Removable External Backpack Liner

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a non-provisional application corresponding to provisional application No. 61/154,092 filed on Feb. 20, 2009 by Rebecca Lee Rich, for a Removable External Backpack Liner.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING COMPACT DISK APPENDIX

Not Applicable

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to backpacks, and more particularly, the present invention relates to external layers for backpacks that can be removed.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The basic components of a backpack have remained virtually unchanged since its invention. The standard backpack consists of a zippered compartment suspended on the wearer's back by one or two straps that go over the wearer's shoulder and reattach to the compartment. Although the styling and shape of models may vary, all backpacks operate functionally by coming in direct contact with the wearer's body against the back and shoulders. However, this contact can sometimes be both uncomfortable and unhygienic. Regular use may cause the contacting portions of the backpack to become saturated with contaminants such as sweat and dirt. Accumulation of such compounds can become highly unsanitary, resulting in stains, odors, adverse skin conditions of the wearer's back and shoulders, or contamination of the contents of the backpack. Presently, best way to remove unwanted contaminants from the backpack are to empty the contents and wash the entire backpack.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure is of a lining system to be attached to a backpack. The liner is fastened to the surface of a backpack that comes in contact with the wearer's back, and can extend to cover the inside surfaces of the straps of the backpack. The liner is composed of a breathable, absorbent top layer, with a water-resistant layer beneath it. The liner is designed to absorb sweat and dirt away from the wearer, while shielding the backpack from the same. The liner can then be removed and washed, minimizing the need to empty and wash the entire backpack.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the present invention; and

FIG. 2 is a cross-section of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 shows a view of the backpack liner when laid out flat. It shows back piece 1 which is attached to the portion of the backpack which is work against the wearer's back. The figure shows a pair of straps 2, which attach to the inside of the straps of the backpack. The straps 2 fold over to follow the contour of the shoulder straps while the backpack is being worn.

In more detail, still referring to the invention of FIG. 1, the back piece 1 is attached to the main portion of the backpack by means of some temporary fastener, including, but not limited to, buttons, zippers, snaps, or Velcro®-type closures. The straps 2 are folded over to follow the insides of the shoulder straps of the backpack, and similarly attached. When necessary for washing or replacement, both the back piece 1 and the straps 2 may be removed by detaching the temporary fasteners and reattached at a later time.

In further detail, still referring to the invention of FIG. 1, the size and shape of the back piece 1 and straps 2 are dictated by the size and styling of the backpack to which they are attached. The measurements and shape of the back piece should be that of the inside panel of the backpack that comes into contact with the wearer's back. The straps should similarly mirror the size and shape of the straps to which they will be affixed. The straps should be connected to the back piece at a location and angle which allows them to fold over and fit snugly between the shoulder straps of the backpack and the wearer's shoulders.

FIG. 2 shows a cross-section of the backpack liner. It consists of a porous layer 3, an absorbent layer 4, and a waterproof layer 5. All three layers are used through the back piece 1 and straps 2. The porous layer 3 may be of any natural or synthetic material that is comfortable against the wearer's skin and that allows moisture and dirt to pass through it. The absorbent layer 4 may be of any natural or synthetic material that can absorb and hold moisture. The waterproof layer 5 may be of any natural or synthetic material that does not allow the moisture and dirt to pass through it to reach the backpack. Depending on the materials available, two or more of these layers may be combined or other layers added, so long as the layers serve the dual purposes of (a) taking moisture and dirt away from the wearer's body and (b) keeping the same from reaching the backpack surface.