Patent Document

This U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/858,984, filed Jul. 26, 2013, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. This application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/956,347, filed Nov. 20, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,800,737 issued Aug. 12, 2014, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/265,212, filed Nov. 30, 2009, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to storage cases having one or more storage compartments. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is a backpack having an easily-accessible rigid storage container that protects fragile items. 
     BACKGROUND 
     It is currently known in the art to provide a substantially rigid compartment or shell as a luggage device to protect contents to be stored or carried. There exists a long felt need, however, to provide a luggage unit that offers the convenience of a lightweight and collapsible soft luggage bag while still providing optional protection for smaller items such as glasses, ski goggles, electronic devices, and the like. For example, when soft shell luggage is desired for travel and transportation where the luggage may be subjected to impact or compression, a relatively small portion of the luggage that provides protection from impact and/or compression forces is desirable. Additionally, protection from impact and compression from objects co-housed within the luggage is often desirable. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 4,629,040 to Jones discloses a rigid insert provided in a soft luggage shell that is removably held in place by a twistable retainer ring and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. However, Jones fails to teach a device wherein the rigid insert occupies only a portion of the soft luggage shell that isolates certain items in a rigid surrounding and thereby protects the items from impact from other items in the luggage as well as impact and compression from outside forces. Accordingly, Jones fails to teach novel aspects of the present invention. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 5,197,580 to Berman et al., which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, discloses a collapsible article of luggage in which a plurality of reinforcing panels or inserts allow the luggage to assume either a rigid or collapsible form. Berman et al. fail to teach a rigid pocket or compartment that is capable of storing objects in relative isolation from other luggage contents. Accordingly, Berman fails to teach novel aspects of the present invention. 
     U.S. Pat. No. 6,446,688 to Sutton, hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, discloses a carry bag with a pouch insert and magnetic fasteners so that purse or bag contents may be easily transferred to another bag. Sutton does not teach an insert or compartment suitable for protecting contents from forces that may be applied by additional bag or luggage contents or from the outside environment. Accordingly, Sutton fails to teach novel aspects of the present invention. 
     Backpacks often include a plurality of storage areas for the receipt of books, laptop computers, cell phones, and other important or valuable items. Most backpacks are made of a soft, compliant material, which makes the items stored therein susceptible to damage if the backpack is dropped or mishandled. Stated differently, the fabric outer material employed by most backpacks does little to protect the items stored therein from shock or impact damage. Thus, to ensure fragile items are protected, a secondary case for those items must be employed. For example, glasses are also stored in a specialized case that is placed in the backpack. Individuals, however, often do not employ this secondary layer protection or forget/misplace item-specific protective cases. 
     Thus it is a long felt need to provide a backpack or other storage device that includes a compartment that protects the items stored therein from damage (especially against impact or shock damage). One embodiment of the present invention provides a rigid storage case that is accessible by way of a door located on the outer surface of the backpack. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present invention relates generally to an apparatus that offers the flexibility and convenience of a conventional soft luggage piece with an additional rigid storage compartment. More specifically, the present invention relates to a soft luggage piece with a removable insert that may be optionally employed to protect contents such as glasses, goggles, electronics, and other valuable or delicate items. 
     It is one aspect of the present invention to provide a luggage unit with a selectively removable rigid compartment for protective storage and isolation of items. In one embodiment, the rigid compartment comprises a hard shell which may be disposed within a region of the luggage unit which further comprises a rigid cover or flap for containing the rigid compartment and/or items to be stored. 
     It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a luggage unit with a selectively removable compartment wherein the selectively removable compartment does not increase the total volume of the luggage unit or substantially reduce the usable interior volume of the luggage unit after the removable component is removed from a receiving portion. 
     It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a substantially soft luggage unit that may operate as a traditional soft luggage unit (e.g. backpack) when the selectively removable compartment is not employed. 
     It is yet another embodiment of the present invention to provide a device that allows a user to insert and remove a rigid compartment with relative ease and quickness while still providing secure attachment means so that the risks of loss or displacement of the rigid compartment are reduced. 
     In various embodiments, the present invention comprises an insertable rigid compartment which is dimensioned to be securely placed within a flexible compartment of a bag or luggage device, the compartment specifically adapted to receive the rigid compartment. For example, in one embodiment, a rigid insert or case is provided with a length, width and depth, wherein the depth of the insert is the only dimension capable of being inserted into an initial opening or perimeter edge of the compartment adapted to receive the insert. In other words, the depth of the insert is less than the width of the receiving portion. Thus, in one embodiment, the insert must be placed in the compartment by positioning the insert in a manner that is offset or obtuse from an intended final position and rotated into a secure position until it is to be selectively removed via similar procedures. While in place, the insert is impeded from inadvertent removal by the length or width of the insert being larger than the length or width of at least a perimeter edge of the receiving portion. Further, the flexible compartment or “receiving portion” in one embodiment is comprised of a stretchable material which biases the rigid insert upward against the edge of the perimeter opening to the receiving portion. 
     As used herein, “obtuse” refers to an orientation of a rigid insert, wherein a planar opening portion of the insert, and therefore the insert itself, is generally offset with respect to a plane of the receiving portion and/or perimeter edge. It will be recognized that the offset may be with respect to any of the three axes of the insert or combinations thereof. 
     In an alternative embodiment, the present invention comprises an insert adapted to be placed within a luggage compartment, wherein the insert comprises an at least partially deformable material. For example, in one embodiment, an insert is provided comprising an elastically deformable material, such as a rubber, which is adapted to elastically deform under specific user-applied forces yet generally provide protection for delicate items (e.g. glasses) when the insert is subject to various forces. The elastically deformable insert may be temporarily deformed by a user for the purposes of inserting the insert into a compartment, wherein the insert elastically restores to an original position adapted for storing and protecting items. 
     In various embodiments, the present invention comprises a luggage item with a selectively insertable and substantially rigid insert wherein the substantially rigid insert is at least partially affixed to the luggage item through one or more fastening devices. Fastening devices of the present invention include, but not are not limited to zippers, snaps, Velcro, buttons, magnets, cord locks, and similar devices. For example, in one embodiment, a substantially rigid insert is secured within a portion of a luggage item by zippering an edge portion of the insert to one or more zippers disposed on the luggage item. 
     In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a substantially rigid insert which is permanently interconnected to a portion of a luggage item. For example, in a particular embodiment, a luggage item is provided having a substantially rigid insert disposed therein, the interior and contents of the insert only being accessible from an exterior of the luggage item. The insert may be securely affixed to a portion of the luggage item, such as through stitching or sewing a portion of the insert to the luggage item. Access is provided by a hinged cover, preferably also constructed of a substantially rigid material and being selectively closable through the use of one or more zippers. In an alternative embodiment, a similar arrangement is provided wherein access to the interior and contents of the insert is achieved through an interior portion of the luggage item. 
     Substantially rigid inserts, hinged covers, etc. of the present invention are preferably constructed of one or more rigid materials including, but not limited to polypropylene, polyethylene, and various similar materials and polymers. In a preferred embodiment, at least an interior portion of an insert is provided with a shock absorbing material, such as EVA foam and optionally covered or coated with a non-abrasive textile. 
     In one embodiment, a luggage item comprises a compartment for receiving at least one substantially rigid insert, the compartment comprising a perimeter edge, lip or initial portion through which the insert is received and a portion of elastically deformable material generally disposed interior of the perimeter edge for receiving and stabilizing an insert. For example, in one embodiment, a luggage item is provided comprising a lip or initial portion defining an aperture and a stretchable product, such as lycra, extending inwardly from the initial portion. The stretchable or elastic product is designed to expand as necessary and receive a substantially rigid insert. Similarly, when the use and/or placement of an insert are not desired, the compartment comprising an elastically deformable material provides a non-rigid, flexible structure which collapses, and hence does not occupy a substantial internal volume of the luggage device. 
     In an alternate embodiment, a luggage item is provided having an aperture portion adapted for receiving a lip or perimeter edge of a removable insert, the outer portion of the removable insert being generally exposed to an internal volume and potential contents of the luggage item. Thus, in at least one embodiment, the present invention does not comprise a pouch or compartment for receiving an insert. Rather, the rigid structure of the insert and connection with a lip or initial portion of the luggage item defines a space within which items may be stored and/or secured. 
     In yet another embodiment, the present invention comprises a self-contained or “take-away” case which does not require combination with a luggage item for use. For example, a substantially rigid insert is provided with an attached lid or closable portion such that the insert may be positioned within a portion of a luggage item, or may function solely as a rigid case or compartment without combination with the luggage item. 
     In various embodiments of the present invention, a carrying bag for storing articles is provided, the carrying bag comprising a substantially rigid insert and a receiving portion for the substantially rigid insert. In one embodiment, the receiving portion is at least partially disposed within an internal volume of the carrying bag and is adapted for selectively receiving the substantially rigid insert. The receiving portion may comprise an elastic material, such as spandex, lycra, cotton, rubber, etc., extending into an inner volume of the carrying bag in at least one state. Optionally, a substantially rigid hinged cover for selectively sealing the receiving portion is provided, the hinged cover being attached to the carrying bag and adapted for closing or sealing a receiving portion, whether or not the rigid insert is disposed therein. 
     In one embodiment, the substantially rigid insert or case has a width greater than a defined width of a perimeter edge of the receiving portion, a defined length greater than a length of a perimeter edge of the receiving portion, and at least one dimension, e.g. a depth less than a defined width of the receiving portion. Thus, the substantially rigid insert may be secured within the receiving portion by inserting the rigid compartment at an angle obtuse to a planar portion of a receiving portion, and exerting a rotational and linear force on the rigid compartment. 
     In a particular embodiment, a receiving portion and insert contained therein is only accessible from the exterior of the carrying bag. In an alternative embodiment, the receiving portion and contents thereof are accessible through an interior portion of the carrying bag. 
     One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize various means and/or devices by which the rigid insert may be secured within the receiving portion, including, but not limited to zippers, Velcro, magnets, and a pliable lip. 
     It is contemplated that the receiving portion and/or insert comprise a relatively small usable volume as compared with the volume of the carrying bag. For example, in one embodiment, an insert and receiving portion is provided which is no greater than ¼ of the volume of the bag generally. Thus, in various embodiments, the insert and receiving portion are adapted for carrying small or delicate items such as glasses, goggles, electronics, etc. 
     In one embodiment, a substantially rigid insert of the present invention comprises a generally rectilinear device comprising at least five walls. As used herein, generally rectilinear refers to an object having generally distinct wall structures and a defined interior volume, but is not limited to a device with sidewalls or walls at right angles to one another. Indeed, it is contemplated that the insert may have round or curved walls and, in alternative embodiments, comprises a generally hemispherical shape. In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a generally rectilinear object having six walls, at least one of the walls being hingedly connected to a remainder of the insert and sealable or closeable through various devices, such as zippers, snaps, Velcro, etc. 
     As used herein, means for securing the substantially rigid insert within the receiving portion refers to any number of known securing devices including, but not limited to magnets, Velcro, zippers, snaps, cords, elastic cords, cord locks, flaps, etc. 
     In various embodiments, a carrying bag with a removable accessory case or rigid insert for storing fragile articles is provided, the carrying bag further comprising an enclosure defined by at least a bottom portion and opposing side walls. As used herein, a bottom portion of an enclosure refers to a portion disposed generally opposite an entrance or perimeter edge portion of the enclosure, regardless of how the enclosure is oriented with respect to the carrying bag. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that features of the present invention may be disposed in any number of orientations with respect to a carrying bag. Thus, the terms bottom or lower used herein refer to an inner portion of the enclosure disposed opposite a receiving portion, the bottom portion and the perimeter opening having generally parallel planes. As used herein, a perimeter opening refers to a generally planar portion or aperture that comprises an area through which an insert or accessory case may be placed through a sidewall portion of a bag and thus contained, disposed, and/or secured within a receiving portion. 
     In one embodiment, a collapsible, stretchable receiving portion is provided at least partially disposed within said enclosure of said carrying bag with a substantially rigid case being selectively removable from the carrying bag and defined by at least a plurality of sidewalls to provide a protective space which is adapted to store a fragile article. The stretchable receiving portion in one embodiment provides a biasing force which secures the removable accessory case against a lower surface of the perimeter edge of the receiving portion, and thus prevents inadvertent removal thereof. The substantially rigid case may comprise at least one dimension that is larger than a corresponding dimension of a perimeter opening of the receiving portion, thus providing for a secure mating or fit of the removable accessory case within the receiving portion and inside the perimeter opening. 
     In one embodiment, the substantially rigid case is secured within the receiving portion by inserting the rigid compartment at an angle obtuse with respect to a planar portion of said perimeter opening, and exerting a rotational and linear force on the rigid compartment to provide securement. A cover may further be provided for selectively closing the receiving portion. 
     In various embodiments, a carrying bag for storing articles in two distinct compartments is provided. The carrying bag comprises a first enclosure defined by at least a bottom portion and a plurality of side walls and a second enclosure defined by a flexible, collapsible receiving portion which is disposed within the confines of the first enclosure and having a perimeter opening with an edge having a defined width and length. 
     In one embodiment, a substantially rigid insert that is removable from the carrying bag is provided wherein the rigid insert has at least one of a width greater than said width of said edge of said perimeter opening of the receiving portion, and a length longer than the length of said edge of said perimeter opening of the receiving portion. The substantially rigid insert is positioned within the flexible receiving portion by positioning the rigid insert at an obtuse angle with respect to the plane of the perimeter opening, and the insert is retained within said collapsible retaining portion by engaging a lower surface of the perimeter opening. 
     Thus, in various embodiments, a substantially rigid insert is provided having at least one dimension that is larger than a corresponding dimension of a perimeter opening of a receiving portion in which the insert may be housed. Accordingly, predetermined orientation and/or rotation of the insert are required in order to place the insert within the receiving portion and remove the insert from the receiving portion, thereby providing for secure containment of the insert when disposed within the receiving portion. 
     One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that features and devices of the present invention are not limited to any particular type, size, or style of luggage item. Inserts and receiving portions as described herein may be employed in various different luggage items including, but not limited to duffle bags, laptop bags, camera bags, hand bags, attaché bags, brief cases, satchels, messenger bags, backpacks, waist packs, tote bags, rolling bags, etc. It will further be recognized that substantially rigid inserts of the present invention are not limited to those designed to carry any particular item. Indeed, inserts of the present invention may be sized and/or adapted to carry any number of items which an individual may wish to isolate or protect. 
     In various embodiments, a luggage item is provided with a rigid container wherein the rigid container is integrally fixed (i.e. not selectively removable) from the luggage item. In a preferred embodiment, the rigid container is accessible only from an exterior of the bag, and through at least one door hingedly connected to the container. In such embodiment, the container and the interior volume of the container is not accessible from within a main storage compartment of the luggage item. In certain embodiments, the luggage item comprises an outer fabric and an internal liner portion, and wherein the rigid container is provided between the outer fabric and the internal liner portion such that the rigid container is not visible or accessible from an interior of a main storage area of the luggage item. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the general description of the invention given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of these inventions. 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of a luggage unit with a substantially rigid removable compartment. 
         FIG. 2  is a top view of a luggage unit with a substantially rigid removable compartment. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a luggage unit with a substantially rigid removable compartment according to another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a substantially rigid removable compartment according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a front perspective view of a luggage unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a front perspective view of a luggage unit according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view showing a backpack with a rigid storage compartment according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view showing the backpack of  FIG. 8  and with a protective storage area in a partially open configuration; 
         FIG. 10  is a partial cross-sectional elevation view of a storage compartment according to one embodiment of the present invention taken at line A-A of  FIG. 8 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional perspective view of a storage compartment according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional elevation view of a storage compartment according to one embodiment of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a storage compartment according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1-3 , a luggage unit  10  with a substantially rigid removable compartment or insert  14 , a receiving area  18  for the substantially rigid insert, and a substantially rigid cover or closure means  22  is shown. The receiving portion  18  comprises a perimeter edge  8 , the perimeter edge having a length and a width. As shown in  FIG. 1 , the length of the perimeter edge refers to a horizontal dimension and the width refers to a vertical dimension. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the receiving area and corresponding perimeter edge may be oriented in any number of positions with respect to a luggage unit  10 . 
     In one embodiment, luggage unit  10  is a generally soft or compressible bag, such as a “duffle” or “tote” bag with at least one compartment  26  for stowing items. One skilled in the art will appreciate that compartment  26  may house any number of items desired to be carried or transported by a user. It will further be appreciated that luggage units of this type may be made of any number of materials including, but not limited to nylon, canvas, cotton, leather, polyester or other similar materials and combinations thereof. Advantages of these devices, as will be recognized, include lightweight and compressibility or ease of storage when not in use. However, these devices suffer from disadvantages of having minimal impact resistance and objects disposed within these bags may be damaged upon dropping the bag or when other items impact or compress the bag. 
     Rigid insert  14  is provided as shown to allow for the protected storage of items within a generally soft bag. Rigid insert  14  may be disposed within a soft and flexible receiving portion  18 . In one embodiment, the receiving portion  18  is comprised of a flexible material (e.g. spandex or other synthetic elastic material) capable of conforming to the dimensions of the rigid insert  14 . Furthermore, receiving portion  18  is preferably constructed of a material with little structural integrity, thus preventing receiving portion  18  from maintaining a shape that may occupy a substantial portion of the interior volume of the compartment  26  when the rigid insert  14  is not used. 
     One skilled in the art will recognize that although receiving portion  18  is preferably intended to receive a rigid insert  14 , it may also be used for stowage of items whether or not a rigid insert  14  is disposed within the receiving portion  18 . Rigid insert  14  may be constructed of a lightweight material that resists deformation and fracture from externally applied forces. Those skilled in the art will recognize that various materials may be employed to achieve objectives of the present invention. By way of example only, polypropylene, high density polyethylene, ultra high molecular weight polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), carbon fiber, steels, and rubbers are a few of the materials which may comprise the rigid compartment  14 . Rigid insert  14  may be coated with a non-abrasive material, such as a textile or rubber, so as to further prevent damage to items stowed within. 
     The present invention further contemplates a receiving portion  18  that does not comprise a flexible pouch or interior portion. For example, a rigid insert  14  may be disposed within an aperture of the luggage unit  10  wherein the rigid insert  14  is held in place by a lip or edge portion of the aperture. When the rigid compartment is not disposed within the bag, a flap or cover  22  may be closed to seal the luggage unit  10 . Furthermore, various alternative embodiments and equivalents are contemplated by the present invention, including providing a net or wireframe in place of receiving portion  18  and providing various fastening means such as Velcro®, a zipper, magnet(s), and/or snaps to affix the rigid compartment  14  to the luggage unit  10 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , an embodiment of the present invention is shown wherein the geometries of a rigid insert  14  and corresponding receiving portion  18  are utilized to provide additional fixation of the rigid insert  14 . As one object of the present invention is to securely stow and transport delicate or valuable items, it is desirable to provide means for ensuring that the rigid insert  14  will not be easily dislodged from the present invention  10 . Accordingly, in one embodiment, rigid insert  14  is constructed with a width greater than a width of the perimeter edge or first portion of the receiving portion  18  and a depth less than a width of a first portion or perimeter edge of receiving portion  18 . Accordingly, in order to insert rigid insert  14 , it is necessary to first orient the rigid insert  14  in a first position wherein the depth of the rigid insert  14  is allowed to pass through the width of first portion of receiving portion  18 . Once the rigid insert  14  has been substantially inserted into the receiving portion  18 , it may then be turned and/or rotated to its ultimate desired orientation. It will be recognized that this process may simply be reversed in order to extract the rigid insert  14 . It will further be recognized that this feature of the present invention may similarly be achieved by any number of variations to the geometries described herein. In one embodiment, the receiving portion  18  is comprised of a flexible material, such as the previously described spandex, to accommodate this insertion and extraction process. This process requires a sufficient level of user input to insert and extract the rigid insert  14  and thus reduces the risk of the rigid insert  14  becoming involuntarily dislodged. 
     In another embodiment, a rigid compartment  14  may be sized so that it requires insertion at an angle obtuse to a planar surface of an aperture of the receiving portion  18 . The rigid compartment  14  may be sized so that it does not mate with the receiving portion  18  unless it is first directed toward the receiving portion at an obtuse angle and a user either rotates or applies torsion to the rigid compartment in order to insert the entirety of the compartment  14  into the receiving portion  18 . 
     In another embodiment, the rigid insert  14  may be comprised of a substantially rigid material that is sufficient to prevent or mitigate the risk of damage to components housed within due to impact or compression forces, yet is still somewhat deformable under torsion. One of skill in the art will recognize various materials, including, but not limited to, rubbers and wireframe materials that may be suitable for this purpose. The use of these materials may allow for the construction of a rigid insert  14  that is larger than at least an entrance or aperture of the receiving portion  18 . Such a rigid compartment may still be inserted into the receiving portion  18  by deforming the insert  14  under torsion, inserting the insert  14 , and allowing it to reform to an original shape due to its own elastic forces. 
     In one embodiment, the rigid insert  14  may be comprised of two or more independent pieces which, when inserted sequentially, combine to form a single rigid insert  14  or housing. For example, one or more of a top, sides, and back portions of a insert  14  may be inserted into receiving compartments to ultimately form a single compartment within which items may be housed. 
     In another embodiment, a rigid insert  14  may be securely held within a soft luggage unit  10  by a rigid or semi rigid structure(s) surrounding an opening of the receiving portion  18 . For example, an opening of a receiving portion  18  may comprise a pliable lip or perimeter edge  8  which requires at least some reformation by a user in order to insert a rigid insert  14 . Once a rigid insert  14  is inserted into a receiving portion  18 , the pliable lip or edge may provide sufficient restraint to prevent or reduce the risk of the rigid insert  14  becoming involuntarily dislodged. Additionally, a lip or perimeter edge  8  of a receiving portion  18  may comprise a buckle or fastener which allows for the lip or perimeter  8  edge to be expanded, the rigid insert  14  inserted, and the lip or perimeter  8  edge to be subsequently contracted and re-fastened so as to prevent or minimize the risk of loss of a rigid insert  14 . One of skill in the art will recognize various fasteners that may be utilized in this embodiment, including, but not limited to, snaps, buckles, Velcro, elastic draw strings, laces, etc. 
     One of skill in the art will further recognize various different methods for securing the removable rigid insert  14 . Rigid insert  14  may be secured within the bag  10  by a zipper or zippers, magnetic fastener(s), Velcro®, and various other means that allow for selective application and removal of the rigid compartment  14 . For example, a zipper may be employed to secure at least part or a whole of the circumference of a rigid insert  14  to an aperture of the receiving portion  18 . In one embodiment, the rigid compartment  14  may have Velcro portions which are received by corresponding Velcro portions within the receiving portion  18 . In another embodiment, the compartment  14  may contain any number of magnetic portions, or be comprised of a magnetic material, which attached to corresponding magnetic portions of the receiving portion  18 . One of skill in the art will recognize that these fastening means may be used either in addition to or in place of various other embodiments. 
     Although  FIGS. 1-3  depict a single rigid insert  14  and a single receiving portion  18 , it will be recognized that any number of additional rigid compartment and receiving portions of similar design and construction may be included in a soft luggage piece  10 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 4 , alternative embodiments of the present invention are shown wherein a rigid insert  14  may be disposed within different luggage units. These additional luggage units may comprise backpacks, shoulder bags, or specialty bags such as ski and snowboard bags. As one of skill in the art will recognize, the precise location of the rigid insert  14  is not critical to the present invention. While it is sometimes desirable to provide a rigid insert  14  that is accessible from the exterior of the luggage unit  10 , the disclosed device also contemplates the same or similar rigid portion  14  that is accessible from an interior portion or pocket of the luggage unit  10 . 
       FIG. 5  depicts a detailed view of a substantially rigid insert  14  according to one embodiment of the present invention. The insert  14  comprises a length L, a width W, and a depth D. The insert is sized so as to fit within a receiving portion of one or more luggage items. However, as shown and described herein, at least one of the width and/or length of the insert  14  is sized such that it is larger than a corresponding width and/or length of a perimeter edge  8  of the receiving portion  18 . Accordingly, specific manipulation is required to both insert and remove the insert from the receiving portion, providing for secure containment of the insert  14  and thereby reducing or minimizing risk of loss of the same. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , an embodiment is depicted wherein a rigid insert  14  requires specific operation by a user in order to be disposed within a receiving portion  18 . Rigid insert  14  is preferably inserted into receiving portion  18  by applying both a linear force  30  and a rotational force  34 . As previously described, a rigid insert  14  may be dimensioned so that at least some dimensions of the rigid insert  14  are larger than corresponding dimensions of first portion or a perimeter edge  8  of receiving portion  18 . Accordingly, rigid insert  14  must first be positioned so that, for example, its height is to pass through a width of receiving portion  18  in order to dispose the insert within the receiving portion 
     Rigid insert  14  may also need to be positioned at an angle obtuse to a planar surface of receiving portion  18 . In order to insert the rigid insert  14 , rotational force  34  may be applied in addition to linear force  30 . In one embodiment, once a rigid insert  14  is inserted and properly aligned, at least one of its dimensions will be greater than a corresponding dimension of a first part or perimeter edge of a receiving portion  18 . In this manner, risk of the rigid compartment  14  becoming involuntarily dislodged and/or lost is reduced. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 7 , a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention is shown wherein a rigid compartment  14  is disposed within a receiving portion  18 . As shown, the width and length of the insert  14  are greater than the width and length of the perimeter edge  8  of the receiving portion  18 . The receiving portion  18  comprises a stretchable, collapsible material which acts to bias the insert  14  such that a top portion of the insert  14  is in communication with a bottom or interior portion of the perimeter edge  8 . Thus, the insert  14  is secured within the receiving portion  18  until an appropriate combination of user applied forces and/or rotation is employed to intentionally remove the insert. 
       FIG. 8  depicts an embodiment of the present invention wherein a backpack  2  is provided that includes a primary storage compartment  1  secured or closed by a zipper  3  and a secondary storage compartment  6  comprising a rigid interior container that is closed by a door  15 . At least a portion of the door  15  is selectively interconnected to an outer fabric or surface  19  of the bag  2  by way of a zipper  23  or similar closure means. One of skill in the art will appreciate that other known closure mechanisms may be used to selectively interconnect the door  15  to the outer surface  19  of the bag  2  without departing from the scope of the invention. 
     The door  15  of one embodiment of the present invention is hingedly interconnected to the outer surface  19  of the bag  2 . In various embodiments the door  15  comprises a rigid door member. Alternatively, the door member  15  may be a flexible or non-rigid member. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 8 , a hinge  27  is provided for hingedly securing the door  15  to the bag  2 . The hinge  27  comprises a flexible hinge that is devoid of the zipper  23  or similar closure means. Accordingly, in preferred embodiments, the zipper  23  extends around only a portion of a perimeter or circumference of the door  15 . 
       FIG. 9  is a perspective view of the embodiment of  FIG. 8  wherein the door  15  is provided in a partially open position, revealing an interior volume  11  of a secondary storage compartment  6 . As shown, the door  15  comprises a flange  28  for extending at least partially into the interior volume  11 . The flange  28  extends around at least a portion of the perimeter or circumference of the door. For example, and as shown in  FIG. 9 , the flange  28  extends around three sides of a rectilinear door wherein the edge or portion of the door  15  comprising the hinge  27  is devoid of the flange  28 . A zipper pull  24  is provided for operating the zipper or closure means  23 . 
       FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional elevation view of one embodiment of the present invention and taken about line A-A of  FIG. 8 . Referring now to  FIG. 10 , the door  15  comprises a flange  28  that engages an inner surface  31  of the compartment  6 . When the door  15  is closed, the backpack fabric  19  extends over the door and is interconnected to a reminder of the fabric  19  of the bag  2  by way of a zipper  23 , for example. The flange  28  extends substantially perpendicular to a planar portion of the door  15  and substantially parallel to at least one sidewall of the secondary storage compartment  6 . Such a configuration gives the bag  2  a unified aesthetic appearance. Thus, embodiments of the present invention comprise a substantially flush outer surface, at least when the door  15  is closed and the zipper  23  secured or closed. Additionally, the closure features of the secondary storage compartment  6  as shown and described herein provide a frictional fit that prevents or reduces entrance of debris, dust, water, etc. 
     The flange  28  is contemplated as comprising any one of a number of materials. In certain embodiments, the flange  28  provides a frictional fit with a sidewall  31  that prevents unwanted entrance of materials including, but not limited to debris, dust, water and the like. In one embodiment, the flange comprises a material that is elastically deformable (e.g. rubber) that is adapted to seal against the sidewall  31 . In various embodiments, sidewalls of the storage compartment  6  may similarly comprise elastically deformable materials to provide such a seal or fit. 
     In operation, to access the secondary storage compartment  6  the zipper is opened with a zipper pull  24 , thereby allowing the door  15  to be rotated open. After items are placed within the secondary storage compartment  6 , the door  15  may be closed and the zipper  23  reengaged. Thus a secure and impact-resistant storage area is provided which will protect fragile items. 
       FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional perspective view of a carrying bag with a primary  1  and secondary storage compartment  6  according to one embodiment of the present invention. The primary storage area  1  and secondary storage area  6  are generally divided or separated by a panel member  17 . The panel member  17  comprises a fabric or textile member, for example, that defines at least a portion of the volume of the primary storage area  1 . The panel member  17  and relative positioning of the storage containers  1 ,  6  are not limited to the embodiment provided in  FIG. 11 . It is contemplated that the embodiment of  FIG. 10 , for example, similarly comprises such features. As shown, the secondary storage compartment  6  of  FIG. 11  comprises a door  15  that is hingedly connected to the lower portion by a hinge  27 . A free end  37  of the door is provided opposite the hinge portion  27 . An interior of a sidewall portion  31  comprises a stop  36 , the stop  36  comprising an inward projection for limiting the amount of rotation of the door  15  and preventing the door from rotating into the interior volume  11  of the secondary storage compartment  6 . In various embodiments, the stop  36  is provided and positioned to allow the door  15  to be provided substantially flush with an outer surface of the bag  2 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 11 , the stop  36  limits rotation and/or closure of the door  15 , such that when the door  15  is closed the outer fabric portions  19   a ,  19   b  of the bag are aligned and/or substantially coplanar with one another to facilitate closure of the zipper  23  and generally enhance the ease of use of the bag. 
       FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention comprising a hinge member  27 , the hinge member  27  comprising two flange members  39   a ,  39   b  on one side of the secondary storage compartment  6 . Mating flanges  39   a ,  39   b  are provided such that at least a portion of the hinge is flexible and allows the container  6  and door  15  to be opened from a location substantially opposite the hinge member  27 . The hinge flanges  39   a ,  39   b  may be placed in contact with one another and secured by various means, including welds, stitching, etc. 
     The door member  15  of  FIG. 12  opens at a position opposite the hinge member  27 . The compartment  6  comprises a peripheral edge  42 . The peripheral edge generally comprises a shelf portion extending around the container  6 , with the exception of the hinge  27 . In certain embodiments where the compartment  6  comprises a generally rectilinear shape, the peripheral edge  42  extends around three of the four sides of the rectilinear shape. In the embodiment of  FIG. 12 , the door  15  comprises a flange or lip  41  for contacting the peripheral edge  42 . The lip  41  preferably extends at an angle from a planar or main portion of the door  15 . Such angle is preferably at least approximately 50 degrees. In certain embodiments, the lip  41  extends from a remainder of the door  15  and is substantially perpendicular to the door  15 . In a preferred embodiment, the lip  41  and peripheral edge  42  comprise members that are substantially perpendicular to one another. In one embodiment, an angle provided at an interior corner of the flange and between the planar portion of the door  15  and the lip  41  is approximately 96 degrees. In another embodiment, an angle provided at an interior corner of the flange and between the planar portion of the door  15  and the lip  41  is approximately 120 degrees. 
     The relative positioning of the lip  41  and the peripheral edge  42  prevents over-rotation of the door  15  about the hinge  27 . That is, the door  15  is allowed to hinge open at the hinge member  27 , but is prevented from rotating into an interior volume  11  of the compartment  6  due to contact between the lip  41  and the peripheral edge  42 . 
     The secondary storage compartment  6  may be of any shape. For example, the compartment  6  may accommodate most eyeglasses. Other embodiments include a compartment that is customized to receive and protect specific eyewear or specific electronic devices. The zipper  23  may be water-tight such that water ingress into the container is prevented. In one embodiment of the present invention, the compartment  6  and the door  15  are made of a rigid plastic material that is shock and impact resistant. One of skill in the art will appreciate that as long as the storage area is of a stiffer material than the backpack fabric, additional protection will be afforded the items stored within a compartment  6 . The compartment  6  may also have an opening that accommodates a headphone wire that interconnects to a cell phone or other music playing device. The compartment  6  may be made of an insulative material where stored items will maintain the desired temperature. 
       FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a storage compartment according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown, a secondary storage compartment  6  comprises a volume  11  which is selectively covered or sealed by door  15 . In certain embodiments, the door  15  comprises a depression  40  to provide structural rigidity to the door and reduce deflection or deformation of the door  15 . The door  15  is provided in association with the secondary storage compartment  6  and is hingedly connected to the container via a hinge  38 . The hinge  38  may comprise any number of features, fasteners, or securement members to allow to the door  15  to rotate or hinge relative to the secondary storage compartment  6 . The present invention is not limited to any particular hinge or linkage device. In certain embodiments, the door  15  and secondary storage compartment  6  are stitched together, either directly or indirectly (e.g. with the inclusion of additional fabric material). The secondary storage compartment  6  comprises a peripheral edge  42  that generally comprises a flat shelf portion. The peripheral edge  42  receives an edge of the door  15  to secure or close the secondary storage compartment  6 . The peripheral edge  42  extends around the secondary storage compartment  6 . The door  15  is mated with the secondary storage compartment  6  at the hinge  38  by two substantially parallel or flush portions  38   a ,  38   b.    
     Substantially rigid inserts, hinged covers, etc. of the present invention are preferably constructed of one or more rigid materials including, but not limited to polypropylene, polyethylene, and various similar materials and polymers. In a preferred embodiment, at least an interior portion of an insert is provided with a shock absorbing material, such as EVA foam and optionally covered or coated with a non-abrasive textile.

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