CN216089298U - Luggage case cover - Google Patents

Abstract

A luggage cover includes a first panel, a second panel opposite the first panel, and a locking flap. The locking flap is configured to secure the first panel to the second panel and to be hingedly attached to the second panel. The locking flap includes a locking flap securing structure that engages a panel securing structure on the first panel when the locking flap covers the opening between the first panel and the second panel. A locking tab aperture 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.

Description

Luggage case cover

Technical Field

Examples described herein generally relate to secure flexible covers for luggage.

Background

The exterior of the luggage case may be damaged during travel, for example, by scratches and dents during loading and unloading to and from the aircraft. Several luggage cases have been developed to protect the luggage case from damage during travel. However, many luggage covers are not easily secured to the luggage case, and the luggage cover may be separated from the luggage case. Therefore, even in the case of using the trunk cover, the trunk may be damaged during traveling.

Accordingly, it is desirable to provide an improved luggage cover that is less likely to separate from the luggage case when in use.

SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL

The present disclosure provides a luggage cover that includes a first panel, a second panel opposite 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 securing structure that engages a panel securing structure on the first panel when the locking flap secures the first panel to the second panel. A locking tab aperture on the locking flap receives a locking tab that is fixedly connected to the first panel when the locking flap secures the first panel to the second panel.

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

Additionally or separately, the locking flip securing structure can be located proximate to the locking flip distal end.

Additionally or separately, the first panel may be a front panel and the second panel may be a back panel. The luggage cover may also include a top panel proximate the front panel and the rear panel.

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 to the luggage case.

Additionally or separately, the luggage cover may further include a left side panel proximate the front and rear panels and a right side panel proximate the front and rear panels.

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

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

Additionally or separately, the locking flap may include a locking flap inner surface and a locking flap outer surface. The lock housing may be proximate to the outer surface of the locking flip, and the locking flip fixed structure may be proximate to the inner surface of the locking flip.

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

The present disclosure also provides a luggage cover including a front panel having a front panel opening edge. The front panel is fixedly attached to the right side panel, the left side panel, and the top panel. The front panel includes a front panel securing structure and a locking tab including a locking aperture between a locking tab securing end and a locking tab distal end. The luggage cover also includes a rear panel having a rear panel opening edge, wherein an opening is formed between the front panel opening edge and the rear panel opening edge. The locking flap is configured to partially cover the opening. The locking flap includes a securing end fixedly attached to an edge of the opening of the rear panel, a locking flap distal end, and a locking flap securing structure on an inner surface of the locking flap, the locking flap securing structure configured to engage the front panel securing structure when the locking flap extends across 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 inner surface to the locking flap outer surface. The locking tab aperture is configured to receive the locking tab when the locking flap is extended over the opening such that the locking aperture is located between the locking tab outer surface and the locking tab distal end, and the locking aperture can receive the lock to secure the luggage cover to the luggage case.

Additional embodiments and/or features are set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will become apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the specification or may be learned from 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 form a part hereof. One skilled in the art will appreciate that each of the various aspects and features of the disclosure may be used advantageously in some cases separately or in combination with other aspects and features of the disclosure in other cases.

Drawings

The following description will be more fully understood with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which components are not drawn to scale, which are provided as various examples of the disclosure and which should not be construed as a complete recitation of the scope of the disclosure, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates an article of luggage according to one embodiment.

Figure 2 illustrates a covered luggage case with a luggage cover placed over the luggage case in accordance with one implementation.

Figure 3 illustrates a covered luggage case with the luggage cover secured to the luggage case, in accordance with one implementation.

Figure 4 shows the covered luggage case with the luggage case cover in a closed configuration.

Figure 5 illustrates the covered luggage case with the luggage cover in an unlocked configuration, wherein the locking flap is disengaged from the first panel of the luggage cover.

Fig. 6 illustrates the covered luggage case with the luggage cover being transitioned from the unlocked to the locked configuration, wherein the locking flap extends across the opening between the first and second panels of the luggage cover.

Fig. 7 illustrates the covered luggage case with the luggage cover being transitioned from the unlocked to the locked configuration, wherein the locking flap extends across the opening between the first and second panels of the luggage cover and is secured to the first panel.

Fig. 8 illustrates the covered luggage case with the luggage cover in a locked configuration, wherein the locking flap extends across the opening between the first and second panels of the luggage cover and is secured to the first panel.

Detailed Description

The lockable luggage cover provides protection to luggage items such as luggage cases from damage during travel. Because the luggage cover may be secured to the luggage case, the luggage cover is less likely to be removed from the luggage case during travel. In addition, when used in conjunction with a lock, the luggage cover may provide additional security against unauthorized intrusion into the luggage.

In accordance with the present disclosure, a luggage cover is provided. The luggage cover includes a first panel, a second panel opposite the first panel, and a locking flap. In one embodiment, a locking flap extends from the second panel and engages the first panel to secure the cover to the luggage case. The locking flip includes a locking flip fixed structure that engages a panel fixed structure on the first panel when the locking flip is engaged with the first panel. A locking tab aperture on the locking flap receives a locking tab fixedly connected to the first panel when the locking flap is engaged 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 securing structure that engages a panel securing structure on the first panel when the locking flap covers the opening between the first panel and the second panel. A locking tab aperture on the locking flap receives a locking tab fixedly connected to the first panel when the locking flap covers the opening between the first panel and the second panel.

Fig. 1 is an isometric view of an article of luggage 100 in a closed configuration. In fig. 1, the luggage item 100 is a luggage case 102 formed from a plurality of walls or panels that define an interior storage space for carrying user items therein. In one example, the luggage case 102 may be formed from a lid or door 105a and a base 105 b. The cover or door 105a may include pockets formed therein or coupled thereto to collectively form the front wall 106. The base 105b may include a back 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 opposite a bottom end wall 116 and a right side wall 104 opposite a left side wall 104b extending from a rear wall 118. The corner region 122 may be defined by the intersection of any two or three adjacent walls.

The luggage case 102 shown in fig. 1 is a swivel-head softside case, but the luggage cover disclosed herein may be used with other types of luggage items, including hardside swivel-head cases, hybrid swivel-head cases, bins, backpacks, duffel bags, and the like. For example, the luggage case 102 may be molded from a hard-sided material, or formed from a combination of hard-sided and soft-sided materials (referred to as a "hybrid" structure). In some examples, the luggage case 102 may be formed entirely of the softside material. The hardfacing material can be a thermoplastic (self-reinforced or fiber reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, PE, or biaxially oriented polypropylene, among others. The softside material may be nylon, canvas, polyester, leather, PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene and/or PE, among others.

The luggage case 102 is convertible between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration, the cover and base may be placed adjacent to each other to enclose the user's items within the interior storage space of the luggage case 102. To allow the cover and base to be selectively moved between the open and closed configurations, the cover and base may be pivotally connected together by a hinge or similar mechanism.

The luggage case 102 may include a closure mechanism 126 to releasably secure the cover and base together in the closed state. The closure mechanism 126 may be a discrete mechanism, such as a latch, or may be a continuous closure mechanism, such as a zipper closure, disposed along at least a portion of the length of a line between the cover portion and the base portion. The closure mechanism 126 may have elements, such as one or more zippers, 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 unauthorized intrusion into the luggage case 102. The luggage case 102 may include additional closure mechanisms, for example, to close a pocket formed in a lid portion of the luggage case 102.

With continued reference to fig. 1, the luggage case 102 may include one or more support members to support the luggage case 102 on a support surface (e.g., on the ground). The support members may be feet, fixed wheel assemblies, swivel wheel assemblies, or any combination thereof, and 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, which are swivel wheel assemblies 108. In some examples, the luggage case 102 may include one or more carrying handles (e.g., side handles 114 and top handle 112), and/or a retractable towing handle 126 that may extend from a portion of the base 118.

Referring to fig. 2-8, a luggage cover 220 is fitted over the luggage case 102 to form the covered luggage case 200. As shown in fig. 2 and 3, the luggage cover 220 includes a first panel 222 and a second panel 224 opposite the first panel 222. The first panel 222 and the second panel 224 may be approximately rectangular in shape to accommodate luggage having a conventional shape. In one example embodiment, the first panel 222 is the front panel 202 and the second panel 224 is the rear panel 236, however, in other embodiments, the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 may be any two opposing or adjacent panels of the luggage cover 220. For example, the first panel may be a front panel and the second panel may be a side panel.

The first panel 222 and the second panel 224 are defined by four edges. The first panel 222 includes an opening edge, such as the front panel opening peripheral edge 216. Similarly, the second panel 224 includes an opening peripheral edge (not shown). In one embodiment, the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 are each formed from different material portions, and the peripheral edges of the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 are approximately where the material portions terminate. In another embodiment, the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 may be separate portions of a single continuous piece of material, and some of the edges of the first panel 222 and the second panel 224 are where the piece of continuous material is bent or folded between adjacent panels.

The luggage cover, including the first panel 222 and the second panel 224, may be made of any suitable flexible material, such as tear resistant nylon, treated canvas, or flexible plastic. In addition, one or more edges of the first and second panels 222, 224 may include a decorative piece or ribbon, such as an opening edge decorative piece 226 on the front panel opening edge 216. The first panel 222 and the second panel 224 may comprise more than one material, such as a portion of transparent flexible plastic in a panel made of tear resistant nylon, so that identification information on the luggage case 102 may be viewed when the luggage cover 220 is secured to the luggage case 102. Decorative pieces or ribbons may also be added to the panels to prevent fraying of the exposed edges of the first panel 222 and the second panel 224. The trim piece or ribbon may be sewn or otherwise attached to the exposed edge of the first panel 222 or the second panel, such as by an adhesive. For example, the opening edge trim piece 226 is located partially on the front surface of the front panel 202, extends over the front panel opening edge 216, and is located partially on the rear surface of the front panel 202. A seam extends through a portion of both the opening edge trim 226 and the front panel 202 to secure the opening edge trim 226 to the front panel 202 such that the opening edge trim 226 covers the front panel opening edge 216. Similar trim pieces may be included on all or a portion of the exposed edge of the second panel 224.

The first panel 222 and the second panel 224 may include openings or holes, such as openings or holes for accessing a carrying handle, towing handle, or bag of the luggage case 102. The aperture is sized and shaped to access a particular structure of the luggage case 102. For example, the aperture for accessing a carrying handle, such as the top handle 112, may be wider than the aperture for accessing a towing handle. The holes may be of any shape, such as rectangular, oval or rectangular with rounded corners. The exposed edges of the first and second panels 222, 224 formed by the holes may be covered by a trim piece or ribbon attached similarly to the opening edge trim piece 226. In addition, some of the apertures may include a closure such as a zipper, snap or hook and loop type. For example, a zipper may be used to close and open an aperture that provides access to a pocket of the luggage case 102.

With continued reference to fig. 2, the first panel 222 includes a panel securing structure 206. The panel securing 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 securing structure 206 may be attached to the first panel 222 using any method suitable for this type of securing structure. For example, a hook or loop structure may be sewn or glued to the first panel 222 and the clasp attached by fitting a portion of the clasp on either side of the first panel 222 and piercing the first panel 222 so that the clasp portions fit together. The functional portion of the panel securing structure 206 (e.g., a hook structure, a loop structure, or a portion of a clasp that joins with another portion of the clasp to form a connection) is generally located on an outer surface of the first panel 222 (e.g., a surface of the first panel 222 that does not face the luggage case 102 when the luggage case 220 is secured to the luggage case 102).

The panel securing structure 206 is generally located near a peripheral edge, such as the opening edge of the first panel 222, and may be directly adjacent to the opening edge or spaced a distance from the peripheral edge. For example, the panel securing structure 206 may be a front panel securing structure 240 that is located near the front panel opening edge 216 of the front panel 202, but is spaced apart from the front panel opening edge 216. The panel securing structure 206 may be one continuous piece as shown in fig. 2, or may be several individual pieces. For example, a plurality of snaps, or buckles may form the panel securing structure 206. A plurality of zippers, hook structures or loop structures may also form the panel securing structure 206.

The locking tab 204 is attached to the outer surface of the first panel 222 at a locking tab fixed end 228 and terminates in a locking tab distal end 230. The locking tab securing end 228 may be proximate the panel securing structure 206 or may be spaced apart from the panel securing structure 206. Generally, locking tab fixed end 228 is substantially parallel to an edge of first panel 222 and may be proximate to or spaced from an edge of first panel 222. The locking tab 204 may be attached to the first panel 222 by a seam, using an adhesive, or any suitable attachment method.

The locking tab 204 may be made of a similar material as the first panel 222 or may be made of another material such as leather, plastic, or woven nylon. The locking tab 204 may be formed from one, two, or more layers of material and may include a decorative feature. 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 the length of the locking tab 204, while the locking tab fixed end 228 and the locking tab distal end 230 form the width of the locking tab 204, wherein the length of the locking tab 204 is generally greater than or longer than the width of the locking tab 204. In some embodiments, the locking tab distal end 230 may be longer or shorter than the locking tab fixed end 228.

The locking tab 204 includes a locking aperture 208, the locking aperture 208 being generally located between a locking tab fixed end 228 and a locking tab distal end 230, and between a tab side edge 232 and a tab side edge 234. The locking hole 208 extends through the locking tab 204 and is generally circular, but other shapes are possible. The edges of the locking hole 208 may be reinforced with trim or additional stitching, or the locking hole 208 may be formed from a metal or plastic eyelet. The locking hole 208 is generally sized to receive a cord of a cord style trunk lock or a shackle of a trunk lock.

In some embodiments, the luggage 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. Similar to 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 generally rectangular and may be made of any suitable flexible material or combination of materials. The top panel 214, the right side panel 210, and the left side panel 238 may also include holes for accessing features of the luggage case 102, such as a carrying handle, towing handle, bag, or wheels, which may be similar to the holes described for the first panel 222 and the second panel 224.

Locking flap 302 may be defined by locking flap side edges 410, 412, locking flap distal end 306, and locking flap fixed end 406 as shown in fig. 4. Locking flap 302 may be generally rectangular in shape such that locking flap side edges 410 and locking flap side edges 412 are substantially the same length and locking flap distal end 306 and locking flap fixed end 406 are substantially the same length. In some embodiments, locking flap side edges 410, 412 are longer in length than locking flap distal end 306 and locking flap fixed end 406, such that the length of the locking flap is greater than the width. In other embodiments, the length of locking flap distal end 306 and locking flap fixed end 406 is longer than the length of locking flap side edge 410 and locking flap side edge 412, such that the width of the locking flap is greater than or wider than the length. In some embodiments, a hole may be provided through the interior of the locking flap 302 to provide access to features of the luggage case 102, such as handles, wheels, or bags.

In general, locking flap side edge 410 and locking flap side edge 412 are substantially parallel and locking flap distal end 306 and locking flap fixed end 406 are substantially parallel. In some embodiments, locking flap fixed end 406 has a length that is greater than the length of locking flap distal end 306 such that locking flap side edges 410 and locking flap side edges 412 are not substantially parallel, but rather are spaced farther apart near locking flap fixed end 406 and closer to each other at locking flap distal end 306, or vice versa. Further, in some embodiments, locking flap side edge 410 and locking flap side edge 412 are straight lines, while in other embodiments, locking flap side edge 410 and locking flap side edge 410 are curved lines, straight lines, or curved lines.

With continued reference to fig. 4, locking flip 302 includes four corners: a first corner 416 where locking flap side edge 410 meets locking flap distal end 306; a second corner 418 where locking flap side edge 410 meets locking flap fixed end 406; third corner 420 where locking flap side edge 412 meets locking flap distal end 306; fourth corner 422 at the intersection of locking flap side edge 412 and locking flap fixed end 406. The corners of the locking flap 302 may be right-angled, obtuse-angled, acute-angled, and/or may be rounded (curved). The corners of locking flip 302 may be different 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.

Locking flap 302 may be made of any suitable flexible material, such as tear-resistant nylon, treated canvas, or flexible plastic. Locking flap side edge 410, locking flap side edge 412, and locking flap distal end 306 may include side edge trim piece 424, side edge trim piece 426, and distal edge trim piece 428, respectively. The decoration prevents damage to the exposed edge of the locking flap 302, so that the durability of the luggage cover 220 is improved. The trim piece can be attached to the edge of the locking flap 302 in any of the ways discussed above with respect to the opening edge trim piece 226. In other embodiments, locking flap side edge 410, locking flap side edge 412, and locking flap distal end 306 may be reinforced with other methods or structures, such as additional seams.

Locking flip stationary structure 402 is located on locking flip inner surface 408. Locking flap securing structure 402 is generally located proximate locking flap distal end 306 and generally extends from locking flap side edge 410 to locking flap side edge 412. Locking flip securing structure 402 may be any of the securing structures described above with respect to panel securing structure 206. Similarly, the locking flip stationary structure 402 may be a single structure, or may be multiple structures. The locking flip fixation structure 402 is compatible with the faceplate fixation structure 206 such that the locking flip fixation structure 402 may engage the faceplate fixation structure 206. Accordingly, locking flip fixation structure 402 and panel fixation structure 206 are generally compatible structures (e.g., locking flip fixation structure 402 is a loop structure and panel fixation structure 206 is a hook structure).

Locking flap 302 also includes a locking tab aperture 404 that extends from locking flap inner surface 408 to locking flap outer surface 602. Lock tab aperture 404 is located generally near locking flip distal end 306, may be near locking flip distal end 306, or may be spaced from locking flip distal end 306. In some embodiments, the locking tab aperture 404 may also extend through the locking flip fixation 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 other suitable shape. The edges of the lock tab aperture 404 may be reinforced with additional seams or may be covered with a decorative covering. Alternatively, the lock tab apertures 404 may be formed from metal or plastic eyelets.

In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 7 and 8, locking flip 302 further comprises a lock housing 304 disposed proximate locking flip outer surface 602. Lock housing 304 is attached to locking flap distal end 306 generally at least at first edge 308, and may further be attached to locking flap side edge 410 and locking flap side edge 412. The second edge 310 of the lock housing 304 is not attached 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 can also be removably attached to the locking flap outer surface 602 using, for example, a zipper or other securing structure. The lock housing 304 is generally sized such that the lock tab aperture 404 is located between the first edge 308 and the second edge 310, and the lock tab aperture 404 is covered by the lock housing 304. Lock housing 304 may be made of the same material as locking flip 302. The second edge 310 may be reinforced with additional seams or covered with trim pieces.

The luggage cover 220 is generally formed from a plurality of panels, such as a first panel 222 and a second panel 224. In an example embodiment, the first panel 222 is the front panel 202 and the second panel 224 is the back panel 236 opposite 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 cover 220 may be joined together by seams or may be attached to each other using an adhesive. In some embodiments, the front panel 202, the top panel 214, and the rear panel 236 may be folded from a single continuous piece of material to form a sleeve over the luggage case 102. The opening 414 in the luggage cover 220 is formed by a front panel opening edge 216, a right side panel opening edge 218, a left side panel opening edge (not shown), and a rear panel opening edge 430.

Locking flap 302 is configured to secure second panel 224 to first panel 222 and, in some embodiments, may cover opening 414 in luggage cover 220. Accordingly, the locking flip fixed end 406 is attached to the second panel 224 using a seam, adhesive, or other suitable method. The locking flap fixed end 406 may be attached to the rear panel opening edge 430 or may be attached spaced apart from the rear panel opening edge 430. Alternatively, locking flap 302 may extend from second panel 224 such that locking flap 302 and second panel 224 are one continuous piece of material. In this embodiment, the locking flap fixed end 406 is where the luggage cover 220 transitions from covering the luggage rear panel 118 to covering the luggage bottom panel 116.

The locking flap fixed end 406 is generally parallel to or coincident with the rear panel opening edge 430 such that when the locking flap 302 is extended to secure the second panel 224 to the first panel 222, the 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.

As shown in fig. 2, the luggage case cover 220 may be slid over the luggage case 102 by placing the opening 414 over one end of the luggage case 102 and pulling the luggage case cover 220 toward the opposite end of the luggage case 102. When the luggage cover 220 is placed on the luggage case 102, each panel of the luggage cover 220 corresponds to each panel of the luggage case 102 (e.g., the front panel 202 covers the cover portion 106 and the rear panel 236 covers the base portion 118), and the opening 414 corresponds to one panel of the luggage case 102.

Fig. 4 shows the luggage case 102 positioned within the luggage case 220 with the locking flap 302 disengaged from the front panel 202. As shown in fig. 4, the opening 414 coincides with the luggage floor panel 116, however in other embodiments, the opening 414 may coincide with a different panel of the luggage case 102. In the case where the opening 414 coincides with one of the panels of the luggage case 102 having features, such as the wheels 108 and wheel mounts 120 on the bottom panel 116 of the luggage case, the locking flap 302 may be sized to provide access to the features, or may include holes to provide access to the features. For example, the locking flap 302 is sized such that the wheels 108 on the bottom panel 116 of the luggage are accessible when the locking flap 302 extends across the opening 414.

To secure the luggage case cover 220 to the luggage case 102, as shown in fig. 5, the locking flap 302 extends across the opening 414 and the locking flap 302 is secured to the first panel 222. In some embodiments, the first panel 222 may include more than one panel securing structure. For example, an additional panel securing structure disposed parallel to the front panel securing structure 240 and more inwardly relative to the front panel opening edge 216 allows the locking flap 302 to be secured to the front panel 202 in more than one position so that the luggage cover 220 can be securely fit over luggage cases having different heights or widths. For example, when used with a taller luggage case, the locking flap 302 may be secured to the lower front panel securing structure 240. When used with shorter or shallower luggage cases, the locking flap 302 may be secured to this additional panel securing structure, effectively shortening the length of the locking flap 302. The additional panel securing structure may be disposed adjacent an additional locking tab.

As shown in fig. 6, to secure locking flap 302 to first panel 222, locking tab 204 on first panel 222 is inserted into locking tab aperture 404 on locking flap 302 and pulled through locking tab aperture 404. In the case where the locking flip 302 includes the lock housing 304, the user may lift the second edge 310 of the lock housing 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 locking 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 flip-top 302 includes the lock housing 304, the locking tab 204 is positioned between the locking flip-top outer surface 602 and the lock housing 304 such that a lock placed in the locking aperture 208 of the locking tab 204 is covered by the lock housing 304.

As shown in fig. 6, when the locking tab 204 is inserted into the locking tab aperture 404, the locking flip cover securing structure 402 is aligned with the panel securing structure 206 on the front panel 202. To secure the luggage case cover 220 to the luggage case 102, the locking flap securing structure 402 is placed such that the panel securing structure 206 engages the locking flap securing structure 402 to secure the locking flap 302 to the front panel 202, as shown in fig. 7. For example, when locking flip fixation structure 402 is a hook structure and panel fixation structure 206 is a loop structure, locking flip fixation structure 402 is pressed into panel fixation structure 206 such that the hooks engage the loops. In other embodiments, the locking flap panel securing structure 206 may engage the locking flap securing structure 402 by fastening buckles, snapping snaps together, fastening snaps, or zipping a zipper.

When the locking tab 204 is received in the locking tab aperture 404 and the locking flap securing structure 402 is engaged with the panel securing structure 206 to secure the locking flap 302 to the front panel 202, the luggage shell 220 may be secured to the luggage case 102 by inserting a portion of the lock into the locking aperture 208 of the locking tab 204, as shown in fig. 8. The lock may be, for example, a cord lock having a cord portion inserted through the locking hole 208, or may be a lock having a shackle inserted through the locking hole 208. The lock may be a combination lock with dials, a keyed lock, or any other type of trunk lock.

As shown in fig. 8, the locking tab 204 and the locking tab aperture 404 are generally arranged such that when the lock is inserted into the locking aperture 208 of the locking tab 204, the body of the lock does not extend beyond the luggage floor panel 116, which could cause damage to the lock. When the locking flip-flop 302 includes the lock housing 304, the body of the lock inserted into the lock aperture 208 may be partially or fully covered by the lock housing 304, thereby providing additional protection for the lock.

As shown in FIG. 3, when the luggage case 220 is secured to the luggage case 102, the wheels 108 of the luggage case 102 are not obstructed by the luggage case 220, the top handle 112 is accessible through the aperture in the top panel 214, and the side handle 114 is accessible through the handle aperture 212 in the right side panel 210. Although not shown in fig. 3, the tow handle may be accessible through an aperture in the top panel 214. Thus, the luggage case 102 may be carried and moved as usual while being protected by the luggage cover 220.

To remove the luggage case 220 from the luggage case 102, the lock is first removed from the locking aperture 208 in the locking tab 204. The locking flip cover securing structure 402 is then disengaged from the panel securing structure 206. Because locking flap securing structure 402 is disengaged from panel securing structure 206, locking tab 204 can be removed from locking tab aperture 404 by moving locking flap distal end 306 away from front panel 202. When locking flip distal end 306 is moved such that locking flip 302 no longer covers opening 414, luggage case 102 can be removed from luggage case 220 through opening 414.

All relative and directional references (including: upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, lateral, above, below, front, middle, rear, vertical, horizontal, etc.) are given by way of example only to aid the reader's understanding of the specific examples described herein. These statements are not to be read as requirements or limitations, particularly as to position, orientation, or use, unless expressly recited in a claim. Joinder references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, bonded, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connected element and relative movement between such elements. Thus, unless expressly stated in the claims, the connection does not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship to each other.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the presently disclosed examples provide teachings by way of example and not by way of limitation. Accordingly, the subject 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 therebetween.

It will be understood that, if any prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in australia or in any other country.

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the utility model, unless 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, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features.

Claims (15)

1. A luggage cover comprising:

a first panel;

a second panel opposite 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,

the locking flip cover comprises a locking flip cover fixing structure, a locking connecting sheet hole is positioned on the locking flip cover,

when the locking flap secures the first panel to the second panel, the locking flap securing structure engages with the panel securing structure on the first panel and the locking tab aperture receives a locking tab fixedly connected to the first panel.

2. The luggage shell of claim 1, wherein the locking tab includes a locking aperture configured to receive a lock to secure the locking tab in the locking tab aperture.

3. The luggage cover of claim 2 wherein the locking aperture is located between the locking tab aperture and the locking tab distal end when the locking tab aperture receives the locking tab.

4. The luggage cover of any of claims 1 through 3, wherein the locking flap securing structure is located proximate to the distal end of the locking flap.

5. The luggage cover of any of claims 1-3, wherein the first panel is a front panel and the second panel is a rear panel.

6. The luggage cover of claim 5, further comprising a top panel proximate the front panel and the rear panel.

7. The luggage cover of claim 6, wherein the top panel further comprises a handle aperture for accessing a handle of the luggage case when the luggage cover is secured to the luggage case.

8. The luggage cover of claim 5, further comprising:

a left side panel adjacent to the front panel and the rear panel; and

a right side panel adjacent to the front panel and the back panel.

9. The luggage cover of any of claims 1 through 3, wherein the locking flap at least partially covers the opening between the first panel and the second panel when the locking flap secures the first panel to the second panel.

10. The luggage cover of claim 9, wherein the locking flap covers a portion of the opening between the first panel and the second panel when the luggage cover is secured to the luggage case such that the wheels of the luggage case are accessible.

11. The luggage cover of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the locking flap further comprises a lock cover, the lock cover comprising a first edge fixedly attached to a distal end of the locking flap, and

the lock housing includes a second edge unattached to the locking flap, the second edge positioned such that the locking tab aperture of the locking flap is located between the first edge and the second edge.

12. The luggage cover of claim 11, wherein the second edge of the lock cover is positioned such that the locking tab is positioned between the first edge and the second edge of the lock cover when received in the locking tab aperture.

13. The luggage cover of claim 11, wherein the locking flap has a locking flap inner surface and a locking flap outer surface, the locking cover is proximate the locking flap outer surface, and

the locking flip cover securing structure is adjacent the locking flip cover inner surface.

14. The luggage cover of any of claims 1-3, wherein:

the locking flip cover securing structure is one of a hook structure or a loop structure of a hook and loop fastener,

the panel securing structure is one of a hook structure or a loop structure of a hook and loop fastener.

15. A luggage case cover comprises a front panel, a rear panel and a locking flip cover, and is characterized in that,

the front panel has a front panel opening edge, wherein

The front panel is fixedly attached to the right side panel, the left side panel and the top panel, an

The front panel comprises a front panel fixing structure and a locking connecting piece, wherein the locking connecting piece comprises a locking hole positioned between a locking connecting piece fixing end and a locking connecting piece far end;

the rear panel having a rear panel opening edge, wherein an opening is formed between the front panel opening edge and the rear panel opening edge; and

the locking flap is configured to partially cover the opening and includes:

a fixed end fixedly attached to an opening edge of the rear panel,

the distal end of the flip is locked and,

a locking flap securing structure on an inner surface of the locking flap, the locking flap securing structure configured to engage the front panel securing structure when the locking flap extends across the opening to secure the locking flap distal end to the front panel, and

a lock tab aperture extending from the lock flap inner surface to the lock flap outer surface, the lock tab aperture configured to receive the lock tab when the lock flap extends over the opening such that the lock aperture is between the lock tab outer surface and the lock tab distal end, and the lock aperture is capable of receiving a lock to secure the luggage cover to the luggage.

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