Combination backpack seat

Abstract

A combination backpack and seat article incorporates a built-in seat element having a cushioned base member pivotably connected to the backpack and a cushioned back rest section attached to the backside of the backpack. When in the closed position, the base member is flush with the back rest section on the backside of the backpack and buckles securely in a locked position. When in the open, seat configuration, the cushioned base member folds down from the back rest section. Comfort adjustable lateral straps and attached buckles connect the rear of the backpack to the outboard end of the base member. Bar members located in the base member and back rest section provide structural integrity and stability when the article is used as a seat.

1 . A combination backpack and seat article for use both as a backpack and a seat, said article comprising:
 a backpack member with a plurality of storage compartments and arm straps;   a seat member comprising:
 a cushioned back rest section having a given height and inboard and external surfaces, the backpack member being secured to the internal surface, said back rest section further comprising an enclosed space located between the inboard and exterior surfaces, and dual elongated back rest rods extending substantially the full height of the back rest section, one rod being located on each side of the back rest section, neither rod being connected to any other supporting element; 
 a base member of given length pivotably connected to the back rest section, said base member having two lateral sections interconnected by a middle section, each lateral section comprising an elongated seat rod located within and extending substantially the full length of each section, neither seat rod being connected to any other supporting element; 
 lateral support means extending between the back rest section and the base member for connecting the back rest section to the outboard end of the base member; and 
   means for adjusting the angle between the back rest section and the base member while a user is sitting on the seat member;   whereby when the article is used as a seat, the base member and back rest section are in an angled position in relation to each other and are maintained in this position by the lateral support means, and when the article is used as a backpack, the base member is pivoted upward and positioned between the arm straps and against the back rest.   
   
   
       2 . The combination backpack and seat article as in  claim 1  wherein the lateral and middle sections are cushioned and are flexibly interconnected. 
   
   
       3 . The combination backpack and seat article as in  claim 1  wherein the lateral support means comprises attachment straps. 
   
   
       4 . The combination backpack and seat article as in  claim 3  wherein the means for adjusting the angle comprises buckles through which the attachment straps extend. 
   
   
       5 . The combination backpack and seat article as in  claim 1  further comprising locking means to secure the base member against the back rest section when the article is used as a backpack. 
   
   
       6 . The combination backpack and seat article as in  claim 5  wherein the locking means comprises interlocking buckles.