Patent Grant
11571051
The field of this application and any resulting patent is luggage assemblies.
Various expandable luggage assemblies and methods for storing travel-ware have been proposed and utilized, including some of the methods and structures disclosed in the references appearing on the face of this patent. However, those methods and structures lack the combination of steps and/or features of the methods and/or structures covered by the patent claims below. Furthermore, it is contemplated that the methods and/or structures covered by at least some of the claims of this issued patent solve many of the problems that prior art methods and structures have failed to solve. Also, the methods and/or structures covered by at least some of the claims of this patent have benefits that would be surprising and unexpected to a hypothetical person of ordinary skill with knowledge of the prior art existing as of the filing date of this application.
The disclosure herein includes an expandable luggage assembly, which expandable luggage assembly may include: an upper shell having a plurality of sidewalls; a lower shell having a plurality of sidewalls removably coupled to one more of the plurality of sidewalls of the upper shell; a shelf coupled to the upper shell; a plurality of wheels coupled to the lower shell; and two handles, each handle of the two handles comprising: a crossbar disposed above the upper shell; a first tube coupled to the crossbar and slidably coupled to the upper shell; a second tube slidably coupled to the first tube and capable of being abutted against the upper shell; a third tube slidably coupled to the second tube and coupled to the lower shell.
The disclosure herein includes an expandable luggage assembly, which expandable luggage assembly may include: an upper portion having one or more brackets; and a lower portion; a shelf coupled to the upper portion; a lower shell; a plurality of wheels coupled to a base of the lower shell; and two handles, each handle of the two handles comprising: a crossbar removably coupled to at least one bracket of the one or more brackets; and a telescopic shaft having a first portion coupled to the crossbar and a second portion coupled to a base of the lower shell.
The disclosure herein includes an expandable luggage assembly, which expandable luggage assembly may include: an upper shell; a middle shell removably coupled to the upper shell; a lower shell removably coupled to the middle shell; a plurality of wheels coupled to a base of the lower shell; and two handles, wherein each handle of the two handles comprises: a telescopic shaft coupled to an inner surface of the lower shell and having a portion extending through the upper shell; and a crossbar coupled to the telescopic shaft, wherein an upper portion of the upper shell is capable of being coupled to the crossbar.
The disclosure herein includes an expandable luggage assembly, which expandable luggage assembly may include: an upper shell having a plurality of sidewalls; a lower shell comprising: a base; and a plurality of sidewalls extending from the base and removably coupled to the plurality of sidewalls of the upper shell; a shelf coupled to the upper shell; a plurality of wheels coupled to the lower shell; and two handles, each of the two handles comprising: a telescopic shaft having a portion capable of supporting the upper shell; and a crossbar coupled to the telescopic shaft, wherein a portion of the upper shell is capable of being coupled to the crossbar.
A detailed description will now be provided. The purpose of this detailed description, which includes the drawings, is to satisfy the statutory requirements of 35 U.S.C. § 112. For example, the detailed description includes a description of inventions defined by the claims and sufficient information that would enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventions. In the figures, like elements are generally indicated by like reference numerals regardless of the view or FIG.in which the elements appear. The figures are intended to assist the description and to provide a visual representation of certain aspects of the subject matter described herein. The figures are not all necessarily drawn to scale, nor do they show all the structural details, nor do they limit the scope of the claims.
Each of the appended claims defines a separate invention which, for infringement purposes, is recognized as including equivalents of the various elements or limitations specified in the claims. Depending on the context, all references below to the “invention” may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments only. In other cases, it will be recognized that references to the “invention” will refer to the subject matter recited in one or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims. Each of the inventions will now be described in greater detail below, including specific embodiments, versions, and examples, but the inventions are not limited to these specific embodiments, versions, or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventions when the information in this patent is combined with available information and technology. Various terms as used herein are defined below, and the definitions should be adopted when construing the claims that include those terms, except to the extent a different meaning is given within the specification or in express representations to the Patent and Trademark Office (PTO). To the extent a term used in a claim is not defined below or in representations to the PTO, it should be given the broadest definition persons having skill in the art have given that term as reflected in at least one printed publication, dictionary, or issued patent.
Certain claims include one or more of the following terms which, as used herein, are expressly defined below.
The term “abut against” as used herein as a verb is defined as position adjacent and either physically touch or press against, directly or indirectly. After any abutting takes place with one object relative to another object, the objects may be fully or partially “abutted.” A first object may be abutted against a second object such that the second object is limited from moving in a direction of the first object. For example, a tube of a telescope shaft may have a radial face abutted against an upper shell. Also, a crossbar of a handle may be abutted against a bracket extending from an upper shell.
The term “align” as used herein is a verb that means manufacture, form, adjust, or arrange one or more physical objects into a particular position. After any aligning takes place, the objects may be fully or partially “aligned.” Aligning preferably involves arranging a structure or surface of a structure in linear relation to another structure or surface; for example, such that their borders or perimeters may share a set of parallel tangential lines. In certain instances, the aligned borders or perimeters may share a similar profile. Additionally, apertures may be aligned, such that a structure or portion of a structure may be extended into and/or through the apertures.
The term “aperture” as used herein is defined as any opening in a solid object or structure, e.g., upper shell assembly or a tube. For example, an aperture may be an opening that begins on one side of a solid object, e.g., upper shell assembly or tube, and ends on the other side of the object. An aperture may alternatively be an opening that does not pass entirely through an object, but only partially passes through, e.g., as a groove. An aperture can be an opening in an object, e.g., upper shell assembly or a tube, that is completely circumscribed, defined, or delimited by the object itself. Alternatively, an aperture can be an opening in the object when the object is combined with one or more other objects or structures. For example, a shell may have four sidewalls coupled to form an opening. An aperture may receive another object, e.g., upper shell assembly or a tube, and permit ingress and/or egress of the object through the aperture. Thus, a tube may be received in an aperture of another tube. An aperture may have a shoulder extending from the surface of the aperture.
The term “assembly” as used herein is defined as any set of components that have been fully or partially assembled together. A group of assemblies may be coupled form an assembly or a solid body having an inner surface and an outer surface.
The term “clip” as used herein is defined as a device that can be removably coupled to another object. A clip may be referred to as a Delrin clip or a snap clip. A clip may be coupled to a strap.
The term “bracket” as used herein is defined as a structure extending from a portion of a shell configured for coupling to a crossbar of a handle. A bracket may be curved. A bracket may have an arch. Preferably, a bracket may extend from an upper portion, e.g., table top, of an upper shell. A bracket and an upper portion of an upper shell may be unitary. A bracket may be formed from various materials including plastic, carbon fiber, metal, ceramic, or wood.
The term “coupled” as used herein is defined as directly or indirectly connected, attached, or unitary, e.g., part of. A first object may be coupled to a second object such that the first object is positioned at a specific location and orientation with respect to the second object. For example, two shorter shaft assemblies may be coupled to form a longer shaft assembly. A first object may be permanently, removably, slidably, or threadably coupled to a second object. Two objects may be permanently coupled to each other via sutures, adhesive, and/or press-fit. For example, a zipper tape may be sewn with sutures to a shell so that the zipper tape, in some cases, may not be uncoupled from the shell. Two objects may be removably coupled to each other via zipper tapes, latches, hooks, fasteners, locks, male and female connectors, clips, and/or clamps. For instance, an upper shell and a lower shell may be removably coupled with each other such that the upper shell may then be uncoupled and removed from the lower shell. Also, two objects may be capable of being slidably coupled together, e.g., where an inner diameter of one object is capable of receiving another object. Thus, a first tube having an inner diameter may be slidably coupled to a second tube having a smaller outer diameter. Furthermore, a first concentric support tube may be slidably coupled to a second concentric support tube. Additionally, two objects may be capable of being threadably coupled together, e.g., where a threaded outer surface of one object is capable of engaging with or to a threaded inner surface of another object. For example, a threaded assembly may be threadably coupled to a threaded portion of a support tube where a threaded inner surface of the threaded assembly engages with or to a threaded outer surface of the support tube. Also, a first concentric support tube and a second concentric support tube may be threadably coupled, in which the first concentric support tube has a threaded inner surface engaging with or to a threaded outer surface of the second concentric support tube.
The term “crumpled” as used herein as an adjective is defined as collapsed, folded, creased, squashed, wrinkled, and/or scrunched.
The term “cylindrical” as used herein is defined as shaped like a cylinder, e.g., having straight parallel sides and a circular or oval or elliptical cross-section. A cylindrical body or structure, e.g., shaft, tube, or support tube, may be completely or partially shaped like a cylinder. A cylindrical body, e.g., shaft assembly, that has an outer diameter that changes abruptly may have a radial face, e.g., lip, rim, or flange (see, e.g., 5516,
The term “edge” as used herein is defined as any line or border at which any surface terminates, or any line at which two surfaces of a solid object meet. For example, a shell may each have an inner surface and an outer surface forming an edge where the inner surface and the outer surface meet.
The terms “first” and “second” as used herein merely differentiate two or more things or actions, and do not signify anything else, including order of importance, sequence, etc.
The term “flap” as used herein as a noun is defined a pliable portion of a structure extending therefrom. A flap may be referred to as an overhang, a lappet, or a tab. A flap may be configured to cover, partially or fully, an opening of a shell of a luggage assembly. A flap may have a zipper tape coupled to one or more edges of the flap. A flap may be removably coupled to a lower shell. A flap may have a first zipper tape coupled to one or more edges of the flap and removably coupled to a second zipper tape coupled to an edge of a lower shell. A flap may be removably coupled to a middle shell. A flap may have a first zipper tape coupled to an edge of the flap and removably coupled to a second zipper tape coupled to an edge of a middle shell. A flap may also have various regular shapes including rectangle, square, half-circle, or trapezoid. A flap may have an irregular shape.
The term “groove” as used herein is defined an indentation in a surface. A groove may extend in a straight line from one end to another. A groove may extend in a meander path from end to another. A groove may have a surface forming the shape of a block-letter capital V. A groove may have a surface forming the shape of a rectangle. A groove may have an arcuate surface.
The term “handle” as used as a noun herein is defined as a structure configured to be gripped by a human hand. A handle may have a crossbar coupled to a telescopic shaft. A handle may have a telescopic shaft coupled to the cross bar to form the shape of a block-letter “T.” A handle may have a crossbar coupled to the two telescopic shafts. A handle may have a cross bar coupled to two telescopic shafts to form the shape of a block-letter “U.” A handle may have a telescopic shaft coupled to a lower shell. A handle may have a telescopic shaft capable of extending away from and/or collapsing towards a lower shell. A handle may have a telescopic shaft extending through an upper shell. A handle may have two tubes disposed between an upper shell and a lower shell. A handle may have two tubes disposed between sidewalls of an upper shell and a lower shell.
The terms “he,” “she,” “they,” and any other personal pronouns as used herein refer to any gender interchangeably. For example, all uses of “he” encompasses “she” as well.
The term “lock” as used herein is defined as structure for inhibiting movement of an object. A lock may be a ball, a pin, a bolt, a bar, cylinder, a rod, or any elongated structure. A lock may be extended through two aligned apertures disposed in two concentric tubes, respectively.
The term “locked position” as used herein is defined as inhibited from or inhibiting movement, e.g., of an object. For instance, a pin would be in a locked position when it inhibits movement of two or more concentric tubes relative to each other. Additionally, a pin would be in a locked position if the pin is extended through two tubes. Thus, the pin may inhibit movement of the tubes relative to each other. Conversely, the term “unlocked position” as used herein is defined as a position of an object in which the object, some cases, does not inhibit movement of one object relative to another object. For instance, a pin would be in an unlocked position if it, in some cases, does not inhibit the movement of two or more concentric tubes relative to each other.
The term “pliable” as used herein is defined as bendable, foldable, and/or flexible.
The term “provide” as used herein is defined as make available, furnish, supply, equip, or cause to be placed in position.
The term “perpendicular” as used herein is defined as at an angle ranging from 85° or 88 to 92° or 95°. Two structures that are perpendicular to each other may be orthogonal and/or tangential to each other.
The term “release assembly” as used herein is defined as a structure capable of actuating a lock, e.g., to a locked position or an unlock position. A release assembly may include a button, one or more springs, and a connection having a portion coupled to the button and one or more portions coupled to the one or more springs. A button may be disposed in a handle of a handle assembly. A spring may be referred to as a biasing member. A spring may be actuated to a biased position to be abutted against one or more locks. Also, a spring may be actuated to an unbiased position to no longer be abutted against one or more locks. A button may be resiliently depressed to cause movement of the connection to actuate the one or more springs. A depressed button may cause actuation of one or more springs to a biased position. An undepressed, e.g., released, button may cause actuation of one or more springs to a biased position.
The term “shell” as used herein means an outer cover, e.g., configured for protection or concealment of an object. A shell may have a base and four sidewalls extending from the base. The base and four sidewalls may be unitary. Furthermore, the base and four sidewalls may be formed, e.g., mold, woven, or carved, from a single piece, e.g. of plastic, carbon fiber, Kevlar, metal, or wood. A shell may be removably coupled to another shell via latches, buckles, clamps, hooks, straps, cords, rope, string, and/or hinges. A shell may have an upper portion and a lower portion removably coupled to the upper portion. A shell may be rigid. A shell may have a first rigid portion and a second pliable portion, e.g., flap or sidewall.
The term “sidewall” as used herein is defined as any structure having a planar surface. A sidewall may have flat planar sides that may or, in some cases, may not be parallel to one another. For example, a planar sidewall may be a flat sidewall, as exemplified by some of the shells and shelves disclosed herein. A sidewall may have curved planar sides that may or, in some cases, may not be parallel to one another. For example, a cylindrical sidewall may be a curved sidewall whose cross section resembles a letter “O,” as exemplified by some of the shells and shelves disclosed herein. A sidewall may be rigid. A sidewall may be pliable.
The term “strap” as used herein is defined as a flexible structure that has a long side and at least one short side and may be rectangular in overall shape as viewed from the top or bottom. A strap may be rectangular in cross-section. A strap may be continuous. A strap may be constructed from any one of various materials, e.g., leather, Kevlar, cotton, and/or hemp. A strap may be folded into two or more adjacent portions or segments. Certain straps disclosed herein have segments folded into plies that are sutured together. A strap may have a portion coupled to a shell, tabletop, a shelf, and/or a portion of a clip.
The term “surface” as used herein means any face of a structure. A surface may also refer to that flat or substantially flat area of a structure, for example, a shell, a flap, an expansion curtain, a table top, or a shelf. A surface may also refer to that flat or substantially flat area that extend radially around a cylinder which may, for example, be part of a telescopic shaft, a tube, a shaft, a crossbar, a bracket, or a sleeve. A surface may have irregular contours. A surface may be formed from components, e.g. shell, flap, expansion portion, table top, bracket, and/or shelf, coupled together. Coupled components may form irregular surfaces.
The term “table top” as used herein is defined as a structure having a planar surface on which objects may be disposed. Those objects may include a laptop, tablet, monitor, board game, or electronic device. A tabletop may include one or more table leaves. A tabletop may have two table leaves. A tabletop may have leaves coupled to a base, e.g., via hinges. A tabletop may have leaves capable of being folded towards each other. A tabletop may have leaves capable of being folded away from each other. A tabletop may have leaves having upper surfaces coplanar with an upper surface of a base. Each table leaf of a tabletop may have a width approximately one-half of the width of the base. Accordingly, each leaf of a tabletop may be folded towards a base of the tabletop. Thus, an upper surface of a leaf and an upper surface of a base of a tabletop may be adjacent, parallel, and/or abutted against each other. An upper surface and a lower surface of a leaf of a tabletop may be tapered.
The term “tapered” as used herein is defined as extending from a first point to a second point while become progressively smaller, e.g., in radius, and/or thinner from the first point to the second point. Structures that are tapered may have a profile that is beveled, frustoconical, and/or conical. Structures that are tapered may be cylindrical.
The term “telescopic” as used herein is an adjective defined as extendable, e.g., on a line or a central axis. A telescopic object or structure may be retractable or extendable. Telescopic tubes may be slid relative one another. Telescopic tubes may be slid into one another. Telescopic tubes may be slid away from one another. Slidably coupled, concentric tubes may form a telescopic shaft.
The term “telescopic shaft” as used herein refers to a cylindrical structure capable of being extended or shortened. A telescopic shaft may be a two or more tubes. A telescopic shaft may be a two or more concentric tubes. A telescopic shaft may be coupled to a crossbar. A telescopic shaft may be coupled to an upper shell and a lower shell. A telescopic shaft may have a portion extending through an upper shell.
The term “threaded” as used herein is defined as having threads. Threads may include one or more helical protrusions or grooves on a surface of a cylindrical object. Each full rotation of a protrusion or groove around a threaded surface of the object is referred to herein as a single “thread.” A threaded assembly may include a “threaded portion” wherein a section of the threaded assembly includes threads. A threaded portion may have a diameter sized to extend through an aperture of a module coupler body. In certain cases, a threaded portion of a structure may be removably coupled to a threaded assembly.
The term “tube” as used herein is defined any structure having an inner surface and an outer surface. A tube may have an aperture disposed therethrough. Preferably, a tube is cylindrical. However, any or all tubes of an assembly, e.g., shaft, telescopic shaft, crossbar, or sleeve, may have polygonal cross-sections, e.g., triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or octagonal.
The term “unitary” as used herein defined as having the nature, properties, or characteristics of a single unit. For example, a base and sidewalls that are individual parts of a shell are unitary in the sense they are not separate but rather are formed, e.g., mold or carved, from a single piece of material, e.g. of fabric, plastic, carbon fiber, metal, or wood.
The terms “upper,” “lower,” “top,” “bottom” as used herein are relative terms describing the position of one object, thing, or point positioned in its intended useful position, relative to some other object, thing, or point also positioned in its intended useful position, when the objects, things, or points are compared to distance from the center of the earth. The terms “upper” and “top” identify any object or part of a particular object that is farther away from the center of the earth than some other object or part of that particular object, when the objects are positioned in their intended useful positions. The terms “lower” and “bottom” identify any object or part of a particular object that is closer to the center of the earth than some other object or part of that particular object, when the objects are positioned in their intended useful positions. For example, a luggage assembly may have an upper and lower end. Further, a luggage assembly may have an upper shell assembly and a lower shell assembly. The upper shell may have a top portion and a bottom portion. Additionally, a telescopic shaft may have an upper portion and a lower portion having an upper tube and a lower tube.
The term “zipper tape” as used herein defined as a structure having teeth capable of meshing with teeth of another zipper tape. A zipper tape may be coupled to one or more edges of an upper shell. A zipper tape may be coupled to one or more edges of the middle shell. A first zipper tape may include teeth, a slider, and a box. A second zipper tape may include teeth and a pin. A first zipper tape and a second zipper tape configured for removably coupling may be parts of a zipper assembly.
The disclosure herein includes an expandable luggage assembly, which expandable luggage assembly may include: an upper shell having a plurality of sidewalls; a lower shell having a plurality of sidewalls removably coupled to one more of the plurality of sidewalls of the upper shell; a shelf coupled to the upper shell; a plurality of wheels coupled to the lower shell; and two handles, each handle of the two handles comprising: a crossbar disposed above the upper shell; a first tube coupled to the crossbar and slidably coupled to the upper shell; a second tube slidably coupled to the first tube and capable of being abutted against the upper shell; a third tube slidably coupled to the second tube and coupled to the lower shell.
The disclosure herein includes an expandable luggage assembly, which expandable luggage assembly may include: an upper portion having one or more brackets; and a lower portion; a shelf coupled to the upper portion; a lower shell; a plurality of wheels coupled to a base of the lower shell; and two handles, each handle of the two handles comprising: a crossbar removably coupled to at least one bracket of the one or more brackets; and a telescopic shaft having a first portion coupled to the crossbar and a second portion coupled to a base of the lower shell.
The disclosure herein includes an expandable luggage assembly, which expandable luggage assembly may include: an upper shell; a middle shell removably coupled to the upper shell; a lower shell removably coupled to the middle shell; a plurality of wheels coupled to a base of the lower shell; and two handles, wherein each handle of the two handles comprises: a telescopic shaft coupled to an inner surface of the lower shell and having a portion extending through the upper shell; and a crossbar coupled to the telescopic shaft, wherein an upper portion of the upper shell is capable of being coupled to the crossbar.
The disclosure herein includes an expandable luggage assembly, which expandable luggage assembly may include: an upper shell having a plurality of sidewalls; a lower shell comprising: a base; and a plurality of sidewalls extending from the base and removably coupled to the plurality of sidewalls of the upper shell; a shelf coupled to the upper shell; a plurality of wheels coupled to the lower shell; and two handles, each of the two handles comprising: a telescopic shaft having a portion capable of supporting the upper shell; and a crossbar coupled to the telescopic shaft, wherein a portion of the upper shell is capable of being coupled to the crossbar.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the first tube may extend through the upper shell.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the second tube may have a portion abutted against an inner surface of the upper shell.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the second tube and the third tube may be disposed between the upper shell and the lower shell.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may include: an upper portion; a lower portion removably coupled to the upper portion; and an expansion curtain coupled to the lower portion, wherein the expansion curtain may be crumpled.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may have a flap that is pliable.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the shelf may be coupled to an inner surface of the upper portion of the upper shell.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include a shelf coupled to an inner surface of the lower portion of the upper shell.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include: a shelf; and a plurality of straps, wherein each strap of the plurality of straps may include: a first portion coupled to the upper portion of the upper shell; a second portion coupled to the shelf; and a clip buckle coupled to the first portion and the second portion.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the length of the first portion and the second portion of the strap may be adjusted.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include a slider coupled to the first portion and the second portion.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include: a first shelf coupled to the lower portion of the upper shell; and a second shelf removably coupled to the first shelf.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the telescopic shaft of each handle may have a portion extending through the upper shell.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include a sleeve disposed around a portion of each telescopic shaft of each handle of the two handles.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may further include a lift handle.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include: a first zipper tape coupled to the upper shell; a second zipper tape coupled to an upper edge of the middle shell and removably coupled to the first zipper tape; a third zipper tape coupled to a lower edge of the middle shell; a fourth zipper tape coupled to the lower shell and removably coupled to third zipper tape.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the tabletop may further include a hinge coupled to the base and the extension.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, a surface of the base and a surface of the extension may be coplanar.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include a shelf coupled to an inner surface of the tabletop.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the middle shell that may include two end portions, a grip at one end portion, and an aperture at other end portion; and a first zipper tape coupled to the upper shell; a second zipper tape coupled to an upper edge of the middle shell and removably coupled to the first zipper tape; a third zipper tape coupled to a lower edge of the middle shell; a fourth zipper tape coupled to the lower shell and removably coupled to third zipper tape; wherein the two end portions of the middle shell may overlap and the grip may be extended through the aperture.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may have a flap.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may have a flap having a first zipper tape coupled to a second zipper tape coupled to the lower shell.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may have an expansion curtain.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may have an expansion curtain that is pliable.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the expansion curtain may have a flap.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may have brackets.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may have brackets having a C-shape.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may have a bracket abutted against a crossbar of a handle of the two handles.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may include: a first bracket abutted against a first crossbar of a first handle of the two handles; and a second bracket abutted against a second crossbar of a second handle of the two handles.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may include: a first portion; and a second portion removably coupled to the first portion.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may include: a first portion capable of being coupled to the two handles; and a second portion removably coupled to the first portion.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may include: a first portion having a first zipper tape and a second zipper tape; and a second portion having a third zipper tape, wherein the third zipper tape may be capable of being removably coupled to the first zipper tape or the second zipper tape, or both.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may further include a lift handle.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include four wheels coupled to a base of the lower shell.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include four wheels coupled to a base of the lower shell.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the upper shell may have no wheels coupled thereto.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include a shelf coupled to the upper shell.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include a shelf disposed between the upper shell and the lower shell.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the telescopic shaft of each handle may have a portion extending through the upper shell.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include a sleeve disposed around a portion of each telescopic shaft of each of the two handles.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include a sleeve disposed between the upper shell and the lower shell and around a portion of each telescopic shaft of each of the two handles.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include: a shelf; and a plurality of straps, each strap coupled to the shelf and the inner surface of the upper portion of the upper shell.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include: a shelf; and a plurality of straps, each strap may include: a first portion coupled to an inner surface of the upper portion of the upper shell; a second portion coupled to the shelf; and a release buckle coupled to the first portion and the second portion.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include: a first shelf coupled to the upper portion of the upper shell; and a second shelf removably coupled to the first shelf.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include: a first shelf coupled to the lower portion of the upper shell; and a second shelf removably coupled to the first shelf.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the tabletop may further include a hinge coupled to the base and the extension.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, a surface of the base and a surface of the extension may be coplanar.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, a surface of the base and a surface of the extension may be parallel.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, a surface of the base and a surface of the extension may be adjacent.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, a surface of the base and a surface of the extension may be parallel.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, a planar surface of the extension may be abutted against a planar surface of the base.
Any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein may further include a shelf coupled to an inner surface of the tabletop.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the lower shell may further include a base coupled to an end of the third tube.
In any one of the structures and methods disclosed herein, the middle shell may include: a first side; a second side having an aperture; and a grip coupled to the first side and having a portion extended through the aperture.
The drawings presented herein are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the claims. Rather, the drawings are intended to help enable one having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the claimed inventions.
This section addresses specific versions of expandable luggage assemblies shown in the drawings, which relate to assemblies, elements and parts that can be part of an expandable luggage assembly, and methods for storing travel-ware. Although this section focuses on the drawings herein, and the specific embodiments found in those drawings, parts of this section may also have applicability to other embodiments not shown in the drawings. The limitations referenced in this section should not be used to limit the scope of the claims themselves, which have broader applicability.
Although the methods, structures, elements, and parts described herein have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventions as defined by the following claims. Those skilled in the art may be able to study the preferred embodiments and identify other ways to practice the inventions that are not exactly as described herein. It is the intent of the inventor that variations and equivalents of the inventions are within the scope of the claims, while the description, abstract and drawings are not to be used to limit the scope of the inventions. The inventions is specifically intended to be as broad as the claims below and their equivalents.
The upper shell 5302 may include an upper portion 5306 and a lower portion 5308. The upper portion 5306 may be removably coupled to the lower portion 5308, e.g., via a zipper assembly 6308.
The lower portion 5308 may have four sidewalls 5316a′-d′. The four sidewalls 5316a′-d′ may be unitary. Preferably, each sidewall 5316 is perpendicular, e.g., orthogonal or tangential, to a plane of the upper portion 5306. Thus, upper portion 5306 and the sidewalls 5316a′-d′ may form a cube or a rectangular prism.
A first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to the lower portion 5308 of the upper shell 5302. The first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to edges of the sidewalls 5316a′-d′ of the lower portion 5308.
The first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to a second zipper tape 5312b. The zipper tape 5312b may be coupled to the lower shell 5304. In addition, the second zipper tape 5312b may be coupled to edges of sidewalls 5316a-d of the lower shell 5304.
The lower shell 5304 may include a base 5314 and four sidewalls 5316a-d. The base 5314 and the four sidewalls 5316a-d may be unitary. The sidewalls 5316a-d may extend from the base 5314. Preferably, each sidewall 5316 is perpendicular, e.g., orthogonal or tangential, to a plane of the base 5314. Thus, the base 5314 and the sidewalls 5316a-d may form a cube or a rectangular prism. Furthermore, the base 5314 and the sidewalls 5316a-d may each have an inner surface and an outer surface.
Additionally, each handle 5404 may include telescopic shafts 5504a, 5504b having one or more portions disposed between the sidewalls 5316a-d (shown with dash lines). Each telescopic shaft 5504 may have an end coupled to a base 5314 of the lower shell 5304. Moreover, each telescopic shaft 5504 may have an end coupled to an inner surface of the base 5314.
The luggage assembly 5300 may also include four wheels 5318a-d. The wheel 5318a-d may be coupled to an outer surface of the base 5314 of the lower shell 5304. Preferably, each wheel 5318 may be coupled to a corner of the base 5314.
The upper shell 5302 may include an upper portion 5306, a lower portion 5308, and a flap 5310. The flap 5310 may extend from the lower portion 5308. The lower portion 5308, including the flap 5310, may be removably coupled to the lower shell 5304 via a zipper assembly 6308. The zipper assembly 6308 may include a first zipper tape 5312a coupled to the lower portion 5308 and the flap 5310. Moreover, the first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to edges of the lower portion 5308 and the flap 5310. The first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to a second zipper tape 5312b. The zipper tape 5312b may be coupled to the lower shell 5304. In addition, the second zipper tape 5312b may be coupled to edges of the lower shell 5304. Thus, the zipper assembly 6308 may have the shape of a block-letter “U.”
The lower shell 5304 may include a base 5314 and four sidewalls 5316a-d. The base 5314 and the four sidewalls 5316a-d may be unitary. Each sidewall 5316 may extend from the base 5314. Preferably, each sidewall 5316 is perpendicular, e.g., orthogonal or tangential, to a plane of the base 5314. Thus, the base 5314 and the sidewalls 5316a-d may form a cube or a rectangular prism. Furthermore, the base 5314 and the sidewalls 5316a-d may each have an inner surface and an outer surface.
The sidewall 5316a may have an opening to receive the flap 5310. The zipper tape 5312a (coupled to edges of the flap 5310) may be removably coupled to the zipper tape 5312b (coupled to edges of the sidewall 5316a). When coupled to the sidewall 5316a, the flap 5310 would form a larger planar surface.
The luggage assembly 5300 may also include four wheels 5318a-d. The wheel 5318a-d may be coupled to an outer surface of the base 5314 of the lower shell 5304. Preferably, each wheel 5318 may be coupled to a corner of the base 5314. In some versions, wheels 5318 may be coupled to the outer surface of the base 5314 in varying configurations, e.g., centered on each side of the base 5314, circular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal.
The upper shell 5302 may have four apertures 5402a-d disposed therethrough. Each aperture 5402 may receive a tube 5506 of a handle 5404. For example, the apertures 5402a, 5402b may respectively receive a tube 5506a, 5506a′ of a handle 5404a. The apertures 5402c, 5402d may respectively receive a tubes 5506a, 5506a′ of a handle 5404b.
Accordingly, the tubes 5506a, 5506a′ of each of the handles 5404a, 5404b may be slid through a lower portion 5308 of the upper shell 5302. In addition, each tube 5506 may extend through the lower portion 5308.
Each telescopic shaft 5504 may include a set of concentric tubes 5506. The telescopic shaft 5504a may have tubes 5506a-c. The tubes 5506a-c may be slidably coupled to one another. Also, the telescopic shaft 5504b may have tubes 5506a′-c′. The tubes 5506a′-c′ may also be slidably coupled to one another.
Regarding each telescopic shaft 5504, an upper tube 5506 may have a smaller diameter than that of a lower tube 5506. For example, the tubes 5506a, 5506a′ may have diameters smaller than those of the tubes 5506b-c, 5506b′-c′, respectively. In addition, the tubes 5506b, 5506b′ may have diameters smaller than those of the tubes 5506c, 5506c′, respectively.
Accordingly, the smaller tubes 5506a, 5506a′ may have a portion disposed within the larger corresponding tubes 5506b, 5506b′. Also, the tubes 5506b, 5506b′ may have a portion disposed within the corresponding tubes 5506c, 5506c′, respectively.
For each pair of adjacent tubes, an upper tube 5506 may have a lock 5512 extending through an aperture 5510 of a lower tube 5506. For example, the upper tube 5506a may have a lock 5512a extending through an aperture 5510b disposed in the lower tube 5506b. A spring or coil (not shown) may push against the lock 5512a. Accordingly, the spring or coil may cause the lock 5512a to remain extended through the aperture 5510b. Additional apertures 5510 may be disposed through the lower tube 5506b. Accordingly, those apertures 5510 may each receive the lock 5512a. Pairs of adjacent tubes 5506b-c, 5506a′-b′, 5506b′-c′ may each have similar components and configuration as discussed above.
Thus, as shown in
When pressed, the button 5514 would cause the actuation device to disengage a lock 5512 from a tube 5506 through which the lock 5512 extends. The disengaged lock 5512 may be pushed inward towards the central axis of the tube 5506. A crossbar 5502 of the handle 5404 may be pushed downward to cause an upper tube 5506 to be slid down into a lower tube 5506. Conversely, the crossbar 5502 may be pulled upward to cause an upper tube 5506 to be slid out of a lower tube 5506. In either case, a portion of the upper tube 5506 may be slid past the disengaged lock 5512.
In addition, the flap 5310 may extend from the expansion curtain 5602. An upper portion of the flap 5310 may be disposed below the expansion curtain 5602. A lower edge of the lower portion 5308 of the upper shell 5302 may be coupled to the expansion curtain 5602, e.g., via sutures. The expansion curtain 5602 may extend circumferentially relative to the lower portion 5308. Thus, the expansion curtain 5602 may form a rectangular prism.
The expansion curtain 5602 may include a flap 5604. The flap 5604 may have edges that form a block-letter “U.” A first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to the edges of the flap 5604. The first zipper tape 5312a may be removably coupled to a second zipper tape 5312b. The second zipper tape 5312b may be coupled to the expansion curtain 5602. When the first zipper tape 5312a is uncoupled from the second zipper tape 5312b, the expansion curtain 5602 would have an opening. The opening may provide access into the inside of the luggage assembly 5300.
Also, the expansion curtain 5602 may have a first zipper tape 5312c and second zipper tape 5312d. The zipper tapes 5312c, 5312d may have portions extending parallel to the surface of the expansion curtain 5602. Preferably, the zipper tapes 5312c, 5312d may extend parallel to each other. Each zipper tape 5312 may form rings around the expansion curtain 5602.
The first zipper tape 5312c and the second zipper tape 5312d may have ends that are coupled, e.g., via a clip or staple.
In the expanded configuration, a portion of the first zipper tape 5312c, in some cases, may not be coupled to a portion of the second tape 5312d. Additionally, the slider 6506 may be abutted against the ends of the zipper tapes 5312c, 5312d, e.g., box and pin, stop, or staple. Accordingly, the lower portion 5308 of the upper shell 5302 may be extended away from the ground. Moreover, the lower portion 5308 may be extended away from the lower shell 5304, up to a height of the expansion curtain 5602. Thus, more volume may be created inside the luggage assembly 5300.
Furthermore, the handles 5404a, 5404b may each have telescopic shafts 5504a, 5504b extended. The telescopic shafts 5504 may have four tubes 5506b-c, 5506b′-c′ (see
Conversely, in the collapsed configuration, the lower portion 5308 of the upper shell 5302 may be dispose adjacent the lower shell 5304 (see
The upper shell 5302 may include an upper portion 5306, a lower portion 5308, and brackets 5704a-d. Preferably, the brackets 5704a, 5704b may extend from a first side of the upper portion 5306. Also, the brackets 5704c, 5704d may extend from a second side opposite the first side.
The upper portion 5306 may be uncoupled from the lower portion 5308. The lower portion 5308 would have an opening 5706 when uncoupled from the upper portion 5306. One or more shelves 5702 may be capable of ingress/egress through the opening 5706.
The brackets 5704a, 5704b may be coupled to a crossbar 5502a of the handle 5404a. The brackets 5704c, 5704d may be coupled to a crossbar 5502b of the handle 5404b. Thus, the upper portion 5306 may be set on the handles 5404a, 5404b.
As shown in
A first shelf 5702a may be coupled to an inner surface of the upper portion 5306 of the upper shell 5302. Straps 5708 may be coupled to the upper portion 5306 and the shelf 5702a. The straps 5708 may be coupled to an outer surface of the upper portion 5306 flipped face-down. The straps 5708 may hang from the upper portion 5306. Thus, the shelf 5702a may be suspended from the upper portion 5306.
In addition, the second shelf 5702b may be coupled to, e.g., suspended from, the first shelf 5702a via additional straps 5708.
Referring to
Each strap 5708 may include a first strap portion 5802a, a second strap portion 5802b, a clip 5804, and a buckle 5806. The first strap portion 5802a may have a portion coupled to the clip 5804. The second strap portion 5802b may have a portion coupled to the buckle 5806. The clip 5804 and the buckle 5806 may be removably coupled. The clip 5804 and the buckle 5806 may be part of a Delrin clip buckle. The clip 5804 may be inserted into the buckle 5806.
In addition, each strap portion 5802 may be threadably coupled to a slider (not shown). The slider may be configured to provide adjustment of the length of the strap portion 5802. Thus, the space between the shelves 5702a, 5702b may be adjusted via sliders.
Strap portions 5802 coupled to a shelf 5702 may be coupled to form a strap 5708′. For example, strap portions 5802a, 5802b may be coupled to form strap 5708′. Each end of the portions 5802a, 5802b may be coupled to a side of the shelf 5702a. The strap portion 5708′ may be position parallel to the shelf 5702a.
The upper shell 5302 may include an upper portion 5306, a lower portion 5308, and a flap 5310. The upper portion 5306 may be removably coupled to the lower portion 5308, e.g., via a zipper assembly 6308. The flap 5310 may extend from the lower portion 5308. A first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to the lower portion 5308. The first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to edges of the lower portion 5308. Also, the first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to the flap 5310. Moreover, the first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to edges of the flap 5310. The first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to a second zipper tape 5312b. The second zipper tape 5312b may be coupled to the lower shell 5304. In addition, the second zipper tape 5312b may be coupled to edges and/or sidewalls of the lower shell 5304.
The lower shell 5304 may include a base 5314 and four sidewalls 5316a-d. The base 5314 and the four sidewalls 5316a-d may be unitary. Each sidewall 5316 may extend from the base 5314. Preferably, each sidewall 5316 is perpendicular, e.g., orthogonal or tangential, to a plane of the base 5314. Thus, the base 5314 and the sidewall sidewalls 5316a-d may form a cube or a rectangular prism. Furthermore, the base 5314 and the sidewalls 5316a-d may each have an inner surface and an outer surface.
The sidewall 5316a may have an opening to receive the flap 5310. The zipper tape 5312a (coupled to edges of the flap 5310) may be removably coupled to a zipper tape 5312b (coupled to edges of the sidewall 5316a).
Each telescopic shaft 5504 of each handle 5404 may have plurality of tubes 5506a-d, 5506a′-d′. The tubes 5506a-b, 5506a′-b′ may be disposed above the upper shell 5302. The tubes 5506b, 5506b′ may extend through apertures 5402a, 5402b, respectively.
In addition, the tubes 5506c-d, 5506c′-d′ may be disposed between the upper shell 5302 and the lower shell 5304. Additionally, the tubes 5506c-d, 5506c′-d′ be disposed between the sidewalls 5316a-d of the lower shell 5304. The tubes 5506d, 5506d′ may each have a lower end coupled to a base 5314 of the lower shell 5304 (see
Each telescopic shaft 5504 of each handle 5404 may have plurality of tubes 5506a-c, 5506a′-c′. The tubes 5506a, 5506a′ may be slidably coupled to respective tubes 5506b, 5506b′. Portions of the tubes 5506a, 5506a′ may be disposed in the respective tubes 5506b, 5506b′. The tubes 5506b, 5506b′ may be slidably coupled to respective tubes 5506c, 5506c′. Portions of the tubes 5506b, 5506b′ may be disposed in the respective tubes 5506c, 5506c′.
The tubes 5506a, 5506a′ of each handle 5404 may having portions extending through the upper shell 5302. The tubes 5506a, 5506a′ of each handle 5404 may have portions disposed below the upper shell 5302. The tubes 5506a, 5506a′ of each handle 5404 may have portions disposed above the upper shell 5302. The tubes 5506a, 5506a′ of the handle 5404a may extend and/or be collapsed through apertures 5402a-b, respectively. The tubes 5506a, 5506a′ of the handle 5404b may extend and/or be collapsed through apertures 5402c-d, respectively.
In addition, the tubes 5506b-c, 5506b′-c′ may be disposed between the upper shell 5302 and the lower shell 5304. Additionally, the tubes 5506b-c, 5506b′-c′ be disposed between the sidewalls 5316a-d of the lower shell 5304. The tubes 5506c, 5506c′ may each have a lower end coupled to a base 5314 of the lower shell 5304 (see
A first shelf 5702a may be coupled to an inner surface of the upper shell 5302. Straps 5708 may be coupled to a lower portion 5308 of the upper shell 5302 and the shelf 5702a. Additionally, the straps 5708 may be coupled to an inner surface of the lower portion 5308. Also, the straps 5708 may hang from the upper shell 5302. Thus, the shelf 5702a may be suspended from the lower portion 5308.
In addition, the second shelf 5702b may be coupled, e.g., suspended from, the first shelf 5702a via additional straps 5708. The shelves 5702a, 5702b may be coupled as described above in reference to
When coupled to the lower portion 5308, the tabletop 6202 may be flipped such that the table leaves 6206a, 6206b may be facing towards a lower shell 5304 of the luggage assembly 5300. Accordingly, the table leaves 6206a, 6206b may be adjacent an opening 5706 of a lower portion 5308 of an upper shell 5302 of the luggage assembly 5300. Alternatively, the table leaves 6206a, 6206b may be disposed in the opening 5706.
In the expanded configuration, the upper surfaces 6212a, 6212b of the table leaves 6206a, 6206b may be coplanar with an upper surface 6210 of the base 6204. The two table leaves 6206a, 6206b may be coupled to sides of the base 6204. Each table leaf 6206 may have a side disposed adjacent a side of the base 6204. Each table leaf 6206 may have a side parallel to a side of the base 6204. The side of the table leaf 6206 may be pivotably coupled to the side of the base 6204 via hinges 6208. Accordingly, each table leaf 6206 may be folded onto the upper surface 6210 of the base 6204.
Each table leaf 6206 may have a length and a width approximately equal to the length and width of the base 6204. In addition, each table leaf 6206 may have a first side adjacent the hinges 6208 and/or adjacent the base thicker than a second opposite side of the table leaf 6206. Thus, each table leaf 6206 may have a tapered profile extending from the base 6204.
A shelf 5702 may be coupled via straps 5708 to the base 6204. The straps 5708 may be coupled to sides of the base 6204 (not shown). Alternatively, the straps 5708 may be coupled to a lower surface of the base 6204 (not shown).
Additionally, each leaf 6206 may have a length and a width approximately equal to the length and width of the base 6204. Also, each leaf 6206 may have a side adjacent the hinges 6208 and/or the base that is thicker than an opposite side. Thus, each leaf 6206 would have tapered profile when its width is shown in profile.
In a collapsed position, the second table leaf 6206b may be folded against the base 6204. The second leaf 6206b may have an upper surface 6212b adjacent an upper surface 6210 of the base 6204. Moreover, the upper surface 6212b of the second table leaf 6206b may be parallel to the upper surface 6210 the base 6204. The first table leaf 6206a may be folded against the second leaf 6206b. The first table leaf 6206a may have an upper surface 6212a adjacent the lower surface (not shown) of the second table leaf 6206b. The lower surface 6214a of the first table leaf 6206a may be parallel to the lower surface of the second table leaf 6206b.
Additionally, the thinner side of the table leaf 6206a may be adjacent the thicker edge of the table leaf 6206b. Also, the thinner side of the table leaf 6206b may be adjacent the thicker side of the table leaf 6206a.
Also, the table leaves 6206a, 6206b may be retained in a collapsed configuration with straps 5708. Each strap 5708 may have a first portion coupled to the table leaf 6206a and a second portion coupled to the table leaf 6206b.
Furthermore, brackets 5704a, 5704b may extend from a first side of the base 6204. Also, brackets 5704c, 5704d may extend from a second side of the base 6204 opposite the first side.
The brackets 5704a, 5704b may be coupled to a crossbar 5502a of the handle 5404a. The brackets 5704c, 5704d may be coupled to a crossbar 5502b of the handle 5404b. Thus, the base 6204 may be coupled to, e.g., set on, the handles 5404a, 5404b.
The upper shell 5302 and the middle shell 6302 may be removably coupled via a zipper assembly 6308b. The zipper assembly 6308 may include a first zipper tape 5312a and a second zipper tape 5312b. The first zipper tape 5312a may include teeth, a slider, and a box (not shown). The second zipper tape 5312b may include teeth and a pin (not shown). The first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to one or more lower edges of the upper shell 5302. The second zipper tape 5312b may be coupled to one or more upper edges of the middle shell 6302.
Additionally, the lower shell 5304 and the middle shell 6302 may be removably coupled via a zipper assembly 6308c. The zipper assembly 6308c may include a first zipper tape 5312a tape and a second zipper tape 5312b. The first zipper tape 5312a may include teeth, a slider, and a box (not shown). The second zipper tape 5312b may include teeth and a pin (not shown). The first zipper tape 5312a may be coupled to one or more lower edges of the middle shell 6302. The second zipper tape 5312b may be coupled, e.g., sewn or sutured, to one or more upper edges the lower shell 5304.
Also, the middle shell 6302 may have a first portion and a second portion. The first portion may be removably coupled to the second portion via a zipper assembly 6308a. The first portion may include a flap 6304. The flap 6304 may have edges that form a block-letter “U.” The zipper assembly 6308a may be coupled to the edges of the flap 6304.
During travel, a traveler may unzip one or more portions of the zipper assembly 6308a to uncouple portions of one or both of the flaps 6304a, 6304b. The traveler may lift each flap 6304 to view, insert, and/or remove items therethrough.
When the upper shell 5302, the lower shell 5304, and the middle shell 6302 are coupled (see
Additionally, a third zipper tape 5312c would be coupled to sixth zipper tape 5312f. A fourth zipper tape 5312d would be coupled to a fifth zipper tape 5312e. The respectively coupled zipper tapes 5312c-f, in some cases, would inhibit the short sides 6306a, 6306b of the middle shell 6302 from separating.
In some versions, the loop tapes 6314 may be aligned with hook tapes (not shown) coupled to outer surfaces of tubes 5506d, 5506d′ (see
Referring to
Additionally, the first zipper tape 5312a may have two sliders slidably coupled to teeth of the first zipper tape 5312a. The two sliders may be disposed between the two boxes.
Referring to
Each zipper tape 5312 may include a box, a pin, and a slider. The box may be disposed on a first end of the zipper tape 5312. The pin may be coupled to a second end of the zipper tape 5312. The slider may be disposed between the box and the pin. The slider may be slidably coupled to teeth of the zipper tape 5312.
The box of the first zipper tape 5312a may receive a pin of the second zipper tape 5312b. The box of the second zipper tape 5312b may receive a pin of the first zipper tape 5312a.
Referring to
Each zipper tape 5312 may include a box, a pin, and a slider. The box may be disposed on a first end of the zipper tape 5312. The pin may be coupled to a second end of the zipper tape 5312. The slider may be disposed between the box and the pin. The slider may be slidably coupled to teeth of the zipper tape 5312.
The box of the first zipper tape 5312a may receive a pin of the second zipper tape 5312b. The box of the second zipper tape 5312b may receive a pin of the first zipper tape 5312a.
Additionally, each zipper tape 5312 may have a zipper stop 6310. The zipper stop 6310 may be disposed between a first set of teeth and a second set of teeth of the zipper tape 5312.
When portions of the zipper tapes 5312a, 5312b are coupled by a slider, the slider would be slid until it is abutted against the zipper stop 6310. In some cases, the zipper stop 6310 may inhibit the slider from being slid past the zipper stop 6310.
Additionally, each support tube 6404 of the telescopic support shafts 6402 may have a threaded inner portion. The threaded inner portion may be coupled to a threaded assembly 6406. For example, the concentric support tube 6404a may be respectively coupled to a threaded assembly 6406a.
Although not shown, it should be understood that additional straps 6502 may be coupled to sides opposite the visible sides of the two luggage assemblies 5300a, 5300b.
Other alternative versions of luggage assemblies may be described in reference to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
It is another objective of the present disclosure to provide that there can also be two pairs of protective tubes 64, 65 for the inner tubes 60, 61 in the main compartment 50. The two pairs of protective tubes 64, 65 are called the protective inner tubes 64, 65. When the main compartment 50 is fully extended, the two pairs of protective inner tubes 64, 65 can securely receive the corresponding two pairs of lug portions 95, 96 of the hard-shell top portion 92 by securing the inner threads 640, 650 in the upper ends of the protective inner tubes 64, 65 to the outer threads 950, 960 on the corresponding lug portions 95, 96; and the inner threads 620, 630 in the lower ends of the protective inner tubes 64, 65 to the outer threads 740, 750 on the upper ends of the corresponding protective outer tubes 74, 75. As the result, the protective inner tubes 64, 65 further strengthen the frame of the fully extended main compartment 50. When the main compartment 50 is retracted, the two pairs of protective inner tubes 64, 65 slide back onto the corresponding protective outer tubes 74, 75 and can be securely fixed in place by securing the inner threads 620,630 in the lower ends of the protective inner tubes to the outer threads 720, 730 on the lower ends of the corresponding protective outer tubes 74, 75; and by securing the inner threads 640, 650 in the upper ends of the protective inner tubes, 64, 65 to the outer threads 740, 750 on the upper ends of the corresponding protective outer tubes 74, 75. As the result, the protective inner tubes 64, 65 further protect the outer tubes 70, 71 in the main compartment 50. Sometimes, suitcase such as a carry-on suitcase needs to be expanded to accommodate more goods and sent as check-in luggage. Therefore, an expandable compartment 99 can be added to the convertible shelving suitcase 90. The upper edge of the expandable compartment 99 is fixedly attached to and become part of the hard-shell top portion 92 and the lower edge of the expandable compartment 99 can be detachably coupled to the soft middle portion 94 in the same manner as the lower edge of the hard-shell top portion 92 before the expanded compartment 99 has been added. In this case, the protective inner tubes 64, 65 protect the inner tubes 60, 61 in the expanded compartment 99 from rough luggage handling by the airport personnel. The protective inner tubes 64, 65 are attached to both the lug portions 95, 96 of the hard-shell top portion 92 and the protective outer tubes 74, 75 in the same manner as when they are used to further strengthen the frame of fully extended main compartment 50 as mentioned above. There are differences between expanded main compartment 50 and extended main compartment 50. For the main compartment 50 to be extended and able to accommodate the fully extended detachable suspending shelves 40, the soft middle portion 94 has to be completely detached and the expandable compartment 99 has to be in the collapsed mode. These result in the hard-shell top portion 92 having the collapsed expandable compartment 99, the top portion 999 of the soft middle portion 94 with the front flap 51 and the rear flap 52; these also result in the hard-shell base portion 93 having the bottom portion 998 of the soft middle portion 94 with the side flaps 53, 54.
It is another objective of the present disclosure to provide that the detached front flap 51 and the detached rear flap 52 can be tucked and hidden below the hard-shell top portion 92 by Velcro straps or other types of straps. The detached side flaps 53, 54 are folded outward in such a manner that the folded side flaps 53, 54, with the side release buckle straps 530, 540 (not shown), which are sewn horizontally on the inner side of the side flaps 53, 54, position horizontally with ends 532, 542 (not shown) of the straps 530, 540 toward the front and the other ends 531, 541 (not shown) toward the rear. The folded side flaps 53, 54 are strapped to the sides of the hard-shell base portion 93 by the connections between two front ends 532, 542 (front to front connection) and between two rear ends 531, 541 (rear to rear connection). After the flaps 51, 52, 53, 54 are tucked away or folded and strapped, the fully extended compartment 50 is basically an open mobile shelving unit. Unlike the extension of the main compartment 50 as mentioned above, the expansion of the main compartment 50 is not required the soft middle portion 94 to be detached but required the expandable compartment 99 to be zipped open and expanded to accommodate more personal goods. The expanded convertible shelving suitcase 90 can be sent as check-in luggage. When the carry-on suitcase 90 is not used as check-in luggage, the expanded compartment 99 can be used as temporary storage for jackets, handbags or other personal items to free up the hands of travelers. When travelers walk in airport terminal, they usually have to pull the carry-on suitcase 90 with one hand and carry jackets or other bulky items with other hand. So instead of carrying these bulky items, the travelers can free up their hands by expanding the expandable compartment, 99 and use as a temporary compartment 99. They can collapse the temporary compartment 99 back to a carry-on size suitcase 90 when they are ready for boarding.
Referring to
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| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/CA2019/000032 | 3/8/2019 | WO |
| Publishing Document | Publishing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| WO2019/173897 | 9/19/2019 | WO | A |
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| Number | Date | Country |
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| 2936342 | Jan 2018 | CA |
| 207075686 | Mar 2018 | CN |
| 1020020034926 | May 2002 | KR |
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| 2020140005457 | Oct 2014 | KR |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20210037935 A1 | Feb 2021 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62641380 | Mar 2018 | US |
