Patent Abstract:
Systems ( 102 ) and methods ( 600 ) for adjusting a volume of an article of manufacture (AOM). The methods involve displacing a first actuator (FA) in a first direction along tracks ( 308, 310 ) until FA ( 312 ) disengages a first track ( 308 ) and abuts a first stop mechanism ( 504 ) formed at an end ( 510 ) ofa second track ( 310 ). A first flexible insert (FFI) is unfolded so as to adjust the volume of AOM by a first amount defined by geometrical dimensions of FFI ( 306 ). A second actuator (SA) is displaced in a second direction along tracks until SA ( 424 ) abuts a second stop mechanism ( 432 ) formed at ends ( 454 ) of the tracks ( 420, 422 ). A second flexible insert (SFI) is unfolded so as to further adjust the volume of AOM by a second amount defined by geometrical dimensions of SFI ( 406 ).

Full Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This applications claims priority to Canadian Patent Application No. 2,642,174 filed Feb. 3, 2009. The entire disclosure is incorporated by reference herein. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Statement of the Technical Field 
         [0003]    The inventive arrangements relate to articles of manufacture (e.g., garments and bags), and more particularly to articles of manufacture that are adjustable in size. 
         [0004]    2. Description of the Related Art 
         [0005]    There are various conventional multi-stage expandable-contractible systems known in the art for providing expansion and contraction capabilities to bags and garments. The bags include, but are not limited to, luggage bags, duffle bags, sports bags, purses, backpacks, brief cases and hand carried bags. The garments include, but are not limited to, shirts, pants, jackets and sweaters. 
         [0006]    Such a conventional multi-stage expandable-contractible system generally includes an inset element that extends circumferentially around a bag, a sleeve or a pant leg. The inset element includes a single slide fastener configured to provide two or more successive stages of expansion and contraction. In this regard, the slide fastener comprises a zipper element having a three dimensional multi-turn spiral configuration. During use, the expandable inset element is selectively expanded and contracted in a multi-stage fashion by displacing an actuator (or zipper slider) of the zipper element one or more spiral turns at any given time. For example, the expandable inset element is transitioned from a contracted position to a first stage expanded position by displacing the actuator once about a periphery of the bag, sleeve or pant leg. Similarly, the expandable inset element is transitioned from a contracted position to a second stage expanded position by displacing the actuator twice about the periphery of the bag, sleeve or pant leg. 
         [0007]    Despite the advantages of the conventional multi-stage expandable-contractible system discussed above, it suffers from certain drawbacks. For example, the spiral zipper element of the conventional multi-stage expandable-contractible system can not be used in two (2) dimensional applications. Also, the expandable inset element can not be simultaneously placed in a first stage partially expanded position and a second stage partially expanded position. Further, the conventional multi-stage expandable-contractible system can not be assembled in a fully automated process. As such, a bag or garment employing the conventional multi-stage expandable-contractible system is relatively expensive to manufacture. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0008]    Embodiments of the present invention concern methods for adjusting a volume of an article of manufacture having an expandable-contractible system. The methods generally involve displacing a first actuator in a first direction along first tracks coupled to the article of manufacture. The first actuator can be displaced along the first tracks until it (a) disengages a first one of the first tracks and (b) abuts a first stop mechanism formed at a first end of a second one of the first tracks. The first stop mechanism can be formed by: attaching a grommet to the first end of the second one of the first tracks; or bending the first end of the second one of the first tracks. The first tracks can have a rectilinear shape or a curvilinear shape. 
         [0009]    The methods also involve unfolding a first flexible insert so as to adjust the volume of the article of manufacture by a first amount. The first amount can be defined by the geometrical dimensions of the first flexible insert. The first flexible insert is coupled to at least the first one of the first tracks. 
         [0010]    The methods further involve displacing a second actuator in a second direction along second tracks coupled to the article of manufacture. The second actuator can be displaced in a second direction along the second tracks until it abuts a second stop mechanism formed at first ends of the second tracks. The second tracks can have a rectilinear shape or a curvilinear shape. The second stop mechanism can be formed by joining the first ends of the second tracks together. The second direction can be the same as or different than the first direction. Notably, the second actuator and the second tracks are concealed in the article of manufacture when the expandable-contractible system is not in use. 
         [0011]    A second flexible insert is unfolded so as to further adjust the volume of the article of manufacture by a second amount defined by geometrical dimensions of the second flexible insert. The second flexible insert is coupled to the second tracks. The second amount can be greater than, equal to or less than the first amount. 
         [0012]    The volume of the article of manufacture can be decreased by folding the first flexible insert and displacing the first actuator in a third direction opposed from the first direction alone the first tracks. The volume of the article of manufacture can also be decreased by folding the second flexible insert and displacing the second actuator in a fourth direction opposed from the second direction along the second tracks. 
         [0013]    Embodiments of the present invention also concern expandable-contractible systems implementing the above described methods for adjusting a size of an article of manufacture. Each of the expandable-contractible systems comprises at least two first tracks having non-spiral shapes, at least two second tracks having non-spiral shapes, a first actuator, a first flexible insert, a second actuator and a second flexible insert. The second tracks are disposed in the expandable-contractible system so as to be concealed at least partially by the first tracks when the expandable-contractible system is not in use. The first actuator is configured for being displaced in a first direction along the first tracks. The first actuator is also configured for being disengaged from a first one of the first tracks. The first flexible insert is configured to be transitioned from a folded position to an unfolded position in which the size of the article of manufacture is increased by a first amount defined by geometrical dimensions of the first flexible insert. The second actuator is configured for being displaced in a second direction along the second tracks. The second flexible insert is configured to he transitioned from a folded position to an unfolded position in which the size of the article of manufacture is increased by a second amount defined by geometrical dimensions of the second flexible insert. 
         [0014]    Embodiments of the present invention further concern expandable-contractible systems for adjusting an overall size of an article of manufacture. Each of the expandable-contractible systems comprises first and second closure elements. The first closure element is of first type of closure element. The second closure element is of a second type or closure element. The first type of closure element is different from the second type of closure element. For example, the first type of closure element includes, but is not limited to, a zipper assembly. In contrast, the second type of closure element includes, but is not limited to, a velcro closure element, a loop-and-pile fastener assembly, a snap assembly, a button/hole pair assembly and a latch assembly. 
         [0015]    Embodiments of the present invention further concerns bags having the same or substantially similar types of closure elements. Each of the bags includes at least one compartment structure defining an interior space for carrying articles. The bag also includes an expandable-contractible system configured for adjusting a size of the interior space. The expandable-contractible system comprises at least two first tracks having non-spiral shapes, at least two second tracks having non-spiral shapes, a first actuator, a first flexible insert, a second actuator and a second flexible insert. The second tracks are disposed in the expandable-contractible system so as to be concealed at least partially by the first tracks when the expandable-contractible system is not in use. The first actuator is configured for being displaced in a first direction along the first tracks. The first actuator is also configured for being disengaged from a first one of the first tracks. The first flexible insert is configured to he transitioned from a folded position to an unfolded position in which the size of the interior space is increased by a first amount defined by geometrical dimensions of the first flexible insert. The second actuator is configured for being displaced in a second direction along the second tracks. The second flexible insert is configured to be transitioned from a folded position to an unfolded position in which the size of the interior space is increased by a second amount defined by geometrical dimensions of the second flexible insert. 
         [0016]    Embodiments of the present invention also concerns bag comprising different types of closure elements. Each of the bags includes at least one compartment structure defining an interior space for carrying articles. The bag also includes an expandable-contractible system for adjusting an overall size of the bag. The expandable-contractible system comprises first and second closure elements. The first closure element is of a first type of closure element. The second closure element is of a second type of closure element. The first type of closure element is different from the second type of closure element. For example, the first type of closure element includes, but is not limited to, a zipper assembly. In contrast, the second type of closure element includes, but is not limited to, a velcro closure element, a loop-and-pile fastener assembly, a snap assembly, a button/hole pair assembly and a latch assembly. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0017]    Embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the following drawing figures, in which like numerals represent like items throughout the figures and in which: 
           [0018]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an exemplary article of manufacture comprising a multi-stage expandable-contractible system that is useful for understanding the present invention. 
           [0019]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the bag of  FIG. 1  having a primary compartment structure in a partially opened position that is useful for understanding the present invention. 
           [0020]      FIG. 3  is a perspective view of the bag of  FIG. 1  in a first stage expanded position that is useful for understanding the present invention. 
           [0021]      FIG. 4  is a perspective view of the bag of  FIG. 1  in a second stage expanded position that is useful for understanding the present invention. 
           [0022]      FIG. 5  is an exploded view of the multi-stage expandable-contractible system shown in  FIG. 1  that is useful for understanding the present invention. 
           [0023]      FIG. 6  is a flow diagram of an exemplary method for adjusting a volume of an article of manufacture that is useful for understanding the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0024]    The present invention is described with reference to the attached figures, wherein like reference numbers are used throughout the figures to designate similar or equivalent elements. The figures are not drawn to scale and they are provided merely to illustrate the instant invention. Several aspects of the invention are described below with reference to example applications for illustration. It should be understood that numerous specific details, relationships, and methods are set forth to provide a full understanding of the invention. One having ordinary skill in the relevant art, however, will readily recognize that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details or with other methods. In other instances, well-known structures or operations are not shown in detail to avoid obscuring the invention. The present invention is not limited by the illustrated ordering of acts or events, as some acts may occur in different orders and/or concurrently with other acts or events. Furthermore, not all illustrated acts or events are required to implement a methodology in accordance with the present invention. 
         [0025]    The present invention generally concerns multi-stage expandable-contractible systems that can he used in a variety of applications. Such applications include, but are not limited to, bag applications and clothing applications. The multi-stage expandable-contractible system generally comprises a plurality of inset elements configured to provide two or more stages of expansion and contraction. 
         [0026]    Notably, the present invention overcomes various drawbacks of conventional multi-stage expandable-contractible systems. For example, the multi-stage expandable-contractible system of the present invention can be used in two (2) dimensional applications. As such, the multi-stage expandable-contractible system can be integrated along a length of a shirt sleeve, a pant leg, and a panel of a bag. Also, the multi-stage expandable-contractible system can be simultaneously placed in a first stage partially expanded position and a second stage partially expanded position. The multi-stage expandable-contractible system can further be implemented during a fully automated process. As such, an article employing the present invention is less expensive to manufacture as compared to articles comprising conventional multi-stage expandable-contractible systems. 
         [0027]    The present invention will now be described in more detail in relation to  FIGS. 1-5 . Although the present invention will be described in relation to a bag, the present invention is not limited in this regard. For example, the present invention can also be used with other articles of manufacture, such clothing (e.g., shirts, pants, gloves and boots). 
         [0028]    In  FIG. 1 , there is provided a perspective view ofan exemplary bag  100  in a closed position. A perspective view of the bag  100  in a partially opened position is provided in  FIG. 2 . Notably, the bag  100  comprises a multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102 . The multi-stage expansion/contraction system  102  is generally configured to facilitate the expansion and contraction of the bag  100 . The multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  will be described in detail below in relation to  FIGS. 3-5 . 
         [0029]    As shown in  FIGS. 1-2 , the bag  100  includes wheeled luggage comprising wheels  150  and an extendable handle  104  that allow for convenient maneuverability thereof. Embodiments of the present invention are not limited in this regard. For example, the bag  100  can alternatively include a backpack, a purse, a garment bag, a sports bag, a travel bag, a duffle bag, a backpack or a carry-on bag. 
         [0030]    As also shown in  FIGS. 1-2 , the bag  100  includes a primary compartment structure  106  and a plurality of secondary compartment structures  108 ,  110  for carrying articles. Such articles include, but are not limited to, cloths, shoes, towels, toys, fluid/liquid products, books, school supplies, toiletries, makeup and other items. The primary and secondary compartment structures  106 ,  108 ,  110  can be formed from any suitable material. Such materials include, but are not limited to, non-woven materials, woven materials, mesh materials, water-resistant materials, leather, canvas, collapsible fabric materials, fabric materials impregnated with plastic, and fabric materials impregnated with a rubberized material. Notably, each of the compartment structures  106 ,  108 ,  110  can be formed from the same material or different material(s). The material(s) forming the compartment structures  106 ,  108 ,  110  can have a design or pattern printed thereon so as to provide an ornamental or decorative appearance to the bag  100 . 
         [0031]    Notably, the primary compartment structure  106  is joined to the secondary compartment structure  108  by the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102 . Consequently, the primary compartment structure  106  is movable with respect to the secondary compartment structure  108  such that the bag  100  is adjustable between a contracted position (shown in  FIG. 1 ) and a plurality of expanded positions (shown in  FIGS. 3-4 ). The multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  will be described in detail below. 
         [0032]    Although two (2) secondary compartment structures are shown in FIGS. embodiments of the present invention are not limited in this regard. The bag  100  can include more or less secondary compartment structures than those shown in  FIGS. 1-2 . For example, the bag  100  can include at least one secondary compartment structure  108 ,  110  disposed on a front panel  112  of the primary compartment structure  106  (as shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ) and at least one secondary compartment structure disposed on a sidewall  114  of the primary compartment structure  106  (not shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ). Secondary compartment structures can also be provided inside the bag  100  (not shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ). In this scenario, the secondary compartment structures can be coupled to inner surfaces  202 ,  204 ,  206 ,  208 ,  210 ,  212  of the panels  112 ,  116  and/or sidewalls  114  of the bag  100 . 
         [0033]    The primary compartment structure  106  may be considered the primary article-carrying compartment structure because it provides the largest unrestricted volume for carrying articles. If only the primary compartment structure  106  is desired to be used, then one would only need to open the primary compartment structure  106  via a closure element  118 . This configuration is ideal for carrying articles which require the volume of the primary compartment structure  106 . Such articles can include, but are not limited to, electronic equipment, clothing, books, sports equipment, retractable umbrellas, and thermoses. 
         [0034]    As shown in  FIGS. 1-2 , the primary compartment structure  106  has a front panel  112  defining a first bag opening  228  which is selectively closable via the closure element  118 . The closure element  118  can include, but is not limited to, a zipper assembly (shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ), a velcro closure element, loop-and-pile fasteners, snaps, button/hole pairs and latches. The closure element  118  extends around at least a portion of a periphery of the bag  100 . If the closure element  118  includes a zipper assembly, then it includes a first track  214 , a second track  216  and at least one actuator  154 ,  156 . In this scenario, the tracks  214 ,  216  include sets of teeth and the actuator  154 ,  156  includes a zipper slider. A portion of the first track  214  is coupled to the front panel  112  of the primary compartment structure  106 . A portion of the second track  216  is coupled to the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102 . The actuator  154 ,  156  is coupled to the tracks  214 ,  216  so as to facilitate the separation and joinment thereof. For example, the tracks  214 ,  216  are separated and joined by moving the actuator(s)  154 ,  156  around at least a portion of the periphery of the bag  100 . Notably, the actuator(s)  154 ,  156  is(are) unable to be detached or disengaged from the tracks  214 ,  216 . The tracks  214 ,  216  and actuator(s)  154 ,  156  can be formed from plastic or metal. 
         [0035]    The primary compartment structure  110  also includes the back panel  116  and at least one sidewall  114  which extends between the front panel  112  and the back panel  116 . At least one of the panels  112 ,  116  and sidewalk  114  is formed of a rigid or semi-rigid material suitable to maintain its shape and structural integrity during use of the bag  100 . Alternatively, at least one of the panels  112 ,  116  and sidewalls  114  includes a rigid or semi-rigid insert. A ribbing or tubing  120  can be utilized to provide additional stability and rigidity to the bag  100 . The ribbing or tubing  120  can be disposed around peripheral edges  122 ,  124  of at least one of the panels  112 ,  116  and/or sidewalls  114 . The ribbing or tubing  120  can include, but is not limited to, a plastic tubing and a rubber tubing. 
         [0036]    Notably, the panels  112 ,  116  and sidewalls  114  of the primary compartment structure  110  define a first interior space  226  sized and shaped to carry various articles. In this regard, it should be understood that the panels  112 ,  116  and sidewalls  114  are joined together via a plurality of joinder lines  128 ,  130 ,  132 ,  134 . Each of the joinder lines  128 ,  130 ,  132 ,  134  can be formed from a sewn stitching, adhesive bonding and/or heat bonding. If the joinder lines  128 ,  130 ,  132 ,  134  include sewn stitching, then the seams formed From coupling the components  112 ,  114 ,  116  together can be water-tight and/or air-tight. 
         [0037]    The secondary compartment structures  108 ,  110  are considered the secondary article-carrying compartment structures because they provide smaller volumes for carrying articles as compared to the main compartment structure  106 . If a secondary compartment structure  108 ,  110  is desired to be used, then one would need to open it via a respective closure element  144 ,  162  of the secondary compartment structure  108 ,  110 . This configuration is useful for carrying articles which are not to be commingled with articles disposed in the main compartment structure  106 , or vice versa. Such articles include, but are not limited to, pens, pencils, calculators, mobile telephone, cellular phones, personal digital assistants, handheld personal computers, sports cloths, sport shoes, towels, wet cloths, and fluid/liquid products. 
         [0038]    Accordingly, the secondary compartment structure  108  includes sidewalk  140 ,  142  defining a second bag opening (not shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ). At least a portion of the sidewall  142  is attached to the hag  100  via a U-shaped closure element  144 . The U-shaped closure element  144  provides a means for selectively opening and closing the second bag opening (not shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ). The closure element  144  can include, but is not limited to, a zipper assembly (as shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ), a velcro assembly, loop-and-pile Fasteners, snaps, button/hole pairs and latches. The sidewall  140  is joined to the main compartment structure  106  via at least the joinder line  132 . The sidewall  142  is joined to the sidewall  140  via at least one joinder line  160 . The joinder lines  132 ,  160  can he formed from sewn stitching, adhesive bonding and/or heat bonding. 
         [0039]    The secondary compartment structure  110  is coupled to secondary compartment structure  108  so as to define a third bag opening (not shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ). The third bag opening (not shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ) is selectively opened and closed using a closure element  162 . The closure element  162  can include, but is not limited to, a zipper assembly (as shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ), a velcro assembly, loop-and-pile Fasteners, snaps, button/hole pairs and/or latches. 
         [0040]    As noted above, the bag  100  includes an extendable handle  104 . The extendable handle  104  can formed from any suitable material. Such materials include, but are not limited to, plastics and metals. The bag  100  can additionally or alternatively include one or more non-extendable handles  170 ,  172  and a mechanical fastener  174 . The non-extendable handles  170 ,  172  can be formed from any suitable material. Such materials include, but are not limited to, leather, plastic, wood, metal, non-woven fabric, woven fabric, canvas, mesh materials, collapsible fabric materials, a flat rope or a combination thereof. The non-extendable handles  170 ,  172  are attached to the bag  100  via sewn stitching, adhesive bonding and/or mechanical connectors (e.g., a clip or hook/loop fastener). The mechanical fastener  174  provides a means for attaching objects (e.g., carry-on bags, purses, and backpacks) to the bag  100 . In this regard, the mechanical fastener  174  can include, but is not limited to, a buckle and/or a loop, The mechanical fastener  174  is attached to the bag  100  via sewn stitching, an adhesive bond and/or a mechanical connector (e.g., a clip or snap assembly). 
         [0041]    An exemplary embodiment of the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  will now be described in detail in relation to  FIGS. 3-5 . A perspective view of the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  in a first stage expanded position is provided in  FIG. 3 . A perspective view of the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  in a second stage expanded position is provided in  FIG. 4 . An exploded view of the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  is provided in  FIG. 5 . 
         [0042]    As noted above, the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  is generally configured to facilitate the expansion of the bag  100  so as to provide a compartment structure of a bag with an increased volume for carrying articles. Notably, the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  overcomes various drawbacks of conventional multi-stage expandable-contractible systems. For example, the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  can be used in two (2) dimensional applications. As such, the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  can be integrated along a length of at least one panel  112 ,  116  or sidewall  114  of the bag  100 . Also, the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  can be simultaneously placed in a first stage partially expanded position (not shown in  FIGS. 1-5 ) and a second stage partially expanded position (not shown in  FIGS. 1-5 ). The multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  can further be implemented during a fully automated process. As such, the bag  100  including the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  is less expensive to manufacture as compared to a bag comprising conventional multi-stage expandable-contractible systems. 
         [0043]    As shown in  FIGS. 3-5 , the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  comprises a plurality of elongated closure elements  302 ,  304  and a plurality of elongated flexible inserts  306 ,  406 . Notably, when the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  is in its contracted position shown in  FIGS. 1-2 , the closure element  304  is concealed in the bag  100 . Consequently, the bag  100  has a more appealing overall appearance when the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  is in its contracted position as compared to the appearance of a bag including a conventional multi-stage expandable-contractible system. When the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  is in a first stage expanded position shown in  FIG. 3 , the closure element  304  is visible to an observer as shown in  FIG. 4 . 
         [0044]    Although the closure elements  302 ,  304  are shown in  FIGS. 3-5  to have rectilinear shapes, embodiments of the present invention are not limited in this regard. For example, the closure elements  302 ,  304  can alternatively have curvilinear shapes or other desirable shapes. Also, the closure elements  302 ,  304  need not be parallel to one another when the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  is in its contracted position and/or expanded position. Alternatively, the closure elements  302 ,  304  can be perpendicular to each other, diagonal to each other or offset with respect to each other when the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  is in its contracted position and/or expanded position. Further, the closure elements  302 ,  304  can be of the same type or different types of closure elements. For example, both of the closure elements  302 ,  304  can include a zipper assembly as shown in  FIG. 4 . Alternatively, at least one of the closure elements  302 ,  304  can include a velcro closure assembly (not shown). Embodiments of the present invention are not limited in this regard. 
         [0045]    Each of the flexible inserts  306 ,  406  can be formed of any suitable material. Such materials include, but are not limited to, leathers, plastics, non-woven fabrics, woven fabrics, canvases, mesh materials, collapsible fabric materials, flat ropes and combinations thereof. Although the closure elements  302 ,  304  and flexible inserts  306 ,  406  are shown in  FIGS. 3-4  to extend around the entire periphery of the bag  100 , embodiments of the present invention are not limited in this regard. For example, the closure elements  302 ,  304  and flexible inserts  306 ,  406  can alternatively extend around a portion of the periphery of the bag  100 . In this scenario, the closure elements  302 ,  304  and flexible inserts  306 ,  406  can extend along a length of one or more panels  112 ,  116  or sidewalls  114  of the bag  100 . 
         [0046]    A first closure element  302  of the plurality of elongated closure elements  302 ,  304  is generally configured to facilitate the transition of the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  from the contracted position shown in  FIGS. 1-2  to the first stage fully expanded position shown in  FIG. 3  or a first stage intermediary position (not shown), and vise versa. 
         [0047]    As such, the first closure element  302  can include, but is not limited to, a zipper assembly (shown in  FIGS. 1-5 ), a velcro assembly, loop-and-pile fasteners, snaps, button/hole pairs and latches. 
         [0048]    If the first closure element  302  includes a zipper assembly (as shown in  FIGS. 1-5 ), then it includes a first track  308 , a second track  310 , at least one actuator  312 , at least one actuator pull tab  330 , and a plurality of stop mechanisms  360 ,  560 ,  504 . Each of the tracks  308 ,  310  includes a plurality of teeth members  314   a,    314   b  coupled to a flexible member  316   a,    316   b  via any suitable means. The teeth members  314   a,    314   b  can be formed of plastic or metal. The flexible members  316   a,    316   b  can be formed from any suitable material. Such materials include, but are not limited to, leathers, tapes, plastics, non-woven fabrics, woven fabrics, canvases, mesh materials, collapsible fabric materials, flat ropes and combinations thereof. 
         [0049]    Each of the flexible members  316   a,    316   b  is coupled to the hag  100  via sewn stitching, adhesive bonding and/or heat bonding. For example, a first flexible member  316   a  is joined to a first portion  318  of the sidewalls  114  of the primary compartment structure  106 . Similarly, a second flexible member  316   b  is joined to a second portion  320  of the sidewalls  114  of the primary compartment structure  106 . Notably, the flexible members  316   a,    316   b  are attached to the bag  100  such that the tracks  308 ,  310  oppose each other in a manner that allows for the interlocking of the respective teeth members  314   a,    314   b.  The teeth members  314   a,    314   b  are interlocked by the displacement of the actuator  312  along the lengths of the tracks  308 ,  310 . The actuator  312  is displaced along the lengths of the tracks  308 ,  310  by the pulling of the actuator pull tab  330  over the teeth members  314   a,    314   b.    
         [0050]    As noted above, the first closure element  302  includes three (3) stop mechanisms  360 ,  560 ,  504 . Each of the stop mechanisms  360 ,  560  is configured to prevent the actuator  312  from traveling past an end  362 ,  562  of a respective track  308 ,  310 . The stop mechanisms  360 ,  560  can be formed by bending and attaching the ends  362 ,  562  of the tracks  308 ,  310  to the bag  100  so that the actuator  312  is prevented from sliding past the ends  362 ,  562  of the tracks  308 ,  310 . Alternatively, the stop mechanisms  360 ,  560  can include, but are not limited to, grommets (not shown in  FIGS. 1-5 ). The stop mechanism  504  is configured to prevent the actuator  312  from traveling past an end  510  of the second track  310 . The stop mechanism  504  can include, but is not limited to, a grommet  508  as shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         [0051]    Notably, the end  350  of the first track  308  is absent of a stop mechanism. Instead, the end  350  includes an engagement member  352  sized and shaped for insertion in an aperture (not shown) of the actuator  312 . As such, the actuator  312  can travel past the end  350  so as to be disengaged from the first track  308 . The actuator  312  can be aligned and re-engaged with the first track  308  by inserting the engagement member  352  in the aperture (not shown) thereof. Consequently, the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  can be transitioned from its contracted position shown in  FIG. 1  to its first stage fully expanded position shown in  FIG. 3  or a first stage intermediary position, and vice versa. In the first stage fully expanded position, the flexible insert  306  is unfolded so as to extend between the front panel  112  and sidewalls  114  of the primary compartment structure  106  of the bag  100 . Accordingly, the bag  100  has a width W 1  as shown in  FIG. 3 . The width W 1  is greater than the width W 0  of the bag  100  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) when the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  is in its fully contracted position (shown in  FIG. 1 ). In the contracted position, the flexible insert  306  is folded and housed in the primary compartment structure  106  of the hag  100 . 
         [0052]    A second closure element  304  of the plurality of elongated closure elements  302 ,  304  is generally configured to facilitate the transition of the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  from a contracted position (shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ) to a second stage fully expanded position (shown in  FIG. 4 ) or a first stage intermediary position (not shown), and vise versa. In the contracted position, the flexible insert  406  is folded and housed in the primary compartment structure  106  of the hag  100 . In the first stage fully expanded position, the flexible insert  406  is unfolded so as to extend between the flexible insert  306  of the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  and the sidewalls  114  of the primary compartment structure  106  of the bag  100 . Accordingly, the bag  100  has a width W 2  as shown in  FIG. 4 . The width W 2  is greater than the width W 0  of the bag  100  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) when the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  is in its fully contracted position (shown in  FIG. 1 ). Similarly, the width W 2  is greater than the width W 1  of the hag  100  (shown in  FIG. 3 ) when the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102  is in its first stage expanded position (shown in  FIG. 3 ). 
         [0053]    The second closure element  304  can include, but is not limited to, a zipper assembly (shown in  FIGS. 1-5 ), a velcro assembly, loop-and-pile fasteners, snaps, button/hole pairs and latches. If the second closure element  304  includes a zipper assembly (as shown in  FIGS. 1-5 ), then it includes a First track  420 , a second track  422 , at least one actuator  424 , at least one actuator pull tab  426 , and a plurality of stop mechanisms  428 ,  430 ,  432 . Each of the tracks  420 ,  422  includes a plurality of teeth members  434   a,    434   b  coupled to a flexible member  436   a,    436   b  via any suitable means. The teeth members  434   a,    434   b  can be formed of plastic or metal. The flexible members  436   a,    436   b  can be formed from any suitable material. Such materials include, but are not limited to, leathers, tapes, plastics, non-woven fabrics, woven fabrics, canvases, mesh materials, collapsible fabric materials, flat ropes and combinations thereof. 
         [0054]    Each of the flexible members  436   a,    436   b  is coupled to the bag  100  via sewn stitching, adhesive bonding, and/or heat bonding. For example, a first flexible member  436   a  is joined to the flexible insert  306  of the multi-stage expandable-contractible system  102 . Similarly, the second flexible member  436   b  is joined to portion  320  of the side panel  114  of the primary compartment structure  106  (not shown in  FIGS. 1-2 ). Notably, the flexible members  436   a,    436   b  are attached to the bag  100  such that the tracks  420 ,  422  oppose each other in a manner that allows for the interlocking of the respective teeth members  434   a ,  434   b.  The teeth members  434   a,    434   b  are interlocked by the displacement of the actuator  424  along the lengths of the tracks  420 ,  422 . The actuator  424  is displaced along the lengths of the tracks  420 ,  422  by the pulling of the actuator pull tab  426  over the teeth members  434   a ,  434   b.    
         [0055]    As noted above, the second closure element  304  includes a plurality of stop mechanisms  428 ,  430 ,  432 . Although the stop mechanism  428 ,  430  are shown in  FIG. 4  to be offset relative to the stop mechanisms  360 ,  560  of the first closure element  302 , embodiments of the present invention are not limited in this regard. For example, the stop mechanisms  428 ,  430  can be longitudinally aligned with the stop mechanisms  360 ,  560  of the first closure element  302 . 
         [0056]    Notably, the stop mechanisms  428 ,  430 ,  432  of the second closure element  304  are configured to prevent the actuator  424  from being fully disengaged from the tracks  420 ,  422 . In this regard, it should be appreciated that the stop mechanism  428  is configured to prevent the actuator  424  from traveling past an end  450  of the first track  420 . The stop mechanism  430  is configured to prevent the actuator  424  from traveling past an end  452  of the second track  422 . The stop mechanism  432  is configured to prevent the actuator  424  from traveling past ends  454  of the first track  420  and end  456  of the second track  422 . 
         [0057]    As shown in  FIG. 4 , the stop mechanism  428  is formed by bending and attaching the end  450  of the first track  420  to the bag  100  so that the actuator  424  is prevented from sliding past the end  450  of the first track  420 . Similarly, the stop mechanism  430  is formed by bending and attaching the end  452  of the second track  422  to the bag  100  so that the actuator  424  is prevented from sliding past the end  452  of the second track  452 . The stop mechanism  432  is formed by joining the respective ends  454 ,  456  of the tracks  420 ,  422  together and/or joining the ends  454 ,  456  of the tracks  420 ,  422  to a v-shaped end  530  of the flexible insert  406 . Embodiments of the present invention are not limited in this regard. For example, the stop mechanisms  428 ,  430 ,  432  can alternatively include, but are not limited to, grommets (not shown in  FIGS. 1-5 ). 
         [0058]    As shown in  FIG. 4 , the first track  420  of the second closure element  304  is shown to reside a distance D from the first track  308  of the first closure element  302 . The second track  422  of the second closure element  304  are shown to be adjacent to the second track  310  of the first closure element  302 . Embodiments of the present invention are not limited in this regard. For example, the first track  420  can reside a distance D′ from the first track  308  of the first closure element  302 . The distance D′ can be greater than or less than the distance D shown in  FIG. 4 . Also, the second track  422  of the second closure element  304  can reside a distance D″ (not shown) from the second track  310  of the first closure element  302 . The distance D″ (not shown) can be selected in accordance with a particular application. For example, the distance D″ (not shown) can be equal to, greater than or less than the distance D (shown in  FIG. 4 ) or D′ (not shown). 
         [0059]    As also shown in  FIG. 4 , the first and second closure elements  302 ,  304  are opened and closed by displacing the actuators  312 ,  424  in the same directions along the respective tracks  308 ,  310 ,  420 ,  422 . Embodiments of the present invention are not limited in this regard. For example, the first and second closure elements  302 ,  304  can alternatively be opened and closed by displacing the actuators  312 ,  424  in different directions along the respective tracks  308 ,  310 ,  420 ,  422 . The different directions can include, but are not limited to, opposing directions, orthogonal directions, and other directions that are at angles with respect to each other. 
         [0060]    Referring now to  FIG. 6 , there is provided a flow diagram of a method  600  for adjusting a volume of an article of manufacture (e.g., bag  100 ) that is useful for understanding the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 6 , the method  600  begins with step  602  and continues with step  604 . In step  604 , a first actuator (e.g., actuator  312  of  FIG. 3 ) is displaced in a first direction along first tracks (e.g., tracks  308 ,  310  of  FIG. 3 ). The first actuator is coupled to the article of manufacture. The first actuator can be displaced along the first tracks until it disengages one of the first tracks (e.g., track  308  of  FIG. 3 ) and abuts a first stop mechanism (e.g., stop mechanism  504  of  FIG. 5 ) formed at an end (e.g., end  510  of  FIG. 5 ) of a second one of the first tracks (e.g., track  310  of  FIG. 3 ). The first stop mechanism can be formed by attaching a grommet to the end of a second one of the first tracks. 
         [0061]    After completing step  604 , step  606  is performed where a first flexible insert (e.g., flexible insert  306  of  FIG. 3 ) is unfolded. As a consequence of this unfolding, the volume of the article of manufacture is increased by a first amount. The first amount can be defined by the geometrical dimensions of the first flexible insert. 
         [0062]    In a next step  608 , a second actuator (e.g., actuator  424  of  FIG. 4 ) is displaced in a second direction along second tracks (e.g., tracks  420 ,  422  of  FIG. 4 ). The second tracks are coupled to the article of manufacture. The second direction can be the same as or different than the first direction. The second actuator can be displaced along the second tracks until it abuts at least one second stop mechanism (e.g., stop mechanism  432  of  FIG. 4 ) formed at ends (e.g., ends  454  of  FIG. 4 ) of the second tracks. The second stop mechanism can be formed by joining the ends of the second tracks together. 
         [0063]    Upon completing step  608 , the method  600  continues with step  610 . In step  610 , a second flexible insert (e.g., flexible insert  406  of  FIG. 4 ) is unfolded. As a consequence of this unfolding, the volume of the article of manufacture is further increased by a second amount. The second amount can be the same as, greater than or less than the first amount. The second amount can be define by the geometrical dimensions of the second flexible insert. 
         [0064]    The volume of the article of manufacture can be decreased by performing at least one of the steps  612  and  614 . In step  612 , the volume of the article of manufacture is decreased by: folding the second flexible insert; and/or displacing the second actuator in a third direction along the second tracks. The third direction is opposed from the second direction. The second actuator can be displaced along the second tracks until it abuts stop mechanisms (e.g., stop mechanisms  428 ,  430  of  FIG. 4 ) formed at second ends (e.g., ends  450 ,  452  of  FIG. 4 ) of the second tracks. The stop mechanisms can be formed at least partially by bending the second ends of the second tracks or attaching grommets to the second ends of the second tracks. 
         [0065]    In step  614 , the volume of the article of manufacture is decreased by: folding the first flexible insert; and/or displacing the first actuator in a fourth direction along the first tracks. The fourth direction is opposed from the first direction. The first actuator can be displaced along the first tracks until it abuts stop mechanisms e.g., stop mechanism  360  of  FIG. 3  and stop mechanism  560  of  FIG. 5 ) formed at second ends (e.g., end  362  of  FIG. 3  and end  562  of  FIG. 5 ) of the first tracks. The stop mechanisms can be formed at least partially by bending the second ends of the first tracks or attaching grommets to the second ends of the first tracks. Subsequent to completing step  614 , step  616  is performed where the method  600  ends, returns to step  602  or continues with the performance of other actions. 
         [0066]    The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Rather, use of the word exemplary is intended to present concepts in a concrete fashion. As used in this application, the term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or” rather than an exclusive “or”. That is, unless specified otherwise, or clear from context, “X employs A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural inclusive permutations. That is if, X employs A; X employs B; or X employs both A and B, then “X employs A or B” is satisfied under any of the foregoing instances. 
         [0067]    The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “including”, “includes”, “having”, “has”, “with”, or variants thereof are used in either the detailed description and/or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising.” 
         [0068]    Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein. 
         [0069]    All of the apparatus, methods and algorithms disclosed and claimed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While the invention has been described in terms of preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to the apparatus, methods and sequence of steps of the method without departing from the concept. spirit and scope of the invention. More specifically, it will be apparent that certain components may be added to, combined with, or substituted for the components described herein while the same or similar results would be achieved. All such similar substitutes and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope and concept of the invention as defined.

Technology Classification (CPC): 0