US20150026884A1

US20150026884A1 - Blanket with multiple functionality and system

Info

Publication number: US20150026884A1
Application number: US14/297,608
Authority: US
Inventors: Simcha Brown
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2013-06-06
Filing date: 2014-06-05
Publication date: 2015-01-29
Also published as: US20150027506A1; US20150028639A1

Abstract

A blanket with multiple functionality and a system for organizing articles with the blanket is disclosed and described. This multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to provide comfort and protection from the elements to a user. In various exemplary embodiments, this multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to permit removable attachment of the blanket to various objects, such as to strollers and to child-carriers by an edge-attachment-means. In various exemplary embodiments, this multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to permit holding of various articles in at least one pocket. The at least one pocket may be in direct communication with the blanket and may be integral with the blanket. In some embodiments, the at least one pocket may further comprise a means for removably tethering the various articles to the at least one pocket, such that loss of the article may be mitigated.

Description

PRIORITY NOTICE

The present application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/832,044 filed on Jun. 6, 2013, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERAL SPONSORSHIP

No part of this invention was a result of any federally sponsored research.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to blankets with multiple functionality and to systems for organizing articles with such blankets, wherein such multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to provide: comfort and protection from the elements to a user; removable attachment of the blanket to strollers and to child-carriers; and holding articles in at least one pocket; wherein the at least one pocket may comprise additional features such as tethers and/or insulation.

COPYRIGHT AND TRADEMARK NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent application may contain material that is subject to copyright protection. The owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyrights whatsoever.
Certain marks referenced herein may be common law or registered trademarks of third parties affiliated or unaffiliated with the applicant or the assignee. Use of these marks is by way of example and should not be construed as descriptive or to limit the scope of this invention to material associated only with such marks.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is well known that infants, and to a lesser degree toddlers, and to a lesser degree still may require traveling with various objects to facilitate ease of transportation. Such objects may include the physical means for assisting in safe transportation, such as strollers, car seats (including booster car seats), and infant carriers (described as child-carriers herein). Additionally because of their small size, they are prone to becoming too cold in even mild weather. Thus, it is often desirable to transport such individuals with various blankets to at a minimum provide some degree of comfort and possibly warmth to these individuals. In addition, these individuals also often travel with various articles, with various children's articles. Such articles may comprise handheld items, i.e. items that may be held in one hand of an infant, toddler, child, or small adult. Such articles may comprise: baby bottles, sippy cups, water bottles, handheld snacks, handheld food, pacifiers, teething toys, handheld toys, handheld books, and the like.
And as any parent, guardian, babysitter, and caregiver can attest to, such individuals routinely drop and/or lose such articles, where in the process of such loss, even if only a temporary loss while driving, translates into frustration, annoyance, and aggravation for the parent, guardian, babysitter, and caregiver.
There is a need in the art for a blanket that may be removably attached to such strollers and/or child-carriers such that the blanket itself does not become easily lost or misplaced. In addition, there is a need in the art for a blanket that may provide a means for associating such articles with the blanket, so as to mitigate against such loss.
It is to these ends that the present invention has been developed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

To minimize the limitations in the prior art, and to minimize other limitations that will be apparent upon reading and understanding the present specification, the present invention describes a blanket with multiple functionality and a system for organizing articles with the blanket. This multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to provide comfort and protection from the elements to a user. In various exemplary embodiments, this multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to permit removable attachment of the blanket to various objects, such as to strollers and to child-carriers by an edge-attachment-means. In various exemplary embodiments, this multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to permit holding of various articles in at least one pocket. The at least one pocket may be in direct communication with the blanket and may be integral with the blanket. In some embodiments, the at least one pocket may further comprise a means for removably tethering the various articles to the at least one pocket, such that loss of the article may be mitigated.
It is an objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may be used by a user to provide comfort.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may be used by a user to provide warm.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may be used by a user to provide protection from the elements, i.e. the blanket may be waterproof and/or windproof.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may be removably attached to a stroller, such that a user riding within the stroller may receive the benefit of the blanket.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may be removably attached to a child-carrier, such at a user riding within the child-carrier may receive the benefits of the blanket.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise at least one pocket for holding (storing, containing) various articles associated with infants, toddlers, children, and/or small adults.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise at least one pocket that may be integral with the blanket, wherein the at least one pocket may be permanently attached to the blanket.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise at least one pocket that may be removable from the blanket.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise at least one pocket that may be configured as a bottle holder, utilizing elastomeric materials that may frictionally grip the bottle being removably held within the at least one pocket.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise at least one pocket that may be substantially surrounded (bounded) by insulating materials such that the at least one pocket may be an insulated-pocket, wherein the insulated-pocket may protecting articles being removably held within the insulated-pocket from heating and/or cooling too quickly.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise at least one pocket that may further comprise a tethering means (leashing means) for removably attaching an article to the at least one pocket.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise at least one pocket that may further comprise a tethering means (leashing means), wherein the tethering means may removably attach a bottle and/or a pacifier to the at least one pocket.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise at least one pocket that may comprise an opening, wherein the opening may be removably closed (sealed).
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise a second-pocket, in addition to the at least one pocket.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise a second-pocket, wherein the second-pocket may be in communication with the at least one pocket.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise a second-pocket, wherein the second-pocket may be disposed between the at least one pocket and an exterior-surface of the blanket.
It is another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise a second-pocket, wherein the second-pocket may be configured to contain (hold, store) at least one handheld toy.
It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide a blanket that may comprise a second-pocket, wherein the second-pocket may comprise a second-tethering means, wherein the second-tethering means may removably attach at least one handheld toy to the second-pocket.
These and other advantages and features of the present invention are described herein with specificity so as to make the present invention understandable to one of ordinary skill in the art, both with respect to how to practice the present invention and how to make the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Elements in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale in order to enhance their clarity and improve understanding of these various elements and embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, elements that are known to be common and well understood to those in the industry are not depicted in order to provide a clear view of the various embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment a blanket, shown in a flat configuration from a front view.

FIG. 2( a) depicts an exemplary embodiment of a blanket in a process of being rolled into a sleeping bag configuration, shown from a longitudinal side view.

FIG. 2( b) depicts an exemplary embodiment of a blanket, shown in a sleeping bag configuration, shown from a longitudinal side view, and showing an edge-attachment-means.

FIG. 2( c) depicts an exemplary embodiment of a blanket, shown in a sleeping bag configuration, from a longitudinal side view, and one pockets.

FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a blanket removably attached to a stroller.

FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a blanket comprising an inner pocket, shown in a flat configuration and from a perspective view.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A blanket with multiple functionality is disclosed and described. A system for organizing children's articles with the blanket is also disclosed and described. In various exemplary embodiments, this multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning as a normal blanket, i.e. to provide comfort and protection from the elements to a user. In various exemplary embodiments, this multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to permit removable attachment of the blanket to various objects, such as to strollers (e.g. by removably attaching to frame-members of the stroller) and to child-carriers. As used herein, “child-carrier” refers to infant-carriers and car-seats, including booster car-seats, wherein in car-seats may be used for infants, toddlers, children, and small adults. In various exemplary embodiments, this multiple functionality may comprise the blanket functioning to permit holding (containment) of various articles in at least one pocket. The at least one pocket may be in direct communication with the blanket. In some embodiments, the at least one pocket and the blanket may constructed as a singled finished article of manufacture. Such articles may comprise handheld items, i.e. items that may be held in one hand of an infant, toddler, child, or small adult. Such articles may comprise: baby bottles, sippy cups, water bottles, handheld snacks, handheld food, pacifiers, teething toys, handheld toys, handheld books, and the like. Such articles may be designated with 900 series reference numerals in this disclosure. The number of articles held (contained) is limited by a size of the at least one pocket and by a size of the blanket. In some embodiments, the at least one pocket may further comprise a means for removably tethering (leashing) the various articles to the at least one pocket, such that loss of the article may be mitigated.
In the following discussion that addresses a number of embodiments and applications of the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part thereof, where depictions are made, by way of illustration, of specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.
FIG. 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment a blanket 100, shown in a flat configuration from a front view. Blanket 100 may comprise: a periphery, two-surfaces (e.g. 109 and 110), and at least one pocket 200. The periphery may comprise four-edges. The four-edges may comprise: a first-edge 101, a second-edge 102, a third-edge 103, and a fourth-edge 104. First-edge 101 may be in communication with second-edge 102 and fourth-edge 104. Second-edge 102 may also be in communication with third-edge 103. Third-edge 103 may also be in communication with the fourth-edge 104. In some embodiments, this communication may be direct physical contact, such that first-edge 101, second-edge 102, third-edge 103, and fourth-edge 104 may all be constructed as a single finished article of manufacture.
In some embodiments, the four-edges may also comprise four-corners. The four-corners may comprise: a first-corner 105, a second-corner 106, a third-corner 107, and a fourth-corner 108. First-corner 105 may link first-edge 101 to second-edge 102. Second-corner may link second-edge 102 to third-edge 103. Third-corner may link third-edge 103 to fourth-edge 104. Fourth-corner 108 may link fourth-edge 104 to first-edge 101.
In some embodiments, first-edge 101 may be substantially parallel to third-edge 103. First-edge 101 may be substantially separated from third-edge 103 by a length of second-edge 102 and a length of fourth-edge 104. Second-edge 102 may be substantially parallel to fourth-edge 104. Second-edge 102 may be substantially separated from fourth-edge 104 by a length of first-edge 101 and a length of third-edge 103. In some embodiments, first-edge 101 and third-edge 103 may have substantially similar lengths. In some embodiments, second-edge 102 and fourth-edge 104 may have substantially similar lengths. The lengths of first-edge 101 and third-edge 103 may be different than the lengths of second-edge 102 and fourth-edge 104. The geometric relationships between the various four-edges discussed above in this paragraph may be with respect to when blanket 100 may be laid out flat upon a flat surface.
These four-edges may bound the two-surfaces. The two-surfaces may comprise a first-surface 109 and a second-surface 110 disposed oppositely of first-surface 109. See the FIG. 2 series of figures for second-surface 111. First-surface 109 may be depicted in all the figures. Each of the two-surfaces may comprise an exterior-surface 111, i.e. exterior in the sense that a user may interact and physically touch either exterior-surface 111.
In some embodiments, the two-surfaces may be made of one piece of fabric. In some embodiments, the two-surface may be made from two pieces of fabric. When two pieces of fabric may be used to form the two-surfaces, an interior-space disposed between the two-surfaces may be formed. In some embodiments, this interior-space may be filled with an interior-insulating-material. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, this interior-insulating material may comprise down feathers.
In some embodiments, the four-edges may comprise an edge-attachment-means 112. Edge-attachment-means 112 of any of the four-edges may be configured to removably attach to any edge-attachment-means 112 of the four-edges. In some embodiments, edge-attachment-means 112 may be selected from one or more of the group comprising Velcro®, zippers, snap connectors, buttons, and the like. Velcro® as used herein may be a removable fastening system comprising a plurality of hooks on one surface and a complimentary plurality of loops of on another surface.
For example, in embodiments wherein edge-attachment-means 112 comprises Velcro®, edge-attachment-means 112 may be structurally arranged as follows: along each of the four-edges, there may be alternating regions of a plurality of hooks, which may alternate with a complimentary plurality of loops. In some embodiments, these alternating regions may comprise one by one inch squares located along each of the four-edges. For example, edge-attachment-means 112 as depicted in FIG. 1 may be this embodiment. In other embodiments, these alternating regions may be of different dimensions.
FIG. 2( a) depicts an exemplary embodiment of blanket 100 in a process of being rolled into a sleeping bag configuration, shown from a longitudinal side view. FIG. 2( b) depicts an exemplary embodiment of blanket 100, shown in a sleeping bag configuration, shown from a longitudinal side view, and showing edge-attachment-means 112. FIG. 2( c) depicts an exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2( b), showing the sleeping bag configuration, from a longitudinal side view, and at least one pocket 200.
In some embodiments (e.g. in the FIG. 2 series of figures), when edge-attachment-means 112 (e.g. Velcro®) of second-edge 102 may be removably attached to edge-attachment-means 112 of fourth-edge 104, and edge-attachment-means 112 of third-edge 103 may removably attach to itself to form the sleeping bag configuration. Such a sleeping bag configuration of blanket 100 may be used to wrap around an infant, toddler, a child, a small adult, and the like.
Note in the FIG. 2 series of figures, edge-attachment-means 112 may further comprise a plurality of straps. Each strap may comprise two terminal ends, wherein one terminal end may be attached to blanket 100 (e.g. by stitching) and the other remaining terminal end may comprise Velcro®. In some embodiments, any two perpendicular edges (e.g. 101 and 102, 102 and 103, 103 and 104, or 104 and 101) may only comprise the plurality of straps, such that the Velcro® terminals ends of the straps may removably attach to the two remaining edges, at edge-attachment-means 112 of those two edges which do not comprise the plurality of straps, wherein complimentary Velcro® may be located. In some embodiments, all four edges may comprise the plurality of straps, wherein one terminal end has Velcro®. In some embodiments, each strap of the plurality of straps may be removable, i.e. each terminal end may comprise Velcro® or some other attachment means. In some embodiments the straps may have a means for adjusting strap length. In some embodiments, the straps may be six inches or less.
FIG. 3 depicts an exemplary embodiment of blanket removably 100 attached to a stroller 810. In some embodiments, each edge-attachment means 112 may be configured to removably attach to a frame-member 811 of stroller 810, as depicted in FIG. 3 or to removably attach to a child-carrier (not depicted). Removable attachment of blanket 100 to stroller 810 may be such that the user riding within stroller 810 may receive the benefits of blanket 100, i.e. blanket 100 may substantially cover the user and/or the user may be able to access at least one pocket 200 and/or second-pocket 300. In some embodiments, edge-attachment-means 112 may be selected from one or more of the group comprising hooks, bungees with connectors, Velcro®, zippers, snap connectors, buttons, and the like. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, edge-attachment-means 112 may comprise a plurality of plastic hooks wherein each plastic hook may be configured to removably clip onto frame-member 811. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, edge-attachment-means 112 may comprise a plurality of short straps comprising Velcro® wherein each short strap may be configured to wrap around frame-member 811 such that each short strap may Velcro® to itself. In such embodiments, the short straps may be less than six inches in length. In some embodiments, the straps may be adjustable.
In some embodiments, the four-corners may comprise a corner-attachment-means 113. Each corner-attachment means 113 may be configured to removably attach to frame-member 811 of stroller 810 or to removably attach to the child-carrier. In some embodiments, corner-attachment-means 113 may be selected from one or more of the group comprising hooks, bungees with connectors, Velcro®, zippers, snap connectors, buttons, and the like. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, corner-attachment-means 113 may comprise a plurality of plastic hooks wherein each plastic hook may be configured to removably clip onto frame-member 811.
At least one pocket 200 may comprise: an opening 201 and a cavity. See e.g. FIG. 1, FIG. 2( c), and FIG. 3. Opening 201 may provide access to the cavity. The cavity may be of a volume configured to contain the various articles 900, i.e. to removably contain one or more articles 900. In some embodiments, at least one pocket 200 may be located on either or both of the two exterior-surfaces 111. In some embodiments, at least one pocket 200 may be located proximally to one of the exterior-surfaces 111, separated from one (closest) exterior-surface 111 by a second-pocket 300. Second-pocket 300 may be located on the one exterior-surface 111 closest to at least one pocket 200. Second-pocket 300 is discussed further in a discussion of FIG. 4, after a more detailed discussion of at least one pocket 200.
In some embodiments, there may be a plurality of pockets 200. Such a plurality of pockets 200 may all be located on the same exterior-surface 111. Such a plurality of pockets 200 may be located such that some pockets 200 may be located on one exterior-surface 111, while the remaining pockets 200 may be located on the other exterior-surface 111. A number (quantity) of pockets 200 that may be located on blanket 100 is physically limited by the size of the blanket 100, i.e. by an available surface area of each exterior-surface 111.
In some embodiments, at least one pocket 200 may comprise a closure-means 203. Closure-means 203 may be configured to removably seal opening 201. In some embodiments, closure-means 203 may be selected from the group comprising Velcro®, Ziploc® type fasteners, zippers, snap connectors, clips, hooks, and the like. Closure-means 203 may comprise two complimentary surfaces to removable mating. In some embodiments, closure-means 203 may additionally comprise a flap 212 of material which may removably fold over opening 201, e.g. flap 212 may be depicted in FIG. 1, FIG. 2( c), and FIG. 3.
In some embodiments, the cavity may comprise a surface-geometry. The surface-geometry may be configured to frictionally grip a bottle 930, such that the surface-geometry may function as a bottle-holder. The surface-geometry may be formed substantially from an elastomeric-material. In some embodiments, the elastomeric-material may be selected from one or more of the material comprising various foams, gels, rubbers (including natural and/or synthetic), silicones, and the like. Such foam materials may be further selected from one or more of the group comprising: Neoprene®, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) polypropylene, polyurethane foams, polystyrene (e.g. Styrofoam®), and the like. In such foam materials, a foam density may be varied by choice of formulation to result in desirable compressibility properties. Likewise, with the non-foam elastomeric-materials (e.g. rubber and/or silicone) durometer may be varied by choice of formulation to result in desirable elastomeric properties.
In some embodiments, at least one pocket 200 may comprise an insulated-pocket. The insulated-pocket may function to slow down heating or cooling of articles 900 held within the cavity. The insulated-pocket may be formed by insulating-materials substantially bounding the cavity. The insulating-materials may comprise insulation properties. The insulating-materials may comprise materials with low thermal conductivity that may be typical for insulating beverages in cup holders. In some embodiments, the insulating-materials may be selected from one or more of the group comprising EVA foams, polyurethane foams, polystyrene foams (e.g. Styrofoam®), polypropylene foam, and the like. In some embodiments, the insulating-materials may be selected from one or more of the group comprising Neoprene®, gels, and the like.
Alternatively or in addition to, the insulated-pocket may be formed by structure bounding the cavity, wherein the structure encapsulates air pockets around the cavity. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, this structure may comprise a plurality of closed cells, wherein each cell encapsulates air.
In some embodiments, at least one pocket 200 may comprise surfaces (e.g. surface-geometry or cavity-surface) wherein the surfaces may be easily cleanable, wipeable, and/or sanitizable. This function may be accomplished by at least one pocket 200 comprising structure which may be smooth. This function may be accomplished by at least one pocket 200 comprising structure which may minimize surface textures. This function may be accomplished by at least one pocket 200 comprising structure which may mitigate against excessive folding. This function may be accomplished by at least one pocket 200 comprising structure which may not be porous.
In some embodiments, at least one pocket 200 may comprise at least one contents-tether 205. For example, see FIG. 1, the FIG. 2 series and FIG. 3. At least one contents-tether 205 may be configured to removably attach articles 900 to at least one contents-tether 205. At least one contents-tether 205 may comprise a tether and a contents-attachment-means 209.
The tether may comprises a first-terminal-end 206 and a second-terminal-end disposed opposite of first-terminal-end 206. The second-terminal-end may be attached to a cavity-surface. The cavity-surface may be an exterior surface of the cavity. The tether may be strapping or cordage. The tether may have elastomeric properties, e.g. resembling Bungee® cord elastomeric properties. In some embodiments, the second-terminal-end may be either permanently attached to the cavity-surface or removably attached to the cavity-surface. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, the second-terminal-end may be attached to the cavity-surface by stitching (e.g. when both the second-terminal-end and the cavity-surface may be fabric type materials), stapling, riveting, ultrasonic welding, heat welding, solvent bonding, chemical adhesive, and the like.
Contents-attachment-means 209 may removably attach articles 900 to first-terminal-end 206. Contents-attachment-means 209 may be permanently attached to first-terminal-end 206. Contents-attachment-means 209 may be integral with first-terminal-end 206.
In some embodiments, contents-attachment-means 209 may comprise a loop 210 or a clip, wherein loop 210 and the clip may be configured to removably attach to bottle 930 and/or to removably attach to a pacifier 940. Contents-attachment-means 209 may comprise typical fastener hardware, such as rings, carabiners, side release buckles, snaps, and the like. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, contents-attachment-means 209 in FIG. 1, FIG. 2 series, and FIG. 3 that may connect to pacifier 904 may be a ring; whereas, contents-attachment-means 209 that may connect to bottle 930 may loop 210. In some embodiments, loop 210 may be a sealed loop with a defined and non-adjustable diameter. In some embodiments, loop 210 may be the sealed loop, but with an adjustable diameter. In some embodiments, loop 210 may be openable. In some embodiments, loop 210 may be either adjustable or non-adjustable. In some embodiments, the clip may be spring loaded.
FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary embodiment of blanket 100 comprising an inner pocket 300, as a second-pocket 300, shown in a flat configuration and from a perspective view. In some embodiments, blanket 100 may comprise second-pocket 300. Second-pocket 300 may comprise a second-opening 301 and a second-cavity. Second-opening 301 may provide access to the second-cavity. The second-cavity may be of a second-volume configured to contain articles 900. Second-pocket 300 may be located in communication with at least one pocket 200. In some embodiments, second-pocket 300 may be disposed between at least one pocket 200 and one of the exterior-surfaces 111 of the two-surfaces (e.g. 109 or 110). In such embodiments, second-pocket 300 may be an inner-pocket 300 and at least one pocket 200 may be an external pocket. Such an embodiment, may be depicted in FIG. 4, wherein at least one pocket 200 may be the external pocket, and inner-pocket 300 may be disposed between exterior-surface 111 and at least one pocket 200.
In some embodiments, second-pocket 300 may comprise a second-closure-means. The second-closure-means may be configured to removably seal second-opening 301. In some embodiments, the second-closure-means may be selected from the group comprising Velcro®, Ziploc® type fasteners, zippers, snap connectors, clips, hooks, and the like. In some embodiments, the second-closure-means may additionally comprise a flap of material which may removably fold over second-opening 301.
In some embodiments, second-pocket 300 may comprise at least one second-contents-tether 305. See e.g. FIG. 4. At least one second-contents-tether 305 may be configured to removably attach articles 900 to at least one second-contents-tether 305. At least one second-contents-tether 305 may comprise a second-tether and a second-contents-attachment-means 309. The second-tether may comprise a third-terminal-end 306 and a fourth-terminal-end disposed opposite of third-terminal-end 306. The fourth-terminal-end may be attached to a second-cavity-surface. The second-cavity-surface may be an exterior surface of the second-cavity. Second-contents-attachment-means 309 may removably attach articles 900 to third-terminal-end 306.
The second-tether may be strapping or cordage. The second-tether may have elastomeric properties, e.g. resembling Bungee® cord elastomeric properties. In some embodiments, the fourth-terminal-end may be either permanently attached to the second-cavity-surface or removably attached to the second-cavity-surface. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, the fourth-terminal-end may be attached to the second-cavity-surface by stitching (e.g. when both the fourth-terminal-end and the second-cavity-surface may be fabric type materials), stapling, riveting, ultrasonic welding, heat welding, solvent bonding, chemical adhesive, and the like.
In some embodiments, second-contents-attachment-means 309 may be configured to removably attach to one or more articles 900, wherein articles 900 may be are handheld toys 950. For example and without limiting the scope of the present invention, second-contents-attachment-means 309 may comprise a ring with a plurality of clips attached to the ring. Each clip of the plurality of clips may removably attach to a given handheld toy 950. The ring may also be attached to third-terminal-end 306. In such embodiments, a single second-contents-attachment-means 309 may removably attach to the plurality of handheld toys 950.
Regarding attaching at least one pocket 200 and/or second-pocket 300 to exterior-surface 111, and/or attaching at least one pocket 200 to second-pocket 300, such an attachment means may be permanent. In some embodiments, such an attachment means may be by stitching, stapling, riveting, ultrasonic welding, heat welding, solvent bonding, chemical adhesive (e.g. gluing), and the like. Obviously, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that some attachment means may be dependent upon the underlying materials of construction to be joined. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, some of the above named attachment means (e.g. ultrasonic welding and solvent bonding) may be more suitable for joining two plastic (or synthetic) materials and not appropriate for joining two or more pieces of cotton fabric.
Regarding attaching at least one pocket 200 and/or second-pocket 300 to exterior-surface 111, and/or attaching at least one pocket 200 to second-pocket 300, such an attachment means may be removable. In some embodiments, such an attachment means may be by Velcro®, zippers, snap connectors, buttons, and the like.
In some embodiments, blanket 100 may be substantially constructed of various fabrics, wherein the resulting blanket 100 may function to provide comfort, warmth, and/or protection from the elements to the user of blanket 100. Such fabrics may be typical of the materials ordinarily used to in manufacturing blankets for infants, toddlers, and/or small children. Such fabrics may be soft. Such fabrics may be selected from natural and/or synthetic materials. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, natural materials may be selected from one or more of the group comprising cotton, silk, wool, linen, hemp, leather, and the like. For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, synthetic materials may be selected from one or more of the group comprising polypropylene, polyester, acrylic, nylon, rayon, acetate, spandex, and the like. In some embodiments, first-surface 109 and/or second-surface 110 may comprise exterior-surface 111 that may be constructed of a waterproof and/or a windproof material, such as Gore-Tex®.
With respect to use of “substantially,” in the above paragraph, note blanket 100 may comprise other materials. For example, in some embodiments, metals may be employed in the various fastener and attachment means, e.g. with zippers. For example, in some embodiments, foams may be employed in embodiments which may comprise the insulated-pocket. For example, in some embodiments, various elastomers may be employed in embodiments which may comprise the bottle-holder to form fit and frictionally grip bottle 930.
Note with respect to the materials of construction disclosed herein, it is not desired nor intended to thereby unnecessarily limit the present invention by reason of such restricted disclosure.
In some embodiments, the present invention may comprise a system for organizing children's articles with blanket 100. Such children's articles may comprise: baby bottles, Sippy cups, water bottles, handheld snacks, handheld food, pacifiers, teething toys, handheld toys, handheld books, and the like. Such articles may be designated with 900 series reference numerals in this disclosure. Such organizing may entail providing a means for removable storing (containing) of the children's articles within blanket 100. Such organizing may entail providing a means for mitigating against loss of children's articles (e.g. by inclusion of tethers and/or leashes to removably attach to such children's articles, linking them to blanket 100). Such systems may comprise bottle 930 and/or pacifier 940, at least one handheld toy 950, and blanket 100 as described and disclosed above.
For example, and without limiting the scope of the present invention, blanket 100 may comprise: four-edges, two-surfaces, at least one pocket 200, and second-pocket 300. The four-edges may define the periphery of blanket 100. The four-edges may comprise: first-edge 101, second-edge 102, third-edge 103, and fourth-edge 104. First-edge 101 may be in communication with second-edge 102 and fourth-edge 104. Second-edge 102 may also be in communication with third-edge 103. Third-edge 103 may be communication with fourth-edge 104.
Each of the four-edges may comprise edge-attachment-means 112. Edge-attachment-means 112 of any of the four-edges may be configured to removably attach to any edge-attachment-means 112 of the four-edges or to frame-member 811 of stroller 810 or to removably attach to the child-carrier.
The two-surfaces may comprise first-surface 109 and second-surface 110 disposed oppositely of first-surface 109. The four-edges bound both the two-surfaces. Each of the two-surfaces (e.g. 109 and 110) may comprise exterior-surface 111.
At least one pocket 200 may comprises opening 201 and the cavity. Opening 201 may provide access to the cavity. The cavity may be of a volume configured to contain the children's articles 900, i.e. to removably contain one or more articles 900. The cavity may be of the volume configured to contain bottle 930 and/or pacifier 940.
At least one pocket 200 may comprise at least one contents-tether 205. At least one contents-tether 205 may be configured to removably attach bottle 930 and/or pacifier 940 to at least one contents-tether 205. At least one contents-tether 205 may comprise the tether and contents-attachment-means 209.
The tether may comprise first-terminal-end 206 and the second-terminal-end disposed opposite of first-terminal-end 206. The second-terminal-end may be attached to the cavity-surface. The cavity-surface may be an exterior surface of the cavity.
Contents-attachment-means 209 may removably attach bottle 930 and/or pacifier 940 to first-terminal-end 206.
Second-pocket 300 may comprise second-opening 301 and the second-cavity. Second-opening 301 may provide access to the second-cavity. The second-cavity may be of the second-volume configured to contain at least one handheld toy 950. Second-pocket 300 may be disposed between at least one pocket 200 and one of the exterior-surfaces 111 of the two-surfaces (109 or 110), such that second-pocket 300 may be the inner-pocket and at least one pocket 200 may be the external pocket.
Second-pocket 300 may comprise at least one second-contents-tether 305. At least one second-contents-tether 305 may be configured to removably attach at least one handheld toy 950 to at least one second-contents-tether 305. At least one second-contents-tether 305 may comprise the second-tether and second-contents-attachment-means 309.
The second-tether may comprise third-terminal-end 306 and the fourth-terminal-end disposed opposite of third-terminal-end 306. The fourth-terminal-end may be attached to the second-cavity-surface. The second-cavity-surface may be an exterior surface of the second-cavity.
Second-contents-attachment-means 309 may removably attach at least one handheld toy 950 to third-terminal-end 306.
A blanket with multiple functionality and a system for organizing children's articles with the blanket have been described. The foregoing description of the various exemplary embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and disclosure. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching without departing from the spirit of the invention.
While the invention has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A blanket with multiple functionality, wherein the blanket comprises:

four-edges defining a periphery of the blanket, wherein the four-edges comprise: a first-edge, a second-edge, a third-edge, and a fourth-edge, wherein the first-edge is in communication with the second-edge and the fourth-edge, wherein the second-edge is also in communication with the third-edge, wherein the third-edge is also in communication with the fourth-edge;

two-surfaces, wherein the two-surfaces comprise a first-surface and a second-surface disposed oppositely of the first-surface; wherein the four-edges bound both the two-surfaces; wherein each of the two-surfaces comprises an exterior-surface; and

at least one pocket, wherein the at least one pocket comprises an opening to a cavity, wherein the cavity is of a volume configured to contain various articles;

wherein the at least one pocket is located on either of the exterior-surfaces or located proximally to one of the exterior-surfaces, separated from the one exterior-surface by a second-pocket which is located on the one exterior-surface.

2. The blanket according to claim 1, wherein the four-edges comprises four-corners, wherein the four-corners comprise: a first-corner, a second-corner, a third-corner, and a fourth-corner, wherein the first-corner links the first-edge to the second-edge, wherein the second-corner links the second-edge to the third-edge, wherein the third-corner links the third-edge to the fourth-edge, and wherein the fourth-corner links the fourth-edge to the first-edge.

3. The blanket according to claim 1, wherein the first-edge is substantially parallel to the third-edge, wherein the first-edge is substantially separated from the third-edge by the second-edge and the fourth-edge; wherein the second-edge is substantially parallel to the fourth-edge, wherein the second-edge is substantially separated from the fourth-edge by the first-edge and the third-edge.

4. The blanket according to claim 2, wherein each of the four-edges comprises an edge-attachment-means, wherein the edge-attachment-means of any of the four-edges is configured to removably attach to any edge-attachment-means of the four-edges.

5. The blanket according to claim 4, wherein when the edge-attachment-means of the first-edge is removably attached to the edge-attachment-means of the third-edge, the edge-attachment-means of the fourth-edge removably attaches to itself to form a sleeping bag.

6. The blanket according to claim 4, wherein each edge-attachment means is configured to removably attach to a frame-member of a stroller or to removably attach to a child-carrier.

7. The blanket according to claim 1, wherein the at least one pocket comprises a closure-means, wherein the closure-means is configured to removably seal the opening.

8. The blanket according to claim 1, wherein the cavity comprises a surface-geometry configured to frictionally grip a bottle, such that the surface-geometry functions as a bottle-holder.

9. The blanket according to claim 8, wherein the surface-geometry is formed substantially from an elastomeric-material.

10. The blanket according to claim 1, wherein the at least one pocket comprises an insulated-pocket, wherein the insulated-pocket is formed by insulating-materials substantially bounding the cavity, wherein the insulating-materials comprise insulation properties.

11. The blanket according to claim 10, wherein the insulating-materials are selected from one or more of the group consisting of ethylene vinyl acetate foams, polyurethane foams, polystyrene foams, and polypropylene foam.

12. The blanket according to claim 1, wherein the at least one pocket comprises at least one contents-tether, wherein the at least one contents-tether is configured to removably attach the article to the at least one contents-tether, wherein the at least one contents-tether comprises:

a tether, wherein the tether comprises a first-terminal-end and a second-terminal-end disposed opposite of the first-terminal-end, wherein the second-terminal-end is attached to a cavity-surface, wherein the cavity-surface is an exterior surface of the cavity;

a contents-attachment-means, wherein the contents-attachment-means removably attaches the article to the first-terminal-end.

13. The blanket according to claim 12, wherein the second-terminal-end is either permanently attached to the cavity-surface or removably attached to the cavity-surface.

14. The blanket according to claim 12, wherein the contents-attachment-means is a loop configured to removably attach to a bottle or a clip for removably attaching to a pacifier.

15. The blanket according to claim 1, wherein the blanket comprises a second-pocket, wherein the second-pocket comprises a second-opening to a second-cavity, wherein the second-cavity is of a second-volume configured to contain various articles, wherein the second-pocket is located in communication with the at least one pocket.

16. The blanket according to claim 15, wherein the second-pocket is disposed between the at least one pocket and one of the exterior-surfaces of the two-surfaces, such that the second-pocket is an inner-pocket and the at least one pocket is an external pocket.

17. The blanket according to claim 15, wherein the second-pocket comprises at least one second-contents-tether, wherein the at least one second-contents-tether is configured to removably attach the article to the at least one second-contents-tether, wherein the at least one second-contents-tether comprises:

a second-tether, wherein the second-tether comprises a third-terminal-end and a fourth-terminal-end disposed opposite of the third-terminal-end, wherein the fourth-terminal-end is attached to a second-cavity-surface, wherein the second-cavity-surface is an exterior surface of the second-cavity;

a second-contents-attachment-means, wherein the second-contents-attachment-means removably attaches the article to the third-terminal-end.

18. The blanket according to claim 17, wherein the fourth-terminal-end is either permanently attached to the second-cavity-surface or removably attached to the second-cavity-surface.

19. The blanket according to claim 17, wherein the second-contents-attachment-means is configured to removably attach to one or more articles, wherein the articles are handheld toys.

20. A system for organizing children's articles with a blanket, wherein the system comprises:

a bottle or a pacifier;

at least one handheld toy;

a blanket, wherein the blanket comprises:

four-edges defining a periphery of the blanket, wherein the four-edges comprise: a first-edge, a second-edge, a third-edge, and a fourth-edge, wherein the first-edge is in communication with the second-edge and the fourth-edge, wherein the second-edge is also in communication with the third-edge, wherein the third-edge is communication with the fourth-edge;

wherein each of the four-edges comprises an edge-attachment-means, wherein the edge-attachment-means of any of the four-edges is configured to removably attach to any edge-attachment-means of the four-edges or to a frame-member of a stroller or to removably attach to a child-carrier;

two-surfaces, wherein the two-surfaces comprise a first-surface and a second-surface disposed oppositely of the first-surface; wherein the four-edges bound both the two-surfaces; wherein each of the two-surfaces comprises an exterior-surface;

at least one pocket, wherein the at least one pocket comprises an opening to a cavity,

wherein the cavity is of a volume configured to contain the bottle or the pacifier;

wherein the at least one pocket comprises at least one contents-tether, wherein the at least one contents-tether is configured to removably attach the bottle or the pacifier to the at least one contents-tether, wherein the at least one contents-tether comprises:

a contents-attachment-means, wherein the contents-attachment-means removably attaches the bottle or the pacifier to the first-terminal-end; and

a second-pocket, wherein the second-pocket comprises a second-opening to a second-cavity, wherein the second-cavity is of a second-volume configured to contain the at least one handheld toy, wherein the second-pocket is disposed between the at least one pocket and one of the exterior-surfaces of the two-surfaces, such that the second-pocket is an inner-pocket and the at least one pocket is an external pocket;

wherein the second-pocket comprises at least one second-contents-tether, wherein the at least one second-contents-tether is configured to removably attach the at least one handheld toy to the at least one second-contents-tether, wherein the at least one second-contents-tether comprises:

a second-tether, wherein the second-tether comprises a third-terminal-end and a fourth-terminal-end disposed opposite of the third-terminal-end, wherein the fourth-terminal-end is attached to a second-cavity-surface, wherein the second-cavity-surface is an exterior surface of the second-cavity; and

a second-contents-attachment-means, wherein the second-contents-attachment-means removably attaches the at least one handheld toy to the third-terminal-end.