Backpack frame and bag system

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

0001This application is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to U.S. application Ser. No. 10/907,087 filed Mar. 18, 2005 to Dana Wright Gleason Jr. entitled Backpack Frame System and U.S. application Ser. No. 12/533,983 filed Jul. 31, 2009 to Dana Wright Gleason Jr. entitled backpack Frame System, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/907,087, both of which are currently pending. The entire disclosure, including the specification and drawings, of both above-referenced applications are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

0002Backpacks have been used for many years to carry a given load of contents on the back of a user. Modern backpacks designed and configured to carry moderate to large loads usually fall into one of two categories: external frame backpacks and internal frame backpacks. External frame backpacks normally include a rigid frame with shoulder straps and a pack bag connected directly to that frame.

0003Often, backpack users have the need to carry heavy, oversized or awkwardly shaped objects. Typically, users will fasten or strap those objects to the easiest attained location, which is generally on the outside of the pack bag. When these oversized objects are attached to the outside of the pack bag, the result is a load that is not well balanced and does not carry well. For instance, if a heavy object is attached to the back side of the pack bag, it will adversely affect the user's balance and stability, as the load is usually placed relatively far away from the user's back and center of gravity. This is especially true with regard to items typically carried by military personnel and members of tactical or special force teams. Those items can include mortar tubes, mortar base plates (which can weigh <b>30</b> pounds or more), radio packs, firearms, other weaponry and the like. Furthermore, when long objects, such as mortar tubes and firearms, are strapped to the bag, they often sway thereby further hindering the user's balance. Additionally, long objects, especially when positioned horizontally across the user's back or when allowed to sway, increase the user's overall width, which can have adverse impacts in crowded environments and tight surroundings. Furthermore, in addition to carrying oversized objects, users often desire to also carry a pack bag for transporting smaller contents.

0004Accordingly, a need exists for a backpack system that allows the user to carry heavy, oversized and awkwardly shaped objects relatively close to the user's back and center of gravity in a stable manner. A need also exists for a backpack system that allows a user to transport heavy, oversized and awkwardly shaped objects in addition to a pack bag. A further need exists for a backpack system that enables a user to carry long objects in a manner that does not increase the user's overall width.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

0005One embodiment of the present invention is directed to a backpack system that includes an external frame with shoulder straps, a pack bag and a sling extending between a back side of the frame and a front side of the pack bag. The sling acts as a shelf and permits for space between the frame and pack bag for accommodating cargo therebetween when the sling is in an extended position. The sling can be extended or retracted in order to selectively adjust the distance between the pack bag and frame. In one embodiment, the sling is permanently affixed to a front lower edge of the pack bag and releasably coupled to the frame with straps having adjustable buckles mounted thereon. The sling may define a cutout region sized and shaped for receiving a relatively long object, such as a mortar tube or firearm, therethrough. Further, the backpack system can be equipment with a pouch or sock attached thereto for supporting the lower end of a long object.

0006Portions of the frame and pack bag may be comprised of or include patches of a material designed to reduce or eliminate inadvertent sliding or shifting any cargo carried between the frame and pack bag. The pack bag, in order to maintain its general shape when not directly mounted to the frame, can include stiffening members. In one embodiment, the pack bag has stiffening members located about its front panel. In one configuration, the pack bag is attached directly to and relatively snugly against the frame and may include a collar for hanging the pack bag on a top portion of the frame.

0007Certain embodiments of the invention are outlined above in order that the detailed description thereof may be better understood, and in order that the present contributions to the art may be better appreciated. In this respect, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of embodiments in addition to those described and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein, as well as the abstract, are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

0008As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception upon which this disclosure is based may readily be utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present invention. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Though some features of the invention may be claimed in dependency, each feature has merit when used independently.

DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

Further features of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present invention relates from reading the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a rear perspective view of an external frame assembly of the backpack system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a front perspective view of .a pack bag and sling of the backpack system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a sectional view illustrating the pack bag mounted to the external frame assembly with a space therebetween for carrying cargo in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a sectional view illustrating the pack bag mounted directly to the external frame assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a sectional view illustrating a firearm supported by a pouch and angled across the backpack system between the external frame assembly and pack bag in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a is a sectional view illustrating a mortar tube supported by a pouch and positioned between the external frame assembly and pack bag in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention; and

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is a perspective view illustrating the pack bag coupled to the external frame assembly via a sling and showing the pack bag opened away from the external frame assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

0017The invention will now be described with reference to the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout. For purposes of clarity in illustrating the characteristics of the present invention, proportional relationships of the elements have not necessarily been maintained in the drawing figures. The description of the invention will use terms such as vertical, horizontal, top and bottom. These terms are used to describe the components of the backpack system <b>10</b> when it is in its normal upright orientation.

0018One embodiment of the present invention is directed generally to a backpack system <b>10</b> comprised of a frame system <b>12</b> and pack bag <b>14</b>. As will be described in further detail below, the pack bag <b>14</b> may be mounted to the frame system <b>12</b> in a manner providing space <b>176</b> between the pack bag <b>14</b> and frame system <b>12</b> for accommodating cargo, including heavy, oversized or awkwardly shaped objects, therebetween. When configured in this manner, the backpack system <b>10</b> may optionally include a sling <b>156</b> extending between the frame system <b>12</b> and the pack bag <b>14</b>. Additionally, the pack bag <b>14</b> may include stiffeners <b>112</b>, <b>114</b> and <b>116</b> for providing the pack bag <b>14</b> with structural rigidity when the pack bag <b>14</b> is positioned at a distance from the frame system <b>12</b>. Furthermore, the backpack system <b>10</b> can include a pouch or sock <b>180</b> and <b>182</b> for supporting long objects. The pack bag <b>14</b> may also be mounted directly to the frame system <b>12</b>.

0019Turning to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, the frame system <b>12</b> can be comprised of a base frame <b>15</b>, shoulder straps <b>36</b> and a hip belt <b>38</b>. The base frame <b>15</b> has front and back sides <b>16</b> and <b>17</b>. The shoulder straps <b>36</b> and hip belt <b>38</b> extend from the front side <b>16</b> of the base frame <b>15</b>. In one embodiment, the base frame <b>15</b> includes a left upright member <b>18</b>, a center upright member <b>20</b> and a right upright member <b>22</b>. As shown, base frame <b>15</b> further includes an upper cross member <b>24</b>, an intermediate cross member <b>26</b> and a lower cross member <b>28</b> extending between the left and right upright members <b>18</b> and <b>22</b>. The cross members <b>24</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> may be directly attached on opposing lateral ends thereof with the left and right upright members <b>18</b> and <b>22</b>. As illustrated, a membrane <b>30</b>, which may be formed of a flexible material, extends laterally across the vertical members <b>18</b>, <b>20</b> and <b>22</b> and vertically across the cross members <b>24</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> and below the lowermost cross member <b>28</b>. By affixing only the lateral ends of the cross members <b>24</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> with the outermost upright members <b>18</b> and <b>22</b>, gaps <b>32</b> are formed between the cross members <b>24</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> and the membrane <b>30</b>. The gaps <b>32</b> may also extend between the cross members <b>24</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> and the center upright member <b>20</b>. The members <b>18</b>, <b>20</b>, <b>22</b>, <b>24</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> may be solid elements or may be constructed of a rigid or semi-rigid stay <b>29</b> housed within a sleeve <b>31</b>. In general, while the frame system <b>12</b> may be constructed the same as or substantially similar to the frame system disclosed and shown in U.S. application Ser. Nos. 10/907,087 and 2/533,983, it may also take the form of any other suitable backpack frame now known or hereafter developed. By way of example, the base frame <b>15</b> may be constructed of tubular members or rods (e.g., formed of aluminum or other metals or rigid materials) or may be formed from a molded plastic or formed composite structure.

0020<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> illustrates a cargo carrying device or pack bag <b>14</b> that may be used in connection with one embodiment of the invention. The pack bag <b>14</b> can come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be made from a flexible sheet material (e.g., nylon, polyester or canvas), molded plastic, leather, metal or any other materials known in the art. The pack bag <b>14</b> can be similar to pack bags of conventional backpacks and normally includes a main compartment <b>89</b> with an opening (not shown) that may be secured by a zipper, hook and loop fastener or other fastening means. The main compartment <b>89</b> is defined by front and back sides <b>90</b> and <b>96</b>, left and right sides <b>92</b> and <b>94</b> and top and bottom ends <b>98</b> and <b>100</b>. The pack bag <b>14</b> may further include a number of sub compartments, pockets, flaps, and partitions as known in the art. The pack bag <b>14</b> may be used to carry food, clothing, gear, equipment, supplies and all other items suitably shaped and sized to fit within the pack bag <b>14</b>. While the pack bag <b>14</b> is described herein as a conventional-type bag, it is understood that existing containers such as other packs, boxes, canisters or virtually any suitably sized container or bag can be modified to become a pack bag <b>14</b>. Additionally, it will be understood that pack bag <b>14</b> may be replaced with any number of other objects that are suitable for coupling with the frame system <b>12</b>.

0021As demonstrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the pack bag <b>14</b> may be mounted to the frame system <b>12</b> in a manner providing space <b>176</b> between the pack bag <b>14</b> and frame system <b>12</b> for accommodating cargo therebetween. Examples of cargo and equipment that can be carried in the space <b>176</b> between the pack bag <b>14</b> and frame system <b>12</b> include tactical radios, ammunition cans, jerry cans, fuel or water canisters, mortar tubes, mortar tube base plates, firearms, tactical or hunting equipment, tents, bags, sleeping bags, humans, animals, dressed or quartered game and any other suitably sized objects, including relatively heavy, oversized or awkwardly-sized objects. The space <b>176</b> created between the pack bag <b>14</b> and frame system <b>12</b> allows the user to position such objects relatively close to the user's back and center of gravity. This facilitates better weight distribution of the load and improves the user's balance in comparison to cases where objects are strapped to the outside of the pack bag <b>14</b> farther from the user's center of gravity. Additionally, it enables longer objects, such as firearms and mortar tubes, to be secured in a stable manner and in a fashion that keeps the user's width as minimal as possible.

0022In addition to the frame system <b>12</b> and pack bag <b>14</b>, the backpack system <b>10</b> may also include a sling <b>156</b>. The sling <b>156</b> acts as a shelf for supporting cargo positioned between the frame system <b>12</b> and pack bag <b>14</b>. When the sling <b>156</b> is tightened (i.e., shortened), it reduces the distance D between the frame system <b>12</b> and pack bag <b>14</b>, and when completely tightened, holds the pack bag <b>14</b> generally snug against the frame system <b>12</b>. When the sling is loosened (i.e., lengthened), it allows the distance D between the frame system <b>12</b> and pack bag <b>14</b> to be increased. In one embodiment, distance D is generally variable between about zero inches and about 12 inches or more. This allows a wide variety of objects to be carried within the space <b>176</b> between the frame system <b>12</b> and pack bag <b>14</b>, including those objects listed above.

0023The sling <b>156</b> may be permanently affixed to the pack bag <b>14</b> and/or frame system <b>12</b> or may be releasably attached to the pack bag <b>14</b> and/or frame system <b>12</b>. As illustrated in the figures, the sling <b>156</b> is permanently attached to a front lower edge <b>104</b> of the pack bag <b>14</b>. While the figures show the sling <b>156</b> attached to the front lower edge <b>104</b>, it will be understood that sling <b>156</b> may be attached to the pack bag <b>14</b> at locations other than edge <b>104</b>, including locations above or below edge <b>104</b>.

0024In one embodiment, a shelf portion <b>157</b> of the sling <b>156</b> extends from the edge <b>104</b> and terminates at a distal end <b>164</b>. Extending from the distal end <b>164</b> of the shelf portion <b>157</b> are straps <b>168</b> and <b>173</b> having adjustable buckles <b>170</b> and <b>174</b> respectively fitted thereon for adjusting the effective length of the straps <b>168</b> and <b>172</b> and releasably coupling the sling <b>156</b> to the base frame <b>15</b>. As illustrated in the figures, sling <b>156</b> is similar in nature to the elongated spade disclosed in the above-referenced patent applications. However, it will be understood that the sling <b>156</b> need not be constructed in such a manner and may, in other embodiments, consist of other structure, including straps, webbing, formed plastic or composite materials or any other suitable structure extending between the frame system <b>12</b> and pack bag <b>14</b>.

0025As best illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, the sling <b>156</b> may comprise a rigid or semi-rigid inner support material <b>160</b>, such as high-density foam, plastic, composite or other material suitable for increasing the sling's rigidity and restricting side-to-side sway of the pack bag <b>14</b> relative to the frame system <b>12</b>. The support material <b>160</b> may be enclosed by a shell liner <b>158</b>, which may be constructed of materials similar to those used in constructing the pack bag <b>14</b>. In one embodiment, the sling <b>156</b> includes one or more lateral flex lines <b>162</b> enabling the sling <b>156</b> to flex horizontally. Flex lines <b>162</b> can be formed by sewing the liner <b>158</b> through the support material <b>160</b> or by interrupting the support material <b>160</b> along the flex lines <b>162</b>. The flex lines <b>162</b> allow the sling <b>156</b> to be incrementally inserted in the gap <b>32</b> in front of one or more of the cross members <b>24</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>28</b>, enabling a user to adjust the distance D between the frame system <b>12</b> and pack bag <b>14</b>. Put differently, the flex lines <b>162</b> divide the sling <b>156</b> into partitions <b>163</b> such that a selectable number of the sling partitions <b>163</b> may be slid in front of one or more of the cross members <b>24</b>, <b>26</b> and <b>28</b> and the remaining sling partitions <b>163</b>, if any, are utilized to form a platform or shelf <b>157</b> for supporting contents on the sling <b>156</b>.

0026The buckles <b>170</b> and <b>174</b> attached to the straps <b>168</b> and <b>172</b> that extend from the shelf portion's distal end <b>164</b> can be coupled with the buckles <b>76</b> and <b>80</b> attached to cross member <b>26</b> in order to releasably connect the sling <b>156</b> to the base frame <b>15</b>. Buckles <b>170</b> and <b>174</b> can be slid toward or away from the distal end <b>164</b> of sling <b>156</b> along straps <b>168</b> and <b>172</b> in order to adjust the effective length of the sling <b>156</b> and thereby increase or decrease the distance D between the frame system's back side <b>17</b> and the pack bag's front side <b>90</b>. While the figures show buckles <b>76</b> and <b>80</b> affixed to cross member <b>26</b> via straps <b>74</b> and <b>78</b>, it will be understood that buckles <b>76</b> and <b>80</b> may be attached to the base frame <b>15</b> at any desired location, including other cross members.

0027The cargo placed between the frame system <b>12</b> and pack bag <b>14</b> may be strapped to the base frame <b>15</b>, strapped to the pack bag <b>12</b> or merely rest between the base frame <b>15</b> and pack bag <b>14</b>. The pack bag <b>14</b> may include a restraint device <b>146</b> having straps <b>148</b> and <b>152</b> with adjustable buckles <b>150</b> and <b>154</b> that may be coupled together to secure cargo against the front side <b>90</b> of the pack bag <b>14</b>. One or more of the sling <b>156</b>, the front side <b>90</b> of the pack bag <b>14</b>, the membrane <b>30</b> and the sleeves <b>31</b> may be comprised entirely of or may include patches <b>118</b> and <b>120</b> of a material having gripping characteristics. By way of example, this material can be a Hypalon® coated fabric, a rubber material, hook or loop material or any other material known for providing grip or tractive properties. This material is in place to reduce or eliminate any inadvertent sliding and shifting of the cargo contained within space <b>176</b>. In one embodiment, one or both of the patches of material <b>118</b> and <b>120</b> are backed with foam or other padding so as to firmly press against the cargo being carried within the space <b>176</b>.

0028As best shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 7</figref>, the sling <b>156</b> may optionally include a cutout <b>166</b> shaped and sized for receiving a long object, such as a mortar tube or firearm therethrough. The cutout portion <b>166</b> may be of any shape and placed in any suitable location. In other embodiments, the sling <b>156</b> may include multiple cutouts <b>166</b> or a cutout <b>166</b> that extends the entire length of the sling <b>156</b>.

0029In addition to the sling <b>156</b>, the pack bag <b>14</b> is coupled to the frame system <b>12</b> with straps or other attachment means. For instance, as shown in the figures, the pack bag <b>14</b> and base frame <b>15</b> are equipped with a set of straps <b>50</b>, <b>54</b>, <b>138</b> and <b>142</b> for carrying a portion of the cargo's load within the pack bag <b>14</b> and space <b>176</b>. Straps <b>50</b> and <b>138</b> are coupled together by buckles <b>52</b> and <b>140</b> and straps <b>54</b> and <b>142</b> are coupled together by buckles <b>48</b> and <b>144</b>. In addition to carrying a portion of the vertical load of the cargo, straps <b>50</b>, <b>54</b>, <b>138</b> and <b>142</b> also position the top end <b>98</b> of the pack bag <b>14</b> relative to the base frame <b>15</b>. The system <b>10</b> may also include various compression straps and buckles for attaching the pack bag <b>14</b> to the frame system <b>12</b> and for stabilizing and compressing the cargo contained with the pack bag <b>14</b> and space <b>176</b>. In one embodiment, upper compression straps <b>58</b> and <b>122</b> are coupled by buckles <b>60</b> and <b>124</b>, upper compression straps <b>62</b> and <b>126</b> are coupled by buckles <b>64</b> and <b>128</b>, lower compression straps <b>66</b> and <b>130</b> are coupled by buckles <b>68</b> and <b>132</b> and lower compression straps <b>70</b> and <b>134</b> are coupled by buckles <b>72</b> and <b>136</b>. The buckles <b>124</b>, <b>128</b>, <b>132</b> and <b>136</b> may be adjusted to various positions along straps <b>122</b>, <b>126</b>, <b>130</b> and <b>134</b> in order to increase or decrease the distance D between the frame system <b>12</b> and pack bag <b>14</b> and in order to provide a desired amount of compression on the cargo within the space <b>176</b> and pack bag <b>14</b>.

0030All of the straps described herein are normally constructed of a durable and fabric-like material, such as nylon or polyester strapping similar to the material frequently used in automobile seatbelts or any other type of material suitable for use in connection with the present invention. The straps may be affixed to the pack bag <b>14</b> and base frame <b>15</b> by sewing or welding the straps to their respective components or may be removably attached, for example, with hook and loop fasteners. All of the buckles described herein may be quick release buckles comprised of corresponding releasable male and female buckle connectors or any other type of buckle suitable for use in connection with the present invention.

0031When the pack bag <b>14</b> is positioned at a distance from the frame system <b>12</b>, it is often desirable for the pack bag <b>14</b> to have some structural rigidity so that it does not sag when apart from the base frame <b>15</b> and maintains its general shape when synched against the cargo contained within the space <b>176</b>. However, bags used in connection with external frame backpack systems typically do not include any structural framing. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, two upright stiffeners <b>112</b> and <b>114</b> and one cross stiffener <b>116</b> are attached to the front side of the pack bag <b>14</b>. The stiffeners <b>112</b>, <b>114</b> and <b>116</b>, which may be provided in any number and configuration, can be made of plastic, metal, carbon fibers, reinforced fiberglass, wood or any other suitable rigid, semi-rigid or elastically deformable material.

0032Turning now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 5 and 6</figref>, longer objects such as firearms <b>190</b> and mortar tubes <b>192</b> may be contained in the space <b>176</b> between the frame system <b>12</b> and pack bag <b>14</b>. These objects may be position such that their lower ends extend below the sling <b>156</b>. In one embodiment, one or more pouches or socks <b>180</b> and <b>182</b> are provided. The socks <b>180</b> and <b>182</b> can be attached directly to the sling <b>156</b>, frame system <b>12</b> or pack bag <b>14</b> or may be coupled thereto with straps <b>178</b> that may be adjustable in length. The socks <b>180</b> and <b>182</b> can be interchangeable and specifically tailored for particular objects or loads that are being carried. For example, one sock <b>180</b> can be slender and configured to support the butt end of a firearm and another sock <b>182</b> may be round and configured to support the lower end of a mortar tube. The socks <b>180</b> and <b>182</b> may also be attached to sling <b>156</b>, frame system <b>12</b> or pack bag <b>14</b> in a number of locations. As seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, sock <b>180</b> is attached to the base frame <b>15</b> and the firearm <b>190</b> is angled across the user's back. As seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>, sock <b>182</b> is attached to the sling <b>156</b> and the mortar tube is received through the cutout region <b>166</b> and is carried in a generally vertical orientation. In one embodiment, the sock <b>180</b> and <b>182</b> can be used in connection with a backpack system that does not include a sling <b>156</b>. When not in use, the socks <b>180</b> and <b>182</b> and straps <b>178</b> can be placed within a sleeves or pockets <b>184</b> located on the pack bag <b>14</b>, as demonstrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>.

0033As illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, the pack bag <b>14</b> may be mounted directly to the frame system <b>12</b>. In such a case, the pack bag <b>14</b> may include an inverted pocket <b>110</b> defined between a collar <b>106</b> and a front surface of the pack bag <b>102</b>. As shown, the pocket <b>110</b> is sized and configured for receiving an upper portion of the base frame <b>15</b>, upon which the pack bag <b>14</b> may be hung. When in this configuration, buckles <b>170</b> and <b>174</b> can be slid toward the distal end <b>164</b> of sling <b>156</b> along straps <b>168</b> and <b>172</b> in order shorten the effective length of the sling <b>156</b> and, therefore, pull the pack bag <b>14</b> toward the base frame <b>15</b>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>, the collar <b>106</b> can have an opening <b>108</b> defined therein. Long items, such as the barrel of a firearm <b>190</b> can be directed through the opening <b>108</b> in order to further secure and stabilize the object in place. Additionally, compression straps <b>122</b>, <b>126</b>, <b>130</b> and <b>134</b> can be shortened in order to pull the pack bag <b>14</b> against the base frame <b>15</b>.

0034From the foregoing, it may be seen that the backpack frame and bag system of the present invention is particularly well suited for the proposed usages thereof. Furthermore, since certain changes may be made in the above invention without departing from the scope hereof, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawing be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. It is also to be understood that the following claims are to cover certain generic and specific features described herein.