POUCH APPARATUS FOR THE SAFEKEEPING OF ITEMS

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a pouch apparatus for the safekeeping of items. In particular, the present invention relates to a novel pouch apparatus that safely and securely fastens and protects small items, including powders, medicinal and vitamin pills, herbs, paper or film strips, such as breath freshening strips, jewelry and the like, typically small, fragile, and/or sensitive articles stored within the pouch apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Traditional disposable storage bags or pouches for compactly carrying powders, medicinal or vitamin pills, herbs, paper or film strips, jewelry or other small items, for example, Ziplock® bags, often fail to provide adequate protection stored items, are easily penetrable, and lack of reusability leading to, in some cases, degradation of the stored items or needless waste. Such bags typically include interlocking tracks which may become clogged with certain contents (e.g., powder contents), leading to quicker degradation of the bag and/or the contents within the bag, and each such track creates an inner lip within the bag which may hinder ingress and egress of contents (e.g., powder contents) into and out of the bag. Ziplock® bags are also typically translucent and fail to provide privacy of contents in scenarios where privacy may be desirable. Ziplock® bags may also be easy to tear and sometimes completely rip apart when their interlocking tracks are separated, leading to a loss of contents from within the bags. Moreover, traditional storage pouches or wallets for carrying small items, for example, card holders or coin purses, fail to provide adequate protection against moisture, air, and contaminants, also potentially leading to degradation of stored items, for example, perishable and/or consumable products (e.g., perishable medicinal pills or powders), and loss of valuable contents.

In particular, U.S. Pat. No. 10,660,428 describes a self-closing utility bag for small parts that permits opening and access to the internal volume or space of the bag using one hand. While U.S. Pat. No. 10,660,428 describes a bag sealing system that uses a pair of resilient strips to seal the bag, the bag sealing system fails to teach sheet magnets disposed on a majority or middle section of the bag body to maintain the bag in a flat closed position, and is not provided with a thin film or lining that protects sensitive materials which may be disposed in the bag.

U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2013/0243354 describes a flexible container having a magnetic closure system comprising magnetic elements in the strips embedded into the containers'top edges to create a resealable closure at the top of the container. However, this disclosure also fails to teach sheet magnets disposed on a majority or middle section of the bag body to maintain the bag in a flat closed position.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,704,480 describes a flexible container having a magnetic closure system comprising magnetic elements embedded into the containers'top edges to create a resealable closure. However, this disclosure similarly fails to teach sheet magnets disposed on a majority or middle section of the bag body to maintain the bag in a flat closed position, and the cavity shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,704,480.

Japanese Pat. App. No. JP2006244432 describes a card storing means having a shielding sheet formed with magnets to prevent skimming devices from reading data stored in the card storing means, even when a skimming device is brough close to the card storing means. The magnetized shielding sheets are inserted into the card storing means in such a way that prevents the magnetism of the shielding sheet from affecting a card stored in the card slot of the card storing means (e.g., in a direction that faces away from the content stored within the storage cavity of the card storing means). Accordingly, this disclosure fails to teach opposing magnetic sheets attracted to one another to tightly grip and secure contents placed inside the card storing means and maintain a flat profile for the card storing means. Moreover, this reference fails to teach lining the cavity of the card storing means with a thin film (e.g., a polyester film material) to protect sensitive materials, such as powders, herbs, or medicinal pills, which may be stored in the card storing means.

U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2024/0023686 describes a facemask storage pouch having a substantially rectangular body with an overlapping border forming a sidewall opening which includes a magnetic seal configured to open and close for insertion or removal of a facemask contained within the storage pouch. However, such a device lacks sheet magnets disposed on a majority or middle section of the storage pouch body to maintain the storage pouch in a flat closed position.

Accordingly, there is a need for a compact, versatile, durable, reusable and airtight pouch apparatus that uses opposing sheet magnets to substantially flatten the pouch apparatus and safely maintain the integrity of sensitive materials. In certain applications, it may be preferable for the pouch apparatus to maintain a flat and minimalist appearance in the interest of improved aesthetic appearance, and to make it easy to insert and remove the pouch apparatus from certain places, for example, pant or purse pockets. These and other features of the present invention will become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art based on the Specification, Drawings, and Claims that follow.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a reusable airtight sealable bag that features a slim and compact multi-layer construction designed to be sealed by opposing magnets or ferromagnetic members to make the bag or pouch impermeable to air and moisture, airtight, water-resistant, lightproof, and smell-proof, and providing the convenience of self-closure.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a compact pouch apparatus with a sealing interface configured to automatically seal the pouch apparatus when the apparatus is at rest or flattened to support secure containment of the pouch contents.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a compact pouch apparatus with a sealing interface configured to self-seal the pouch apparatus when the force applied to open the pouch apparatus is removed to support secure containment of the pouch contents.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a pouch apparatus with a flexible and durable sealing interface that is configured to be disposed at least in a central body portion of the pouch apparatus to support the pouch apparatus maintaining a flat profile while providing a secure closure.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a pouch apparatus with a flexible and durable sealing interface that is configured to be integrated with, affixed to or otherwise disposed within, the sidewalls (e.g., between the outer and interior layers of the sidewalls) where at least 50%, for example of the total size of each of the sidewalls includes a portion of the sealing interface (e.g., one or more rubber sheet magnets of the sealing interface) to support the pouch apparatus maintaining a flat profile while providing a secure closure.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a pouch apparatus with a flexible and durable sealing interface that is configured to be integrated with, affixed to or otherwise disposed within, the sidewalls (e.g., between the outer and interior layers of the sidewalls) where at least 80%, for example, 84%, of the total size of each of the sidewalls includes a portion of the sealing interface (e.g., one or more rubber sheet magnets of the sealing interface) to support the pouch apparatus maintaining a flat profile while providing a secure closure.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a pouch apparatus with a flexible and durable sealing interface that is configured to be integrated with, affixed to or otherwise disposed within, the sidewalls (e.g., between the outer and interior layers of the sidewalls) where at least a middle section of each of the sidewalls includes a portion of the sealing interface (e.g., one or more rubber sheet magnets of the sealing interface) to support the pouch apparatus maintaining a flat profile while providing a secure closure.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a pouch apparatus that provides an airtight closure, for example, to prevent degradation of products within the pouch apparatus.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a pouch apparatus that provides a water resistant closure, for example, to prevent degradation of products within the pouch apparatus.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a pouch apparatus that provides a smell-proof closure.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a pouch apparatus that is lightproof, for example, to prevent degradation of products within the pouch apparatus.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a pouch apparatus having a minimalistic design that emphasizes a flat profile while providing easy access to its contents.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an eco-friendly replacement for miniature Ziploc® bags or “baggies” traditionally used as disposable bags for carrying medicinal products such as pills and herbs by providing a pouch that is suited to securely carry similar items while being durable, reusable, and significantly smell-proof.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a pouch apparatus comprising a pair of opposing multi-layered sidewalls, for example, each sidewall comprising an outer layer material, a middle layer material, and an interior or interior layer material. In some examples, the outer layer material may be a durable material, for example, leather (e.g., vegan cactus leather or genuine python leather), plastic, rubber, or plastic, the middle layer may be or include a magnetized or ferromagnetized material, for example, a rubber magnet sheet material, and the inner material may be a film or resin material, for example, a polyester film or resin material (e.g., Mylar®).

It is an object of the present invention to provide a magnetic style closure that comprises a pair of flexible magnetic sheets of material formed of a combination of magnets in a rubber-like binder (e.g., neodymium rubber magnet sheets).

It is an object of the present invention to provide a pouch apparatus having a notch formed on a top edge of the flexible magnetic sheets and/or the outer layer of the pouch to support ease of opening of the pouch apparatus.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a pouch apparatus with an integrated Near Field Communication (NFC) chip, which may have the ability to link to a website for purchasing a pouch apparatus or other marketing purposes. The NFC chip may be programmed with such a link embedded, and be locked to prevent further manipulation.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a pouch apparatus may comprise a pouch having an opening extending toward an interior cavity at least partially encased by a pair of sidewalls and a magnetic sheet material integrated into each sidewall, wherein each magnetic sheet is oriented toward and attracted to an opposing magnetic sheet to form a sealing interface for engaging at least a middle section of each of the sidewalls to compress and secure any contents placed within the interior cavity. In some embodiments, the sealing interface may engage at least 50% of each of the sidewalls to compress the interior cavity of the pouch apparatus. In some embodiments, the sealing interface may engages at least 80% of each of the sidewalls to compress the interior cavity of the pouch apparatus. In some embodiments, the magnetic sheet material may be flexible and supports sealing interface gripping the middle section of the interior cavity to maintain magnetic pressure and keep the pouch apparatus securely closed and flat. In some embodiments, the materials used in the construction of the pouch apparatus may be food-safe and suitable for storing medicinal pills and powders.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a pouch apparatus may comprise a pair of sidewalls having a top portion formed with an opening, the opening being in communication with the at least one interior cavity for storing one or more items, and each sidewall having a multi-layered construction comprising: (1) an outer layer formed of a first material; (2) a middle layer, wherein an interior-facing magnetic surface of each sidewall middle layer is oriented toward and attracted to the interior-facing magnetic surface of the middle layer of the opposing sidewall to form a sealing interface; and (3) an interior layer formed of a third material. In some embodiments, each magnetic surface of each of the middle layers may be configured to create a magnetic attraction that tightly holds and flattens matter disposed between the two middle layers, including the interior layers, to form an airtight seal around the contents of the interior cavity of the pouch apparatus. In some embodiments, the sealing interface may engage and compress the sidewalls to place the pouch apparatus in a closed position. In some embodiments, a magnetic attraction between the pair of magnetic surface of each of the middle layers may support maintenance of the pouch apparatus in a substantially flat position when the pouch apparatus is in the closed position. In some embodiments, a space formed between the outer and interior layers of each of the sidewalls may define a housing that supports maintaining each of the middle layers in a fixed position relative to each other. In some embodiments, the sealing interface may be designed to provide an airtight seal when engaged. In some embodiments, the middle layer may comprise a magnetic rubber sheet material comprising the interior-facing magnetic surface and a non-magnetic rubber sheet material, wherein the magnetic sheet material covers at least 20-25% of the surface area of each sidewall and the non-magnetic sheet material covers at least 65-80% of the surface area of each sidewall.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a pouch apparatus may comprise a pair of sidewalls affixed in a manner that forms an opening at a top portion of the pouch apparatus, the opening being in communication with the at least one interior cavity, and each sidewall having a multi-layered construction comprising: (1) an outer layer formed of a durable material; (2) a middle layer positioned adjacent to the outer layer and comprising neodymium magnets embedded in one or more flexible rubber magnet sheet wherein an interior-facing surface of each sidewall middle layer is oriented toward and attracted to the interior-facing surface of the middle layer of the opposing sidewall to form a sealing interface; and (3) an interior layer positioned adjacent to the magnetic middle layer and formed of a thin film material. In some embodiments, the sealing interface may engage at least a middle section of each of the sidewalls to compress the one or more interior cavities of the pouch apparatus and secure any contents within the interior cavities. In some embodiments, the sealing interface may be configured to create a magnetic attraction that tightly holds matter disposed in the middle section of the pouch apparatus. In some embodiments, the sealing interface may engage at least 50% of each of the sidewalls to compress the one or more interior cavities of the pouch apparatus and secure any contents within the interior cavities. In some embodiments, the one or more flexible rubber magnet sheets of each middle layer may cover at least 80% of the surface area of each sidewall to compress the one or more interior cavities of the pouch apparatus and secure any contents within the interior cavities. In some embodiments, the middle layer may further comprise a non-magnetic rubber sheet material, wherein the one or more flexible rubber magnet sheets cover at least 20-25% of the surface area of each sidewall and the non-magnetic rubber sheet material covers at least 65-80% of the surface area of each sidewall. In some embodiments, the thin film material may be a polyester film. In some embodiments, the flexible rubber magnet sheets may support the film material gripping at least a top edge of the sidewalls and a middle section of the sidewalls to maintain magnetic pressure and keep the pouch apparatus securely closed and flat.

The present invention achieves these and other objectives by providing a compact, durable, reusable, water resistant, smell-proof, lightproof, and airtight pouch apparatus that utilizes opposing sheet magnets to substantially flatten the pouch apparatus and securely and aesthetically contain small, fragile, and/or sensitive materials while maintaining a small, flat, and aesthetically pleasing profile.

The foregoing summary of the present invention with the preferred embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention. It should be understood and obvious to one skilled in the art that the embodiments of the invention thus described may be further modified without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Accompanying this written specification is a collection of drawings of exemplary embodiments of the present invention. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that these are merely exemplary embodiments, and additional and alternative embodiments may exist and still be within the spirit of the invention as described herein.

FIG. 1 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, which may a mirror image of a rear view of an exemplary pouch apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a top view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with the pouch apparatus in an exemplary closed position in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a top view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with the pouch apparatus in an exemplary open position in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a front view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary relative size, position and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is an exploded view of an exemplary pouch apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the Summary above, the Detailed Description herein, the Claims below, and in the accompanying drawings, reference is made to particular features of the current invention. It is to be understood that the disclosure of the invention in this specification includes all possible combinations of such particular features. For example, where a particular feature is disclosed in the context of a particular aspect or embodiment of the invention, or a particular claim, that feature can also be used, to the extent possible, in combination with and/or in the context of other particular aspects and embodiments of the invention, and in the invention generally.

The present invention is directed toward a compact, durable, reusable and airtight pouch apparatus that utilizes opposing sheet magnets to substantially flatten the pouch apparatus and securely and aesthetically contain small, fragile, and/or sensitive materials while maintaining a small profile. The pouch apparatus may be configured to maintain a flat and minimalist appearance in the interest of improved aesthetic appearance, and to make it easy to insert and remove the pouch apparatus from certain places, for example, pant or purse pockets.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a pouch apparatus may comprise a pair of opposing multi-layered sidewalls, for example, each sidewall comprising an outer layer material, a middle layer material, and an interior layer material. In some examples, the outer layer material may be a durable material, for example, leather (e.g., vegan cactus leather or genuine python leather), plastic, rubber, or plastic, the middle layer may be a magnetized or ferromagnetized material, for example, a rubber magnet sheet material, and the interior layer material may be a film or resin material, for example, a polyester film or resin material (e.g., Mylar®) which may, together with the opposing interior layer material, form an interior cavity or pocket of the pouch apparatus. In some examples, the two opposing interior layer materials may be formed together or otherwise adhered to one another (e.g., at their respective edges) by glue (e.g., heat activated glue), tape (heat activated adhesive tape), or any other similar adhesives. The interior layer material may further comprise an aluminum coating and/or a polyethylene coating. For example, an interior surface of the interior cavity formed by the interior layer material may be coated with an aluminum or similar metal coating, which may provide a lightproof barrier between the contents within the pouch and any lighting exterior to the pouch. Also for example, an innermost surface of the interior layer may comprise a polyethylene or similar coating suitable for food-grade storage to support sealing the interior layer together and increase the barrier properties of the interior layer (e.g., to support airtight and/or moisture-proof closure of the interior layer and/or the cavity formed between the interior layers). The outer and interior layers may serve as the primary structural components that hold the sheet magnet layer in place and may further define the boundaries of the sheet magnets and/or the sealing interface formed by the sheet magnets and/or the interior layer.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the interior layer material may be reinforced in order to prevent the material from inadvertently fraying or tattering. For example, in scenarios where the interior layer material is sewn to attach to another layer (e.g., to attach the interior layer material to the middle layer and/or the outer layer), the edge of the thin middle layer being sewn may fray or tatter during the sewing process or, in general, over time, and it may be desirable to reinforce the edge(s) of such a material. In some embodiments, adhesive glue or tape, for example, cotton cloth pressure-sensitive tape (e.g., gaffers tape), may be applied to the top edges of the interior layer material to reinforce the top edges of the interior layer material, help strengthen the construction of the interior layer 112, for example, when the interior layer 112 is being sewn to any other layer, and/or prevent wear and tear of the interior layer material. In some embodiments, the interior layer may be folded over at its top edge and sealed in such a position to create a top lip of double the thickness of the interior layer material to reinforce the top edge of the interior layer material, help strengthen the construction of the interior layer 112, for example, when the interior layer 112 is being sewn to any other layer, and/or prevent wear and tear of the interior layer material. In some embodiments, an additional strip of the thin interior layer material may be glued, sealed, or otherwise adhered to the top edge of the interior layer material which may similarly create a top lip and double the thickness of the interior layer material to reinforce the top edge of the interior layer material, help strengthen the construction of the interior layer 112, for example, when the interior layer 112 is being sewn to any other layer, and/or prevent wear and tear of the interior layer material.

In scenarios where the interior layer material is 0.1 mm thick, the material may rip or tear when stitched within 1.5 to 2.0 mm of its edge to bind the middle layer material to any of the other layers. In an illustrative resolution to this issue, a 3 mm tall (about 0.28 mm thick) strip of gaffers tape may be added to the top of each of the two interior layer materials (on both faces of each interior layer material) to reinforce the edges of the interior layer materials prior to or during sewing. In another illustrative resolution to the aforementioned issue, an interior layer material of about 0.15 mm thickness, a top portion of the interior layer material may be folded over and glued or sealed to itself, forming a top lip that is about 0.3 mm in thickness at the top edge of the interior layer material. In another illustrative resolution to the aforementioned issue, an additional strip of the thin interior layer material of 0.15 mm thickness may be glued, sealed, or otherwise adhered to the top edge of the interior layer material having a 0.15 mm thickness which may similarly create a top lip with a collective thickness of about 0.3 mm to reinforce the top edge of the interior layer material and help prevent wear and tear of the interior layer material as in the other illustrative examples. Advantageously, providing a thin interior layer material that has a thickness of at least 0.25 mm to 0.3 mm at its top edge, while the rest of the material is maintained to have a relatively thin (or thinner) profile (e.g., a profile of about 0.1 mm in thickness) supports the securing of the stitching at the top edge of the interior layer material and helps to prevent undesired or inadvertent fraying or tattering of the thin interior layer material.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, opposing interior layer materials of the two sidewalls may be sealed or bonded together in a manner that creates a cavity with rounded corners at its bottom portion. Advantageously, such a configuration may prevent products, for example, perishable and/or consumable products (e.g., perishable products with a powder-like consistency) placed within the cavity from becoming trapped or otherwise stuck in the corners.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the middle layer material of each of the sidewalls of the pouch apparatus may be one or more rubber sheet magnets which may collectively form a sealing interface. Rubber sheet magnets attract each other due to their embedded magnetic properties, typically derived from the inclusion of ferromagnetic materials like neodymium or ferrite within a flexible rubber matrix or grid. When two such rubber magnets are brought close together, their magnetic fields interact. If opposite poles (north and south) of a plurality of magnets embedded across a surface of a rubber material face each other (e.g., alternating north and south poles facing each other), they attract due to the fundamental magnetic principle that opposite poles attract. Alternating pole arrangements within a sheet rubber grid help increase the holding force of a sheet magnet when it is applied to a second sheet magnet or other ferromagnetic surface. In some embodiments, the flexibility of rubber allows the magnets to conform to different surfaces, which can maximize the area of contact and the magnetic interaction to create a stronger attraction, as more surface area for contact creates a more effective magnetic coupling. The rubber grid or matrix enables the magnets to maintain better contact with each other, which increases the effective area over which the magnetic forces can act, further strengthening the attraction. In some scenarios, because the poles alternate in a grid-like pattern, each small section of the rubber sheet may be attracted to the opposite sheet independently, which may support distributing the magnetic force more evenly and allowed the flexible magnet sheets to maintain a strong hold with each other, in some cases, even though they may have less magnetic strength per area than a solid magnet.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the magnetic portion of the middle layer (e.g., the rubber sheet magnet) making up the middle layer of each sidewall may vary in size and magnetic force depending on the desired application and qualifications of the pouch apparatus. For example, the size of a magnetic portion of the middle layer of the pouch apparatus may substantially match the entire size of each layer (and my include magnetic portions of varying magnetic strength force (e.g., stronger and weaker rubber sheet magnets)), may cover at least 20% to 90% of the surface area of a sidewall, or may cover any specific percentage of the in between, for example, at least 25%, 50% or at least 80% of the surface area of a sidewall. In an exemplary embodiment, the size of a rubber sheet magnet may cover 84% of surface area of a sidewall. In some embodiments, the middle layer of the sidewalls may comprise a combination of one or more rubber sheet magnet portions. For example, a top half of the middle layer may comprise one or more rubber sheet magnet portions comprising relatively strong magnets (e.g., magnets with a relatively high class number, corresponding to a stronger magnetic force, for example, R5 neodymium magnets) and a bottom half of the middle layer may comprise one or more rubber sheet magnet portions comprising weaker magnets (e.g., magnets with a relatively lower class number, corresponding to a weaker magnetic force, for example, R3 neodymium magnets). In some embodiments, the middle layer of the sidewalls may comprise a combination of one or more rubber sheet magnet portions, and one or more non-magnetized portions comprising a non-magnetized material. The non-magnetized material may be a substantially flexible material, for example, a non-magnetized rubber sheet material, or may be substantially rigid, for example, a rigid plastic material. In embodiments where 20% of the surface area of a sidewall includes a rubber sheet magnet, a significant portion of the remaining surface area of the sidewall (e.g., 70-80% of the surface area of the sidewall) may include a non-magnetized material. In some examples, the rubber sheet magnet portion of the middle layer may extend from or substantially abut an edge of the non-magnetized material. The flexibility in size and coverage of the rubber sheet magnets and/or the non-magnetized middle layer materials is intended to allow for customization based on specific sealing and flattening needs and applications of the pouch apparatus. In a preferred embodiment, a rubber sheet magnet is configured to cover at least 80% of the surface area of a sidewall.

In some embodiments, the rubber sheet magnets may be disposed in a predetermined position between the outer and interior layers, for example, in a middle or central section of the layers, at a bottom portion of the layers, at a top portion of the layers, at side portions of the layers, around the entire perimeter of the sidewalls, and/or any combination of the foregoing. As discussed above, in some scenarios, the rubber sheet magnets may cover the entire surface area of the sidewalls.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the rubber sheet magnet middle layers forming the sealing interface may provide a strong magnetic force, enabling the layers to attract each other when pressed together, and, in particular, to compress the thin interior layer to substantially encase surround, or otherwise enclose the contents of the pouch apparatus, for example, powders, pills, herbs, and the like small or fine objects. In conjunction with such a feature, a sealing interface may also allow for easy opening and closing, for example, by pinching at edges of the sidewalls, to enable quick access to contents within the pouch apparatus while maintaining the integrity and security provided by the sealing interface when the sealing interface is in a closed position.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a closed position of the pouch apparatus may be a position in which the sidewalls of the pouch apparatus are forced together by the magnetic force of the rubber sheet magnets, securing the contents inside. In such a position, the magnets may create a seal that prevents items from falling out of the pouch apparatus. Advantageously, closure of the pouch apparatus by flexible rubber sheet magnets supports the sheet magnets and/or the interior layer (e.g., the thin film of the interior layer) gripping the edges of the sidewalls, at least some of the contents of the pouch apparatus, and/or central or bottom portions of the sidewalls to maintain magnetic pressure and keep the pouch apparatus securely closed. When in the closed position, the pouch apparatus may be substantially flat, making it visually appealing, as well as easy to be stored in pockets, bags, or purses.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, an open position of the pouch apparatus may be a position in which the sidewalls of the pouch are pulled apart by pinching the spines and/or edges of the sidewalls together at the top and/or middle portion of the sidewalls. Such an action may separate the edges of the pouch apparatus, providing easy access to its interior. In some embodiments, the sidewalls of the pouch apparatus may include support elements, which may be adjacent to or near the spines, edges and/or sides of the sidewalls (or any other similarly suitable position along the sidewalls) which may contribute to the overall structural stability of the pouch apparatus and/or support ease of opening the pouch apparatus. In some embodiments, the support elements may be rigid members, such as metal or hard plastic framing members, which may be configured to assist a user in easily and conveniently opening the pouch apparatus (e.g., providing leverage to support the separation of the magnets of the sealing and/or magnetic interface and provide access to the opening and/or internal cavity of the pouch apparatus) and provide an opening that is structurally stable and is able to remain wide and accessible when needed. Advantageously, the provision of a mechanism for easily opening the pouch apparatus may allow users to quickly retrieve powders, medicinal pills, coins, jewelry, small electronics, or other small or sensitive items from the pouch without the need for zippers, interlocking tracks or any other additional fasteners.

In certain applications where it may be useful, the top edge of each of the middle layers (e.g., the magnetic material of each middle layer) may be formed with notches or may otherwise comprise non-magnetized areas (which may be referred to herein as “non-magnetized notches”) at the top edge to promote ease of opening of the pouch apparatus. In some embodiments, the notches may be physical cut-outs of the middle layer magnetic materials. In some embodiments, non-magnetized areas may be disposed near the top edges of the middle layers, in the same manner and/or position that the notches would be disposed. In scenarios where the magnetized portions of the middle layers are flexible rubber sheet magnets, the non-magnetized areas may be formed of a non-magnetized flexible rubber sheet material, for example, to make the pouch apparatus feel even on the outside (e.g., when felt at the outer layer of the sidewalls) and to protect the interior layer (e.g., the thin film and/or metal coating of the interior layer of the sidewalls) from cracking along the edges of the notches (or non-magnetized notches). The notches and/or non-magnetized areas at the top edge of the middle layers may be formed in any suitable geometric shape, including semi-circular, semi-ovular, or triangular. In some embodiments, for example, in a pouch apparatus being 45 mm in width and 52 mm in height, the notch (or non-magnetized notch) may be located at about ⅓ of the width of the bag (15 mm) and may be roughly 2.5 mm-4 mm deep at the lowest point of the notch. The proposed utility of the notches and/or non-magnetized areas is to support easier opening of the pouch apparatus without compromising the integrity of the closure and/or overall design of the pouch apparatus. For example, the notches and/or non-magnetized areas at the top edges of the middle layers may provide the utility of ease of opening the pouch apparatus (e.g., the sealing and/or magnetic interface of the pouch apparatus) by creating a physical and/or functional feature which enables easy disengagement of the opposing middle layers which would be otherwise attracted to each other at their top edges (in addition to other locations of the sidewalls). For example, by including a notch (or a non-magnetized notch) in opposing magnets, the magnetic force between the magnets may be weakened at the location of the notch (or the non-magnetized notch) to make it easier to start separating the magnets and subsequently open the interior cavity of the pouch apparatus.

In certain applications where it may be useful, an additional locking mechanism may be implemented for added security. For example, a zipper seal or zip closure comprising interlocking tracks (e.g., interlocking plastic tracks) that create an airtight seal when pressed together may be disposed near the opening at a top portion of the pouch apparatus to provide additional security.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the shape of the pouch apparatus may be rectangular as shown in the figures, but variations (e.g., square, circular, oval, etc.) may be similarly utilized while remaining within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a pouch apparatus may be a slim, miniature, and substantially flat wallet, pocket, or similar pouch or container having outer dimensions of 46 mm×53 mm×3.5 mm, inner dimensions of 38 mm×38 mm, and an empty weight of 0.5 to 0.6 ounces. In some scenarios, the outer layer dimensions are 45 mm×52 mm with rounded corners. In some embodiments, the outer dimensions of the pouch may be 56 mm×66 mm ×3.8 mm. In some embodiments, the outer dimensions of the pouch may be 68 mm×89 mm. In any embodiment, the height of the pouch may be anywhere from 52 mm to 200 mm, the width may be anywhere from 45 mm to 150 mm, and the thickness may be anywhere from 3 mm to 8 mm. The capacity of the pouch apparatus may be between 3 to 10 cubic centimeters, for example, 5 or 10 cubic centimeters. The pouch apparatus may comprise a pair of sidewalls, each sidewall having an interior material formed of a polyester or resin lining such as a Mylar® lining with an aluminum coating, and an outer material formed of vegan cactus leather or genuine python leather. Between the outer and inner materials of the sidewalls may be adhered or generally disposed a magnetic sheet material. The magnetic sheet materials of each of the sidewalls may together form a magnetic sealing interface of industrial strength (e.g., with a pull force between 300 to 400 g/cm², for example, 366 g/cm²) capable of forming a substantially airtight, smell proof, water resistant, and lightproof seal closure. In some scenarios, each sidewall may have a pull strength that is anywhere between 150 g/cm² to 500 g/cm², for example, such that collectively, the sidewalls exert a pull strength of 300 g/cm² to 1000 g/cm². In some examples, for example, in an exemplary pouch apparatus having outer layer dimensions of 46 mm ×53 mm, the dimensions of the sheet magnet middle layer may be 45 mm×52 mm.

As an illustrative example, a pouch apparatus constructed in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, for example, having outer dimensions of 46 mm×53 mm×3.5 mm and inner dimensions of 38 mm×38 mm, may have the capacity to hold any of the following goods: one folded US dollar bill, 2.0 grams of cacao powder, 0.6 grams of herbs, 6 small mints, medicinal pills and/or vitamins, 20 small sheets of paper, 4 nicotine pouches (e.g., Zyn® or similar nicotine pouches), or 2 small stud earrings.

As another illustrative example, a pouch apparatus constructed in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, for example, having outer dimensions of 54 mm×64 mm×3.5 mm and inner dimensions of 50 mm×50 mm, may have the capacity to hold any of the following goods: three folded US dollar bills, 4.0 grams of cacao powder, 1.2 grams of herbs, 8-12 small mints, medicinal pills and/or vitamins, 40 small sheets of paper, 10 nicotine pouches (e.g., Zyn® or similar nicotine pouches), or 4 small stud earrings.

As another illustrative example, a pouch apparatus constructed in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, for example, having outer dimensions of 64 mm×88 mm×3.9 mm and inner dimensions of 60 mm×60 mm, may have the capacity to hold any of the following goods: five folded US dollar bills, 8.0 grams of cacao powder, 2.4 grams of herbs, 12-24 small mints, medicinal pills and/or vitamins, 60 small sheets of paper, 25 nicotine pouches (e.g., Zyn® or similar nicotine pouches), or 2 small stud earrings and a small necklace.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the pouch apparatus may include an integrated Near Field Communication (NFC) chip, which may provide the ability to link to a website for purchasing a pouch apparatus or other marketing purposes. The NFC chip may be programmed with such a link embedded, and be locked to prevent further manipulation. In some embodiments, an NFC chip may be integrated into one of the sidewalls, for example, between any two layers of a given sidewall.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the pouch apparatus may have a visually appealing aesthetic appearance, for example, the pouch apparatus may be designed ornamentally to appear as a playing card (for example, an Ace, King, Queen etc. playing card). Accordingly, it may be desirable for the pouch apparatus to be substantially flat in its closed position to mimic the appearance of a standard playing card. In accordance with embodiments of the invention, the pouch may possess a customized playing card design, or any other ornamental design.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a pouch apparatus may be constructed by adhering at least a portion of a magnetic layer material (e.g., flexible sheet magnet material) to an interior surface of an outer layer material, for example, a leather material. Any suitable adhesive means may be utilized to adhere the two layers together, for example, glue, thermoplastic seals, pins, liquid stitches, or any other similarly suitable adhesive means. In some scenarios, an interior layer may similarly be adhered to the magnetic layer material and/or the outer layer material utilizing similar adhesive means. For example, the interior layer may be adhered to at least a portion of the magnetic layer material, which may be smaller in size than the outer layer material, allowing the interior layer to come in contact with and be able to be adhered to both the magnetic layer material and the outer layer material. In some embodiments, any portion of any of the layers may be sewn or otherwise affixed to one another.

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment, a pouch apparatus may be constructed by taking two outer layers, each having a magnetic layer and an inner layer adhered to it, and affixing the outer layers to each other at at least three of their respective edges to create a type of pocket with an opening at a top portion of each of the outer layers which extends into a cavity.

In accordance with another exemplary embodiment, a pouch apparatus may be constructed by taking two outer layers, each having a magnetic layer adhered to it, and affixing the outer layers to each other at least three of their respective edges to create a type of pocket with an opening at a top portion of each of the outer layers which extends into a cavity. In some scenarios, the interior layer material may be a thin polyester or resin film bag, for example, a Mylar® bag, or a plastic bag, for example, a small Ziploc® bag, which may be inserted into the pocket created by the pair of affixed outer layers and reversibly or irreversibly attached to the cavity of the pocket. In some embodiments, an interior surface (e.g., a cavity-facing surface) of the interior layer material may further comprise a metal coating. For example, an interior surface of the interior cavity formed by the interior layer material may be coated with an aluminum or similar metal coating. Advantageously, reversible attachment of the plastic bag material to the pocket cavity may enable changing the interior layer of the pouch apparatus if needed, for example, if the interior layer became damaged due to wear and tear from continued use of the device.

In accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention, one or more magnetic members may run on a top rim of the pouch apparatus to close the opening formed at the top of the pouch apparatus. In some embodiments, the pouch apparatus may further include a thin rigid structure its top (e.g., near the opening of the pouch apparatus) on both sides to support easier opening, for example, thin flat sticks or mechanisms used in squeeze coin purse applications known in the art.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the pouch apparatus may include an opening configured to connect between the pouch apparatus and a keychain. For example, one or both of the sidewalls of the pouch apparatus may be formed with an opening configured to receive a jump ring or a similarly suitable connection means to connect the pouch apparatus to a keychain and promote portability of the pouch apparatus. In some embodiments, the connection means may be a cord, strap, or lanyard configured to support connection of the pouch apparatus to a secondary implement or apparatus, for example, a purse, knapsack, belt loop or similar implement. In some embodiments, the connection means may be formed of a leather or Kevlar® material.

Turning now to the figures, FIGS. 1-17 generally demonstrate a pouch apparatus 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. In particular, FIG. 1 demonstrates a front or rear view of an exemplary pouch apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 2 demonstrates a top view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with the pouch apparatus in an exemplary closed position in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. FIG. 3 demonstrates a top view of an exemplary pouch apparatus with the pouch apparatus in an exemplary closed position in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. FIGS. 4-16 demonstrate front views of an exemplary pouch apparatus with an exemplary first sidewall and/or interior layer of a second sidewall removed to show an exemplary size, position, and orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the second sidewall in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Lastly, FIG. 17 demonstrates an exploded view of an exemplary pouch apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. While FIGS. 4-16 demonstrate possible variations or modifications to the possible size, position and/or orientation of the sheet magnet middle layer of the sidewalls, those features of the sheet magnet middle layer are capable of myriad modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

As generally shown in the figures, the pouch apparatus 100 may comprise a first sidewall 102 and a second sidewall 104. The first and second sidewalls may be affixed along their side and/or bottom seams or edges with an opening along their top side 106 forming a channel into a hollow central cavity 107 of the pouch apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the first sidewall 102 and second sidewall 104 may each comprise a multi-layered construction material. The multi-layered construction material may comprise an outer layer 108, a middle layer 110, and an interior layer 112.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the sides 114, 116 and bottom portions 118 of the sidewalls 102, 104 may be affixed together (either reversibly or irreversibly), for example, with one or more conventional stitches 115, while a top portion 119 of the sidewalls 102, 104 may remain open (not affixed), as demonstrated in FIG. 3. In some scenarios, the multi-layered construction material may be folded to create a U-shape (e.g., wherein the first sidewall 102 and the second sidewall 104 are continuous in their construction), and the sides 114, 116 of the sidewalls 102, 104 may be affixed together (either reversibly or irreversibly) while the top portion 119 of the sidewalls 102, 104 remains open (not affixed). Affixation of the sides 114, 116 and/or the bottom portions 118 of the sidewalls 102, 104 may be achieved through conventional stitching (e.g., through the use of one or more stitches 115 being sewn into and/or through one or more openings 117 or other corresponding connection means) or the use of any other adhesive means such as glue, thermoplastic seals, pins, liquid stitches, or any other similarly suitable adhesive means.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the outer layer 108 of the sidewalls 102, 104 may be formed of a substantially durable material. For example, the outer layer may be formed of leather (e.g., vegan cactus leather or genuine python leather), plastic, rubber, or any other similarly suitable durable material.

In accordance with some embodiments, the middle layer 110 of the sidewalls 102, 104 may include a magnetized or ferromagnetized material, for example, a rubber magnet sheet material 122. In some embodiments, the rubber magnet sheet material 122 may comprise neodymium or ferrite magnets embedded in flexible rubber magnet sheets or matrixes. In some embodiments, the middle layer 110 of each of the sidewalls 102, 104 of the pouch apparatus 100 may collectively form a sealing interface. When the magnetized portions of two middle layers 110, are brought close together, their magnetic fields interact, and the flexibility of rubber (in scenarios where rubber sheet magnets 122 are utilized) allows the magnets to conform to different surfaces. This can lead to a stronger attraction, as more surface area for contact may lead to a more effective magnetic coupling. The rubber matrix of the rubber sheet magnet materials 122 of the middle layers 110 may allow the magnets to maintain better contact with each other, which may increase the effective area over which the magnetic forces can act, further strengthening the attraction, and increasing the strength of the sealing interface.

In accordance with some embodiments, the interior layer 112 of the sidewalls 102, 104 may be a film or resin material, for example, a polyester film or resin material (e.g., Mylar®) and may have an interior surface comprising a metal coating, for example, an aluminum metal coating.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a portion of the sealing interface 120 (e.g., one or more rubber sheet magnets 122) may be disposed between the outer layer 108 and interior layer 112 of the sidewalls 102, 104 and/or may be affixed to an interior and/or exterior face of the outer layers 108 or interior layers 112 of the sidewalls 102, 104. In embodiments, the magnetized portions of the middle layer 110, for example, the rubber sheet magnets 122, may be used to compress or press the interior layer 112 of the first sidewall 102 against the interior layer 112 of the second sidewall 104 to secure the contents of the pouch apparatus 100 to the pouch apparatus. The pouch apparatus 100 may be in a “sealed”, “locked”, “fastened” or “secured” position when the pouch apparatus 100 is at rest in a closed position (e.g., when there is no opening force applied to the pouch apparatus 100). In the closed position, the pouch apparatus is substantially flat and the interior layers 112 abut each and/or the contents within the pouch apparatus 100.

As shown in FIGS. 4-16, the magnetized portion of the middle layer 110 (e.g., magnetic rubber sheet material 122) of each sidewall 102, 104 may vary in size depending on the desired application and qualifications of the pouch apparatus. For example, the size of a given rubber sheet magnet 122 of the pouch apparatus may substantially match the entire size of each layer (see FIG. 4, for example), may cover at least 20% to 90% of the surface area of a sidewall, or may cover any specific percentage of the surface area of a sidewall in between those amounts, for example, at least 50% (see FIGS. 4-8, 10-13, and 17) or at least 80% of the surface area of a sidewall (see FIGS. 4-6, 9, 11, and 17). In an exemplary embodiment, the size of a magnetic portion of the middle layer 110 (e.g., a rubber sheet magnet material 122) may cover 84% of surface area of a sidewall 102 or 104. As an illustrative example, the dimensions of the outer layer 108 may be 45 mm×52 mm with rounded corners, while the dimensions of the magnetic portion of the middle layer 110 may be 45 mm×52 mm (e.g., covering 100% of the dimensions of the outer layer 108 of the sidewalls 102, 104). The flexibility in size and coverage of the magnetic portion of the middle layer 110 (e.g., the magnetic rubber sheet material 122) is intended to allow for customization based on specific sealing needs and applications.

In some embodiments, the rubber sheet magnets 122 may be disposed in a predetermined position along the surfaces of the outer and interior layers, for example, in a position covering at least a middle or central section 111 of the layers (see FIGS. 4-17), at least a bottom portion of the layers (see FIGS. 4-6, 11-17), at a top portion of the layers (see FIGS. 4-17), at side portions of the layers (see FIGS. 4-11 and 13-17), around the entire perimeter of the sidewalls (see FIGS. 13-14), and/or any combination of the foregoing. As discussed above, in some scenarios, the rubber sheet magnets 122 may cover substantially the entire inner surface area of the outer layer of the sidewalls (see FIGS. 4-6 and 17).

As shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, the top edge of each of the middle layers 100 may be formed with one or more notches or may otherwise comprise non-magnetized areas (which may be referred to herein as “non-magnetized notches”) 125 at the top edge to promote ease of opening of the pouch apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the notches may be physical cut-outs of the middle layer rubber sheet magnet materials 122 or may be non-magnetized areas 125 of the middle layer disposed near a top edge of the middle layer 110, for example, in the same manner and/or position that the notches would be disposed (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 5-6). In scenarios where the magnetized portions of the middle layers 110 are flexible rubber sheet magnets 122, the non-magnetized areas 125 may be formed in the shape of a “notch” and may comprise a non-magnetized flexible rubber sheet material and/or a rigid, non-magnetized support material, for example, to make the pouch apparatus 100 feel even on the outside (e.g., when felt at the outer layer 108 of the sidewalls) and to protect the interior layer 112 (e.g., the thin film and/or metal coating of the interior layer of the sidewalls) from cracking along the edges of the non-magnetized areas 125. For example, a singular and unitary rubber sheet may include magnetized portions and non-magnetized areas forming non-magnetized notches 125. Additionally or alternatively, a magnetized rubber sheet may be formed with a notch configured to receive a non-magnetized rubber sheet corresponding in size and shape to the notch formed in the magnetized rubber sheet. The notches and/or non-magnetized areas 125 at the top edge of the middle layers 110 may be formed in any suitable geometric shape, including semi-circular, semi-ovular, or triangular. In some embodiments, for example, in a pouch apparatus having a width of 45 mm and a height of 52 mm, each notch (or non-magnetized notch 125) may be located at about ⅓ of the width of the bag (15 mm) and may be roughly 2.5 mm-4 mm deep at the lowest point of the notch (or non-magnetized area 125). The proposed utility of the notches and/or non-magnetized areas 125 is to support easier opening of the pouch apparatus 100 without compromising the integrity of the closure and/or overall design of the pouch apparatus 100. For example, the notches and/or non-magnetized areas 125 at the top edges of the middle layers 110 may provide the utility of ease of opening the pouch apparatus 110 (e.g., the sealing and/or magnetic interface of the pouch apparatus) by creating a physical and/or functional feature which enables easy disengagement of the opposing middle layers which would be otherwise attracted to each other at their top edges (in addition to other locations of the sidewalls). For example, by including a notch (or a non-magnetized notch 125) in opposing magnets, the magnetic force between the magnets may be weakened at the location of the notch (or the non-magnetized notch 125) to make it easier to start separating the magnets (or magnetic middle layers 110) and subsequently open the interior cavity of the pouch apparatus 100.

As shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 9-16, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the middle layer 110 of the sidewalls may comprise a combination of one or more magnetized portions (e.g., a rubber sheet magnet material 122) and one or more non-magnetized portions comprising a non-magnetized material 123. In some embodiments, the middle layer 110 may not include non-magnetized portions 123, and may, for example, include empty (e.g., non-occupied) spaces instead (see FIG. 8, for example). In such scenarios, the middle layer 110 may occupy or take up less surface area when compared, for example, to the interior and outer layers of the sidewalls 102 and 104. The non-magnetized material 123 may be a substantially flexible material, for example, a non-magnetized rubber sheet material, or may be substantially rigid, for example, a rigid plastic material. In embodiments where at least 20% of the middle layer 110 is magnetized, for example, via rubber sheet magnets 122, as shown in FIG. 9, a significant portion of the remaining surface area of the middle layer (e.g., at least 80% of the surface area of the sidewall) may be formed of a non-magnetized material 123. In embodiments where at least 50% of the middle layer 110 is magnetized (e.g., where at least half of the middle layer 110 is magnetized, for example, via rubber sheet magnets 122), for example, as shown in FIG. 7, the remaining portion of the middle layer 110 may be formed of a non-magnetized material 123. As demonstrated in FIGS. 7 and 9-16, in some examples, the rubber sheet magnet material 122 of the middle layer may extend from or substantially abut one or more edges of the non-magnetized material 123. The flexibility in size and coverage of the rubber sheet magnets 122 and/or the non-magnetized material 123 is intended to allow for customization based on specific sealing and flattening needs and applications of the pouch apparatus.

In some embodiments, the non-magnetized material 123 and non-magnetized area or notch 125 may be formed of the same or substantially similar non-magnetic material, which may be flexible or rigid, depending on the intended application of the pouch apparatus 100. In some scenarios, the non-magnetized material 123 and the non-magnetized area or notch 125 may be formed of different materials, for example, the non-magnetized area or notch 125 may be formed of a substantially flexible rubber material, whereas the non-magnetized material 123 may be formed of a substantially rigid plastic material. The combination of materials within the middle layer 110 is capable of myriad modifications in various aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the magnetic portion of the middle layers 110 (e.g., the rubber sheet magnets 122) contributing to the sealing interface 120 may provide a strong magnetic force, enabling the layers to attract each other when pressed together, and, in particular, to compress the thin interior layer 112 to substantially encase surround, or otherwise enclose the contents of the pouch apparatus 100, for example, powders, pills, and the like small or fine objects and/or perishable and/or consumable products. In conjunction with such a feature, a sealing interface 120 may also allow for easy opening and closing, for example, by pinching at edges of the sidewalls 102, 104, to enable quick access to contents within the pouch apparatus 100 while maintaining the integrity and security provided by the sealing interface when the sealing interface is in a closed position. In some examples, the sealing interface includes the thin interior layers 112 which may support gripping the opposing interior layer 112 and/or contents within the pouch apparatus 100 to support the sealing of the pouch apparatus 100.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a closed position of the pouch apparatus 100, as demonstrated by FIG. 2, may be a position in which the sidewalls 102, 104 of the pouch apparatus 100 are forced together by the magnetic force of the rubber sheet magnets middle layer 110, securing the contents inside. In such a position, the magnets of the magnetic middle layer 110 create a seal that prevents items from falling out of the pouch apparatus 100. Advantageously, closure of the pouch apparatus 100 by flexible rubber sheet magnets 122 supports the sheet magnets and/or the interior layer 110 gripping the edges of the sidewalls, at least some of the contents of the pouch apparatus 100, and/or central or bottom portions of the sidewalls 102, 104 to maintain magnetic pressure and keep the pouch apparatus 100 securely closed. When in the closed position demonstrated in FIG. 2, the pouch apparatus 100 may be substantially flat, making it visually appealing, as well as easy to be stored in pockets, bags, or purses.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, an open position of the pouch apparatus 100, as demonstrated by FIG. 3, may be a position in which the sidewalls 102, 104 of the pouch apparatus 100 are pulled apart by pinching edges of the sidewalls 102, 104 together at the top of the sidewalls 102, 104. Such an action may separate the edges of the pouch apparatus, providing easy access to its interior. Advantageously, the provision of such a mechanism for 100 easily opening the pouch apparatus 100 by the rubber sheet magnets allows users to quickly retrieve powders, medicinal pills, coins, jewelry, small electronics, or other small or sensitive items (e.g., perishable or consumable products) from the pouch without the need for zippers, interlocking tracks or any other additional fasteners.

As shown in FIG. 17, in some embodiments, the pouch apparatus may include an integrated Near Field Communication (NFC) chip 124, which may provide the ability to link to a website for purchasing a pouch apparatus or other marketing purposes. The NFC chip 124 may be programmed with such a link embedded, and be locked to prevent further manipulation. In some embodiments, an NFC chip 124 may be integrated into one of the sidewalls, for example, between any two layers of a given sidewall, for example, between the interior layer 112 and the middle layer 110.

As shown in FIG. 17, in some embodiments, the interior layer material 112 may be reinforced in order to prevent the material from inadvertently fraying or tattering. For example, in scenarios where the interior layer material 112 (e.g., Mylar® with a metal coating) is stitched to attach to another layer (e.g., to attach the interior layer material 112 to the middle layer 110 and/or the outer layer 108), the edge of the thin middle layer 112 being sewn may fray or tatter during the sewing process or over time, and it may be desirable to reinforce the edge(s) of such a middle layer material 112. Accordingly, in some embodiments, adhesive glue or tape, for example, cotton cloth pressure-sensitive tape (e.g., gaffers tape), may be applied to the top edges of the interior layer material 112 to reinforce the top edges 113 of the interior layer material, help to strengthen the construction of the interior layer 112, for example, when the interior layer 112 is being sewn to any other layer, and/or prevent wear and tear of the interior layer material 112. In some embodiments, the interior layer 112 may be folded over at its top edge 113 and sealed in such a position to create a top lip of double the thickness of the interior layer material 112 to reinforce the top edge 113 of the interior layer material, help to strengthen the construction of the interior layer 112, for example, when the interior layer 112 is being sewn to any other layer, and/or prevent wear and tear of the interior layer material 112. In some embodiments, an additional strip of the thin interior layer material may be glued, sealed, or otherwise adhered to the top edge 113 of the interior layer material 112 which may similarly create a top lip and double the thickness of the interior layer material 112 to reinforce the top edge 113 of the interior layer material, help strengthen the construction of the interior layer 112, for example, when the interior layer 112 is being sewn to any other layer, and/or prevent wear and tear of the interior layer material 112.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a pouch apparatus may comprise a pouch having an opening extending toward an interior cavity at least partially encased by a pair of sidewalls and a magnetic sheet material integrated into each sidewall, wherein each magnetic sheet is oriented toward and attracted to an opposing magnetic sheet to form a sealing interface for engaging at least a middle section of each of the sidewalls to compress and secure any contents placed within the interior cavity.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a pouch apparatus may comprise a pair of sidewalls having a top portion formed with an opening, the opening being in communication with the at least one interior cavity for storing one or more items, and each sidewall having a multi-layered construction comprising: an outer layer formed of a first material, a magnetic middle layer, wherein an interior-facing surface of each sidewall magnetic middle layer is oriented toward and attracted to the interior-facing surface of the middle layer of the opposing sidewall to form a sealing interface, and an interior layer formed of a third material.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a pouch apparatus may comprise a pair of sidewalls affixed in a manner that forms an opening at a top portion of the pouch apparatus, the opening being in communication with the at least one interior cavity, and each sidewall having a multi-layered construction comprising an outer layer formed of a durable material, a magnetic middle layer positioned adjacent to the outer layer and comprising neodymium magnets embedded in one or more flexible rubber magnet sheet wherein an interior-facing surface of each sidewall magnetic middle layer is oriented toward and attracted to the interior-facing surface of the middle layer of the opposing sidewall to form a sealing interface, and an interior layer positioned adjacent to the magnetic middle layer and formed of a thin film material.

In the Summary above and in this Detailed Description, and the Claims below, and in the accompanying drawings, reference is made to particular features of various embodiments of the invention. It is to be understood that the disclosure of embodiments of the invention in this specification includes all possible combinations of such particular features. For example, where a particular feature is disclosed in the context of a particular aspect or embodiment of the invention, or a particular claim, that feature can also be used—to the extent possible—in combination with and/or in the context of other particular aspects and embodiments of the invention, and in the invention generally.

While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description. The invention is capable of myriad modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

In the present disclosure, various features may be described as being optional, for example, through the use of the verb “may;”, or, through the use of any of the phrases: “in some embodiments,” “in some implementations,” “in some designs,” “in various embodiments,” “in various implementations,”, “in various designs,” “in an illustrative example,” or “for example;” or, through the use of parentheses. For the sake of brevity and legibility, the present disclosure does not explicitly recite each and every permutation that may be obtained by choosing from the set of optional features. However, the present disclosure is to be interpreted as explicitly disclosing all such permutations. For example, a system described as having three optional features may be embodied in seven different ways, namely with just one of the three possible features, with any two of the three possible features or with all three of the three possible features.

In various embodiments, elements described herein as coupled or connected may have an effectual relationship realizable by a direct connection or indirectly with one or more other intervening elements.

In the present disclosure, the term “any” may be understood as designating any number of the respective elements, i.e. as designating one, at least one, at least two, each or all of the respective elements. Similarly, the term “any” may be understood as designating any collection(s) of the respective elements, i.e. as designating one or more collections of the respective elements, a collection comprising one, at least one, at least two, each or all of the respective elements. The respective collections need not comprise the same number of elements.

While various embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed and described in detail herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made to the configuration, operation and form of the invention without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. In particular, it is noted that the respective features of embodiments of the invention, even those disclosed solely in combination with other features of embodiments of the invention, may be combined in any configuration excepting those readily apparent to the person skilled in the art as nonsensical. Likewise, use of the singular and plural is solely for the sake of illustration and is not to be interpreted as limiting.

In the present disclosure, all embodiments where “comprising” is used may have as alternatives “consisting essentially of,” or “consisting of.” In the present disclosure, any method or apparatus embodiment may be devoid of one or more process steps or components. In the present disclosure, embodiments employing negative limitations are expressly disclosed and considered a part of this disclosure.

Certain terminology and derivations thereof may be used in the present disclosure for convenience in reference only and will not be limiting. For example, words such as “upward,” “downward,” “left,” and “right” would refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made unless otherwise stated. Similarly, words such as “inward” and “outward” would refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of a device or area and designated parts thereof. References in the singular tense include the plural, and vice versa, unless otherwise noted.

The term “comprises” and grammatical equivalents thereof are used herein to mean that other components, ingredients, steps, among others, are optionally present. For example, an embodiment “comprising” (or “which comprises”) components A, B and C can consist of (i.e., contain only) components A, B and C, or can contain not only components A, B, and C but also contain one or more other components.

Where reference is made herein to a method comprising two or more defined steps, the defined steps can be carried out in any order or simultaneously (except where the context excludes that possibility), and the method can include one or more other steps which are carried out before any of the defined steps, between two of the defined steps, or after all the defined steps (except where the context excludes that possibility).