AU2020100137A4 - Lockable luggage cover - Google Patents

Abstract

A luggage case cover includes a first panel, a second panel opposing the first panel, and a locking flap. The locking flap is configured to secure the first panel to the second panel and is hingedly attached to the second panel. The locking flap includes a locking flap securement structure that engages with a panel securement structure on the first panel when the locking flap covers the opening between the first panel and the second panel. A locking tab aperture located on the locking flap receives a locking tab fixedly connected to the first panel when the locking flap secures the first panel to the second panel. ' 2322 216 218 10024 20 2328 22 FIG. 2 1°8

Description

LOCKABLE LUGGAGE COVER

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] Examples described herein relate generally to a secure flexible covering for a luggage case.

BACKGROUND [0002] The exterior of a luggage case may be damaged during travel, for example, scratches and dents caused during loading or unloading from an airplane. Luggage case covers have been developed that protect a luggage case from damage during travel. However, many luggage case covers are not easily secured to the luggage case and the luggage case cover may be separated from the luggage case. Accordingly, a luggage case may be damaged during travel, even when a luggage case cover is used.

[0003] It is therefore desirable to provide an improved luggage case cover that is less likely to become separated from the luggage case while in use.

SUMMARY [0004] The present disclosure provides a luggage case cover including a first panel, a second panel opposing the first panel, and a locking flap configured to secure the first panel to the second panel. The locking flap is hingedly attached to the second panel and includes a locking flap securement structure that engages with a panel securement structure on the first panel when the locking flap secures the first panel to the second panel. A locking tab aperture located on the locking flap receives a locking tab fixedly connected to the first panel when the locking flap secures the first panel to the second panel.

[0005] Additionally or separately, the locking tab may include a lock aperture configured to receive a lock to secure the locking tab in the locking tab aperture. The lock aperture may be located between the locking tab aperture and a locking tab distal end when the locking tab aperture receives the locking tab.

[0006] Additionally or separately, the locking flap securement structure may be located proximate to a locking flap distal end.

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 [0007] Additionally or separately, the first panel may be a front panel and the second panel may be a rear panel. The luggage case cover may further comprise a top panel proximate the front panel and the rear panel.

[0008] Additionally or separately, the top panel may further include a handle aperture for accessing a handle of the luggage case when the luggage case cover is secured on the luggage case.

[0009] Additionally or separately, the luggage case cover may further include a left side panel proximate to the front panel and the rear panel and a right side panel proximate to the front panel and the rear panel.

[0010] Additionally or separately, the locking flap may at least partially cover an opening between the first panel and the second panel when the locking flap secures the first panel to the second panel. The locking flap may cover a portion of the opening between the first panel and the second panel such that wheels of the luggage case are accessible when the luggage case cover is secured on the luggage case.

[0011] Additionally or separately, the locking flap may further include a lock cover. The lock cover may include a first edge fixedly connected to the locking flap distal end and a second edge unattached to the locking flap. The second edge may be located such that the locking tab aperture of the locking flap is located between the first edge and the second edge.

[0012] Additionally or separately, the locking flap may include a locking flap interior surface and a locking flap outer surface. The lock cover may be proximate to the locking flap outer surface and the locking flap securement structure may be proximate to the locking flap interior surface.

[0013] Additionally or separately, the locking flap securement structure may be one of a hook structure or a loop structure of a hook and loop fastener. The panel securement structure may be one of the hook structure or the loop structure of the hook and loop fastener.

[0014] The present disclosure further provides a luggage case cover including a front panel having a front panel open edge. The front panel is fixedly attached to a right side panel, a left side panel, and a top panel. The front panel comprises a front panel securement structure and a locking tab including a lock aperture located between a locking tab fixed end and a locking tab distal end. The luggage case cover further includes a rear panel having a rear panel open edge, where an opening is formed between the front panel open edge and the rear panel open edge. A

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 locking flap is configured to partially cover the opening. The locking flap includes a fixed end fixedly attached to the rear panel open edge, a locking flap distal end, and a locking flap securement structure on a locking flap interior surface configured to engage with the front panel securement structure when the locking flap is extending over the opening to secure the locking flap distal end to the front panel. The locking flap also includes a locking tab aperture extending from the locking flap interior surface to a locking flap outer surface. The locking tab aperture is configured to receive the locking tab when the locking flap is extending over the opening such that the lock aperture is located between the locking flap outer surface and the locking tab distal end and the lock aperture can receive a lock to secure the luggage case cover on the luggage case.

[0015] Additional embodiments and/or features are set forth in part in the description that follows, and will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the specification or may be learned by the practice of the disclosed subject matter. A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and the drawings, which forms a part of this disclosure. One of skill in the art will understand that each of the various aspects and features of the disclosure may advantageously be used separately in some instances, or in combination with other aspects and features of the disclosure in other instances.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0016] The description will be more fully understood with reference to the following figures in which components are not drawn to scale, which are presented as various examples of the present disclosure and should not be construed as a complete recitation of the scope of the disclosure, characterized in that:

[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a luggage article in accordance with one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates a covered luggage case in accordance with one embodiment, where a luggage case cover is placed over a luggage case.

[0019] FIG. 3 illustrates a covered luggage case in accordance with one embodiment, where a luggage case cover is secured on a luggage case.

[0020] FIG. 4 illustrates a covered luggage case with a luggage case cover in a closed configuration.

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 [0021] FIG. 5 illustrates a covered luggage case with a luggage case cover in an unlocked configuration, where a locking flap is disengaged from a first panel of the luggage case cover. [0022] FIG. 6 illustrates a covered luggage case with a luggage case cover transitioning from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration, where a locking flap extends over an opening between a first panel and a second panel of the luggage case cover.

[0023] FIG. 7 illustrates a covered luggage case with a luggage case cover transitioning from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration, where a locking flap extends over an opening between a first panel and a second panel of the luggage case cover and is secured to the first panel.

[0024] FIG. 8 illustrates a covered luggage case with a luggage case cover in a locked configuration, with a locking flap extending over an opening between a first panel and a second panel of the luggage case cover and secured to the first panel.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION [0025] A lockable luggage cover gives a luggage article, such as a luggage case, protection from damage during travel. Because the luggage cover can be secured on the luggage case, the luggage case cover is less likely to be removed from the luggage case during travel. Further, when used in conjunction with a lock, the luggage case cover may provide additional security against unwanted entry into the luggage case.

[0026] According to the present disclosure, a luggage case cover is provided. The luggage case cover includes a first panel, a second panel opposing the first panel, and locking flap. In one embodiment, the locking flap extends from a second panel and engages with a first panel to secure the cover to the luggage case. The locking flap includes a locking flap securement structure that engages with a panel securement structure on the first panel when the locking flap engages the first panel. A locking tab aperture located on the locking flap receives a locking tab fixedly connected to the first panel when the locking flap engages with the first panel. In another embodiment, the locking flap is configured to at least partially cover an opening or gap between the first panel and the second panel and is hingedly attached to the second panel. The locking flap includes a locking flap securement structure that engages with a panel securement structure on the first panel when the locking flap covers the opening between the first panel and the second panel. A locking tab aperture located on the locking flap receives a locking tab

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 fixedly connected to the first panel when the locking flap covers the opening between the first panel and the second panel.

[0027] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a luggage article 100 in a closed configuration. In Fig. 1, the luggage article 100 is a luggage case 102 formed from a plurality of walls or panels defining an internal storage volume in which to carry a user's belongings. In one example, the luggage case 102 may be formed by a lid or door 105a and a base 105b. The lid or door 105a may include a pocket that is formed in or coupled to the door or lid to collectively form a front wall 106. The base 105b may include a rear wall 118, a pair of side walls and a pair of end walls 110, 116. More specifically, the luggage case 102 includes a top end wall 110 opposing a bottom end wall 116 and a right side wall 104 opposing a left side wall 104b extending from the rear wall 118. Corner regions 122 may be defined by the intersection of any two or three adjacent walls.

[0028] The luggage case 102 illustrated in FIG. 1 is an spinner soft side case but the luggage cover disclosed herein may be used with another type of luggage article, including a hard side spinner case, a hybrid spinner case, a container, a backpack, a duffle bag, or the like. For example, the luggage case 102 may be molded from hard side material, or formed from a combination of hard side material and soft side material (known as hybrid construction). In some examples, the luggage case 102 may be formed entirely from soft side material. The hard side material may be a thermoplastic material (self-reinforced or fiber-reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, PE, or biaxially oriented polypropylene, among others. The soft side material may be nylon, canvas, polyester, leather, PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene, and/or PE, among others.

[0029] The luggage case 102 may be moved between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration, the lid and the base may be positioned adjacent to each other to enclose a user's belongings within the internal storage volume of the luggage case 102. To allow selective movement of the lid and the base between the open and closed configurations, the lid and base may be pivotally attached together by a hinge or similar mechanism.

[0030] The luggage case 102 may include a closure mechanism 126 to releasably secure the lid and the base together in the closed configuration. The closure mechanism 126 may be a discrete mechanism, such as a latch, or may be a continuous closure mechanism positioned

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 along at least part of the length of a line between the lid and the base, such as a zipper closure. The closure mechanism 126 may have elements, such as one or more zipper pulls to allow the closure mechanism 126 to be opened and closed. The closure mechanism 126 may be secured using a locking system 127 to prevent unwanted entry into the luggage case 102. The luggage case 102 may include additional closure mechanisms, for example, to close pockets formed in the lid of the luggage case 102.

[0031] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the luggage case 102 may include one or more support members to support the luggage case 102 against a support surface (e.g., against the ground). The support members, which may be a foot, a fixed wheel assembly, a spinner wheel assembly, or any combination thereof, may be associated with any suitable portion of the luggage case 102, such as the bottom wall 116. As shown, the luggage case 102 may include four support members that are spinner wheel assemblies 108. In some examples, the luggage case 102 may include one or more carry handles (e.g., side handle 114 and top handle 112) and/or a retractable tow handle 126 extendable from a portion of the base 118.

[0032] With reference to Figs. 2-8, a luggage case cover 220 fits over the luggage case 102, forming covered luggage case 200. As shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the luggage case cover 220 includes a first panel 222 and a second panel 224 opposing the first panel 222. The first panel 222 and the second panel 224 may be approximately rectangular in shape to accommodate conventionally shaped luggage cases. In one example implementation, the first panel 222 is a front panel 202 and the second panel 224 is a rear panel 236, though, in other implementations, the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 may be any two opposing or adjacent panels of the luggage case cover 220. For example, the first panel could be a front panel and the second panel could be a side panel.

[0033] The first panel 222 and the second panel 224 are defined by four edges. The first panel 222 includes an open edge, such as the front panel open peripheral edge 216. Similarly, the second panel 224 includes an open peripheral edge (not shown). In one implementation, the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 are each formed from a distinct portion of material and the peripheral edges of the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 are approximately the location where the portion of material ends. In another implementation, the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 may be separate portions of a continuous piece of material and some edges of the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 are where the continuous piece of material bends or folds between adjacent panels.

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 [0034] The luggage case cover, including the first panel 222 and the second panel 224, may be made from any suitably flexible material, such as rip-stop nylon, treated canvas, or flexible plastic. Further, one or more edges of the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 may include trim or ribbon, such as open edge trim 226 on the front panel open edge 216. The first panel 222 and the second panel 224 may include more than one material, such as a portion of clear flexible plastic within a panel formed of rip-stop nylon such that identification information on the luggage case 102 is visible when the luggage case cover 220 is secured on the luggage case 102. Trim or ribbon may also be added to a panel to prevent wear on exposed edges of the first panel 222 and the second panel 224. The trim or ribbon may be sewn or otherwise affixed, such as by an adhesive, to an exposed edge of the first panel 222 or the second panel 224. For example, open edge trim 226 is located partially on a front surface of the front panel 202, extends over the front panel open edge 216, and is located partially on a rear surface of the front panel 202. A seam extends through both portions of the open edge trim 226 and the front panel 202 to secure the open edge trim 226 to the front panel 202 such that the open edge trim 226 covers the front panel open edge 216. Similar trim may be included on all or a portion of an exposed edge of the second panel 224.

[0035] The first panel 222 and the second panel 224 may include openings or apertures, such as openings or apertures for accessing carry handles, tow handles, or pockets of the luggage case 102. Apertures may be sized and shaped for access to a particular feature of the luggage case 102. For example, apertures to access a carry handle, such as the top handle 112, may be wider than apertures to access a tow handle. The apertures may be any shape, such as rectangular, oval, or rectangular with rounded corners. Exposed edges of the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 created by the apertures may be covered by trim or ribbon attached similarly to the open edge trim 226. Further, some apertures may include closures such as zippers, snaps, or hook and loop structures. For example, an aperture that provides access to a pocket of the luggage case 102 may be closed and opened using a zipper.

[0036] With continued reference to FIG. 2, the first panel 222 includes a panel securement structure 206. The panel securement structure 206 may be, for example, a hook structure, a loop structure, one or more buttons, one or more snaps, a zipper, or one or more buckles. The panel securement structure 206 may be affixed to the first panel 222 using any method appropriate for the type of securement structure. For example, a hook structure or a loop structure may be sewn or adhered to the first panel 222 while a snap may be affixed by fitting a portion of the snap on

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 either side of the first panel 222 and puncturing the first panel 222 so that the portions of the snap fit together. A functional portion of the panel securement structure 206 (e.g., a hook structure, a loop structure, or a portion of a snap that interfaces with another portion of a snap to create a connection) is generally located on an outer surface of the first panel 222 (e.g., the surface of the first panel 222 not facing the luggage case 102 when the luggage case cover 220 is secured on the luggage case 102.

[0037] The panel securement structure 206 is generally located near a peripheral edge, such as an open edge of the first panel 222 and may be directly proximate to the open edge or spaced a distance from the peripheral edge. For example, the panel securement structure 206 may be a front panel securement structure 240 located near, but spaced apart from, the front panel open edge 216 of the front panel 202. The panel securement structure 206 may be one continuous piece as shown in FIG. 2 or may be several individual pieces. For example, multiple snaps, buttons, or buckles may form the panel securement structure 206. Multiple zippers, hook structures, or loop structures may also form the panel securement structure 206.

[0038] A locking tab 204 is coupled to the outer surface of the first panel 222 at a locking tab fixed end 228 and terminating at a locking tab distal end 230. The locking tab fixed end 228 may be proximate to the panel securement structure 206 or may be spaced apart from the panel securement structure 206. Generally, the locking tab fixed end 228 is substantially parallel to an edge of the first panel 222 and may be proximate to or spaced apart from an edge of the first panel 222. The locking tab 204 may affixed to the first panel 222 by a seam, using an adhesive, or any suitable method of attachment.

[0039] The locking tab 204 may be made from a similar material as the first panel 222 or may be another material such as leather, plastic, or a knitted nylon. The locking tab 204 may be formed by one, two, or more layers of material and may include trim. A tab side edge 232 and a tab side edge 234 extend between the locking tab fixed end 228 and the locking tab distal end 230. The tab side edge 232 and the tab side edge 234 generally form a length of the locking tab 204 and the locking tab fixed end 228 and locking tab distal end 230 form a width of the locking tab 204, where the length of the locking tab 204 is generally larger or greater than the width of the locking tab 204. In some implementations, the locking tab distal end 230 may be longer or shorter than the locking tab fixed end 228.

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 [0040] The locking tab 204 includes a lock aperture 208, generally located between the locking tab fixed end 228 and the locking tab distal end 230 and between the tab side edge 232 and the tab side edge 234. The lock aperture 208 extends through the locking tab 204 and is generally circular, though other shapes are possible. Edges of the lock aperture 208 may be reinforced using trim or additional sewing or the lock aperture 208 may be formed from a metal or plastic eyelet. The lock aperture 208 is generally sized to receive a cable of a cable luggage lock or a shackle of a luggage lock.

[0041] In some implementations, the luggage case cover 220 includes additional panels, such as the top panel 214, the right side panel 210, and the left side panel 238 shown in FIG. 2. Like the first panel 222 and the second panel 224, the top panel 214, the right side panel 210, and the left side panel 238 may be roughly rectangular and may be made from any suitable flexible material or combinations of materials. The top panel 214, right side panel 210, and left side panel 238 may also include apertures for accessing features of the luggage case 102 such as carry handles, tow handles, pockets, or wheels that may be similar to the apertures described with respect to the first panel 222 and the second panel 224.

[0042] A locking flap 302 may be defined by locking flap side edges 410, 412, a locking flap distal end 306, and a locking flap fixed end 406 as shown in FIG. 4. The locking flap 302 may be generally rectangular in shape, such that the locking flap side edge 410 and the locking flap side edge 412 are substantially the same length and the locking flap distal end 306 and the locking flap fixed end 406 are substantially the same length. In some implementations, the length of the locking flap side edges 410, 412 is longer than the length of the locking flap distal end 306 and the locking flap fixed end 406 such that the locking flap has a larger length than width. In other implementations, the length of the locking flap distal end 306 and the locking flap fixed end 406 is longer than the length of the locking flap side edge 410 and the locking flap side edge 412 such that the locking flap has a larger or greater width than length. In some implementations, an aperture may be located through the interior of the locking flap 302 to provide access to features of the luggage case 102 such as handles, wheels, or pockets.

[0043] Generally, the locking flap side edge 410 and the locking flap side edge 412 are substantially parallel and the locking flap distal end 306 and the locking flap fixed end 406 are substantially parallel. In some implementations, the length of the locking flap fixed end 406 is larger than the length of the locking flap distal end 306 such that the locking flap side edge 410 and locking flap side edge 412 are not substantially parallel but are farther apart proximate to 9

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 the locking flap fixed end 406 and closer together at the locking flap distal end 306 or vice versa. Further, in some implementations, the locking flap side edge 410 and the locking flap side edge 412 are a straight line while in other implementations the locking flap side edge 410 and the locking flap side edge 410 are a curved line, multiple straight lines, or multiple curved lines.

[0044] With continued reference to FIG. 4, the locking flap 302 includes four corners: a first corner 416 where the locking flap side edge 410 meets the locking flap distal end 306, a second corner 418 where the locking flap side edge 410 meets the locking flap fixed end 406, a third corner 420 where the locking flap side edge 412 meets the locking flap distal end 306, and a fourth corner 422 where the locking flap side edge 412 meets the locking flap fixed end 406. The corners of the locking flap 302 may be right angles, obtuse angles, acute angles, and/or may be rounded (arcuate). The corners of the locking flap 302 may differ from each other. For example, the first corner 416 and the third corner 420 may be rounded while the second corner 418 and the fourth corner 422 form a point.

[0045] The locking flap 302 may be made from any suitably flexible material such as rip-stop nylon, treated canvas, or flexible plastic. The locking flap side edge 410, the locking flap side edge 412, and the locking flap distal end 306 may include a side edge trim 424, a side edge trim 426, and a distal edge trim 428, respectively. The trim may prevent damage to exposed edges of the locking flap 302 such that the luggage case cover 220 has increased durability. The trim may be affixed to edges of the locking flap 302 in any manner discussed above with respect to the open edge trim 226. In other implementations, the locking flap side edge 410, the locking flap side edge 412, and the locking flap distal end 306 may be reinforced using other methods or structures such as additional seams.

[0046] A locking flap securement structure 402 is located on the locking flap interior surface 408. The locking flap securement structure 402 is generally located proximate to the locking flap distal end 306 and generally extends from the locking flap side edge 410 to the locking flap side edge 412. The locking flap securement structure 402 may be any securement structure described above with respect to the panel securement structure 206. Similarly, the locking flap securement structure 402 may be a single structure or may be multiple structures. The locking flap securement structure 402 is compatible with the panel securement structure 206 such that the locking flap securement structure 402 can engage with the panel securement structure 206. Accordingly, the locking flap securement structure 402 and the panel securement structure 206 10

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 are generally compatible structures (e.g., the locking flap securement structure 402 is a loop structure and the panel securement structure 206 is a hook structure).

[0047] The locking flap 302 further includes a locking tab aperture 404 extending from the locking flap interior surface 408 to the locking flap outer surface 602. The locking tab aperture 404 is generally located near the locking flap distal end 306 and may be proximate to the locking flap distal end 306 or may be spaced away from the locking flap distal end 306. In some implementations, the locking tab aperture 404 may also extend through the locking flap securement structure 402. The locking tab aperture 404 is generally shaped to receive the locking tab 204, and, accordingly, may be rectangular, rectangular with curved or rounded corners, or another suitable shape. Edges of the locking tab aperture 404 may be reinforced using additional seams or may be covered using trim. Alternatively, the locking tab aperture 404 may be formed from a metal or plastic eyelet.

[0048] In some implementations, as shown in FIGs. 7 and 8, the locking flap 302 further includes a lock cover 304 located proximate to the locking flap outer surface 602. The lock cover 304 is generally affixed at least to the locking flap distal end 306 at a first edge 308 and may be further affixed to the locking flap side edge 410 and the locking flap side edge 412. A second edge 310 of the lock cover 304 is unattached to the locking flap 302 such that the locking flap outer surface 602 is accessible by lifting the second edge 310. The second edge 310 may also be removably attached to the locking flap outer surface 602 using, for example, a zipper or other securing structure. The lock cover 304 is generally sized such that the locking tab aperture 404 is located between the first edge 308 and the second edge 310 and the locking tab aperture 404 is covered by the lock cover 304. The lock cover 304 may be made from the same material as the locking flap 302. The second edge 310 may be reinforced using additional seams or covered using trim.

[0049] The luggage case cover 220 is generally formed from multiple panels, such as the first panel 222 and the second panel 224. In an example implementation, the first panel 222 is a front panel 202 and the second panel 224 is a rear panel 236 opposing the front panel 202. The top panel 214, the left side panel 238, and the right side panel 210 extend between the front panel 202 and the rear panel 236. The various panels of the luggage case cover 220 may be joined by seams or may be affixed to one another using an adhesive. In some implementations, the front panel 202, the top panel 214, and the rear panel 236 may be formed from one continuous piece of material folded to fit over a luggage case 102. An opening 414 in the 11

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 luggage case cover 220 is formed by the front panel open edge 216, the right side panel open edge 218, a left side panel open edge (not shown), and a rear panel open edge 430.

[0050] The locking flap 302 is configured to secure the second panel 224 to the first panel 222 and, in some implementations may cover an opening 414 in the luggage case cover 220. Accordingly, the locking flap fixed end 406 is affixed to the second panel 224 using a seam, an adhesive, or another suitable method. The locking flap fixed end 406 may be affixed to the rear panel open edge 430 or may be affixed spaced from the rear panel open edge 430. Alternatively, the locking flap 302 may extend from the second panel 224 such that the locking flap 302 and the second panel 224 are a continuous piece of material. In this implementation, the locking flap fixed end 406 is where the luggage case cover 220 transitions from covering the luggage case rear panel 118 to covering the luggage case bottom panel 116.

[0051] The locking flap fixed end 406 is generally parallel to or coincident with the rear panel open edge 430 such that when the locking flap 302 is extended to secure the second panel 224 to the first panel 222, a portion of the locking flap 302 extending between the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 is substantially perpendicular to the first panel 222 and the second panel 224.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 2, the luggage case cover 220 may be slipped over a luggage case 102 by placing the opening 414 over one end of the luggage case 102 and pulling the luggage case cover 220 towards an opposing end of the luggage case 102. When the luggage case cover 220 is placed on the luggage case 102, the panels of the luggage case cover 220 correspond to panels of the luggage case 102 (e.g., the front panel 202 covers the lid 106 and the rear panel 236 covers the base 118) and the opening 414 corresponds to a panel of the luggage case 102.

[0053] FIG. 4 shows the luggage case 102 within the luggage case cover 220 where the locking flap 302 is disengaged from the front panel 202. As shown in FIG. 4, the opening 414 is coincident with the luggage case bottom panel 116, though in other implementations the opening 414 may be coincident with a different panel of the luggage case 102. Where the opening 414 is coincident with a panel of the luggage case 102 having features, such as the wheels 108 and wheel mounts 120 on the luggage case bottom panel 116, the locking flap 302 may be sized to provide access to the features or may include apertures to provide access to the features. For example, the locking flap 302 is sized such that the wheels 108 on the luggage

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 case bottom panel 116 are accessible when the locking flap 302 is extended over the opening 414.

[0054] To secure the luggage case cover 220 on the luggage case 102, the locking flap 302 is extended over the opening 414, as shown in FIG. 5 and the locking flap 302 is secured to the first panel 222. In some implementations, the first panel 222 may include more than one panel securement structure. For example, an additional panel securement structure located parallel to the front panel securement structure 240 and farther inward from the front panel open edge 216 allows the locking flap 302 to be secured to the front panel 202 at more than one location such that the luggage case cover 220 can securely fit over luggage cases of different heights or widths. For example, when used with a taller luggage case, the locking flap 302 could be secured to the lower front panel securement structure 240. When used with a shorter or shallower luggage case, the locking flap 302 could be secured to the additional panel securement structure, effectively shortening the length of the locking flap 302. The additional panel securement structure may be located proximate to an additional locking tab.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 6, to secure the locking flap 302 on the first panel 222, the locking tab 204 on the first panel 222 is inserted into the locking tab aperture 404 on the locking flap 302 and is pulled through the locking tab aperture 404. Where the locking flap 302 includes a lock cover 304, a user may lift the second edge 310 of the lock cover 304 to pull the locking tab 204 through the locking tab aperture 404. When the locking tab 204 is inserted into the locking tab aperture 404, the lock aperture 208 of the locking tab 204 is located between the locking tab aperture 404 and the locking tab distal end 230. When the locking flap 302 includes a lock cover 304, the locking tab 204 is located between the locking flap outer surface 602 and the lock cover 304 such that a lock placed in the lock aperture 208 of the locking tab 204 is covered by the lock cover 304.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 6, when the locking tab 204 is inserted into the locking tab aperture 404, the locking flap securement structure 402 is aligned with the panel securement structure 206 on the front panel 202. To secure the luggage case cover 220 on the luggage case 102, the locking flap securement structure 402 is placed such that the panel securement structure 206 engages with the locking flap securement structure 402 to secure the locking flap 302 to the front panel 202, as shown in FIG. 7. For example, when the locking flap securement structure 402 is a hook structure and the panel securement structure 206 is a loop structure, the locking flap securement structure 402 is pressed into the panel securement structure 206 so that the 13

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 hooks engage with the loops. In other implementations, the locking flap panel securement structure 206 may engage with the locking flap securement structure 402 by fastening buckles, snapping snaps together, fastening buttons, or zipping a zipper.

[0057] When the locking tab 204 is received in locking tab aperture 404 and the locking flap securement structure 402 is engaged with the panel securement structure 206 to secure the locking flap 302 to the front panel 202, the luggage case cover 220 may be secured on the luggage case 102 by inserting a portion of a lock into the lock aperture 208 of the locking tab 204, as shown in FIG. 8. The lock may be, for example, a cable lock with the cable portion inserted through the lock aperture 208 or a lock with a shackle inserted through the lock aperture 208. The lock may be a combination lock with dials, a keyed lock, or any other type of luggage lock.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 8, the locking tab 204 and the locking tab aperture 404 are generally located such that when a lock is inserted in the lock aperture 208 of the locking tab 204, a body of the lock does not extend beyond the luggage case bottom panel 116, which could cause damage to the lock. When the locking flap 302 includes a lock cover 304, the body of the lock inserted in the lock aperture 208 may be partially or fully covered by the lock cover 304, providing additional protection for the lock.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 3, when the luggage case cover 220 is secured on the luggage case 102, the wheels 108 of the luggage case 102 are not obstructed by the luggage case cover 220, the top handle 112 is accessible through an aperture in the top panel 214, and the side handle 114 is accessible through a handle aperture 212 in the right side panel 210. Though not shown in FIG. 3, a tow handle may be accessible through an aperture in the top panel 214. Accordingly, the luggage case 102 can be handled and moved as usual while protected by the luggage case cover 220.

[0060] To remove the luggage case cover 220 from the luggage case 102, the lock is first removed from the lock aperture 208 in the locking tab 204. The locking flap securement structure 402 is then disengaged from the panel securement structure 206. As the locking flap securement structure 402 is disengaged from the panel securement structure 206, the locking tab 204 may be removed from the locking tab aperture 404 by moving the locking flap distal end 306 away from the front panel 202. When the locking flap distal end 306 is moved so that

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2020100137 28 Jan 2020 the locking flap 302 no longer covers the opening 414, the luggage case 102 may be removed from the luggage case cover 220 through the opening 414.

[0061] All relative and directional references (including: upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, side, above, below, front, middle, back, vertical, horizontal, and so forth) are given by way of example to aid the reader’s understanding of the particular examples described herein. They should not be read to be requirements or limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use unless specifically set forth in the claims. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, joined, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other, unless specifically set forth in the claims.

[0062] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the presently disclosed examples teach by way of example and not by limitation. Therefore, the matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The following claims are intended to cover all generic and specific features described herein, as well as all statements of the scope of the present method and system, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall there between.

[0063] It is to be understood that, if any prior art publication is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

[0064] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word comprise or variations such as comprises or comprising is used in an inclusive sense, namely, to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Claims (15)

1. 2020100137 28 Jan 2020

   What is claimed is:

   1. A luggage case cover comprising:

   a first panel;

   a second panel opposing the first panel; and a locking flap configured to secure the first panel to the second panel, wherein the locking flap is hingedly attached to the second panel, the locking flap includes a locking flap securement structure that engages with a panel securement structure on the first panel when the locking flap secures the first panel to the second panel, and a locking tab aperture located on the locking flap receives a locking tab fixedly connected to the first panel when the locking flap secures the first panel to the second panel.
2. 2. The luggage case cover of claim 1, wherein the locking tab includes a lock aperture configured to receive a lock to secure the locking tab in the locking tab aperture.
3. 3. The luggage case cover of claim 2, wherein the lock aperture is located between the locking tab aperture and a locking tab distal end when the locking tab aperture receives the locking tab.
4. 4. The luggage case cover of any of claims 1-3, wherein the locking flap securement structure is located proximate to a locking flap distal end.
5. 5. The luggage case cover of any of claims 1-4, wherein the first panel is a front panel and the second panel is a rear panel.
6. 6. The luggage case cover of claim 5, further comprising:

   a top panel proximate the front panel and the rear panel.
7. 7. The luggage case cover of claim 6, wherein the top panel further includes a handle aperture for accessing a handle of the luggage case when the luggage case cover is secured on the luggage case.
8. 8. The luggage case cover of claim 5, further comprising:

   P0157AU

   2020100137 28 Jan 2020 a left side panel proximate to the front panel and the rear panel; and a right side panel proximate to the front panel and the rear panel.
9. 9. The luggage case cover of any of claims 1-8, wherein the locking flap at least partially covers an opening between the first panel and the second panel when the locking flap secures the first panel to the second panel.
10. 10. The luggage case cover of claim 9, wherein the locking flap covers a portion of the opening between the first panel and the second panel such that wheels of the luggage case are accessible when the luggage case cover is secured on the luggage case.
11. 11. The luggage case cover of any of claims 1-10, wherein the locking flap further includes a lock cover, wherein:

    the lock cover includes a first edge fixedly connected to the locking flap distal end, and the lock cover includes a second edge unattached to the locking flap, wherein the second edge is located such that the locking tab aperture of the locking flap is located between the first edge and the second edge.
12. 12. The luggage case cover of claim 11, wherein the second edge of the lock cover is located such that the locking tab, when received in the locking tab aperture, is located between the first edge and the second edge of the lock cover.
13. 13. The luggage case cover of claim 11, wherein the locking flap has a locking flap interior surface and a locking flap outer surface, wherein:

    the lock cover is proximate to the locking flap outer surface; and the locking flap securement structure is proximate to the locking flap interior surface.
14. 14. The luggage case cover of any of claims claim 1-13, wherein:

    the locking flap securement structure is one of a hook structure or a loop structure of a hook and loop fastener, and the panel securement structure is one of the hook structure or the loop structure of the hook and loop fastener.

    P0157AU

    2020100137 28 Jan 2020
15. 15. A luggage case cover comprising:

    a front panel having a front panel open edge, wherein the front panel is fixedly attached to a right side panel, a left side panel, and a top panel, and the front panel comprises a front panel securement structure and a locking tab including a lock aperture located between a locking tab fixed end and a locking tab distal end;

    a rear panel having a rear panel open edge, wherein an opening is formed between the front panel open edge and the rear panel open edge; and a locking flap configured to partially cover the opening comprising:

    a fixed end fixedly attached to the rear panel open edge, a locking flap distal end, a locking flap securement structure on a locking flap interior surface configured to engage with the front panel securement structure when the locking flap is extending over the opening to secure the locking flap distal end to the front panel, and a locking tab aperture extending from the locking flap interior surface to a locking flap outer surface, the locking tab aperture being configured to receive the locking tab when the locking flap is extending over the opening such that the lock aperture is located between the locking flap outer surface and the locking tab distal end and the lock aperture can receive a lock to secure the luggage case cover on the luggage case.