Handheld dual input totalizing scale

Abstract

The present invention provides airline travelers with a method of determining baggage weight compliance while traveling, prior to having baggage rejected or additional fees assessed at the baggage check counter at the airport. In a first aspect, a scale is disclosed that comprises first and second attachment points, wherein the scale indicates a relative force applied to the attachment points. In a second aspect, a scale is disclosed which comprises two independent attachment points wherein the scale can display the total force applied to the attachment points.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a suitcase with a handle, attachment fittings and a scale located in the handle in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a detailed illustration of the handle of the suitcase in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates a second embodiment of a handle

FIG. 4 illustrates a third embodiment of a handle

Claims

1. A scale comprising: first and second attachment points; wherein the scale indicates a relative force applied to the attachment points.

2. The scale of claim 1 wherein the relative force is applied symmetrically to the two attachment points.

3. The scale of claim 1 wherein the relative force is applied asymmetrically to the two attachment points.

4. The scale of claim 1 wherein the scale includes a set of cams and followers to transfer force and motion between the attachment points.

5. A scale comprising; two independent attachment points wherein the scale can display the total force applied to the two attachment points.

6. The scale of claim 5 wherein the scale includes a set of cams and followers to transfer force and motion between the attachment points.

7. A suitcase comprising: a body portion; anda handle coupled to the body portion, wherein the handle comprises a handle shell (300); within the shell is a mechanism (301, 302, 303) coupled to the body portion, the mechanism including a plurality of attachment points; where each attachment point (301a, 301b) moves independently; causing an indicator (305) to move a distance proportionate to the weight suspended by the mechanism; and causing a scale (306) adjacent to the indicator to move a distance proportionate to the weight suspended; where the combined movements of the independent mechanisms result in a totalized weight indication suspended at the attachment points.

8. The suitcase of claim 7 wherein the mechanism includes a set of cams and followers to transfer force and motion between the attachment points.

9. A suitcase comprising: a body portion; anda handle coupled to the body portion, wherein the handle comprises a handle shell (400); within the shell is a mechanism (401,402, 403, 404) coupled to the body portion, the mechanism including a plurality of attachment points; where each attachment point moves independently; causing pressure to be transferred by a link(s) (405a & 405b); and the transducer (408) sends a relative signal to a microprocessor (407); and the microprocessor provides an indication of the totalized weight on a LCD (406); where the combined pressure of the independent mechanisms result in a totalized weight indication suspended at the attachment points.

10. The suitcase of claim 9 wherein the mechanism includes a set of cams and followers to transfer force and motion between the attachment points.