625 , or positioned lower than the guide portion  1625  based on the desired vertical position and height of the first and second openings  324  and  724  of the first channel  322 . The third and fourth top wall portions  1623  and  1624  may have similar lower extents  1633  and  1634 , respectively. The lower extents  1633  and  1634  may be flat and may be positioned higher than the guide portion  1625 , positioned evenly (e.g., at the same height or substantially the same height) with the guide portion  1625 , or positioned lower than the guide portion  1625  based on the desired vertical position and height of the first and second openings  344  and  744  of the second channel  342 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 10-17 , the top piece  1610  may also include a first pair of top opposing ribs  1641  and  1642  extending downward from an interior surface  1660  of the top portion  1612  and corresponding to an upper portion of the first and second interior sidewalls  1412  and  1512  of the body portion  310 , respectively. The first pair of top opposing ribs  1641  and  1642  may have lower extents  1651  and  1652  positioned evenly (e.g., at the same height or substantially the same height) with the lower extents  1631  and  1632  of the first and second top wall portions  1621  and  1622  of the top peripheral wall  1620 . The top piece  1610  may further include a second pair of top opposing ribs  1643  and  1644  extending downward from the interior surface  1660  of the top portion  1612  and corresponding to an upper portion of the third and fourth sidewalls  1414  and  1514  of the body portion  310 , respectively. The second pair of top opposing ribs  1643  and  1644  may have lower extents  1653  and  1654  positioned evenly (e.g., at the same height or substantially the same height) with the lower extents  1633  and  1634  of the third and fourth top wall portions  1623  and  1624  of the top peripheral wall  1620 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 10-17 , the bottom piece  1710  may substantially define a lower portion or lower half of the strap connector  200 . The bottom piece  1710  may include a bottom portion  1712  and a bottom peripheral wall  1720  extending upward from the bottom portion  1712 . The bottom portion  1712  may have an X-shape configuration and the bottom peripheral wall  1720  may be contoured to the shape of the bottom portion  1712 . With the exception of a first bottom wall portion  1721 , a second bottom wall portion  1722 , a third bottom wall portion  1723 , and a fourth bottom wall portion  1724 , remaining portions of the bottom peripheral wall  1720  may include a guide rail portion  1725  defining an upper extent thereof and configured to receive the guide portion  1625  of the top peripheral wall  1620 . The first and second bottom wall portions  1721  and  1722  may correspond to a lower portion of the first and second longitudinal ends  325  and  725  of the first strap arm portion  320 , respectively, whereas the third and fourth bottom wall portions  1723  and  1724  may correspond to a lower portion of the first and second longitudinal ends  345  and  745  of the second strap arm portion  340 , respectively. The first and second bottom wall portions  1721  and  1722  may have similar upper extents  1731  and  1732 , respectively. The upper extents  1731  and  1732  may be flat and may be positioned higher than the guide rail portion  1725 , positioned evenly with the guide rail portion  1725 , or positioned lower than the guide rail portion  1725  based on the desired vertical position and height of the first and second openings  324  and  724  of the first channel  322 . The third and fourth bottom wall portions  1723  and  1724  may have similar upper extents  1733  and  1734 , respectively. The upper extents  1733  and  1734  may be flat and may be positioned higher than the guide rail portion  1725 , positioned evenly (e.g., at the same height or substantially the same height) with the guide rail portion  1725 , or positioned lower than the guide rail portion  1725  based on the desired vertical position and height of the first and second openings  344  and  744  of the second channel  342 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 10-17 , the bottom piece  1710  may also include a first pair of bottom opposing ribs  1741  and  1742  extending upward from an interior surface  1760  of the bottom portion  1712  and corresponding to a lower portion of the first and second interior sidewalls  1412  and  1512  of the body portion  310 , respectively. The first pair of bottom opposing ribs  1741  and  1742  may have upper extents  1751  and  1752  positioned evenly (e.g., at the same height or substantially the same height) with the upper extents  1731  and  1732  of the first and second bottom wall portions  1721  and  1722  of the bottom peripheral wall  1720 . The bottom piece  1710  may further include a second pair of bottom opposing ribs  1743  and  1744  extending upward from the interior surface  1760  of the bottom portion  1712  and corresponding to a lower portion of the third and fourth sidewalls  1414  and  1514  of the body portion  310 , respectively. The second pair of bottom opposing ribs  1743  and  1744  may have upper extents  1753  and  1754  positioned evenly (e.g., at the same height or substantially the same height) with the upper extents  1733  and  1734  of the third and fourth bottom wall portions  1723  and  1674  of the bottom peripheral wall  1720 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 10-17 , the top piece  1610  may be joined to the bottom piece  1710  by aligning the top peripheral wall  1620  and the bottom peripheral wall  1720  and receiving the guide portion  1625  of the top peripheral wall  1620  into the guide rail portion  1725  of the bottom peripheral wall  1720 . In alternative examples, the guide portion  1625  may be located at the bottom peripheral wall  1720  and the guide rail portion  1725  may be located at the top peripheral wall  1620 . Once the top and bottom pieces  1610  and  1710  are joined together, the resulting gap between the first top wall portion  1621  and the first bottom wall portion  1721  may correspond to the first opening  324  of the first channel  322 . The resulting gap between the second top wall portion  1622  and the second bottom wall portion  1722  may correspond to the second opening  724  of the first channel  322 . The resulting gaps between the first pair of top opposing ribs  1641  and  1642  and the first pair of bottom opposing ribs  1741  and  1742  may correspond to the third opening  1024  and the fourth opening  1124 , respectively, of the first channel  322 . Additionally, the resulting gap between the third top wall portion  1623  and the third bottom wall portion  1723  may correspond to the first opening  344  of the second channel  342 . The resulting gap between the fourth top wall portion  1624  and the fourth bottom wall portion  1724  may correspond to the second opening  744  of the second channel  342 . The resulting gaps between the second pair of top opposing ribs  1643  and  1644  and the second pair of bottom opposing ribs  1743  and  1744  may correspond to the third opening  1044  and the fourth opening  1144 , respectively, of the second channel  342 . Optionally, the guide portion  1625  of the top peripheral wall  1620  may include one or more pegs  1690  (one peg  1690  is shown in  FIG. 17 ) configured to be received in one or more corresponding notches  1790  (one notch shown in  FIG. 17 ) formed in the guide rail portion  1725  of the bottom peripheral wall  1720  so that the top and bottom pieces  1610  and  1710  can be assembled in only a single orientation. Alternatively, the one or more pegs  1690  may be provided at the guide rail portion  1725  and the one or more notches may be provided at the guide portion  1625 . The apparatus, method, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     As described herein, the strap connector  200  may be in an X-shape configuration, which allows the first strap arm portion  320  and the second strap arm portion  340  to extend away from each other as the first strap arm portion  320  and the second strap arm portion  340  extend outward form the body portion  310 . Accordingly, the first strap  110  and the second strap  120  may also extend away from each other as the first strap  110  and the second strap  120  pass through the first channel  322  and the second channel  342 . The separation of the first strap  110  and the second strap  120  as the first strap  110  and the second strap  120  extend through the first channel  322  and the second channel  342  in combination of with the X-shape configuration of the strap connector  200  providing for the first strap  110  and the second strap  120  to extend away from each other provide for free and unhindered movement of the first strap  110  and the second strap  120  without the first strap  110  and the second strap  120  becoming entangled or interfering with each other. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 18-25 , a strap connector  1800  may include a body portion  1810 , a first strap arm portion  1820  extending diagonally relative to the body portion  1810 , and a second strap arm portion  1840  extending diagonally relative to the body portion  1810 . The body portion  1810 , the first strap arm portion  1820 , and the second strap arm portion  1840  may be enclosed by a perimeter portion  1890  of the strap connector  1800 . In the example of  FIGS. 18-25 , the first strap arm portion  1820  and the second strap arm portion  1840  may define an X-shaped configuration as outlined by the perimeter portion  1890  of the strap connector  1800 . The strap connector  1800  may be symmetrical or substantially symmetrical relative to a first center axis  2112  and a second center axis  2114  of the body portion  1810 . The first center axis  2112  may be transverse to the second center axis  2114 . Accordingly, the strap connector  1800  may exhibit horizontal and/or vertical symmetry. In other examples, such as the examples shown in  FIGS. 26-29 , the strap connector  1800  may have any symmetrical or asymmetrical shape. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 18-25 , the first strap arm portion  1820  may include a first slot  1850  at or proximate a first longitudinal end portion  1855  and a second slot  1950  at or proximate a second longitudinal end portion  1955  opposite to the first longitudinal end portion  1855 . The first longitudinal end portion  1855  may be defined by a first side portion  1856 , a second side portion  1857 , and a tip portion  1858  therebetween. As shown in  FIGS. 18-25 , the first slot  1850  may extend into the tip portion  1858  and the first side portion  1856 . In another example (not shown), the first slot  1850  may further extend into the second side portion  1857 . The first side portion  1856  and the second side portion  1857  may be opposite each other and may both be adjoined to the tip portion  1858 . Accordingly, the first slot  1850  may span across two or more adjoining sides (e.g., the tip portion  1858  and the first side portion  1856 ) of the perimeter portion  1890  of the strap connector  1800 . The first slot  1850  may have a depth defined by a first interior sidewall  1860  of the first strap arm portion  1820 . The first interior sidewall  1860  may extend between the first side portion  1856  and the second side portion  1857  and may be curved or substantially curved resulting in the first slot  1850  having a three-dimensional shape resembling a pie-shaped wedge. Alternatively, the first interior sidewall  1860  may be linear, curvilinear, or another contour. In the illustrated example, the first side portion  1856  may have a greater extent than the second side portion  1857  and may form a smaller angle (e.g., an acute angle α;  FIG. 20 ) with the tip portion  1858  than does the second side portion  1857  (e.g., an obtuse angle ( 3 ;  FIG. 20 ). The first slot  1850  may interface with a first port  1862  of the first strap arm portion  1820 , with the first port  1862  extending through a first bottom portion  1864  of the first strap arm portion  1820  adjacent the first longitudinal end portion  1855 . Alternatively, the first port  1862  may extend through a first top portion  1866  of the first strap arm portion  1820  adjacent the first longitudinal end portion  1855  and opposite the first bottom portion  1864 . The first port  1862  may be cylindrical and may extend orthogonally or substantially orthogonally with respect to the first slot  1850 . In other words, the axis of the cylinder defining the first port  1862  may be orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to a plane defining the first slot  1850 . In the illustrated example, the first port  1862  may allow direct passage to and from the first slot  1850 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     The second longitudinal end portion  1955  may be defined by a first side portion  1956 , a second side portion  1957 , and a tip portion  1958  therebetween. As shown in  FIGS. 18-25 , the second slot  1950  may extend into the tip portion  1958  and the first side portion  1956 . In another example (not shown), the second slot  1950  may further extend into the second side portion  1957 . The first side portion  1956  and the second side portion  1957  may be opposite each other and may both be adjoined to the tip portion  1958 . Accordingly, the second slot  1950  may span across two or more adjoining sides (e.g., the tip portion  1958  and the first side  1956 ) of the perimeter portion  1890  of the strap connector  1800 . The second slot  1950  may have a depth defined by a second interior sidewall  1960  of the first strap arm portion  1820 . The second interior sidewall  1960  may extend between the first side portion  1956  and the second side portion  1957  and may be curved or substantially curved resulting in the second slot  1950  having a three-dimensional shape resembling a pie-shaped wedge. Alternatively, the second interior sidewall  1960  may be linear, curvilinear, or another contour. In the illustrated example, the first side portion  1956  may have a greater extent than the second side portion  1957  and may form a smaller angle (e.g., an acute angle α;  FIG. 20 ) with the tip portion  1958  than does the second side portion  1957  (e.g., an obtuse angle β;  FIG. 20 ). The second slot  1950  may interface with a second port  1962  of the first strap arm portion  1820 , with the second port  1962  extending through a second bottom portion  1964  of the first strap arm portion  1820  adjacent the second longitudinal end portion  1955 . Alternatively, the second port  1962  may extend through a second top portion  1966  of the first strap arm portion  1820  adjacent the second longitudinal end portion  1955  and opposite the second bottom portion  1964 . The second port  1962  may be cylindrical and may extend orthogonally or substantially orthogonally with respect to the second slot  1950 . In other words, the axis of the cylinder defining the second port  1962  may be orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to a plane defining the first slot  1950 . In the illustrated example, the second port  1962  may allow direct passage to and from the second slot  1950 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 18-25 , the second strap arm portion  1840  may include a first slot  1870  at or proximate a first longitudinal end portion  1875  and a second slot  1970  at or proximate a second longitudinal end portion  1975  opposite to the first longitudinal end portion  1875 . The first longitudinal end portion  1875  may be defined by a first side portion  1876 , a second side portion  1877 , and a tip portion  1878  therebetween. As shown in  FIGS. 18-25 , the first slot  1870  may extend into the tip portion  1878  and the first side portion  1876 . In another example (not shown), the first slot  1870  may further extend into the second side portion  1877 . The first side portion  1876  and the second side portion  1877  may be opposite each other and may both be adjoined to the tip portion  1878 . Accordingly, the first slot  1870  may span across two or more adjoining sides (e.g., the tip portion  1878  and the first side portion  1876 ) of the perimeter portion  1890  of the strap connector  1800 . The first side portion  1876  may also be adjoined to the first side portion  1956  of the second longitudinal end portion  1955  of the first strap arm portion  1820  while the second side portion  1877  may also be adjoined to the second side portion  1857  of the first longitudinal end portion  1855  of the first strap arm portion  1820 . The first slot  1870  may have a depth defined by a first interior sidewall  1880  of the second strap arm portion  1840 . The first interior sidewall  1880  may extend between the first side portion  1876  and the second side portion  1877  and may be curved or substantially curved resulting in the first slot  1870  having a three-dimensional shape resembling a pie-shaped wedge. Alternatively, the first interior sidewall  1880  may be linear, curvilinear, or another contour. In the illustrated example, the first side portion  1876  may have a greater extent than the second side portion  1877  and may form a smaller angle (e.g., an acute angle α;  FIG. 20 ) with the tip portion  1878  than does the second side portion  1877  (e.g., an obtuse angle β;  FIG. 20 ). The first slot  1870  may interface with a first port  1882  of the second longitudinal strap arm portion  1840 , with the first port  1882  extending through a first bottom portion  1884  of the second strap arm portion  1840  adjacent the first longitudinal end portion  1875 . Alternatively, the first  1882  may extend through a first top portion  1886  of the second strap arm portion  1840  adjacent the first longitudinal end portion  1875  and opposite the first bottom portion  1884 . The first port  1882  may be cylindrical and may extend orthogonally or substantially orthogonally with respect to the first slot  1870 . In other words, the axis of the cylinder defining the first port  1882  may be orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to a plane defining the first slot  1870 . In the illustrated example, the first port  1882  may allow direct passage to and from the first slot  1870 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     The second longitudinal end portion  1975  may be defined by a first side portion  1976 , a second side portion  1977 , and a tip portion  1978  between the first side portion  1976  and the second side portion  1977 . As shown in  FIGS. 18-25 , the second slot  1970  may extend into the tip portion  1978  and the first side portion  1976 . In another example (not shown), the second slot  1970  may further extend into the second side portion  1977 . The first side portion  1976  and the second side portion  1977  may be opposite each other and may both be adjoined to the tip portion  1978 . Accordingly, the second slot  1970  may span across two or more adjoining sides (e.g., the tip portion  1978  and the first side portion  1976 ) of a perimeter portion  1890  of the strap connector  1800 . The first side portion  1976  may also be adjoined to the first side portion  1856  of the first longitudinal end portion  1855  of the first strap arm portion  1820  while the second side portion  1977  may also be adjoined to the second side portion  1957  of second longitudinal end portion  1955  of the first strap arm portion  1820 . The second slot  1970  may have a depth defined by a second interior sidewall  1980  of the second strap arm portion  1840 . The second interior sidewall  1980  may extend between the first side portion  1976  and the second side portion  1977  and may be curved or substantially curved resulting in the second slot  1970  having a three-dimensional shape resembling a pie-shaped wedge. Alternatively, the second interior sidewall  1980  may be linear, curvilinear, or another contour. In the illustrated example, the first side portion  1976  may have a greater extent than the second side portion  1977  and may form a smaller angle (e.g., an acute angle α;  FIG. 20 ) with the tip portion  1978  than does the second side portion  1977  (e.g., an obtuse angle β;  FIG. 20 ). The second slot  1970  may interface with a second port  1982  of the second longitudinal end portion  1840 , with the second port  1982  extending through a second bottom portion  1984  of the second strap arm portion  1840  adjacent the second longitudinal end portion  1975 . Alternatively, the second port  1982  may extend through a second top portion  1986  of the second strap arm portion  1840  adjacent the second longitudinal end portion  1975  and opposite the second bottom portion  1984 . The second port  1982  may be cylindrical and may extend orthogonally or substantially orthogonally with respect to the second slot  1970 . In other words, the axis of the cylinder defining the second port  1982  may be orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to a plane defining the second slot  1970 . In the illustrated example, the second port  1982  may allow direct passage to and from the second slot  1970 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In one example, as shown in  FIGS. 18-25 , the first and second slots  1850  and  1950  of the first strap arm portion  1820  and the first and second slots  1870  and  1970  of the second strap arm portion  1840  may each receive a strap fitment. For purposes of simplicity, one strap fitment  2120  (see  FIG. 21 ) is shown coupled to the strap connector  1800 . The strap fitment  2120  may include a first connector end portion  2130  and a second connector end portion  2140 . The first connector end portion  2130  may include a loop portion  2132  engaged to a strap  2134 , which in turn may be directly or indirectly coupled to a golf bag such as the golf bag  100  shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 . For purposes of example, the second connector end portion  2140  may be received in the second slot  1950  of the first strap arm portion  1820 . The second connector end portion  2140  may include a depressible tab  2142  located centrally on the second connector end portion  2140 . The depressible tab  2142  may be circular with a smaller diameter than that of the second port  1962 . The depressible tab  2142  may be biased to a position that prevents the second connector end portion  2140  from clearing the second slot  1950  without first depressing the depressible tab  2142 . Accordingly, during assembly of the strap fitment  2120  to the strap connector  1800 , the depressible tab  2142  is first depressed to enable the second connector end portion  2140  to be received in the second slot  1950 . Once the second connector end portion  2140  is inside the second slot  1950 , the depressible tab  2142  is guided toward and received in the second port  1962  so that the depressible tab  2142  can return to its biased position, thereby pivotally coupling the strap fitment  2120  to the strap connector  1800  about the depressible tab  2142 . The strap fitment  2120  may be subsequently removed from the strap connector  1800  by first depressing the depressible tab  2142  and then pulling out the second connector end portion  2140  from the second slot  1950 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     As described herein, the second interior sidewall  1960  may be curved, substantially curved, linear, curvilinear, or have any other contour. The shape of the second interior sidewall  1960 , and in particular, a relative angle between opposing portions of the second interior sidewall  1960  may define a range of rotational motion of the strap fitment  2120 . In one example (not shown), the second interior sidewalls  1960  may include two linear and orthogonal or substantially orthogonal opposing sidewall portions. Accordingly, the second interior sidewall  1960  may limit the strap fitment  2120  to 90 degrees or approximately 90 degrees of rotation about the depressible tab  2142 . In another example (not shown), the second interior sidewall  1960  may be curved and have opposing sidewall portions that are oriented 120 degrees or substantially 120 degrees relative to each other. Accordingly, the second interior sidewall  1960  may limit the strap fitment  2120  to 120 degrees of approximately 120 degrees of rotation about the depressible tab  2142 . In another example, as shown in  FIG. 21 , the second interior sidewall  1960  may be curved and have opposing sidewall portions that are oriented at 90 degrees or approximately 90 degrees relative to each other. Accordingly, the second interior sidewall  1960  may limit the strap fitment  2120  to 90 degrees or approximately 90 degrees of rotation about the depressible tab  2142 . Alternatively, the second interior sidewall  1960  may be configured to provide the strap fitment  2120  with more or less rotational freedom. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     By enabling each of the strap fitment  2120  to independently pivot relative the strap connector  1800 , the strap system  2150  benefits from a self-adjusting feature that may provide a greater degree of comfort to individuals with various body types. In other words, depending on the size and proportions of an individual, the strap fitments  2120  may independently pivot to balance a golf bag on the individual&#39;s body to provide a greater degree of comfort to the individual. Further, during use of a golf bag by an individual as various golf equipment such as golf clubs may be added to and/or removed from the golf bag to change the overall weight and/or weight distribution of the golf bag, the strap fitments  2120  may independently self-pivot as needed to provide self-adjusting of the position (i.e., location, orientation) of a golf bag relative to an individual&#39;s body to continuously provide a greater degree of comfort to the individual. Alternatively, one or more slots may be configured to minimize any pivoting of a strap fitment received therein such that the strap fitment is maintained in a substantially fixed position. While not shown, additional strap fitments similar to strap fitment  2120  may be used in the first slot  1850  of the first strap arm portion  1820 , the first slot  1870  of the second strap arm portion  1840 , and the second slot  1970  of the second strap arm portion  1840 . Accordingly, up to four strap fitments may be pivotally coupled to the strap connector  1800  to form a strap system  2150  capable of being used with golf bag  100  or another golf bag. By employing removable strap fitments, a user of the strap system  2150  may choose between a 2 strap setting that employs two strap fitments, a 3 strap setting that employs three strap fitments, and a four strap setting that employs four strap fitments. In other examples, as shown in  FIGS. 26-29 , the strap connector  1800  may have a different shape and/or include more or less slots and corresponding ports to enable attachment with more than four strap fitments or less than four strap fitments. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     In alternative examples, as shown in  FIGS. 26-29 , strap connectors  2600 ,  2700 ,  2800 , and  2900  may include a square-shaped configuration, a diamond-shaped configuration, a circle-shaped configuration, and a triangle-shaped configuration, respectively. The strap connectors  2600 ,  2700 ,  2800 , and  2900  may each include a plurality of slots respectively shown as slots  2610 ,  2710 ,  2810 , and  2910 , and a plurality of ports respectively shown as ports  2620 ,  2720 ,  2820 , and  2920 . The plurality of slots  2610 ,  2710 ,  2810 , and  2910  may each interface with a corresponding one of the plurality of ports  2620 ,  2720 ,  2820 , and  2920  to enable a strap fitment (e.g., strap fitments  2630 ,  2730 ,  2830 , and  2930 ) to be pivotally coupled to the strap connectors  2600 ,  2700 ,  2800 , and  2900  in a manner similar to the one described with respect to strap connector  1800  and strap fitment  2120 . The plurality of slots  2610 ,  2710 ,  2810 , and  2910  may be at least partially defined by a corresponding plurality of interior sidewalls  2640 ,  2740 ,  2840 , and  2940 , each of which may be curved, linear, curvilinear, or another contour selected to enhance or restrict rotational freedom of a strap fitment received in the corresponding slot. As described herein, each of the strap fitments  2630 ,  2730 ,  2830 , and  2930  may be engaged to a corresponding strap  2650 ,  2750 ,  2850 , and  2950  that is directly or indirectly coupled to a golf bag (e.g., golf bag  100 ) or another bag type. Additionally, each of the strap fitments  2630 ,  2730 ,  2830 , and  2930  may include a corresponding depressible tab  2660 ,  2760 ,  2860 , and  2960 , which may be pivotally coupled to a port of the plurality of ports  2620 ,  2720 ,  2820 , and  2920 . Each of the strap fitments  2630 ,  2730 ,  2830 , and  2930 . The particular number of slots and corresponding ports of the strap connectors  2600 ,  2700 ,  2800 ,  2900  are provided for purposes of example and may be varied if desired. Likewise, the particular size and/or positions of the slots and corresponding ports of the strap connectors  2600 ,  2700 ,  2800 ,  2900  may also be varied. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     Although  FIGS. 1 and 2  show a golf bag  100 , the strap systems  102  and  2150 , or any component thereof, may be used with any type of bag. Accordingly the strap systems  102  and  2150  are not limited to use with golf bags and may be used with backpacks, duffle bags, suitcases, shoulder bags, infant carriers that are attached to the body, sling-type bags, handbags, or any type of container that may be used to carry one or more objects. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     Although the strap connectors  200  and  1800  are shown and described herein to have two strap arm portions, a strap connector may include any number of arm portions. For example, a strap connector may include more than two strap arms portions or less than two strap arm portions to accommodate for more or less straps. 
     A strap connector, such as any of the strap connectors  1800 ,  2600 ,  2700 ,  2800 , and  2900 , may include any number of slots and corresponding ports that may provide rotational connection of strap fitments, thereby allowing each strap fitment to rotate about a certain angle (e.g., 90 degrees) to provide rotational self-adjusting of the strap fitments relative to the strap connector as described herein. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     The strap connectors  200  and  1800  may be manufactured from any material, such as metal, wood, composite materials, and/or one or more plastic materials. In one example, the strap connectors  200  and  1800  may be constructed from a rigid or substantially rigid plastic material. The strap connectors  200  and  1800  may be manufactured in two or more parts that may be bonded together to form the strap connectors  200  and  1800 . The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     The terms “and” and “or” may have both conjunctive and disjunctive meanings. The terms “a” and “an” are defined as one or more unless this disclosure indicates otherwise. The term “coupled” and any variation thereof refer to directly or indirectly connecting two or more elements chemically, mechanically, and/or otherwise. The phrase “removably connected” is defined such that two elements that are “removably connected” may be separated from each other without breaking or destroying the utility of either element. 
     The term “substantially” when used to describe a characteristic, parameter, property, or value of an element may represent deviations or variations that do not diminish the characteristic, parameter, property, or value that the element may be intended to provide. Deviations or variations in a characteristic, parameter, property, or value of an element may be based on, for example, tolerances, measurement errors, measurement accuracy limitations and other factors. The term “proximate” is synonymous with terms such as “adjacent,” “close,” “immediate,” “nearby”, “neighboring”, etc., and such terms may be used interchangeably as appearing in this disclosure. 
     The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be implemented in a variety of embodiments, and the foregoing description of some of these embodiments does not necessarily represent a complete description of all possible embodiments. Instead, the description of the drawings, and the drawings themselves, disclose at least one embodiment, and may disclosure alternative embodiments. 
     As the rules of golf may change from time to time (e.g., new regulations may be adopted or old rules may be eliminated or modified by golf standard organizations and/or governing bodies such as the United States Golf Association (USGA), the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews (R&amp;A), etc.), golf equipment related to the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be conforming or non-conforming to the rules of golf at any particular time. Accordingly, golf equipment related to the apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein may be advertised, offered for sale, and/or sold as conforming or non-conforming golf equipment. The apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture described herein are not limited in this regard. 
     Although certain example apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture have been described herein, the scope of coverage of this disclosure is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this disclosure covers all apparatus, methods, and articles of articles of manufacture fairly falling within the scope of the appended claims either literally or under the doctrine of equivalents.