Modular Pack System

0001This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/755,040, filed Dec. 30, 2005, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

0002This invention generally relates to pack systems, belts, harnesses and other devices for carrying objects other than in a user's hands and arms. More particularly, the invention relates to methods and systems for providing a modular pack and load carrying system including a multifunctional harness with attachment structures for holding different needed items.

BACKGROUND

0003Pack systems and belts have been used to transport items of various sizes and purposes. Many forms of backpacks, fanny packs, nap sacks, duffel bags, belts, and carriers have been used to carry loads on the back and shoulders or around the waist and are available in various sizes and shapes. These pack systems are used in walking, traveling, hiking, climbing, and other often strenuous activities. Similarly, tool users who want to carry tools they may need, such as an electrician's tools or a carpenter's tools, use pack systems, and a police officer or other public safety officer may carry public safety devices that are or utilze pack systems.

0004Prior modular pack systems have been developed. Although a number of such systems have featured methods for adding packages and containers to pack systems, some such systems have drawbacks associated with the container attachment structures, and others do not adequately address the wearer's comfort. Some conventional pack systems require a user to carry multiple items that are not capable of interfacing with one another to provide a modular pack system. In other instances, such additional parts of a system are totally independent, bulky and cumbersome, and are not particularly attractive. Furthermore, these conventional systems do not allow for the easy attachment and removal of modular components based on advanced modular technology, and none of the available systems also allow for a hydration unit that may be removably attached to the system, as well as providing a lumber support system.

0005Thus, there is a continuing need for a flexible, highly adaptable system that minimizes the need to carry unnecessary packs or components and/or that accommodates a hydration pack and additional lumbar support, while providing a system to conveniently carry diverse types of goods in a diverse range of environments. There is also a need for improved methods and systems for providing a modular pack system that allows for the efficient and effective attachment and removal of various packs, pouches, containers, or other useful components.

SUMMARY

0006Certain embodiments of this invention include a modular pack system comprising a multifunctional harness and related components. In one embodiment, a multifunctional harness may be used for backpacking, biking, hunting, fly fishing, or other indoor or outdoor activities, including both work and recreational activities, specifically including industrial (like electrical, construction, or carpentry work) and military activities. The harness may be adjustable to fit different user torso sizes. The harness may have shoulder straps, a torso structure, a waistband, or a combination of any of these that are adjustable. The modular pack system may include attachment structures capable of removably and adjustably securing various detachable packs, pouches, or containers for different needed items, such as a GPS unit, knife, flashlight, mobile phone, hunting or fishing equipment, and the like. In one embodiment, shoulder straps may include fabric flex points that provide more flexibility in fitting over the shoulders depending on the adjustment to torso fitting components.

0007In some embodiments, a modular pack system may be adjustable in the lumbar region, allowing the user to customize the fit of the harness to the user's unique upper torso. Adjustability may be provided by use of suitable adjustable materials such as spandex, which permits stretching at the neck. Certain embodiments may also include a movable, adjustable sternum strap. In some embodiments, fabrics that reduce noise may be used and are particularly useful in embodiments designed to be used in hunting, where materials that are noisy in use need to be avoided. In certain embodiments, a modular pack system may include waist straps that are adjustable or flexible for certain activities such as bicycling.

0008In some exemplary embodiments, attachment structures, studs for example, are spaced apart at generally consistent distances within different groupings at various locations on shoulder straps, a torso structure, a waistband, and other components to permit standardization of attachment structure spacing on packs and other items that may attach to the modular pack system. In one embodiment, the stud comprises a head and a base joined by a shank. The stud is inserted into or received in a plastic clip mounted on a pouch, pack, or other item to be carried on the shoulder straps, waistband, or other part of the system. In one embodiment, the plastic clip is generally rectangular in shape with a slot for securely receiving the attachment stud in order to hold packs or other attachable components of varying sizes or additional items.

0009In certain exemplary embodiments, a lower adjustable lumbar support strap may surround the waist of the user and may also attach to a pack or hydration pack. The lumbar support strap may include attachment studs generally evenly spaced along its length. At the end of each of the shoulder strap and the lumbar support strap are male and female quick-release fastener components securing the harness with the lumbar support strap. The lumbar support system may also use a compression molded lumbar pad for additional back support for the user. A waistband may include fabric flaps on each side that cover part of the lumbar support straps and allow the wearer to secure any excess belt webbing after adjustment. Thus is particularly desirable to wearers engaged in any outdoor, sporting, or similar activity.

0010In one exemplary embodiment, a modular pack system harness comprises (a) an adjustable waistband comprising two ends and a middle; (b) a torso structure comprising a bottom attached to the middle of the waistband and a top; (c) two shoulder straps, each shoulder strap comprising an upper end attached to the top of the torso structure and a lower end; (i) a lower end of one of the two shoulder straps being adjustably attachable to the waistband between the waistband middle and one of the two waistband ends; and (ii) a lower end of the other of the two shoulder straps being adjustably attachable to the waistband between the waistband middle and the other of the two waistband ends; and (d) a plurality of first attachment structures secured to the harness, wherein at least two different packs are attachable to the first attachment structures utilizing a second attachment structure.

0011In another exemplary embodiment, a waistband for supporting one or more of a plurality of packs and accessories comprises a belt to which studs are attached, each stud comprising a shank extending from the belt and topped by a head, wherein the studs are spaced apart from each other equidistantly. In another embodiment, a waistband for supporting one or more of a plurality of packs and accessories comprises: (a) a padded plate for positioning against a lower back of a wearer of the waistband, the plate comprising a first side edge and a second side edge opposite the first side edge; (b) waist-encircling structures connected to the plate for encircling a wearer's waist and attaching in the wearer's front, the waist-encircling structures comprising: (i) a first belt web and a second belt web; (ii) a first adjustable length lumbar strap attached between the first side edge and the first belt web, and a second adjustable length lumbar strap attached between the second side edge and the second belt web; (iii) a buckle for adjustably attaching the first and second belt webs to each other; (iv) underlying each of the first and second adjustable length lumbar straps, padding having an upper edge and a lower edge; (v) a cover overlying each of the first and second adjustable length lumbar straps; and (vi) a plurality of studs secured to the covering material.

0012In yet another exemplary embodiment, a multifunctional modular pack system comprises a harness with two shoulder straps, at least one torso-encircling strap, multiple first attachment structures on the harness, and at least two different soft-sided packs; and each pack comprising at least one second attachment structure for mating with one of the first attachment structures, and at least one of the packs having at least two second attachment structures.

0013In another exemplary embodiment, a modular pack system comprises a multifunctional harness assembly comprising shoulder straps, a lower lumbar support structure, connecting structure located on a distal end of each shoulder strap for securing the distal ends to the lumbar support structure, a plurality of studs spaced along a portion of each shoulder strap and a portion of the lumbar support structure, each stud comprising a shank, and one or more attachable components, each component including a clip that has a slot configured to securely receive a stud by forcing the shaft of the stud beyond a neck in the slot to capture the clip.

0014In yet another exemplary embodiment, a system for attachment of an object to clothing or other articles worn by a mammal comprises (a) a stud comprising (i) a generally round flat base with a plurality of prongs extending from a bottom of the base; (ii) a shank having a diameter extending from a top of the base; (iii) a polygonal plate head having a thickness, the head attached to an upper end of the shank; and (iv) a threaded hole extending through the base and into the shank for receiving a screw for securing the stud to a fabric or other flat material by capturing the fabric or other flat material between the bottom of the base and the screw head, while drawing the prongs into the fabric or other flat material; and (b) a clip comprising (i) a base plate for securing to fabric or other flat material; and (ii) a slot plate attached to the base plate and elevated above the base plate at least the thickness of the stud head, the slot plate comprising a slot open at one end and defined by resilient slot sides that form a neck narrower than the shank diameter such that the shank can be forced through the neck to capture the stud within the clip.

0015Additional embodiments include a method of providing a modular pack system with one or more of the components described herein and a method of preparing for an activity including donning a multi-functional harness and attaching to the harness at least two paks useful in the course of the activity by positioning a clip attached to each of the packs to a stud mounted on the harness.

0016A few examples of the numerous possible embodiments of this invention are depicted in the drawings and described in the Detailed Description below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0017These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention are better understood when the following Detailed Description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

0018<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a rear view of one embodiment of a modular pack system of this invention with one lumbar strap cover open and one lumbar strap cover closed.

0019<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is an exploded view of the embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> with shoulder straps and an upper torso plate detached from a lower torso plate and waistband.

0020<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a front view of the shoulder straps of the embodiment shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> with movable, adjustable sternum strap shown attached to the shoulder straps.

0021<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> shows an embodiment of a hydration pack of this invention with the hydration unit open with a bladder inside and a tube extending therefrom.

0022<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a rear view of the embodiment of the modular pack system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> with embodiment of the hydration pack shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> mounted directly to the modular pack system and the hydration unit closed.

0023<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a rear view of the embodiment of the modular pack system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> with embodiment of a backpack attached to the modular pack system.

0024<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is a view of the backpack shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> in isolation showing the side of the backpack that mounts to the modular pack system.

0025<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is an exploded view of the backpack shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref> with the backpack open and a hydration pack that fits within the backpack.

0026<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is a rear view of the embodiment of the modular pack system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> with an embodiment of a waist pack mounted to the modular pack system.

0027<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a view of the waist pack shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> in isolation showing the side of the waist pack that mounts to the modular pack system.

0028<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> is a perspective view of a top and one side of an embodiment of a stud according to the present invention.

0029<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is a top view of the stud of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>.

0030<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> is a bottom view of the stud of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>.

0031<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> is an exploded side view of the stud of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>, an embodiment of a screw that threadably engages the stud, and an embodiment of a cover that may cover the stud when not in use.

0032<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> is a bottom perspective view of the cover of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>.

0033<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> is a perspective view of one side of an embodiment of a clip of this invention.

0034<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> is a bottom view of the clip of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> that shows the inner, fabric-facing side of the clip.

0035<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref> is a top view of the clip of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> that shows the outward-facing side of the clip.

0036<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref> shows the stud of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> inserted within a slot of the clip of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>.

0037<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> is a perspective view of an embodiment of a pack of this invention with two clips of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> attached to the pack for mounting the pack.

0038<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref> is a side view of an embodiment of a duffel bag of the present invention.

0039<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref> is an interior view of the duffel bag of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref>.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0040Referring now to the drawings in which like numerals indicate like elements throughout the several figures, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a rear view of one embodiment of a modular pack system <b>40</b> in accordance with the present invention. Modular pack system <b>40</b> includes a harness <b>42</b> with two shoulder straps <b>44</b>, a torso structure <b>70</b>, and a waistband <b>80</b>. In this embodiment, the structure of each shoulder strap <b>44</b> is generally the same, so further description of an exemplary shoulder strap <b>44</b> applies to both shoulder straps, but it should be understood that some embodiments may include shoulder straps that are not identical to one another.

0041Harness <b>42</b> includes padding <b>50</b> in the area that is adjacent the wearer's neck when harness <b>42</b> is being worn. Each strap <b>44</b> also includes padding <b>48</b> and an elastic fabric loop <b>52</b> attached to strap <b>44</b>. An elastic fabric includes any textile fabric with elastic strands, solid elastic bands similar to a large, wide rubber band, or any other flexible elastic material. Elastic fabric loop <b>52</b> may be used for several purposes, including to hold a tube <b>116</b> that is connected to a hydration pack, water bottle, or other liquid source, as is further described below with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4 and 5</figref>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, one of shoulder straps <b>44</b> also includes a tube clip <b>60</b> that may be used to assist with keeping the tube in place along strap <b>44</b> and out of the wearer's way.

0042At a lower end of each shoulder strap <b>44</b> is a pivotable buckle <b>54</b> for attaching the lower end of shoulder strap <b>44</b> to waistband <b>80</b> of the modular pack system. One pivotable buckle suitable for use is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,860,769, entitled “Combination Buoyancy Compensator and Support for a Diver's Backpack with a Swivel Buckle and Triangular Holder,” which is hereby incorporated by reference. Another suitable pivotable buckle <b>54</b> is available from Duraflex, a licensee of National Molding Corporation. Pivotable buckle <b>54</b> is attached to a strap <b>56</b> that has a male end <b>58</b> of a quick-release fastener on its opposite end. A male end <b>58</b> on each shoulder strap <b>44</b> is inserted into a female end <b>100</b> secured to waistband <b>80</b> in order to attach shoulder straps <b>44</b> to waistband <b>80</b>.

0043Each shoulder strap <b>44</b> also includes studs <b>46</b> that may be used to attach packs to harness <b>42</b>. As used herein, a pack includes any pack, pouch, container, case, kit, organizer, holder, or other attachable component including, but not limited to, a backpack, a waist pack, a bottle holder, a binocular pouch, a drink pouch, a mobile phone holder, a range finder pouch, a GPS holder, a radio holder, a flashlight pouch, a knife pouch, a flashlight/knife pouch, a sunglasses case, a camera pouch, an accessories pouch, a medical kit, an MP3 player pouch, a multi-purpose organizer, a ripple foam fly pad, a fly fishing organizer or chest pack, a field organizer, a grunt tube holder, a turkey organizer, a turkey seat, an ammunition holder, a combination of any of the above, or any other component attachable to one or more studs.

0044As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1-3</figref>, <b>5</b>, <b>6</b>, and <b>9</b>, the studs <b>46</b> on each shoulder strap <b>44</b> include two studs <b>46</b> near the top of shoulder strap <b>44</b> that are near the wearer's neck or shoulder tops in use and six studs <b>46</b> that are arranged generally in a row down the length of shoulder strap <b>44</b> that are in front of a wearer's chest in use. It should be well understood that the particular number of studs or groupings of studs on a shoulder strap <b>44</b>, or other part of modular pack system <b>40</b>, is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. However, it is desirable to place studs <b>46</b> so that they are a generally consistent, even distance from one another within a grouping of studs <b>46</b>.

0045For example, in one embodiment, the two studs <b>46</b> in the grouping at the top of shoulder strap <b>44</b> are spaced about 1.5 inches apart, as are the six studs <b>46</b> in the grouping down the length of shoulder strap <b>44</b>. Of course, however, there is greater space between the grouping of two studs and the grouping of six studs than 1.5 inches. Although it has been found that a spacing of 1.5 inches between adjacent studs in a grouping works well, other spacing may be used. The use of generally consistently and even-spaced studs permits standardization of attachment structure (such as clips <b>160</b>) spacing on packs that may attach to modular pack system <b>40</b>. The structure of an exemplary stud <b>46</b> is described further below with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 11-14</figref>. In order to attach to studs <b>46</b>, a pack preferably includes one or more clips <b>160</b>, which are described in detail below with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16-19</figref>.

0046<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> shows a front view of harness <b>42</b> that includes an adjustable sternum strap <b>62</b>. Sternum strap <b>62</b> comprises two straps <b>64</b> and <b>66</b>. The adjoining ends of straps <b>64</b> and <b>66</b> are fastened with a quick-release fastener <b>68</b>, and the opposite ends each have a clip (not shown) that secures the strap to a stud <b>46</b> on each shoulder strap <b>44</b>. Sternum strap <b>62</b> adjustably secure harness <b>42</b> across a wearer's chest. In one embodiment, fastener <b>68</b> may also be used a distress whistle, and a suitable fastener/whistle is available commercially from ITW Nexus.

0047Returning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>, each shoulder strap <b>44</b> contains flexible fabric such as spandex or LYCRA® for flexible fitting of the shoulder straps to the wearer and are joined with stitching to a torso structure <b>70</b> so as to be connected behind the neck of the wearer. Torso structure <b>70</b> is attached to harness <b>42</b> at its top and to waistband <b>80</b> at its bottom. Torso structure <b>70</b> comprises two plates, an upper torso plate <b>72</b> and a lower torso plate <b>74</b>. Upper torso plate includes two studs <b>46</b>, one positioned in each upper corner of upper torso plate <b>72</b>.

0048Hook and loop fabric (e.g., Velcro®) is attached to adjacent surfaces of upper and lower torso plates <b>72</b> and <b>74</b> so that plates <b>72</b> and <b>74</b> may be detachably secured to each other. The use of hook and loop fabric also allows the extent to which one of plates <b>72</b> and <b>74</b> overlies the other of plates <b>72</b> and <b>74</b> to be changed, thereby adjusting the height of torso structure <b>70</b>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, upper torso plate <b>72</b> and lower torso plate <b>74</b> are detached. As an example, a surface <b>76</b> of lower torso plate <b>74</b> includes loop fabric, and the adjoining underside (not shown) of upper torso plate <b>72</b> includes hook fabric. Either or both of torso plates <b>72</b> and <b>74</b> may include padding for contact with the wearer's back in use.

0049Waistband <b>80</b> is attached to the bottom of lower torso plate <b>74</b>. Waistband <b>80</b> include a centrally-located lumbar plate <b>82</b>. Lumbar plate <b>82</b> may include padding on its inside surface (not shown) to support the lower back of the wearer when modular pack system <b>40</b> is in use. The outside surface of lumbar plate <b>82</b> includes two groupings of studs <b>46</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>. Lumbar plate <b>82</b> may be made from a compression molded panel made from any suitable material such as polyethylene, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), or similar materials.

0050Connected to opposite edges of lumbar plate <b>82</b> are two side panels <b>86</b>. A composite of foam bonded to a mesh panel with a foam-knit laminate secured thereto may form a portion of lumbar plate <b>82</b> and side panels <b>86</b>. Extending from the end of each side panel <b>86</b> is a belt web <b>88</b> that terminates in a quick-release fastener component. As shown in the figures, female component <b>90</b>A is on the left side and male component <b>90</b>B is on the right side. A wearer secures waistband <b>80</b> around the waist by inserting male component <b>90</b>B into female component <b>90</b>A. Each side panel <b>86</b> also includes a female end <b>100</b> of a quick-release fastener configured to receive a male end <b>58</b> to secure shoulder straps <b>44</b> to waistband <b>80</b>.

0051Each side panel <b>86</b> underlies a lumbar adjustment strap <b>84</b>. Each lumbar adjustment strap <b>84</b> extends from an opposite edge of lumbar plate <b>82</b> and terminates on the underlying side panel <b>86</b>, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>. Each lumbar adjustable strap is adjustable so that waistband <b>80</b> can be tightened or loosened around the wearer's waist as desired. Each side panel <b>86</b> includes a cover <b>92</b> comprised of a bottom fabric flap <b>94</b> and a top fabric flap <b>96</b>.

0052As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, cover <b>92</b> is closed on the right side, with bottom and top fabric flaps <b>94</b> and <b>96</b> attached to one another, and cover <b>92</b> is open on the left side, where fabric flaps <b>94</b> and <b>96</b> are not attached. As shown on the left side, the interior surface of top fabric flap <b>96</b> includes a strip <b>98</b> of one of hook and loop fabric. The top of the outer surface (not shown) of bottom fabric flap <b>94</b> includes the other of the hook and loop fabric so that fabric flaps <b>94</b> and <b>96</b> can be detachably secured to one another using hook and loop fabric, forming cover <b>92</b> when secured. Flaps <b>94</b> and <b>96</b> of cover <b>92</b> provide the wearer with the ability to secure excess belt webbing of straps <b>84</b> underneath the flaps after the wearer has adjusted the straps. Thus, cover <b>92</b> keeps portions of lumbar adjustment strap <b>84</b> from hanging loose during use of modular pack system <b>40</b> or being bothersome for the wearer, which is particularly desirable to wearers engaged in any outdoor, sporting, or similar activity.

0053As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, each side panel <b>86</b> includes a plurality of studs <b>46</b> mounted to top fabric flap <b>96</b>. In the embodiment shown, seven studs <b>46</b> are mounted to each top fabric flap <b>96</b> and are spaced apart in a row at even distances from one another. It should be understood that more, fewer, or differently arranged studs <b>46</b> could be used on a side panel <b>86</b>. In one embodiment, studs <b>46</b> are mounted on polyethylene board stitched in place in modular pack system <b>40</b>.

0054<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 11-14</figref> show various views of one embodiment of stud <b>46</b>. Stud <b>46</b> includes a head <b>190</b> connected to a base <b>194</b> by a shank <b>196</b>. In one embodiment, epoxy may be used to secure the parts of stud <b>46</b> to provide additional strength. In the embodiment shown, base <b>194</b> is generally circular and of a larger diameter than head <b>190</b>. Head <b>190</b> has a generally octagonal shape with a slight indentation <b>192</b> or inward curve in each side edge. It should be understood that head <b>190</b> may be of a variety of polygonal or other shapes and that base <b>194</b> may have a shape other than generally circular. As shown best in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>, stud <b>46</b> includes a bottom portion <b>198</b> extending down from the center of base <b>194</b>. Bottom portion <b>198</b> may be of the same diameter as shank <b>196</b> or slightly wider and/or tapered, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>. A threaded hole <b>199</b> extends up through bottom portion <b>198</b> and into shank <b>196</b>. Three pointed prongs <b>200</b> extend down from base <b>194</b> and are generally located as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>.

0055To mount a stud into a polyethylene board, wooden board, or other similar mounting material that is typically backed by fabric, a screw <b>202</b> with threads <b>204</b> is threaded into hole <b>199</b> in stud <b>46</b> from a side of the mounting material opposite stud <b>46</b>. As screw <b>202</b> is inserted further into hole <b>199</b>, stud <b>46</b> is pulled into the fabric or other mounting material and prongs <b>200</b> extending from base <b>194</b> engage the fabric to help hold stud <b>46</b> in place. A stud cover <b>206</b>, shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 14 and 15</figref>, may optionally be placed over stud <b>46</b> when the wearer is not using stud <b>46</b>. In one embodiment, stud cover <b>206</b> is a generally oval-shaped dome made of a flexible plastic material and includes a stepped, curved opening <b>208</b> in its underside. Stud cover <b>206</b> fits over stud <b>46</b> such that head <b>190</b> and shank <b>196</b> are covered. This may be useful to keep studs <b>46</b> that are not in use from catching on or interfering with packs or other attachable components that are mounted to other studs <b>46</b> of modular pack system <b>40</b>.

0056<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 16-19</figref> show various views of one embodiment of a clip <b>160</b>. Clip <b>160</b> includes a base plate <b>162</b> and slot plate <b>164</b>. In this embodiment, base plate <b>162</b> has a generally rectangular shape with rounded corners and is open at one end. Base plate <b>162</b> is the part of clip <b>160</b> that is mounted or otherwise attached to the pack or other attachable component that is mountable on one or more of studs <b>46</b>. Slot plate <b>164</b> is attached to base plate <b>162</b> and is elevated above base plate <b>162</b> a distance that is at least the same or greater than the thickness of head <b>190</b> of stud <b>46</b>. Slot plate <b>164</b> comprises a slot <b>166</b> open at one end. Slot <b>166</b> is defined by resilient slot sides <b>168</b> that form a neck <b>170</b> narrower than the diameter of shank <b>196</b> of stud <b>46</b>. Slot <b>166</b> and neck <b>170</b> are sized relative to shank <b>196</b> of stud <b>46</b> so that shank <b>196</b> is forced through neck <b>170</b> to capture stud <b>46</b> within slot <b>166</b> of clip <b>160</b>.

0057<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref> shows a top view of stud <b>46</b> captured within clip <b>160</b>. Clip <b>160</b> also includes a protrusion <b>172</b> with a pointed end. Protrusion <b>172</b> is positioned to prevent free rotation of clip <b>160</b> once stud <b>46</b> is captured within slot <b>166</b>. The point of protrusion <b>172</b> is located within an indentation <b>192</b> in head <b>190</b> of stud <b>46</b> and provides resistance to rotation of clip <b>160</b> about stud <b>46</b> to keep packs from swinging about stud <b>46</b> while the wearer is engaged in an activity. However, the wearer, with some applied manual force, may rotate clip <b>160</b> about stud <b>46</b> into a desired position. For example, an octagonal-shaped head <b>190</b> of stud <b>46</b> provides eight possible positions, as protrusion <b>172</b> may rest within any one of indentations <b>192</b>. Stud <b>46</b> and clip <b>160</b> are configured for quiet, easy attachment and detachment from one another. By attaching one or more clips <b>160</b> to a pack, the pack may be mounted to one or more studs <b>46</b>, and thus attached to various locations on modular pack system <b>40</b>, such as shoulder straps <b>44</b>, torso structure <b>70</b>, and waistband <b>80</b>.

0058Several exemplary packs are now described with reference to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4-10</figref> and <b>20</b> and may be included as part of modular pack system <b>40</b>. It should be understood that packs of numerous sizes, types, and configurations may be utilized with modular pack system <b>40</b> including those shown in the figures, those identified in the list recited above, or others, and that the invention is not limited to the use of a particular pack. One embodiment of a hydration pack <b>10</b> is shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4 and 5</figref>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> shows hydration pack <b>110</b> open, while <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> shows hydration pack <b>110</b> closed and mounted to torso structure <b>70</b> of modular pack system <b>40</b>. Specifically, hydration pack <b>110</b> includes two clips <b>160</b> (not shown) on the surface adjacent torso structure, and the two clips are mounted on studs <b>46</b> of upper torso plate <b>72</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>). Alternatively, hydration pack <b>110</b> may be mounted within a backpack <b>130</b> that attaches to modular pack system <b>40</b>, as shown in the exploded view of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>. In another alternative embodiment, hydration pack <b>110</b> (and its contents) may be permanently attached to torso structure <b>70</b>.

0059Hydration pack <b>110</b> includes an outer fabric shell <b>112</b> with a zipper <b>124</b> to open and close outer shell <b>112</b>. Outer shell <b>112</b> surrounds a bladder <b>114</b>, and a top <b>122</b> on bladder <b>114</b> may be removed to fill bladder <b>114</b> with liquid or to empty bladder <b>114</b> between uses of hydration pack <b>110</b>. A tube <b>116</b> extends from bladder <b>114</b> and has a mouthpiece <b>118</b> on its end. Outer shell <b>112</b> includes two openings <b>120</b> surrounded by elastic fabric, and tube <b>116</b> may be inserted through either opening <b>120</b> to exit outer shell <b>112</b>. Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, tube <b>116</b> may be inserted through tube clip <b>60</b>, which is on the left shoulder strap <b>44</b> but may be attached to a stud <b>46</b> on either shoulder strap <b>44</b>. Tube <b>116</b> may also be inserted through one of elastic fabric loops <b>52</b> present each shoulder strap <b>44</b>. Tube clip <b>60</b> and elastic fabric loop <b>52</b> aid in holding tube <b>116</b> in position along one of shoulder straps <b>44</b> such that tube <b>116</b> does not hinder the wearer during the activity in which the wearer is engaged, while also allowing the wearer to position mouthpiece <b>118</b> as desired and adjacent the wearer's mouth when modular pack system <b>40</b> is being worn.

0060<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6-8</figref> show an embodiment of a backpack <b>130</b> for use with modular pack system <b>40</b>. Backpack <b>130</b> includes a plurality of outer pockets <b>132</b>, a zip-out raincover pocket <b>138</b> at the bottom, and a handle <b>144</b> at the top. Belt webs <b>134</b> extend from each side of the central outer pocket <b>132</b> and each includes a female component <b>136</b> of a quick-release fastener, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>. Straps <b>140</b> extend from near the top of central outer pocket <b>132</b>, and each strap <b>140</b> includes a male component <b>142</b> of a quick-release fastener. Female components <b>136</b> and male components <b>142</b> attach to components of fasteners extending from straps on the other side of backpack <b>130</b> that are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>.

0061<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> shows a side <b>158</b> of backpack <b>130</b> that mounts to shoulder straps <b>44</b>, torso structure <b>72</b>, and waistband <b>80</b> of modular pack system <b>40</b>. Straps <b>146</b> extend from opposite edges of backpack <b>130</b>, and each strap <b>146</b> includes a male component <b>148</b> of a quick-release fastener. Male components <b>148</b> may be coupled to female components <b>136</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>) to secure belt webs <b>134</b> along the sides of backpack <b>130</b>. A zipped pocket <b>150</b> may include straps (not shown) that may be used if the wearer desires to use backpack <b>130</b> without the remainder of modular pack system <b>40</b>. Straps <b>152</b> extend from the top of side <b>158</b> of backpack <b>130</b>, and each strap includes a female component <b>154</b> of a quick-release fastener. Female components <b>154</b> may be secured to male components <b>142</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>) to secure the top of backpack <b>130</b>.

0062Load-stabilizing buckles <b>156</b> are also provided at the bottom of backpack <b>130</b>. Buckles <b>156</b> increase the ability of backpack <b>130</b> to carry more weight and to stabilize the load being carried. When using backpack <b>130</b> with modular pack system <b>40</b>, it is desirable to detach straps <b>56</b> from female ends <b>100</b> on waistband <b>80</b> and secure male ends <b>58</b> of straps <b>56</b> to buckles <b>156</b> on backpack <b>130</b>. This pulls the lower load of backpack <b>130</b> into the body for load stabilization, in conjunction with two aluminum support bars (not shown) in backpack <b>130</b>.

0063As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>, this embodiment of backpack <b>130</b> has six clips <b>160</b> mounted to side <b>158</b>. Clips <b>160</b> engage studs <b>46</b> attached to modular pack system <b>40</b> to mount backpack <b>130</b> to system <b>40</b>. As may be seen by reference to FIGS. I and <b>6</b>, four clips <b>160</b> are at the top of backpack <b>130</b>. The uppermost two clips <b>160</b> attach to two studs <b>46</b>, one on each shoulder strap <b>44</b>, while the other two clips <b>160</b> near the top of backpack <b>130</b> attach to the two studs <b>46</b> on upper torso plate <b>72</b>. Two clips <b>160</b> positioned near the bottom of backpack <b>130</b> attach to the studs <b>46</b> on lumbar plate, one in each grouping near opposite edges of lumbar plate <b>82</b>. It should be understood that clips <b>160</b> (and studs <b>46</b>) may be positioned other than as shown in the drawings, provided that clips <b>160</b> are positioned to mount to a number of studs <b>46</b> on modular pack system <b>40</b> to effectively secure backpack <b>130</b> to system <b>40</b>.

0064<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> shows an exploded view of backpack <b>130</b> open and hydration pack <b>110</b> exploded out of a location in backpack <b>130</b> in which hydration pack <b>110</b> may be mounted. The inside surface of backpack <b>130</b> includes two studs <b>46</b> that may be used to mount hydration pack <b>110</b> or other packs. As described above, hydration pack <b>110</b> includes two clips for mounting pack <b>110</b> onto studs <b>46</b> inside of backpack <b>130</b>. Additional studs <b>46</b> may be positioned in various locations inside backpack <b>130</b>, as well as inside any of outer pockets <b>132</b> of backpack <b>130</b> or on the outside of backpack <b>130</b>, so that packs or other attachable components may be attached within or on backpack <b>130</b> or its various pockets.

0065<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 9 and 10</figref> show an embodiment of a waist pack <b>180</b> that may be used with modular pack system <b>40</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> shows waist pack <b>180</b> attached to waistband <b>80</b>, and <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> shows a view of the side of waist pack <b>180</b> that mounts onto waistband <b>80</b>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>, waist pack <b>180</b> has four clips <b>160</b> that attach to studs <b>46</b> of lumbar plate <b>82</b>. Thus, when modular pack system <b>40</b> is being worn, waist pack <b>180</b> is attached around the back of the wearer's waist. A wearer may use waist pack for storage of items as desired.

0066Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>, waist pack includes a pocket <b>182</b> located on its front and a top hatch flap <b>184</b>, both opened with zippers in this embodiment. Top hatch flap <b>184</b> provides easy top entry into the interior of waist pack <b>180</b>. The interior of waist pack <b>180</b> or pocket <b>182</b> may have organizers or studs <b>46</b> for the attachment or storage of smaller items. Adjustable straps <b>186</b> extend from opposite edges of pocket <b>182</b> to near opposite ends of waist pack <b>180</b>, and webbing of the straps is stitched to the body of waist pack <b>180</b>. At the ends of each strap <b>186</b> are a clip <b>160</b> (not shown) that attaches to one of studs <b>46</b> on waistband <b>80</b>. Straps <b>186</b> then act as additional lumbar support that may be pulled tight so that waist pack <b>180</b> hugs the wearer's body.

0067<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> shows a perspective view of a generic pack <b>220</b> that has two clips <b>160</b> attached thereto for mounting pack <b>220</b> on studs <b>46</b> of modular pack system <b>40</b>. As described above, any of numerous types of packs or other attachable components may be used, including, but not limited to, those listed herein and other structures for holding fishing equipment, ammunition, camping equipment, tactical or military equipment, industrial tools, (such as electrical, construction, or carpentry) and the like. Additionally, certain embodiments of methods of this invention may include providing a modular pack system with one or more of the components described herein and preparing for an activity by donning a modular pack system with one or more of such components and attaching to the system two or more packs useful for the activity.

0068<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 21 and 22</figref> show a duffel bag <b>230</b> that may be used to transport a modular pack system, such as system <b>40</b>, or other packs. Duffel bag <b>230</b> has two straps <b>232</b> for carrying bag <b>230</b>. Straps <b>232</b> may be secured together using a hook and loop fabric cover <b>234</b>. Elastic straps <b>240</b> may be pulled to secure bag <b>230</b> for easy transport on all-terrain vehicles and the like. Duffel bag <b>230</b> also includes pockets <b>236</b> on one or more sides for storage. The interior of duffel bag <b>230</b> is sized so that it has sufficient space to hold modular pack system <b>40</b>. Duffel bag <b>230</b> also includes one or more panels <b>238</b> that may be detachably removed from the interior of duffel bag <b>230</b> using a hook and loop fabric connection or similar mechanism. Each panel <b>238</b> has a plurality of studs <b>46</b> to allow addditional packs or other attachable components to be secured within duffel bag <b>230</b>. The number of studs <b>46</b> on each panel <b>238</b> may vary.

0069The foregoing description of exemplary embodiments of the invention has been presented only for the purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above disclosure. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain the principles of the invention and their practical application so as to enable others skilled in the art to make and utilize the invention and various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. Alternative embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains without departing from its spirit and scope.