US20010027834A1

US20010027834A1 - Wallet/handbag system with external phone pocket

Info

Publication number: US20010027834A1
Application number: US09/844,966
Authority: US
Inventors: Linda Southwick
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2000-01-26
Filing date: 2001-04-27
Publication date: 2001-10-11

Abstract

Disclosed is a handbag/wallet system having a substantially rectangular compact body with an at least one interior compartment. Provided on the front surface of the body is a front external pocket, made of an elastic material, which is structured to hold a wireless telephone. Attached to the back surface of the body is a belt loop for attaching the handbag/wallet to the user's belt. And an outside compartment may include a pocket for an electronic device, and, optionally, a pouch for a stylus. In addition, a plurality of rings are provided on the body for allowing the user to removably attach a carry cord. The carry cord, in turn, is provided with a means for creating an adjustable loop which may be placed about the shoulder or waist of the user.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/491,997 filed Jan. 26, 2000, in the name of the same inventor, now abandoned.[0001]

BACKGROUND

This invention relates to providing a wallet or handbag system with an external phone pocket. More particularly, this invention concerns a handbag system of the wallet type for providing quick unobstructed access to a wireless phone while storing miscellaneous personal items within the handbag.

Typically, portable handbags/wallets are used to transport a number of personal items which the user may require when away from the user's residence. These personal items generally comprise such articles as smaller wallets, checkbooks, cosmetics, keys, electronic devices, and other such articles that the user may require during the course of any given day. Oftentimes, only a select number of articles are needed by the user for a particular outing. Depending on the outing, such as hiking or a night on the town, the user may both desire to have a more compact handbag of the wallet type for storing these items, and a hands-free method of carrying the handbag. In addition, the recent trend towards wireless technology has brought to the public such items as wireless telephones which enable the user to communicate with others when away from the home or office. These devices also require a convenient and handy means to store and transport such devices which are quickly accessible when needed, as for personal safety considerations.

In the past, the typical means to transport such items has been by the use of a conventional purse-type bag. These bags generally have at least one large compartment in which is placed the user's personal items. The use of only a single compartment requires the user to search through the aggregate mass of personal items in order to find the needed item. When certain items such as the wireless telephone are needed quickly, the delay in having to search can result in personal harm to the user. Furthermore, purses, briefcases, or other conventional types of handbags are often too cumbersome for certain types of activities which require the user to be active, such as hiking, dancing, etc. In addition, wireless telephones generally come equipped with clip-type devices to clip the telephone onto the garment of the user, such as a pocket or a belt. This method of transporting these devices is convenient if user is wearing either a belt or a garment that has pockets, otherwise other means of transporting these devices so that they are quickly accessible is required. In addition, the popularity of electronic devices, primarily of the wireless type such as “palm tops”, would make a handbag/wallet more useful if it incorporated a safe and convenient way to store such a device within the handbag/wallet.

One prior art attempt to incorporate external pockets on a receptacle-type device is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,620,579 issued to Lowe et al. Lowe et al. discloses an accessory receptacle in which a plurality of transparent pockets are provided on the receptacle outer surface and which are used to store specific small objects. Though such a system may be adequate for its intended use, Lowe et al. fails to teach a handbag system having a single elastic pocket which is capable of holding a wireless telephone.

In addition, applicant is aware of a variety of prior art devices which disclose handbag inserts having external pockets provided thereon. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,811,769 and 2,529,724 issued to, respectively, Phares and Conwiser disclose handbag inserts, each of which comprises external pockets. Though these disclosed insert types may be adequate for their respective intended purposes, neither teaches the actual incorporation of external pockets, sized to receive a wireless telephone, on an actual handbag. Thus, it is believed by the applicant that none of the prior art referred to herein will accomplish the purpose of the present invention.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

A primary object and feature of the present invention is to fulfill the above-mentioned needs by the provision of a handbag/wallet, preferably compartmentalized, which allows for quick access to a wireless telephone. A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide such a handbag that is inexpensive, convenient to carry, and simple to use. Another object and feature of this invention is to provide such a handbag that is simple to manufacture. A further object and feature of this invention is to provide such a handbag that is pleasing in appearance. Yet another object and feature of this invention is to provide such a handbag/wallet adapted to internally contain and safely and conveniently carry an electronic device. Other objects and features of this invention will become apparent with reference to the following invention descriptions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, this invention provides a handbag/wallet system for holding a user's personal items including permitting easy access to a personal wireless telephone comprising, in combination: a body means, having at least one interior compartment, for carrying handbag contents, such body means comprising an exterior surface, two side portions, and a top portion; and a substantially-elastic wireless-telephone holding means, attached to such exterior surface, for removably securing the wireless telephone to such body means. Also, this invention provides for such a handbag/wallet system further comprising a carrying means for providing hands-free carrying of the bag means; and, wherein such carrying means comprises a belt loop attached to such exterior surface. In addition, it provides for such a handbag/wallet system wherein such carrying means comprises a cord removably attached to such bag means.

In addition, this invention provides for such a handbag/wallet system wherein such cord is structured and arranged to provide for a user option attachment arrangement to such bag means, such user option attachment arrangements comprising arrangements wherein: such cord is selectably coupled at substantially opposing ends across such top portion; and such cord is selectably coupled at substantially opposing ends across one of such side portions. Furthermore, it provides for such a handbag/wallet system wherein such cord comprises an adjustable cord having a girth of adjustability sufficient to encircle the waist of the user. And, still further, this invention provides for such a handbag/wallet system wherein such elastic phone holding means comprises a substantially elastic first external pocket having an opening.

Additionally, this invention provides for such a handbag/wallet system wherein such elastic pocket comprises a substantially nylon material; and, wherein such opening is structured and arranged for placement adjacent to, and substantially parallel with, one of such side portions. Also, this invention provides for such a handbag/wallet system further comprising a second external pocket attached to such body means, such second external pocket having a second external pocket exterior surface. Yet further, it provides for such a handbag/wallet system further comprising a belt loop attached to such second external pocket exterior surface. Yet further still, this invention provides for such a handbag/wallet system further comprising a closure means for closing such body means; and, further still, wherein such closure means comprises a zipper-type fastener. And it provides for such a handbag/wallet system further comprising a belt loop, wherein such belt loop is attached with such body means at a position opposed, with respect to such body means, from a location of such wireless-telephone holding means.

Also, it provides for such a handbag/wallet system further comprising another compartment comprising a pocket structured and arranged to hold an electronic device; and, further wherein at least one handbag/wallet compartment comprises a pocket structured and arranged to hold an electronic device; and, further, wherein such at least one handbag/wallet compartment comprises a zipper-type closure; and, further, wherein such handbag/wallet compartment further comprises a pouch structured and arranged to hold a stylus.

Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment thereof, this invention provides for a handbag/wallet system for holding a user's personal items including permitting easy access to a personal wireless telephone comprising, in combination: a body having a rear compartment and a front compartment, such body comprising a front wall portion having a front wall portion exterior surface, a rear wall portion having a rear wall portion exterior surface, two side walls, a bottom portion, and a top portion; an rear external pocket attached to such rear wall portion exterior surface, such rear external pocket having a rear external pocket exterior surface; a substantially elastic front external pocket, attached to such front wall portion exterior surface, having a front exterior pocket opening, such front external pocket structured and arranged to hold a wireless telephone; a belt loop attached to such rear external pocket exterior surface; such front compartment comprising a plurality of front compartment interior pockets for holding personal items; and such rear compartment comprising a plurality of rear compartment interior pockets for holding personal items; wherein such front external pocket opening is structured and arranged for placement adjacent one of such side walls of such body.

In addition, the present invention provides for such a handbag/wallet system further comprising a cord removably attached to such body; and, wherein such cord is structured and arranged to provide for a user option attachment arrangement to such bag means, such user option attachment arrangements comprising arrangements wherein: such cord is selectably coupled at substantially opposing ends across such top portion; and such cord is selectably coupled at substantially opposing ends across one of such side portions. Also, it provides for such a handbag/wallet system wherein such cord comprises an adjustable cord having a girth of adjustability sufficient to encircle the waist of the user. Further, this invention provides for such a handbag/wallet system wherein such rear compartment and such front compartment are each zipper-closable; and, further still, wherein at least one such zipper-closable compartment comprises a perimeter zipper extending around such compartment for at least about three-fourths of a perimeter of such compartment.

Additionally, the present invention provides for such a handbag/wallet system wherein such front compartment comprises: a first interior surface and a second interior surface; a first pocket attached to such first interior surface; a second pocket, having a second pocket external surface, attached to such first interior surface and overlying such first pocket; a third pocket attached to such second pocket external surface; an insert comprising: a first end portion structured and arranged for removable placement within such first pocket, and a second end portion having a plurality of pockets structured and arranged to receive credit card-type items; a fourth pocket, having a fourth pocket external surface, attached to such second interior surface; and a plurality of card pockets, attached to such fourth pocket external surface, structured and arranged to hold credit card-type items.

Additionally still, the present invention provides for such a handbag/wallet system wherein such rear compartment comprises: a third interior surface and a fourth interior surface; a fifth pocket attached to such third interior surface; foldable side wall portions attached to, and extending between, such third interior surface and such fourth interior surface; a sixth pocket attached to such side wall portions; a seventh pocket defined by such fifth pocket, such sixth pocket, and such side wall portions; an eighth pocket attached to such fourth interior surface; and a ninth pocket defined by such eighth pocket, such sixth pocket, and such side wall portions. And, it provides for such a handbag/wallet system wherein such sixth pocket is zipper closable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the handbag/wallet system of the present invention. [0016]
FIG. 2 is a perspective view thereof illustrating a preferred construction of a front external pocket for holding a wireless telephone. [0017]
FIG. 3 is a rear elevation view, in partial cut-away, illustrating a preferred structure of the rear external pocket, belt loop, and means to attach the carry cord to the handbag/wallet body. [0018]
FIG. 4 is an enlarged partial view illustrating the details of a preferred spring clip for use with the present invention. [0019]
FIG. 5 is an elevation view of the handbag/wallet system of the present invention attached to the waist of a user. [0020]
FIG. 6 is a side elevation view thereof further illustrating the placement of the wireless telephone within the front external pocket. [0021]
FIG. 7 is a said elevation view illustrating the handbag/wallet system with front and rear compartments opened. [0022]
FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating a preferred arrangement of the front compartment. [0023]
FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a preferred arrangement of the rear compartment. [0024]
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternate preferred embodiment of the handbag/wallet system of the present invention comprising a third compartment. [0025]
FIG. 11 is a side elevation view of the alternate preferred embodiment further illustrating the third compartment. [0026]
FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating the alternate preferred arrangement of the third compartment. [0027]
FIG. 13 is a perspective view further illustrating the alternate preferred arrangement of the third compartment. [0028]
FIG. 14 is a perspective view further illustrating an alternate preferred arrangement of the third compartment.[0029]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT AND THE BEST MODE OF PRACTICE

Referring now to the Figures, shown in perspective in FIGS. 1 and 2 is a preferred embodiment of the handbag/[0030] wallet system 20 of the present invention. Shown is a rectangular-box-like body 21 having a front wall portion 22, a rear wall portion 25, and a pair of side walls 26, a bottom portion 27, and a top portion 28. The body 21 is preferably formed from a polyvinyl chloride-type material (“PVC” hereinafter) which is stitched or otherwise secured together in a manner familiar to those skilled in such art, and has a preferred length of about 7 inches, a preferred width of about 4½ inches, and a preferred thickness of about 1¼ inches. As shown in FIG. 1, a preferred embodiment of the handbag/wallet system 20 of this invention comprises a front compartment 30 and a rear compartment 31. The body 21 embodies herein a body means, having at least one interior compartment, for carrying handbag/wallet contents, such body means comprising an exterior surface, two side portions, and a top portion. As shown, each of the respective compartment 30 and 31 are closeable by use of zipper-type fasteners 34 (embodying herein a closure means for closing such handbag/wallet means). Though the specific details concerning each of the compartments 30 and 31 will be discussed more thoroughly as this disclosure progresses, suffice to say for now, each of the compartments 30 and 31 is structured and arranged to contain an assortment of items that a person may require during the course of the day.
Referring further to FIG. 1 and introducing FIG. 2, the handbag/[0031] wallet system 20 is further provided with a front external pocket 35 (also embodying herein such first external pocket) which is sized and arranged to snugly receive a wireless telephone 38. The front external pocket 35 embodies herein a substantially-elastic phone holding means, attached to such exterior surface, for removably securing the wireless telephone to such body means. The front external pocket 35 is attached, preferably by stitching or other like methods, to the front wall portion exterior surface 39 of the body 21. To provide the aforementioned snug fit, and to accommodate wireless telephones 38 having various contours and widths, it is preferred that the front external pocket 35 be made substantially entirely of a substantially elastic yet resilient material such as a nylon-type material. The use of a substantially elastic yet resilient material for substantially the entire front external pocket 35 provides a comparatively large surface area in contact with the inserted wireless telephone case. Thus, the friction and gripping action from this large surface contact is instrumental in securely holding the wireless telephone securely within the front external pocket 35.
Additionally, to prevent the [0032] telephone 38 from inadvertently falling from the front external pocket 35, it is preferred that the front external pocket opening 42 be placed adjacent, and substantially parallel with, a side wall 26. This arrangement embodies herein an arrangement wherein such opening is structured and arranged for placement adjacent to, and substantially parallel with, one of such side portions.
As will be appreciated by those skilled in such art, the handbag/[0033] wallet system 20 of this invention is designed to provide a relatively compact handbag/wallet which is most useful for those needing to have certain personal items when on an outing such as hiking, social events, or the like, but who do not desire to bring there purse, briefcase, or other conventional handbag/wallet. As will further be appreciated by those skilled in such art, by providing the body 21 with a substantially elastic front external pocket 35, the user may quickly and easily have access to the telephone 38, especially in cases of emergencies, without having to rummage and search. As will be discussed more fully with respect to FIG. 3, the handbag/wallet system 20 of this invention may be provided with an optional carry cord 43 (embodying herein carrying means for providing hands-free carrying of the bag means) which is removably coupled to front ring 46. The front ring 46, in turn, is preferably attached to the body 21 by a substantially metallic stud 47.
Shown in elevation, in partial cut-away, in FIG. 3 is the provision of a rear external pocket [0034] 50 (embodying herein such second external pocket) which is attached, preferably by stitching, to the rear wall portion exterior surface 51. The rear external pocket 50 preferably extends for the longitudinal length of the body 21 and is structured and arranged so that the rear external pocket opening 54 lies both substantially adjacent and parallel to the top portion 28 of body 21, as shown. Also provided is a belt loop 55 (embodying herein carrying means for providing hands-free carrying of the bag means) which is attached by stitching or other like methods to the rear external pocket exterior surface 56. As should be apparent to those skilled in such art, the belt loop 55 is used to attach the body 21 to the user's belt 57, in well known ways, thereby providing convenient “hands-fee” carrying of the handbag/wallet system 20. Both the belt loop 55 and rear external pocket 50 preferably comprise the same material as that which comprises the body 21. This belt loop arrangement embodies herein such a handbag/wallet system further comprising a belt loop, wherein such belt loop is attached with such body means at a position opposed, with respect to such body means, from a location of such wireless-telephone holding means.
Referring further to FIG. 3, and introducing FIGS. 4 and 5, the details of the [0035] carry cord 43 will now be discussed. The carry cord 43 is preferably cord-like in structure and comprises a woven natural or synthetic fiber having a preferred length of about 55 inches. Each end 58 of the carry cord 43 is provided with a clasp 59, of a well-known type, for allowing optional detachment of the carry cord 43 from the body 21. The carry cord 43 is further provided with a spring clip 62 for creating a user adjustable loop 63 which, depending on the user's preference, may be supported by the user's shoulder (not shown) or placed around the user's waist 66, as shown in FIG. 5. This arrangement embodies herein an arrangement wherein such cord comprises an adjustable cord having a girth of adjustability sufficient to encircle the waist of the user. The details of the spring clip 62 will be discussed more thoroughly below in conjunction with FIG. 4.
The [0036] body 21 is further provided with two rear rings 67 and 70, also preferably made of a metal material, for providing the user with two alternative carry cord 43 attachment configurations. As shown, the user may attach the ends 58 of carry cord 43 to rings 46 and 70, thereby allowing the handbag/wallet system 20 to be carried with the telephone 38 pointing upwards, as shown in FIG. 5. Alternatively, the carry cord 43 may be attached to rings 46 and 67 which allows the handbag/wallet system to be carried with the top portion 28 of body 21 facing upwards. This arrangement embodies herein wherein such cord is selectably coupled at substantially opposing ends across such top portion and such cord is selectably coupled at substantially opposing ends across one of said side portions.
By allowing the [0037] carry cord 43 to be attached adjacent opposing wall portions 22 and 25 of the body 21, the handbag/wallet system 20 may be properly balanced when suspended from the carry cord 43. Such an arrangement is especially important in order to counter the weight of the telephone 38 which may cause an uncomfortable and/or non-appealing tipping of the body 21. In addition, the location of rings 46, 67, and 70 ensures that regardless of which of the above carry cord 43 arrangements are selected, the front external pocket opening 42 always remains at least substantially perpendicular to the ground, thereby preventing inadvertent loss of the telephone 38 from the front external pocket 35.
As shown in the detailed view of FIG. 4, the [0038] spring clip 62 is of a well-known and commercially available type having an inner plunger 73 concentrically disposed within the cylindrical outer shell 74. The inner plunger 73 and outer shell 74 are provided with, respectively, through apertures 77 and 78 which are sized to at least receive twice the diameter of carry cord 43. Upon applying pressure to the tab 81 provided on the inner plunger 73, the apertures 77 and 78 are brought into substantial alignment, thereby allowing free movement of the carry cord 43 through apertures 77 and 78 which permits user adjustment of the size of the loop 63. Removing pressure from the tab 81 releases the tension in the spring 82 which forces the inner plunger 73 upward relative to the outer shell 74. This upward movement of the inner plunger 73, in turn, causes misalignment of through apertures 77 and 78 resulting in the pinching of the two segments 85 of the carry cord 43 within the spring clip 62, thereby effectively preventing any further free movement of the carry cord 43 through the spring clip 62.
Shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 are two side elevation views of the handbag/[0039] wallet system 20 of this invention. Shown in FIG. 6 is the handbag/wallet system 20 with each respective compartment 30 and 31 in a substantially closed position and with the wireless phone 38 placed within the front external pocket 35. As used herein with respect to each respective compartment 30 and 31, “closed” is defined as that condition in which access to a respective compartment 30 and 31 is substantially prevented. Shown in FIG. 7 is the handbag/wallet system 20 in which each respective compartment 30 and 31 is in a substantially open position thereby allowing access to the contents contained in each respective compartment 30 and 31. As used herein, “open” is defined herein as that condition in which access to a respective compartment 30 and 31 is not substantially prevented. As should be apparent to those skilled in such art, opening a respective compartment 30 and 31 consists of simply unfastening, in a well-known manner, each respective zipper 34. The arrangement of each respective compartment 30 and 31 will be discussed in greater detail hereinafter with respect to FIGS. 8 and 9.
Shown in perspective in FIG. 8 is the preferred arrangement of [0040] front compartment 30. The front compartment 30 comprises a first interior surface 86, adjacent the front wall portion 22, having a first pocket 87 attached thereon. A second pocket 90, substantially overlying the first pocket 87, is attached to the first pocket exterior surface 91. As shown, the pockets 87 and 90 are structured and arranged to substantially span the longitudinal length of the front compartment 30 with each respective pocket opening 94 and 95 structured and arranged for location substantially adjacent to, and in a substantially parallel relationship with, the bottom portion 27 of body 21.
Also provided is a third pocket [0041] 96 which is attached to the second pocket exterior surface 99. As shown, it is preferred that third pocket opening 97 be structured and arranged to be substantially parallel to one of side walls 26. Pockets 87, 90, and 96 preferably comprise a PVC-type material and are preferably attached in well known ways such as stitching. The front compartment 30 may also be provided with an insert 100 having a first end portion 103 structured and arranged for removable placement within said first pocket 87, and a second end portion 104 having a plurality of insert pockets 105 structured and arranged to receive credit card-type items (not shown). The insert 100 preferably also comprises preferably a PVC-type material and is structured and arranged to substantially span the longitudinal length of the front compartment 30.
Also shown are a plurality of substantially [0042] transparent pockets 106 which are attached to pocket 87 in a manner substantially described above with respect to insert 100. Provided on the second interior surface 108, adjacent the center divider portion 109, of front compartment 30 is a fourth pocket 111, having a fourth pocket external surface 112, which is preferably attached to said second interior surface 108 by stitching. A plurality of card pockets 113, preferably attached to said fourth pocket external surface 112 by stitching, are structured and arranged to hold credit card-type items 114.
Shown in FIG. 7 are the details of the [0043] rear compartment 31. The rear compartment 31 comprises a third interior surface 116, adjacent the center divider portion 109, and a fourth interior surface 119, adjacent the rear wall portion 25. Attached to the third interior surface 116, preferably by stitching, is a fifth pocket 120 structured and arranged to substantially span the longitudinal length of the rear compartment 31, as shown. Extending between, and attached to, each respective interior surface 116 and 119 are foldable side wall portions 123. Side wall portions 123 preferably comprise a polyvinyl chloride-type material and are attached, preferably by stitching, to each interior surface 116 and 119.
Attached approximately at the [0044] midway point 124 of side wall portions 123 is a sixth pocket 127 which preferably comprises a separately sealed, preferably also by stitching, bottom end 128. As will be appreciated by those skilled in such art, by separately sealing the bottom end 128 of sixth pocket 127, loose articles such as change or the like may be more easily contained. Also as shown, the sixth pocket 127 may be provided with a zipper-type fastener 129 for completely sealing in the contents of the sixth pocket 127. As is further shown in FIG. 7, by providing the handbag/wallet system 20 with the sixth pocket 127 arranged as described above, a seventh pocket 130 is formed, the contours of which are defined by the fifth pocket 120, the sixth pocket 127, and the side wall portions 123. Also provided is an eighth pocket 133 which is attached, preferably by stitching, to the fourth interior surface 119, and a ninth pocket 134, the contours of which are defined by the eighth pocket 133, the sixth pocket 127, and the side wall portions 123.
Shown in FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternate preferred embodiment of the handbag/[0045] wallet system 20 of the present invention further comprising a third compartment 140. Referring to FIG. 11, a side elevation view of the alternate preferred embodiment further illustrating the third compartment 140 is shown. The third compartment 140 is preferably attached to the rear wall portion exterior surface 51 of the handbag/wallet system 20. The third compartment 140 is further preferably attached to the rear wall portion exterior surface 51 by stitching, by bonding, or by such other means as those skilled in the art would prefer in appropriate circumstances.
Shown in FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating the alternate preferred arrangement of the [0046] third compartment 140. The third compartment 140 of the handbag/wallet system 20 is an openable compartment preferably having a zipper closure 34 along substantially three sides of its perimeter in a similar manner as compartments 30 and 31 shown in FIGS. 1-10. The third compartment 140 preferably comprises a PVC-type material. The outermost side 186 of the third compartment 140 comprises an inner padding interior to the outermost side 186. The inner padding is structured and arranged in such a typical manner as to provide features of assisting in maintaining the physical shape and dimensions of the handbag/wallet system 20, as to provide shock cushioning for any contents within the handbag/wallet system 20. When the third compartment 140 is in the open configuration, the inner sides of it are accessible. The inner sides of the third compartment 140 comprise a third-compartment-inner-side 162 and a third-compartment-outer-side 164 opposite one another. The third-compartment-inner-side 162 comprises at least one personal-items pouch 158. Three such personal items pouches 158 are shown herein in a preferred embodiment of the alternate preferred embodiment of the handbag/wallet system 20. The personal items pouches 158 are structured and arranged to allow for personal items 160 to be easily inserted into and held by the personal items pouches 158. The personal items pouches 158 preferably comprise PVC-type materials that are attached to the third-compartment-inner-side 162 in a fashion well known to those skilled in the, such as for example, by stitching. Examples of preferred personal items 160 comprise writing instruments, make-up storage or application devices, pocket knifes, etc.
The [0047] third compartment 140 further preferably comprises a protector 156. The protector 156 preferably comprises a plastic or vinyl sheet that is preferably connected at the opposite end of the third-compartment-inner-side 162 from the personal items pouches 158. The protector 156 is preferably flexible such that it may overlay the exposed portions of any personal items 160 inserted into the personal items pouches 158. The plastic or vinyl sheet sheeting that the protector 156 comprises preferably provides a feature of preventing marking of other surfaces within the third compartment 140 by personal items 160 that comprise writing or marking type instruments. The third compartment 140 preferably further comprises a mirror flap 148 preferably comprised of a PVC-type material. The mirror flap 148 is preferably connected at the junction between the third-compartment-inner-side 162 and the third-compartment-outer-side 164. The mirror flap 148 is preferably connected by stitching at the junction between the third-compartment-inner-side 162 and the third-compartment-outer-side 164 although those skilled in the art will recognize that other connections may be utilized in appropriate circumstances. As shown, in a preferred embodiment, the mirror flap 148 preferably comprises a mirror-flap-blank-side 154. Those skilled in the art will recognize that in appropriate circumstances the mirror-flap-blank-side 154 might comprise a writing surface or such other item as appropriate.
Shown in FIG. 13 is a perspective view further illustrating the alternate preferred arrangement of the [0048] third compartment 140. The mirror flap 148 further comprises a mirror holding side 150. Integral to the mirror holding side 150, preferably, is a mirror 152. The mirror 150 preferably comprises an unbreakable mirror such as is known to those skilled in the art. The mirror flap 148 is shown flipped to lay against the third-compartment-inner-side 162 herein. The third-compartment-outer-side 164 comprises a pouch 166. The pouch 166 preferably comprises a PVC-type material and is preferably attached in well known ways, such as stitching, to the third-compartment-outer-side 164. The pouch 166 further preferably comprises a zipper closure 174 although those skilled in the art will recognize that other closures may be utilized in appropriate circumstances. The pouch 166 further preferably comprises a plurality of elastic loops 168 attached to the exposed surface of the pouch 166 and structured and arranged to hold personal items 180. The plurality of elastic loops 168 are preferably attached to the exposed surface of the pouch 166 by stitching or by such other manner those skilled in the art would find appropriate. The elastic loops 168 preferably comprise an elastic material having a sufficient elasticity to securely hold at least one personal item 180 securely.
Shown in FIG. 14 is a perspective view further illustrating an alternate preferred arrangement of the [0049] third compartment 140. In this alternate preferred embodiment, in place of the pouch 166 and the plurality of elastic loops 168, the third compartment 140 of the handbag/wallet system 20 comprises a large device pocket 170. The device pocket 170 is structured and arranged to hold an electronic device 172. Examples of such electronic devices 172 comprise personal data assistants (PDA), calculators, MP3 players, mini-disc players, radios, etc. In this alternate preferred arrangement of the third compartment 140 and the handbag/wallet system 20, the third compartment 140 further preferably comprises a stylus 176 and a stylus pouch 178. The stylus 176 is preferably a PDA-type stylus, although when other electronic devices 172 are utilized, the stylus 176 may be a writing instrument or such other personal item as desired. The device pocket 170 and the stylus pouch 178 are preferably comprised of a material such as PVC-type material and are preferably attached in well known ways, such as stitching, to the third-compartment-outer-side 164 and in the vicinity of the junction between the third-compartment-inner-side 162 and the third-compartment-outer-side 164.
The handbag/[0050] wallet system 20 further comprises alternate means for carrying the handbag/wallet system 20. Attached at the junction between the third compartment 140 and the rear wall portion exterior surface 51 are, preferably, two metal rings 142 and 144. The metal rings 142 and 144 are preferably coupled to the handbag/wallet system 20 by sewn loops of an appropriate material known to those skilled in the art. The metal rings 142 and 144 provide attachment points for a carry cord 43. The carry cord 43, as previously discussed, is an optional item of the handbag/wallet system 20. Each end 58 of the carry cord 43 is preferably provided with a clasp 59, of a well-known type, for allowing optional detachment of the carry cord 43 to the metal rings 142 and 144. Yet another alternate means for carrying the handbag/wallet system 20 is a carrying handle 146. The carrying handle 146 preferably comprises a PVC-type material strap attached at the junction between the third compartment 140 and the rear wall portion exterior surface 51, inboard of the two metal rings 142 and 144. The carrying handle 146 is preferably coupled to the handbag/wallet system 20 by sewing or such other means as those skilled in the art would find appropriate.
Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of this invention includes such modifications as diverse shapes, sizes and materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as read in connection with the above specification. [0051]

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A handbag/wallet system for holding a user's personal items including permitting easy access to a personal wireless telephone comprising, in combination:

(a) a body means, having at least one interior compartment, for carrying handbag/wallet contents, said body means comprising an exterior surface, two side portions, and a top portion; and

(b) a substantially-entirely-elastic wireless-telephone holding means, attached to said exterior surface, for removably securing the wireless telephone to said body means.

2. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 1

further comprising a carrying means for providing hands-free carrying of said body means.

3. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 2

wherein said carrying means comprises a belt loop attached to said exterior surface.

4. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 2

wherein said carrying means comprises a cord removably attached to said body means.

5. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 4

wherein said cord is structured and arranged to provide for user option attachment arrangements to said body means, and said user option attachment arrangements comprising arrangements wherein:

(a) said cord is selectably coupled at substantially opposing ends across said top portion; and

(b) said cord is selectably coupled at substantially opposing ends across one of said side portions.

6. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 4

wherein said cord comprises an adjustable cord having a girth of adjustability sufficient to encircle the waist of the user.

7. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 1

wherein said elastic wireless-telephone holding means comprises a substantially elastic first external pocket having an opening.

8. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 7

wherein said first external pocket comprises a substantially nylon material.

9. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 7

wherein said opening is structured and arranged for placement adjacent to, and substantially parallel with, one of said side portions.

10. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 1

further comprising a second external pocket attached to said body means, said second external pocket having a second external pocket exterior surface.

11. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 10

further comprising a belt loop attached to said second external pocket exterior surface.

12. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 1

further comprising a closure means for closing said body means.

13. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 12

wherein said closure means comprises a zipper-type fastener.

14. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 1

further comprising an other at least one interior compartment comprising a pocket structured and arranged to hold an electronic device.

15. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 14

wherein said other at least one interior compartment further comprises a pouch structured and arranged to hold a stylus.

16. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 14

wherein said at least one interior compartment comprises a zipper-type closure.

17. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 1

wherein said at least one interior compartment comprises a pocket structured and arranged to hold an electronic device.

18. A handbag/wallet system for holding a user's personal items including permitting easy access to a personal wireless telephone comprising, in combination:

(a) a body having a rear compartment and a front compartment, said body comprising a front wall portion having a front wall portion exterior surface, a rear wall portion having a rear wall portion exterior surface, two side walls, a bottom portion, and a top portion;

(b) a rear external pocket attached to said rear wall portion exterior surface, said rear external pocket having a rear external pocket exterior surface;

(c) a substantially-entirely-elastic front external pocket, attached to said front wall portion exterior surface, having a front exterior pocket opening, said front external pocket structured and arranged to hold a wireless telephone;

(d) a belt loop attached to said rear external pocket exterior surface;

(e) said front compartment comprising a plurality of front compartment interior pockets for holding personal items; and

f) said rear compartment comprising a plurality of rear compartment interior pockets for holding personal items;

(g) wherein said front external pocket opening is structured and arranged for placement adjacent one of said side walls of said body.

19. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 18

further comprising a cord removably attached to said body.

20. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 19

wherein said cord is structured and arranged to provide for user option attachment arrangements to said body, said user option attachment arrangements comprising arrangements wherein:

21. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 18

wherein said comprises an adjustable cord having a girth of adjustability sufficient to encircle the waist of the user.

22. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 18

wherein said rear compartment and said front compartment are each zipper-closable.

23. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 22

wherein at least one said zipper-closable compartment comprises a perimeter zipper extending around said compartment for at least about three-fourths of a perimeter of said compartment.

24. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 18

wherein said front compartment comprises:

a) a first interior surface and a second interior surface;

b) a first pocket attached to said first interior surface;

c) a second pocket, having a second pocket external surface, attached to said first interior surface and overlying said first pocket;

d) a third pocket attached to said second pocket external surface;

e) an insert comprising:

(i) a first end portion structured and arranged for removable placement within said first pocket, and

(ii) a second end portion having a plurality of pockets structured and arranged to receive credit card-type items;

f) a fourth pocket, having a fourth pocket external surface, attached to said second interior surface; and

g) a plurality of card pockets, attached to said fourth pocket external surface, structured and arranged to hold credit card-type items.

25. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 18

wherein said rear compartment comprises:

(a) a third interior surface and a fourth interior surface;

(b) a fifth pocket attached to said third interior surface;

(c) foldable side wall portions attached to, and extending between, said third interior surface and said fourth interior surface;

(d) a sixth pocket attached to said side wall portions;

(e) a seventh pocket defined by said fifth pocket, said sixth pocket, and said side wall portions;

(f) an eighth pocket attached to said fourth interior surface; and

(g) a ninth pocket defined by said eighth pocket, said sixth pocket, and said side wall portions.

26. The handbag/wallet system of

claim 25

wherein said sixth pocket is zipper-closable.

27. A system for convenient carrying of a wireless telephone comprising, in combination:

(a) a body, larger than a wireless telephone and having an external surface, said body being structured and arranged for the holding of useful items; and

(b) a substantially-entirely-elastic external pocket attached to said external surface, said pocket having at least one opening and being structured and arranged to hold a wireless telephone.

28. The system of

claim 27

wherein said body comprises at least one compartment comprising a pocket structured and arranged to hold an electronic device.

29. The system of

claim 28

wherein said at least one compartment further comprises a pouch structured and arranged to hold a stylus.

30. The system of

claim 27

wherein said at least one compartment comprises a zipper-type closure.