MULTIFUNCTIONAL CARRYING STRAP SYSTEM

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of and priority, under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e), to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 63/693,080, filed on Sep. 10, 2024, entitled “MULTIFUNCTIONAL CARRYING STRAP SYSTEM,” the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference, in its entirety, for all that it teaches and for all purposes.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure is generally directed to carrying strap systems, in particular but not exclusively, toward a multifunctional carrying strap that is capable of carrying footwear and other accessories.

Footwear, such as flip-flops and sandals, are commonly worn by individuals in warmer climates, vacation destinations, and beaches. A typical flip-flop is generally constructed as a foot-shaped sole/base portion with a Y-shaped strap attached thereto. The Y-shaped strap defines a space that is configured to receive a foot of an individual (e.g., between the Y-shaped strap and the sole/base portion). In some cases, the stem of the Y-shaped strap inserts between two adjacent toes of an individual (e.g., the first and second toes of the foot of an individual), while the angled Y-portion wraps around opposite sides of the foot of the individual. This simple arrangement allows the flip-flops to be quickly attached to the feet with minimal effort and while providing a cool alternative to a fully enclosed shoe.

During excursions on a beach, for example, an individual may wish to walk barefoot in the sand and/or water to, for instance, enjoy the freedom and feeling of the environment. In this scenario, if the individual is wearing flip-flops, the individual is required to remove the flip-flops and either carry them by hand or leave the flip-flops at some location on the beach to walk barefoot. As can be appreciated, carrying flip-flops by hand requires the individual to continually hold onto the flip-flops thereby tying up the use of the individual's hand or hands during the walk. Alternatively, if the flip-flops are left at some location on the beach, the individual must eventually return to the location to retrieve the flip-flops or risk losing the flip-flops.

BRIEF SUMMARY

It is with respect to the above issues and other problems that the embodiments presented herein were contemplated. Among other things, the present disclosure is directed to a multifunctional carrying strap system that allows an individual to carry footwear, such as flip-flops, on a comfortable strap that drapes around their body or neck and shoulders, without requiring the flip-flops to be carried by hand. For instance, the multifunctional carrying strap system may be configured as a 1.0 inch to 3.0 inch wide strap material that extends a length from a first end to a second end. A first hook mechanism may be arranged at the first end and a second hook mechanism may be arranged at the second end. The first hook may selectively engage with the strap portion (e.g., the Y-shaped strap) of one of the flip-flops, and the second hook may selectively engage with the strap portion (e.g., the Y-shaped strap) of the other one of the flip-flops. In this arrangement, the flip-flops may be held by the carrying strap (e.g., on either side of the individual) without requiring the individual to use their hands in carrying the flip-flops. Stated another way, because the strap can be arranged with an approximate middle portion of the length disposed at the individual's neck, a first half of the strap (e.g., including the first hook) may drape down along on a left-hand side of a front of the body of the individual and a second half of the strap (e.g., including the second hook) may drape down along on a right-hand side of the front of the body of the individual. When the first flip-flop is attached to the first hook and the second flip-flop is attached to the second hook, the first half of the strap and the second half of the strap are balanced about the individual's neck. This balance allows the individual to move and walk about without requiring hands to hold the strap, the hooks, or the flip-flops. As can be appreciated, this hands-free arrangement of the multifunctional carrying strap system allows the individual to, for instance, hold hands with another person, or persons, carry a drink or other object, skip stones, collect stones or shells, and/or otherwise enjoy full use of the individual's hands while carrying the flip-flops via the multifunctional carrying strap system and without requiring carrying of the flip-flops by hand.

In some embodiments, the first hook and/or the second hook may be configured as a carabiner or other clip. In this configuration, the first hook and/or the second hook may be arranged as a D-shaped open frame, with a spring-loaded hinge portion arranged along one side of the D-shaped open frame. Additionally or alternatively, the first hook and/or the second hook may include a loop portion that is configured to attach to the strap material of the multifunctional carrying strap. In some examples, the strap may be riveted, sewn, or otherwise fastened to the first hook and/or the second hook. In one example, the strap may be threaded through a number of apertures associated with the first hook and/or the second hook and/or the loop portions thereof. At least one benefit to including a spring-loaded hinge portion includes allowing the first hook and/or the second hook to be quickly attached to the flip-flops maintaining the flip-flops in a locked and attached position until the spring-loaded hinge portion is actuated to release the flip-flops.

The strap material may be arranged as a webbing (e.g., a seat belt material, etc.), woven material, flat strapping, textile strap, and/or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the strap material may be made from polyester, cotton, bamboo, thermoplastic polymers, synthetic polymers, monomers, para-aramid synthetic fiber, etc., and/or combinations thereof. In any event, the strap material may be made from a light, flexible, easy-to-clean, environmentally friendly material. In some embodiments, the strap material may be made from a biocompatible and/or compostable material.

The width of the strap material may be configured in any number of sizes that are intended to offer comfort to an individual (e.g., when draped around their neck, shoulders, or body) while also offering sufficient strength to carry flip-flops, footwear, and/or other accessories. By way of example, the strap material may be configured having a width range anywhere between and including 0.5 inches to 4.0 inches. As described herein, the width of the strap material may be selected to suit a particular fit, fashion, or comfort. For example, the strap material may be configured with a width range between and including 1.0 inches to 3.5 inches, 1.5 inches to 3.0 inches, 1.5 inches to 2.5 inches, and/or 1.75 inches to 2.5 inches. In one example, the strap may measure approximately 2.5 inches in width.

The length of the strap material of the multifunctional carrying strap system (e.g., from the first end to the second end) may be sized such that, when the flip-flops are attached thereto (e.g., to the first and second hooks) and draped around the neck of an individual, the flip-flops hang at a location at, or about, the knees of the individual (e.g., when the individual is standing). Stated another way, the strap material may be sized to ensure that the flip-flops attached hang below the individual's shorts, dress, or the like. In this manner, any sand, dirt, or debris that may be associated with the flip-flops (e.g., on the sole of the footwear) would not contact the individual's garments, ensuring that the flip-flops can be carried cleanly. In some examples, the strap material may include an adjustment buckle, or device, disposed between the first end and the second end. The adjustment buckle may be configured to selectively adjust a length of the strap material to suit a height or size of a particular individual using the multifunctional carrying strap system.

In one example, the multifunctional carrying strap system may be used to wrap around an individual's waist where one of the first and second hooks can be used as an attachment to an animal lead (e.g., a dog leash, etc.). In this manner, the individual may take a pet for a walk or jog, without requiring the individual to hold onto the leash by hand. This arrangement may allow freedom in hand and arm movement for the individual, or simply provide a secure way to hold the leash of the pet without worrying about loosening a grip or dropping the leash. In some examples, this arrangement may be particularly of benefit for individuals with disabilities, arthritis, muscular limitations, or other physical issues.

In any event, the multifunctional carrying strap system allows footwear or other objects to be selectively attached and detached thereto, providing a hands-free operation for an individual.

The preceding is a simplified summary of the disclosure to provide an understanding of some aspects of the disclosure. This summary is neither an extensive nor exhaustive overview of the disclosure and its various aspects, embodiments, and configurations. It is intended neither to identify key or critical elements of the disclosure nor to delineate the scope of the disclosure but to present selected concepts of the disclosure in a simplified form as an introduction to the more detailed description presented below. As will be appreciated, other aspects, embodiments, and configurations of the disclosure are possible utilizing, alone or in combination, one or more of the features set forth above or described in detail below.

Numerous additional features and advantages are described herein and will be apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following Detailed Description and in view of the figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are incorporated into and form a part of the specification to illustrate several examples of the present disclosure. These drawings, together with the description, explain the principles of the disclosure. The drawings simply illustrate preferred and alternative examples of how the disclosure can be made and used and are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure to only the illustrated and described examples. Further features and advantages will become apparent from the following, more detailed, description of the various aspects, embodiments, and configurations of the disclosure, as illustrated by the drawings referenced below.

FIG. 1A shows a schematic diagram of a view of a multifunctional carrying strap system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1B shows a view of a hook of the multifunctional carrying strap system taken from arrow 1B in FIG. 1A in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1C shows a schematic diagram of a hook of the multifunctional carrying strap system moving between a closed state and an open state in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 1D shows a multifunctional carrying strap system in use as worn by an individual in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2A shows a detail view of an outside surface of an end of the multifunctional carrying strap system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2B shows a detail view of an inside surface of an end of the multifunctional carrying strap system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3A shows a detail view of an outside surface of an end of the multifunctional carrying strap system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3B shows a detail view of an inside surface of an end of the multifunctional carrying strap system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4A shows multiple multifunctional carrying strap systems in a wrapped state in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4B shows multiple multifunctional carrying strap systems in a partially wrapped state with the first and second ends exposed in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5A shows a first use case of the multifunctional carrying strap system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5B shows a second use case of the multifunctional carrying strap system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6A shows a front side perspective view of a third use case of the multifunctional carrying strap system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 6B shows a rear side perspective view of the third use case of the multifunctional carrying strap system in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Further, the present disclosure may use examples to illustrate one or more aspects thereof. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the use or listing of one or more examples (which may be denoted by “for example,” “by way of example,” “e.g.,” “such as,” or similar language) is not intended to and does not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

The ensuing description provides embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the claims. Rather, the ensuing description will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing the described embodiments. It being understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

Various aspects of the present disclosure will be described herein with reference to drawings that may be schematic illustrations of idealized configurations.

It is with respect to the above issues and other problems that the embodiments presented herein were contemplated.

FIGS. 1A-1C show various views of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. Features of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may be described in conjunction with a coordinate system 102. The coordinate system 102, as shown in the figures, includes three-dimensions comprising an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis. Additionally or alternatively, the coordinate system 102 may be used to define planes (e.g., the XY-plane, the XZ-plane, and the YZ-plane) of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100. These planes may be disposed orthogonal, or at 90 degrees, to one another. While the origin of the coordinate system 102 may be placed at any point on or near the components of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100, for the purposes of description, the axes of the coordinate system 102 are always disposed along the same directions from figure to figure. In some examples, reference may be made to dimensions, angles, directions, relative positions, and/or movements associated with one or more components of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 with respect to the coordinate system 102. For example, the length of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may be defined as a dimension along the X-axis of the coordinate system 102, the height of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may be defined as dimension along the Y-axis of the coordinate system 102, and the width of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may be defined as a dimension along the Z-axis of the coordinate system 102. Additionally or alternatively, the length, L, of the strap material 104 may be defined as a dimension along the X-axis of the coordinate system 102, the height of the strap material 104, first hook 112A, and/or second hook 112B may be defined as dimension along the Y-axis of the coordinate system 102, and the width, W, of the strap material 104 may be defined as a dimension along the Z-axis of the coordinate system 102.

Referring now to FIG. 1A, a schematic diagram of a view of a multifunctional carrying strap system 100 is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may include a strap material 104 having a width, W, that extends a length, L, from a first end 108A of the strap material 104 to a second end 108B of the strap material 104. A centerline 106 may be arranged at a midpoint (e.g., the length, L, divided by 2) of the strap material 104. In some embodiments, one or more features of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may be symmetrical about the centerline 106. The centerline 106 may define a center plane (e.g., YZ-plane) of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100. Although shown as being uniform in width along the entirety of the length, L, of the strap material 104, the width, W, may vary from the first end 108A to the second end 108B. In some examples, the strap material 104 may include a padded portion or adjustment portion (e.g., adjustment buckle (not shown) arranged between the first end 108A and the second end 108B.

The multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may include a first hook 112A disposed at the first end 108A of the strap material 104 and a second hook 112B disposed at the second end 108B of the strap material 104. At least one of the first and second hooks 112A, 112B may be arranged as a carabiner or other hook as described herein. In some embodiments, the first hook 112A may be the same as the second hook 112B. In one embodiment, the first hook 112A and the second hook 112B may be symmetrical about the centerline 106. In some embodiments, the strap material 104, the first hook 112A, and the second hook 112B, may be referred to herein as the multifunctional carrying strap.

FIG. 1B shows a view of the first hook 112A at the first end 108A of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100. As provided above, the first hook 112A and the second hook 112B may be symmetrical, for example, about the centerline 106 and features of the first hook 112A and first end 108A of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may correspond to the same, or symmetrical, features of the second hook 112B and second end 108B of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100. As shown in FIG. 1B, the strap material 104 is folded at each end 108A, 108B forming a folded portion 130 that is attached to itself by one or more fasteners 134 in a closed loop. The hook frame 124 may be arranged at least partially inside the opening 140 of the folded portion 130, attaching the first hook 112A and/or the second hook 112B to the strap material 104 of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100. The fasteners 134 may correspond to stitching, rivets, staples, buttons, hook-and-loop fastening material, adhesive, ultrasonic welded features, etc., and/or combinations thereof.

FIG. 1C shows a schematic diagram of the first hook 112A moving from a closed state (on the left-hand side of the page) to an open state (on the right-hand side of the page), and vice versa, as indicated by the center arrows. Opening the first hook 112A may include moving, or actuating, the hinge portion 128 about the hinge 120 toward a center of the hook frame 124. When the hinge portion 128 is in this open state, the hook frame 124 can be engaged with a portion of the flip-flops 116A, 116B, or the pair of flip-flops, and then the hinge portion 128 can be actuated back to the closed state securing the flip-flops 116A, 116B to the first hook 112A and/or second hook 112B. The hinge 120 may correspond to a spring-hinge, a hinge pin with integrated torsion spring, and/or some other pivoting member. The hinge 120 and the hinge portion 128 may be referred to herein as a spring-loaded hinge portion. When the flip-flops 116A, 116B are secured to, or retained by, the first hook 112A and/or second hook 112B (e.g., in the closed state), the flip-flops 116A, 116B are prevented from being removed from the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 until the first hook 112A and/or the second hook 112B are moved into the open state.

FIG. 1D shows a multifunctional carrying strap system 100 in use as worn by an individual 150 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In the illustration of FIG. 1D, the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 is draped around the neck of the individual 150 such that the first end 108A is arranged on a first front side of the individual 150 and the second end 108B is arranged on a second front side of the individual 150 (opposite the first front side). In this arrangement, the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 is positioned on the individual 150 such that the approximate midpoint of the strap material 104 (e.g., at, or near, the centerline 106) is disposed adjacent the neck of the individual 150. As shown in FIG. 1D, the flip-flops 116A, 116B are attached to the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 such that a first flip-flop 116A (e.g., a first article of footwear) is attached to the first hook 112A and a second flip-flop 116B (e.g., a second article of footwear) is attached to the second hook 112B. For example, the In this arrangement, the individual 150 is free to use his hands for any activity or action other than holding the flip-flops 116A, 116B.

FIGS. 2A-2B show various detail views of an end 108 of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The end 108 shown in FIGS. 2A-2B may correspond to the first end 108A and/or the second end 108B of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 as shown and described in conjunction with at least FIGS. 1A-1D.

Referring to FIG. 2A, a detail view of an outside surface of an end 108 of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As provided above, the hook 112 may be configured as a carabiner including a D-shaped open frame portion (e.g., hook frame 124) and a spring-loaded hinge portion 204 (e.g., the hinge 120 and the hinge portion 128). The spring-loaded hinge portion 204 may pivot about an axis (e.g., about the hinge 120) allowing the spring-loaded hinge portion 204 to be selectively opened and closed (e.g., between an open state and a closed state as illustrated in FIG. 1C). In some embodiments, the spring-loaded hinge portion 204 may hold the hinge portion 128 in the closed state (e.g., shown on the left-hand side of FIG. 1C) until a predetermined actuation force is applied to the hinge portion 128 pivoting the hinge portion 128 about the hinge 120 into the open state (e.g., shown on the right-hand side of FIG. 1C).

The strap material 104 may be folded at the end 108 and then fastened to itself by one or more fasteners 134 such as rivets/fasteners 208 and/or by stitching 212. Although shown as including two rivets/fasteners 208, the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may use more or fewer rivets/fasteners 208 than shown in the drawings without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In one example, the hook 112 may be arranged in a folded portion 130 of the strap material 104 at the end 108, such that the hook 112 is attached to the strap material 104 at the end 108. A schematic example of this attachment is illustrated in FIG. 1B. In some examples, the hook 112 may be inserted into the folded portion 130 after it has been fastened to the strap material 104 (e.g., via twisting the carabiner into an opening 140 formed by the folded portion 130 of the end 108, etc.).

FIG. 2B shows a detail view of an inside surface of an end of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some examples, the appearance of the strap material 104 may vary between the inside surface shown in FIG. 2B and the outside surface shown in FIG. 2A. In one embodiment, the stitching 212 and/or end of the strap material 104 may be visible from the inside surface shown in FIG. 2B. In some embodiments, the stitching 212 may be visible from both the outside surface shown in FIG. 2A and the inside surface shown in FIG. 2B.

FIGS. 3A-3B show various detail views of the end 108 of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 with an example stitched strap material 104 end in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The end 108 shown in FIGS. 3A-3B may correspond to the first end 108A and/or the second end 108B of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 as shown and described in conjunction with at least FIGS. 1A-2B. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3B, the stitching 212 may extend across the width, W, of the strap material 104 at the end 108 of the strap material 104. In some examples, the stitching 212 may be linear, zig-zag, reinforced, and/or combinations thereof. The stitching 212 may be made from a similar material as the strap material 104 such as, but in no way limited to, para-aramid, polyester, cotton, bamboo, thermoplastic polymer, synthetic polymer, monomer, etc., and/or combinations thereof.

FIGS. 4A-4B show various views of multiple multifunctional carrying strap systems 100A-100D in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The multifunctional carrying strap systems 100A-100D may include any, or all, of the features of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 described in conjunction with FIGS. 1A-2B.

FIG. 4A shows multiple multifunctional carrying strap systems 100A-100D in a wrapped state in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In some examples, the multifunctional carrying strap systems 100A-100D may be wrapped, or coiled, in the arrangement shown in FIG. 4A for storage, transport, or sale. As can be appreciated, the flat strapping and hook 112 arrangement of the multifunctional carrying strap systems 100A-100D may be compactly stored in the coiled state shown in FIG. 4A. This arrangement takes up less space than conventional carry equipment, bags, and/or the like.

FIG. 4B shows the multiple multifunctional carrying strap systems 100A-100D in a partially wrapped state with the first and second ends 108A, 108B and first and second hooks 112A, 112B exposed in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

As illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4B, the multifunctional carrying strap systems 100A-100D may include different appearances and/or sizes. For instance, the first multifunctional carrying strap system 100A may include a combination of blue colored shapes arranged along the length, L, of the strap material 104. The second multifunctional carrying strap system 100B may include a gradient colored surface or pattern arranged along the length, L, of the strap material 104. The third multifunctional carrying strap system 100C may include a similar pattern as the first multifunctional carrying strap system 100A shown with different coloring. The fourth multifunctional carrying strap system 100D may include one or more complex patterns, images, custom graphics, and/or the like.

FIG. 5A shows a first use case of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5A, an individual 150 has taken the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 and inserted the first end 108A through the second hook 112B, wrapping the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 around his waist. For example, the second hook 112B is engaged with the strap material 104 forming a closed wearing loop 504. In this example, the first hook 112A is exposed outside of the closed wearing loop and is attached to a pet leash 508 (e.g., at the handle loop 512 portion). This arrangement allows the individual 150 to walk or jog with the pet 550 in a hands-free manner (e.g., without having to hold the pet leash 508 with his hands).

FIG. 5B shows a second use case of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 5B, an individual 150 has used the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 as shown in FIG. 1D, allowing the first and second hooks 112A, 112B to hold the flip-flops 116A, 116B, while the hands of the individual 150 are free to engage with the pet 550 and even hold the pet leash 508 (e.g., at the handle loop 512 portion). In this arrangement, the flip-flops 116A, 116B of the individual 150 are held by the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 while the individual 150 is able to walk with his pet 550. The multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may be sized such that the first flip-flop 116A and/or the second flip-flop 116B are maintained at the waist or at the knees of the individual 150 in this use case.

FIGS. 6A-6B show various side perspective views of a third use case of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, the individual 150 has fastened the first hook 112A to the second hook 112B of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 and attached the flip-flops 116 A, 116 B to one or more of the first and second hooks 112A, 112B. For example, the hook frame 124 of one end 108 of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may be attached to the hook frame 124 of the other end of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100. When the first hook 112A is attached to the second hook 112B a closed carrying loop 604 is formed in the strap material 104. The closed carrying loop 604 may be positioned such that the strap material 104 wraps around a portion of the body of the individual 150 with the midpoint of the strap material 104 arranged at a side of the neck of the individual 150 on a first side of her body with a first half of the strap material 104 arranged at a front of her body and a second half of the strap material 104 arranged at a rear, or back, of her body. In this position, the pair of flip-flops (e.g., the first flip-flop 116A and the second flip-flop 116B) may be arranged on one side of the body of the individual 150. In this manner, the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may be prevented from shifting or accidentally falling from around the neck of the individual 150 while moving. Similar to the other examples described herein, the third use case shown in FIGS. 6A-6B allows the individual 150 to use her hands for other activities including, but in no way limited to, holding a drink, using a phone, or engaging in sign language, etc.

It should be appreciated that the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 may be quickly and easily transitioned from one use case to another (e.g., by actuating the hinge portion 128 of one or more of the hooks 112A, 112B and attaching the hooks 112A, 112B to various portions of the multifunctional carrying strap system 100). For instance, the multifunctional carrying strap system 100 can be arranged to transition from the use case shown in FIGS. 1D and 5B to the use case in 5A and/or 6A, or vice versa.

The exemplary systems and methods of this disclosure have been described in relation to carrying strap systems. However, to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present disclosure, the preceding description omits a number of known structures and devices. This omission is not to be construed as a limitation of the scope of the claimed disclosure. Specific details are set forth to provide an understanding of the present disclosure. It should, however, be appreciated that the present disclosure may be practiced in a variety of ways beyond the specific detail set forth herein.

A number of variations and modifications of the disclosure can be used. It would be possible to provide for some features of the disclosure without providing others.

References in the specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” “some embodiments,” etc., indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with one embodiment, it is submitted that the description of such feature, structure, or characteristic may apply to any other embodiment unless so stated and/or except as will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the description. The present disclosure, in various embodiments, configurations, and aspects, includes components, methods, processes, systems and/or apparatus substantially as depicted and described herein, including various embodiments, subcombinations, and subsets thereof. Those of skill in the art will understand how to make and use the systems and methods disclosed herein after understanding the present disclosure. The present disclosure, in various embodiments, configurations, and aspects, includes providing devices and processes in the absence of items not depicted and/or described herein or in various embodiments, configurations, or aspects hereof, including in the absence of such items as may have been used in previous devices or processes, e.g., for improving performance, achieving ease, and/or reducing cost of implementation.

The foregoing discussion of the disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. The foregoing is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. In the foregoing Detailed Description for example, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more embodiments, configurations, or aspects for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The features of the embodiments, configurations, or aspects of the disclosure may be combined in alternate embodiments, configurations, or aspects other than those discussed above. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed disclosure requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment, configuration, or aspect. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment of the disclosure.

Moreover, though the description of the disclosure has included description of one or more embodiments, configurations, or aspects and certain variations and modifications, other variations, combinations, and modifications are within the scope of the disclosure, e.g., as may be within the skill and knowledge of those in the art, after understanding the present disclosure. It is intended to obtain rights, which include alternative embodiments, configurations, or aspects to the extent permitted, including alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges, or steps to those claimed, whether or not such alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions, ranges, or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publicly dedicate any patentable subject matter.

Exemplary aspects are directed to a multifunctional carrying strap system, comprising: a strap material having a width and extending a length from a first end of the strap material to a second end of the strap material; a first folded portion arranged at the first end of the strap material forming a first closed loop portion of the strap material; a second folded portion arranged at the second end of the strap material forming a second closed loop portion of the strap material; a first hook attached to the first end of the strap material via the first folded portion; and a second hook attached to the second end of the strap material via the second folded portion, wherein the first hook and the second hook comprise a D-shaped hook with a spring-loaded hinge portion that selectively moves between an open state and a closed state, wherein, in the open state, the first hook and the second hook are configured to engage with a strap of a footwear, and wherein, in the closed state, the first hook and the second hook retain the footwear to the multifunctional carrying strap system.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the strap material is configured to be draped around a neck of an individual such that an approximate midpoint of the length of the strap material is disposed adjacent the neck of the individual. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the first hook is arranged on a first front side of the individual and the second hook is arranged on a second front side of the individual. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the first hook is attached to a first article of the footwear and the second hook is attached to a second article of the footwear. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the second hook is engaged with the strap material forming a closed wearing loop, and wherein the first hook is exposed outside of the closed wearing loop. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the first hook is attached to a handle loop of a pet leash. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the first hook is attached to the second hook forming a closed carrying loop in the strap material. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein at least one of the first hook and the second hook is attached to at least one of a first article of the footwear and a second article of the footwear. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein at least one of the first folded portion and the second folded portion comprises a stitching extending across a portion of the width of the strap material. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein at least one of the first folded portion and the second folded portion comprises at least one rivet arranged adjacent the stitching.

Exemplary aspects are directed to a multifunctional carrying strap system, comprising: a strap material extending a length from a first end of the strap material to a second end of the strap material; a first hook attached to the first end of the strap material; and a second hook attached to the second end of the strap material, wherein the first hook and the second hook each comprise a hook frame and a hinge portion pivotally attached to the hook frame, wherein the first hook and the second hook are configured to move between an open state and a closed state, wherein, in the open state, the first hook and the second hook are configured to engage with a strap of a footwear, and wherein, in the closed state, the first hook and the second hook retain the footwear to the multifunctional carrying strap system.

Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the first end of the strap material comprises: a first folded portion of the strap material attached to a first end portion of the strap material via a first fastener, wherein a first closed loop is arranged between the first end of the strap material and the first fastener. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the second end of the strap material comprises: a second folded portion of the strap material attached to a second end portion of the strap material via a second fastener, wherein a second closed loop is arranged between the second end of the strap material and the second fastener. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein a portion of the hook frame of the first hook is arranged in the first closed loop, and wherein a portion of the hook frame of the second hook is arranged in the second closed loop. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the first fastener comprises a stitching extending across a width of the strap material adjacent the first end of the strap material. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the first fastener comprises at least one rivet fastening the first folded portion and the strap material together, and wherein the at least one rivet is arranged adjacent the stitching. Any one or more of the above aspects include wherein the hinge portion is spring-loaded holding the hinge portion in the closed state. Any one or more of the above aspects further comprising: a pair of flip-flops, wherein the first hook is engaged with a first strap of a first flip-flop of the pair of flip-flops, and wherein the second hook is engaged with a second strap of a second flip-flop of the pair of flip-flops. Any one or more of the above aspects further comprising: a pair of flip-flops, wherein the first hook is engaged with a first strap of a first flip-flop of the pair of flip-flops and a second strap of a second flip-flop of the pair of flip-flops, and wherein the first hook is attached to the second hook forming a closed carrying loop of the multifunctional carrying strap system.

Exemplary aspects are directed to a multifunctional carrying strap system, comprising: a pair of flip-flops; and a multifunctional carrying strap, comprising: a strap material extending a length from a first end of the strap material to a second end of the strap material; a first hook attached to the first end of the strap material; and a second hook attached to the second end of the strap material, wherein the first hook and the second hook each comprise a hook frame and a hinge portion pivotally attached to the hook frame, wherein the first hook and the second hook are configured to move between an open state and a closed state, wherein, in the open state, at least one of the first hook and the second hook interconnect to a first strap of the pair of flip-flops and to a second strap of the pair of flip flops, wherein, in the closed state, the pair of flip-flops are secured by the first hook and the second hook and prevented from being removed from the multifunctional carrying strap system.

Any one or more of the above aspects/embodiments as substantially disclosed herein.

Any one or more of the aspects/embodiments as substantially disclosed herein optionally in combination with any one or more other aspects/embodiments as substantially disclosed herein.

One or means adapted to perform any one or more of the above aspects/embodiments as substantially disclosed herein.

Any one or more of the features disclosed herein.

Any one or more of the features as substantially disclosed herein.

Any one or more of the features as substantially disclosed herein in combination with any one or more other features as substantially disclosed herein.

Any one of the aspects/features/embodiments in combination with any one or more other aspects/features/embodiments.

Use of any one or more of the aspects or features as disclosed herein.

It is to be appreciated that any feature described herein can be claimed in combination with any other feature(s) as described herein, regardless of whether the features come from the same described embodiment.

As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “include,” “including,” “includes,” “comprise,” “comprises,” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

The term “a” or “an” entity refers to one or more of that entity. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more,” and “at least one” can be used interchangeably herein. It is also to be noted that the terms “comprising,”“including,”and “having”can be used interchangeably.

The phrases “at least one,” “one or more,” “or,” and “and/or” are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, B and C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” “one or more of A, B, or C,” and “A, B, and/or C” means A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together. When each one of A, B, and C in the above expressions refers to an element, such as X, Y, and Z, or a class of elements, such as X1-Xn, Y1-Ym, and Z1-Zo, the phrase is intended to refer to a single element selected from X, Y, and Z, a combination of elements selected from the same class (e.g., X1 and X2) as well as a combination of elements selected from two or more classes (e.g., Y1 and Zo).

The term “automatic” and variations thereof, as used herein, refers to any process or operation, which is typically continuous or semi-continuous, done without material human input when the process or operation is performed. However, a process or operation can be automatic, even though performance of the process or operation uses material or immaterial human input, if the input is received before performance of the process or operation. Human input is deemed to be material if such input influences how the process or operation will be performed. Human input that consents to the performance of the process or operation is not deemed to be “material.”

The terms “determine,” “calculate,” “compute,” and variations thereof, as used herein, are used interchangeably and include any type of methodology, process, mathematical operation, or technique.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and this disclosure.

It should be understood that every maximum numerical limitation given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every lower numerical limitation as an alternative, as if such lower numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every higher numerical limitation as an alternative, as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every numerical range given throughout this disclosure is deemed to include each and every narrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.