EP3469945B1 - Panel frame structure for a luggage article - Google Patents
Panel frame structure for a luggage article Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3469945B1 EP3469945B1 EP17196469.5A EP17196469A EP3469945B1 EP 3469945 B1 EP3469945 B1 EP 3469945B1 EP 17196469 A EP17196469 A EP 17196469A EP 3469945 B1 EP3469945 B1 EP 3469945B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- frame
- luggage article
- fabric panel
- panel
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Active
Links
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Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid luggage
- A45C5/03—Suitcases
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/04—Frames
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C11/00—Receptacles for purposes not provided for in groups A45C1/00-A45C9/00
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/001—Accessories
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/04—Frames
- A45C13/06—Frame closures
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid luggage
- A45C5/14—Rigid or semi-rigid luggage with built-in rolling means
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid luggage
- A45C5/03—Suitcases
- A45C2005/032—Suitcases semi-rigid, i.e. resistant against deformation and resilient, e.g. with a resilient frame
- A45C2005/035—Suitcases semi-rigid, i.e. resistant against deformation and resilient, e.g. with a resilient frame soft-sided, i.e. with flexible side walls covering a rigid frame
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/02—Interior fittings; Means, e.g. inserts, for holding and packing articles
- A45C2013/026—Inserts
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C5/00—Rigid or semi-rigid luggage
- A45C5/02—Materials therefor
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45F—TRAVELLING OR CAMP EQUIPMENT: SACKS OR PACKS CARRIED ON THE BODY
- A45F2200/00—Details not otherwise provided for in A45F
- A45F2200/05—Holder or carrier for specific articles
- A45F2200/0533—Cameras, e.g. reflex, digital, video camera
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates generally to luggage articles, and more specifically to a panel frame structure for a luggage article.
- Some softside luggage cases include a frame structure or arrangement to support a luggage case housing.
- Traditional frame configurations include frame structures that are fixed (e.g., stitched) to the luggage case.
- the structure attaching the frame structure to the luggage case housing presents visible indications of such attachment, such as piping or other visible binding on the exterior of the luggage case.
- Some luggage cases also include stitched closed sleeves with small openings at the ends thereof to receive frame members (e.g., rods) to secure the frame members to the panels of the luggage case. Such configurations may add unnecessary weight to the luggage case. Visible indications of the frame structure may also limit creativity in the aesthetic design of the luggage case.
- Documents that may be related to the present disclosure include DE202010004883U1 , EP2363037B1 , EP2779861A1 , EP2873342A1 , FR2949950A1 , GB2184940A , GB2440206B , GB2441580B , GB2477087A , US7896143B2 , US7984797B2 , US8727083B2 , US2016235173A1 , and US2017000232A1 .
- US2005167428A1 describes a collapsible structure having a top panel, bottom panel, side panels, a front panel and a rear panel releasably attached and forming an enclosure having a door. Each top, bottom, and side panel comprises a two-ply web of material and a removably seated continuous loop frame.
- the present disclosure provides a luggage article, as described below and defined in the accompanying claims.
- the luggage article comprises a fabric panel having an outer periphery and a pocket having edges defining an inner periphery defined inwardly from the outer periphery; a frame defining a closed loop corresponding at least partially to the outer periphery of the fabric panel; and a base; the frame is received within the pocket unattached to the fabric panel and outwardly biased against the inner periphery of the pocket;
- the fabric panel comprises a front panel of the luggage article, the front panel defining a lid of the luggage article; the front panel is hingedly connected to the base, the base and the lid being defined by a line of separation such that the luggage article is transformable between a closed configuration and an open configuration, via relative movement between the lid and the base; and the frame is removable from the pocket and the fabric panel.
- the frame may be secured in place without additional (or visible) elements. Additionally, the frame may tension the fabric of the pocket.
- the pocket may be defined inwardly around the inside of the fabric panel.
- the pocket may be located and open to the inside of the fabric panel.
- the fabric panel may include an exterior surface and an interior surface.
- the pocket may be defined on the interior surface of the fabric panel.
- the pocket may be a fabric pocket.
- the pocket may define an opening inwardly from the outer periphery of the fabric panel and through which the frame is received to position the frame within the pocket.
- the opening may extend around the entirety of the inner periphery of the pocket.
- the pocket may define a perimeter groove in which to receive the frame.
- the pocket may be defined by a fabric strip extending adjacent the outer periphery of the fabric panel, and preferably attached to the outer periphery of the fabric panel.
- the fabric strip may extend a distance inwardly from the outer periphery of the fabric panel.
- the fabric strip may include an inner perimeter edge with a perimeter smaller than the outer periphery of the fabric panel.
- the frame may be restrained by the pocket to outwardly tension the fabric panel.
- the frame may include interconnected elongate elements.
- the frame may include four elongate pulltrusions connected together by corner connectors.
- the elongate pulltrusions at each corner may be positioned at 90 degrees or greater than 90 degrees to each other.
- the luggage article includes a base.
- a front panel defines a lid of the luggage article.
- the front panel is hingedly connected to the base.
- the fabric panel includes the front panel.
- the base and the lid are defined by a line of separation such that the luggage article is transformable between a closed configuration and an open configuration, via relative movement between the lid and the base.
- the frame is removable from the pocket and the fabric panel.
- the frame and the inner periphery of the pocket may be rectangular or square.
- the pocket may be defined by one or more inner panels with a slot opening through which the frame is received.
- the luggage article may include a plurality of panels, each panel including a frame within a pocket.
- a frame structure is provided that is configured to support a fabric panel comprising the front panel of a luggage article according to claim 1.
- the frame structure includes a frame that is positioned within a pocket or void space defined by or within the fabric panel.
- the frame floats" within the pocket to provide structural support and/or shape to the fabric panel. More specifically, the frame is not fixedly attached to the pocket or to any other portion of the fabric panel during use. Rather, the frame engages and biases outwardly against an inner periphery of the pocket.
- the bias provided by the frame may create a tension force in the material of the fabric panel.
- a luggage article 100 includes a housing 102 formed from a plurality of walls or panels (hereinafter "panels" for the sake of convenience without intent to limit) defining an internal storage volume in which to carry a user's belongings.
- the luggage article 100 includes opposing front and rear panels 104, 106 and a plurality of side panels extending between the front and rear panels 104, 106.
- the luggage article 100 may include opposing top and bottom panels 108, 110 and opposing left and right side panels 112, 114 that collectively define the housing 102 in combination with the front and rear panels 104, 106.
- the various panels may be configured or arranged to provide a desired size and shape of the housing 102.
- the various panels may be sized and shaped such that the luggage article 100 is taller than it is wide, wider than it is deep, or the like.
- the luggage article 100 includes a base 120 and a lid 122 defined by a line of separation 124.
- the luggage article 100 is transformable between different configurations, such as between a closed configuration and an open configuration, via relative movement between the lid 122 and the base 120.
- the lid 122 may be hingedly attached to the base 120, such as by a hinge structure 130 or similar mechanism. In such embodiments, the lid 122 may be pivoted towards or away from the base 120 to close or open the luggage article 100, respectively.
- the lid 122 which may be referred to as a first luggage portion or section, may be defined by many combinations of panels.
- the lid 122 may be defined by the front panel 104, either entirely or in part.
- the lid 122 may be defined by the front panel 104 and at least portions of the top, bottom, left side, and/or right side panels 108, 110, 112, 114 such that the lid 122 includes sidewall portions.
- the base 120 which may be referred to as a second luggage portion or section, may be defined by many combinations of remaining panels.
- the base 120 may be defined by the rear, top, bottom, left side, and right side panels 106, 108, 110, 112, 114.
- the hinge structure 130 may be a fabric strip, a piano hinge, a living hinge, spaced-apart discrete hinges, a zipper structure, an articulating joint made of elastomeric material, or the like.
- the luggage article 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 is an upright spinner case, such as a softside luggage case, but may be any type of luggage article 100, such as a purse, a bag, a container, a backpack, etc.
- the housing 102 of the luggage article 100 may be formed at least partially from softside material, entirely from softside material, entirely from hardside material, or in a hybrid construction of softside material and hardside material.
- at least one of the various panels may be formed from softside material with the remaining panels formed from any combination of softside material and hardside material.
- the base 120 may be formed completely from hardside material, with the lid 122 formed at least partially from softside material
- the luggage article 100 may include at least one fabric panel 140.
- the fabric panel 140 comprises the front panel 104 and may also include a combination of the other panels of the luggage article 100, such as the left side panel 112, or the right side panel 114, or any combination thereof. As described more fully below, the fabric panel 140 is supported structurally separate from the rest of the luggage article 100. For instance, the fabric panel 140 may be associated with a frame assembly separate from any other structural element of the luggage article 100.
- the luggage article 100 may include one or more support members 150 to support the luggage article 100 against a support surface (e.g., against the ground).
- the support members 150 which may be a foot, a fixed wheel assembly, a spinner wheel assembly, or any combination thereof, may be positioned on any suitable panel, such as on the bottom panel 110.
- the luggage article 100 may also include one or more carry handles and/or a retractable tow handle 152.
- the luggage article 100 may include a top carry handle 154 coupled to the top panel 108.
- the retractable tow handle 152 may be extendable from the top panel 108 (such as from adjacent the intersection between the top and rear panels 108, 106) of the luggage article 100.
- the luggage article 100 may include a closure mechanism 160 to selectively secure the lid 122 and the base 120 together.
- the closure mechanism 160 may be positioned along or adjacent the line of separation 124 between the lid 122 and the base 120 (such as along a periphery of the lid 122, etc.) to allow selective actuation for opening and closing of the luggage article 100.
- the closure mechanism 160 In an open configuration, the closure mechanism 160 is disengaged along substantially the entire length of the line of separation 124, thereby allowing the lid 122 and the base 120 to pivot relative to each other to any amount from partially open to fully open.
- a closed configuration the closure mechanism 160 is engaged along at least a portion of the length of the line of separation 124 to limit relative movement between the lid 122 and the base 120.
- the closure mechanism 160 may be any suitable closure device or system.
- the closure mechanism 160 may be a zip closure or attachment, though other types of closure devices are contemplated, including one or more latches spaced along the line of separation 124.
- the zip attachment may extend along at least three edges of the lid 122, the hinge structure 130 being positioned on a remaining edge of the lid 122.
- the luggage article 100 includes a frame structure 170 supporting the housing 102.
- the frame structure 170 which may be positioned at least partially internal to the housing 102, may include various elements, either interconnected together, positioned separately from one another, or a combination of both.
- the frame structure 170 may include a top pan structure 172, a bottom pan structure 174, and one or more panel frames, such as a pair of side panel frames 176 and a frame 178.
- the side panel frames 176 may be connected to and extend between the top and bottom pan structures 172, 174 to define a frame assembly 180 for the base 120.
- the top pan structure 172, the bottom pan structure 174, and the pair of side panel frames 176 may be connected together to support the top panel 108, the bottom panel 110, and the opposing left and right side panels 112, 114 of the base 120, respectively.
- the frame 178 may be separate from any other element of the frame structure 170 to provide independent support of the lid 122.
- the frame 178 is associated with the fabric panel 140 (and with the front panel 104) to support the fabric panel 140 irrespective and independent of the support provided to other portions of the housing 102.
- the housing 102 may cover at least a portion of the frame structure 170.
- portions of the frame structure 170 e.g., the top pan structure 172, the bottom pan structure 174, the side panel frames 176, and/or the frame 178, may be positioned within the housing 102 of the luggage article 100.
- the frame structure 170 may be covered by the material of the housing 102, such as covered by softside material.
- at least portions of the frame structure 170 may be received in a hem, a pocket, one or more discrete loops, or a groove defined within the housing 102, as described below.
- the hem, pocket, loops, or groove may be positioned or secured along at least portions of the frame structure 170 to couple the frame structure 170 to the housing 102.
- the frame structure 170 may be coupled to the hardside material and/or the softside material.
- portions of the frame structure 170 e.g., the top pan structure 172, the bottom structure, and/or the side panel frames 176) may be formed integrally with the hardside material defining a portion of at least one panel of the housing 102.
- the frame structure 170 may be coupled to the hardside material via fasteners, corresponding retention features, adhesive, or the like.
- FIG. 2 is an exploded isometric view of the frame 178.
- the frame 178 includes interconnected elongate elements 190, which may define a closed loop in some embodiments.
- the elongate elements 190 may be connected together via corner connectors 192.
- the frame 178 may include four elongate elements 190 connected together by four corner connectors 192, though other suitable configurations are contemplated.
- the frame 178 may be characterized as substantially any permutation of elongate elements 190 and corner connectors 192.
- the frame 178 may be defined by any number of elongate elements 190 (e.g., one elongate element 190, two elongate elements 190, three elongate elements 190, four elongate elements 190, five elongate elements 190, etc.) and any number of corner connectors 192 (e.g., no corner connectors 192, one corner connector 192, two corner connectors 192, three corner connectors 192, four corner connectors 192, five corner connectors 192, etc.).
- corner connectors 192 e.g., no corner connectors 192, one corner connector 192, two corner connectors 192, three corner connectors 192, four corner connectors 192, five corner connectors 192, etc.
- the frame 178 may include an equal number of elongate elements 190 and corner connectors 192, or may include a different number of elongate elements 190 compared to corner connectors 192 (e.g., more elongate elements 190 than corner connectors 192, less elongate elements 190 than corner connectors 192, etc.).
- the frame 178 is sized to match a dimension of the fabric panel 140 to tension the fabric panel 140 and be retained therewith.
- the frame 178 may be outwardly biased against a peripheral edge 194 of the fabric panel 140 to suitably tension the fabric panel 140 for use.
- the frame 178 may engage at least a portion of the inside of the peripheral edge 194 of the fabric panel 140 and bias outwardly to create a tension force in the fabric panel 140.
- the frame 178 may not be affixed to the fabric panel 140 other than by an outwardly or inwardly biased force against the fabric panel 140.
- inwardly means within or generally towards the interior (e.g., the center) of the fabric panel 140, such as generally in the directions marked “D” in FIG. 2 .
- outwardly means generally away from the center of the fabric panel 140, such as generally opposite the directions marked “D” in FIG. 2 .
- internal means inner, within, or inside, such as within the internal storage volume of the housing 102 when the luggage article 100 is in the closed configuration.
- exterior means situated on or relating to the outside of the housing 102 when the luggage article 100 is in the closed configuration.
- the peripheral edge 194 may define a periphery or a peripheral portion of any area of the fabric panel 140, such as an entire frontal area of the fabric panel 140, a smaller limited area of the fabric panel 140, or the like.
- the frame 178 may be formed from planar strips, such that the elongate elements 190 and the corner connectors 192 are positioned within a common plane. As shown, the frame 178 may form a substantially rectangular shape with rounded corners, though the frame 178 may be formed in other suitable shapes, such as trapezoidal or circular, among others.
- the elongate elements 190 which may be elongate pulltrusions, rods, wires, or the like, may extend in a straight or a substantially straight line, may be curved along their lengths, or may include a combination of straight and curved segments.
- the elongate elements 190 may provide a lightweight characteristic to the frame 178.
- the elongate elements 190 may provide a composite structure of the frame 178 that is relatively strong for its weight.
- the elongate elements 190 may include a diameter ranging between about 2mm to about 10mm (preferably between about 3.5mm to about 6.5mm), though other dimensions are contemplated depending on the size, weight, and/or strength requirements of the frame 178.
- the corner connectors 192 may be shaped to position adjacent elongate elements 190 at a desired angle to each other.
- the corner connectors 192 may be shaped such that the elongate elements 190 at each corner are positioned at or substantially at 90 degrees relative to each other.
- the corner connectors 192 may be shaped such that the elongate elements 190 at each corner are positioned at an angle greater than 90 degrees to create an outward force on the material of the fabric panel 140 over the whole circumference of the fabric panel 140 and not just in the corners.
- the elongate elements 190 at each corner may extend at about or greater than a 95 degree angle to each other to pretension the fabric panel 140 outwardly.
- Each corner connector may be curved and may be formed from the same or different material of the elongate elements 190.
- the curved characteristic of the corner connectors 192 may allow smooth positioning of the frame 178 relative to the fabric panel 140 and/or limit damage to the fabric panel 140, especially when compared to frame corners having sharp edges.
- each corner connector 192 may have a main body 196 defining one or more recesses 198 to receive the elongate elements 190.
- the elongate elements 190 may be connected to the corner connectors 192 in substantially any manner.
- the elongate elements 190 may include end regions 200 designed to be slid into or otherwise positioned within the recesses 198 defined in the corner connectors 192. This may allow simple and quick assembly of the frame 178. For instance, engagement of the elongate elements 190 within the recesses 198 may reduce or eliminate the need for mechanical fasteners (e.g., rivets or screws) for assembly.
- the end regions 200 and/or the recesses 198 may be configured such that the end regions 200 are interference fit within the recesses 198.
- the end regions 200 of the elongate elements 190 may be sized annularly larger than the recesses 198 to frictionally engage the elongate elements 190 within the recesses 198.
- each recess 198 may define a gap in a sidewall of the main body 196 to allow resilient expansion of the recess 198 upon insertion of the elongate elements 190 therein.
- the elongate elements 190 e.g., the end regions 200 of the elongate elements 190
- the end regions 200 of the elongate elements 190 may be secured to the corner connectors 192 in other manners, such as via fasteners, heat or sonic welding, adhesive, or the like.
- the elongate elements 190 may be formed integrally with the corner connectors 192, such as by the frame 178 being formed by a single wire or other loop.
- the end regions 200 may have a circular or non-circular cross-section keyed to the profile shape of the recesses 198 of the corner connectors 192.
- a non-circular cross-section may limit twisting in the frame 178 by limiting rotation of the elongate elements 190 relative to the corner connectors 192.
- a non-circular profile shape of the elongate elements 190 may limit rotation of the elongate elements 190 about their longitudinal axes, thereby limiting twisting or flexion of the frame 178 and the fabric panel 140 coupled thereto.
- the end regions 200 may have a teardrop, elliptical, polygonal, or other non-circular cross-section shape.
- the recesses 198 defined in the corner connectors 192 may include a corresponding shape to matingly receive an end of the elongate elements 190 and limit rotation of the elongate elements 190 within the recesses 198.
- the frame 178 may provide any desired aesthetic or functional property.
- the frame 178 may be designed to be resiliently flexible or semi-rigid.
- the frame 178 may resiliently deform or deflect during use, such as to absorb impacts to the luggage article 100 (e.g., to the fabric panel 140) and/or allow the frame 178 to be coupled to the fabric panel 140, as explained below.
- the frame 178 may be designed to resist inward deformation or deflection. More specifically, as portions of the frame 178 are induced to deform or deflect inwardly (such as in the directions marked "D" in FIG. 2 ), the frame 178 may provide an outwardly directed biasing force resisting such deformation or deflection.
- the resistance to inward deformation or deflection may be provided by the material properties of the elongate elements 190, by the connection structure between the elongate elements 190 and the corner connectors 192, and/or by the relative positioning of the elongate elements 190 and the corner connectors 192.
- the frame 178 may include one or more cross braces extending between two elongate elements 190 to limit inward deformation or deflection of the frame 178.
- one or more cross braces may extend from a middle portion of one elongate element 190 to a middle portion of the elongate element 190 positioned at an opposite side of the frame 178.
- each side panel frame 176 may include elongate members 204 interconnected together with one or more connectors 206, either fixedly or otherwise.
- one or more of the elongate members 204 may be connected, either fixedly or removably, to the top pan structure 172 and/or to the bottom pan structure 174.
- the elongate members 204 may be connected to the connectors 206, the top pan structure 172, and/or the bottom pan structure 174 in any suitable manner, including a manner similar to that explained above with respect to the elongate elements 190 and the corner connectors 192.
- the elongate members 204 may be received at least partially within slots or cavities defined in the connectors 206, the top pan structure 172, and/or the bottom pan structure 174.
- the side panel frames 176 may include one or more cross braces 208 connected to and extending between adjacent elongate members 204.
- the cross braces 208 which may add torsional and/or lateral rigidity to the side panel frames 176, may be positioned along the height of the luggage article 100 between the top pan structure 172 and the bottom pan structure 174.
- FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the fabric panel 140, which comprises the front panel 104.
- FIG. 6 is an isometric view of an additional embodiment of the fabric panel 140.
- the fabric panel 140 includes an outer periphery 210 defining the perimeter of the fabric panel 140.
- the closed loop defined by the frame 178 may correspond to the outer periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140.
- the frame 178 may include the same or substantially the same shape and/or length as the outer periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140.
- the fabric panel 140 includes a pocket 212 defined inwardly from the outer periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140.
- the pocket 212 may be an inside pocket or an outside pocket.
- the pocket 212 may be located and open on the inside of the fabric panel 140.
- the frame 178 is received within the pocket 212 to provide structural support for the fabric panel 140.
- the frame is removable from the pocket 212 and the fabric panel 140.
- the fabric layers, zipper, and piping are joined fixed together with a visible stitching margin. This margin is then covered by a binding material. Although the binding material may be position inside some traditional luggage cases, such configurations may be considered as less finished.
- the construction of the present disclosure allows the fabric panel 140 to be assembled with hidden seams as it can be turned inside out after the assembly stitching.
- the frame 178 may be inserted within the pocket 212 to tension the fabric panel 140.
- the frame 178 is restrained within the pocket 212 and outer peripheral edges thereof to outwardly tension the fabric panel 140.
- the pocket 212 which may be referred to as a peripheral pocket, may have substantially any shape or configuration.
- the pocket 212 may be a fabric pocket, such as formed from one or more fabric sheets, panels, or strips.
- the pocket 212 may be defined by two or more fabric sheets 214 at least partially attached (e.g., stitched) along or adjacent to the outer periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140, such as on the inside of the fabric panel 140.
- the fabric sheets 214 may, either collectively or individually, be considered an inner panel of the fabric panel 140.
- the pocket 212 may be defined between the two or more fabric sheets 214 and an inner surface 216 of the fabric panel 140.
- the line of attachment of the fabric sheets 214 to the fabric panel 140 may define an inner periphery 218 of the pocket 212 for engagement of the frame 178 thereto, as described more fully below.
- the inner periphery 218 may be rectangular or square in shape.
- the frame 178 may include a corresponding or dissimilar shape.
- the pocket 212 may define an opening 220 through which the frame 178 is received to position the frame 178 within the pocket 212.
- the two or more fabric sheets 214 may not be permanently or fixedly attached to one another to define a slit or slot opening 220 therebetween and through which the peripheral frame is received to position the peripheral frame within the pocket 212.
- the opening 220 may be defined inwardly from the outer periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140.
- the opening 220 may be defined at or adjacent the center of the fabric panel 140, within an upper portion of the fabric panel 140, within a lower portion of the fabric panel 140, or the like.
- the opening 220 may extend around the entirety of the inner periphery 218 of the pocket 212.
- the opening 220 may be selectively closed.
- the opening 220 may be selectively closed by a zipper, hook and loop fasteners, snap fasteners, clips, or the like.
- the frame 178 engages and biases outwardly against the inner periphery 218 of the pocket 212 (see FIGS. 4 , 5 , and 7 ).
- the frame 178 may be slightly larger in size than the pocket 212 along at least one direction in order to bias outwardly against the inner periphery 218.
- the frame 178 may be slightly smaller in size than the pocket 212 along at least one direction in order to bias inwardly against the inner periphery 218.
- the outward bias of the frame 178 against the inner periphery 218 of the pocket 212 may create a tension force in the material of the fabric panel 140.
- the inner periphery 218 of the pocket 212 may be defined inwardly adjacent the outer periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140.
- the pocket 212 is much more open and may be defined by a fabric strip 230 extending adjacent the outer periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140.
- the pocket 212 includes a peripheral gutter or channel extending around the outer periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140, as explained below.
- the fabric strip 230 may be a separate element attached to the fabric panel 140.
- the fabric strip 230 may be formed from the same material defining the fabric panel 140 but turned over as a seam.
- the fabric strip 230 may include an outer perimeter edge 232 and an inner perimeter edge 234.
- the outer perimeter edge 232 may be attached (e.g., stitched) to the fabric panel 140, such as along or adjacent to the outer periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140.
- the inner perimeter edge 234 may be unattached to define the opening 220 between the inner perimeter edge 234 of the fabric strip 230 and the inner surface 216 of the fabric panel 140.
- the fabric strip 230 e.g., the inner perimeter edge 234
- the perimeter groove 236 may be defined by the fabric sheets 214. As shown in FIG.
- the perimeter groove 236 (also referred to as a channel) may be defined by a bottom wall 238 and first and second sidewalls 240, 242 extending from the bottom wall 238.
- the first and second sidewalls 240, 242 may extend from the bottom wall 238 in a spaced apart relationship such that the opening 220 is defined between the first and second sidewalls 240, 242.
- the perimeter groove 236 may be u-shaped to receive the frame 178 therein.
- the perimeter groove 236 may be open to the inside or to the center of the luggage article 100.
- the perimeter groove 236 may be open to the center of the fabric panel 140.
- the fabric strip 230 may define the first sidewall 240 of the perimeter groove 236, with the inner surface 216 of the fabric panel 140 defining at least a portion of the opposite second sidewall 242. Additionally or alternatively, the fabric strip 230 may curve around the frame 178 such that the fabric strip 230 defines at least portions of the bottom wall 238 and the first and second sidewalls 240, 242. For instance, as shown in FIG. 7 , the second sidewall 242 of the perimeter groove 236 may be defined by portions of the fabric strip 230 and the inner surface 216 of the fabric panel 140 in combination. The bottom wall 238 of the perimeter groove 236 may define the inner periphery 218 of the pocket 212 against which the frame 178 engages and is biased against.
- the inner perimeter edge 234 of the fabric strip 230 may have a perimeter smaller than the inner periphery 218 of the pocket 212 such that the fabric strip 230 extends a distance inwardly from the inner periphery 218.
- the frame 178 may be restrained within the perimeter groove 236 between the inner surface 216 of the fabric panel 140 and the fabric strip 230.
- the fabric strip 230 may define all of or a portion of both of the sidewalls of the groove 236.
- the pocket 212 may be defined in other configurations.
- the pocket may be defined by a U-shaped divider in the fabric panel 140.
- the frame 178 may be held behind the gusset of the U-shaped divider.
- the pocket 212 may be a dedicated pocket or void space defined in the fabric panel 140.
- the pocket 212 may be defined within or between the layers of the lamina defining the fabric panel 140, within a zip pocket defined on the outer surface of the fabric panel 140, or similar.
- FIG. 4 is a partial cut-away view of the fabric panel 140 of FIG. 3 and showing the frame 178 positioned within the pocket 212.
- FIG. 5 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of FIG. 6 showing the frame 178 within the pocket 212.
- FIG. 7 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the fabric panel 140 of FIG. 6 and showing the frame 178 positioned within an additional pocket 212. Referring to FIGS. 4 , 5 , and 7 , the frame 178 is unattached to the fabric panel 140, to any other element of the frame structure 170, or to any other element of the luggage article 100 when positioned within the pocket 212.
- the frame 178 is not affixed within the pocket 212 other than by an outwardly biased force against the pocket 212, such as against the inner periphery 218 of the pocket 212, to position the frame 178 relative to the fabric panel 140 as well as to outwardly tension the fabric panel 140.
- the frame 178 may "float" within the pocket 212, wherein “floating” means not fixedly attached to the fabric panel 140 or to any other element of the luggage article, whether tensioned against the inner periphery 218 or not.
- the frame 178 may be inserted within the opening 220 (such as within the perimeter groove 236 or between the two or more fabric sheets 214) until the frame 178 at least partially abuts against at least a portion of the inner periphery 218 of the pocket 212.
- the remaining portion of the frame 178 may then be positioned against the inner periphery 218 of the pocket 212.
- one of the fabric sheets 214 or portions of the fabric strip 230 may be pulled or otherwise positioned over the frame 178 such that the entirety of the frame 178 is positioned within the pocket 212 and against the inner periphery 218 of the pocket 212.
- an upper fabric sheet 214 may be bent and pulled over the frame 178.
- resilient deformation of the frame 178 e.g., slight bending, twisting, etc.
- the frame 178 is biased against the pocket 212 to limit relative movement therebetween, such as via outward tension of the frame 178 against the inner periphery 218 of the pocket 212.
- the frame 178 may maintain a shape of the fabric panel 140, such as to limit folding, collapsing, or other similar deformation of the fabric panel 140.
- the luggage article 100 e.g., the housing 102, the fabric panel 140, etc.
- the frame structure 170 e.g., the frame 178
- the corner connectors 192 may be formed from a thermoplastic material (self-reinforced or fiber reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, and/or PTFE, among others.
- the elongate elements 190 may be extruded from aluminum or other similar metal.
- the elongate elements 190 may be formed from fiber reinforced epoxy, resin, or other similar material.
- the corner connectors 192 as well as other portions of the frame structure 170 may be formed or molded in any suitable manner, such as by plug molding, blow molding, injection molding, extrusion, casting, or the like.
- the luggage article 100 may be formed from softside material and/or hardside material.
- the softside material may be nylon, canvas, polyester, leather, PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene, and/or PTFE, among others.
- the hardside material may be a thermoplastic material (self-reinforced or fiber reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, and/or PTFE, among others.
Landscapes
- Purses, Travelling Bags, Baskets, Or Suitcases (AREA)
Description
- The present disclosure relates generally to luggage articles, and more specifically to a panel frame structure for a luggage article.
- Some softside luggage cases include a frame structure or arrangement to support a luggage case housing. Traditional frame configurations, however, include frame structures that are fixed (e.g., stitched) to the luggage case. In some luggage cases, the structure attaching the frame structure to the luggage case housing presents visible indications of such attachment, such as piping or other visible binding on the exterior of the luggage case. Some luggage cases also include stitched closed sleeves with small openings at the ends thereof to receive frame members (e.g., rods) to secure the frame members to the panels of the luggage case. Such configurations may add unnecessary weight to the luggage case. Visible indications of the frame structure may also limit creativity in the aesthetic design of the luggage case.
- It is therefore desirable to provide an improved luggage case, and more specifically an improved frame structure that addresses one or all of the above described problems and/or which more generally offers improvements or an alternative to existing arrangements.
- Documents that may be related to the present disclosure include
DE202010004883U1 ,EP2363037B1 ,EP2779861A1 ,EP2873342A1 ,FR2949950A1 GB2184940A GB2440206B GB2441580B GB2477087A US7896143B2 ,US7984797B2 ,US8727083B2 ,US2016235173A1 , andUS2017000232A1 .US2005167428A1 describes a collapsible structure having a top panel, bottom panel, side panels, a front panel and a rear panel releasably attached and forming an enclosure having a door. Each top, bottom, and side panel comprises a two-ply web of material and a removably seated continuous loop frame. - The present disclosure provides a luggage article, as described below and defined in the accompanying claims. The luggage article comprises a fabric panel having an outer periphery and a pocket having edges defining an inner periphery defined inwardly from the outer periphery;a frame defining a closed loop corresponding at least partially to the outer periphery of the fabric panel; and a base; the frame is received within the pocket unattached to the fabric panel and outwardly biased against the inner periphery of the pocket; the fabric panel comprises a front panel of the luggage article, the front panel defining a lid of the luggage article; the front panel is hingedly connected to the base, the base and the lid being defined by a line of separation such that the luggage article is transformable between a closed configuration and an open configuration, via relative movement between the lid and the base; and the frame is removable from the pocket and the fabric panel.
- In this manner, the frame may be secured in place without additional (or visible) elements. Additionally, the frame may tension the fabric of the pocket.
- This arrangement of not fixing the frame to the panel by means of stitching or stitched closed pockets or otherwise simplifies the manufacturing steps and assembly of the luggage article. Moreover, the biasing of the frame within the pocket, and forming the pocket of sufficient size to overlap the frame edges, sufficiently retains the frame within the panel, without the frame inadvertently falling out of the pocket and without such need for additional, more secure fixation as has been traditionally adopted with more fully stitched pockets.
- In some embodiments, the pocket may be defined inwardly around the inside of the fabric panel. The pocket may be located and open to the inside of the fabric panel. The fabric panel may include an exterior surface and an interior surface. The pocket may be defined on the interior surface of the fabric panel. The pocket may be a fabric pocket.
- In some embodiments, the pocket may define an opening inwardly from the outer periphery of the fabric panel and through which the frame is received to position the frame within the pocket. The opening may extend around the entirety of the inner periphery of the pocket.
- In some embodiments, the pocket may define a perimeter groove in which to receive the frame.
- In some embodiments, the pocket may be defined by a fabric strip extending adjacent the outer periphery of the fabric panel, and preferably attached to the outer periphery of the fabric panel. The fabric strip may extend a distance inwardly from the outer periphery of the fabric panel. The fabric strip may include an inner perimeter edge with a perimeter smaller than the outer periphery of the fabric panel.
- In some embodiments, the frame may be restrained by the pocket to outwardly tension the fabric panel.
- In some embodiments, the frame may include interconnected elongate elements. The frame may include four elongate pulltrusions connected together by corner connectors. The elongate pulltrusions at each corner may be positioned at 90 degrees or greater than 90 degrees to each other.
- The luggage article includes a base. A front panel defines a lid of the luggage article. The front panel is hingedly connected to the base. The fabric panel includes the front panel. The base and the lid are defined by a line of separation such that the luggage article is transformable between a closed configuration and an open configuration, via relative movement between the lid and the base.
- The frame is removable from the pocket and the fabric panel.
- In some embodiments, the frame and the inner periphery of the pocket may be rectangular or square.
- In some embodiments, the pocket may be defined by one or more inner panels with a slot opening through which the frame is received.
- In some embodiments, the luggage article may include a plurality of panels, each panel including a frame within a pocket.
- Additional embodiments and 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.
- 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 embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be construed as a complete recitation of the scope of the disclosure, characterized in that:
-
FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a luggage article showing an internal frame structure in dash for illustration purposes; -
FIG. 2 is an exploded isometric view of a frame of the frame structure; -
FIG. 3 is a rear fragmentary isometric view of a fabric panel of the luggage article, with other portions of the luggage article removed for clarity, and showing the frame positioned above an opening in the fabric panel and ready for insertion into a pocket through the opening, and showing the frame inserted within the pocket (in dash); -
FIG. 4 is a partial cut-away view of the fabric panel shown inFig. 3 and showing the frame within the pocket and engaging an inner periphery thereof; -
FIG. 5 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the frame within the pocket and taken along line 5-5 ofFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 6 is a rear fragmentary isometric view of an additional embodiment of the fabric panel of the luggage article, and showing the frame engaging an inner periphery of the pocket formed by a channel structure or groove, with other portions of the luggage article removed for clarity; and -
FIG. 7 is a fragmentary cross sectional view of the frame within the pocket and taken along line 7-7 ofFig. 6 . - According to the present disclosure, a frame structure is provided that is configured to support a fabric panel comprising the front panel of a luggage article according to claim 1. The frame structure includes a frame that is positioned within a pocket or void space defined by or within the fabric panel. As explained below, the frame "floats" within the pocket to provide structural support and/or shape to the fabric panel. More specifically, the frame is not fixedly attached to the pocket or to any other portion of the fabric panel during use. Rather, the frame engages and biases outwardly against an inner periphery of the pocket. In one embodiment, the bias provided by the frame may create a tension force in the material of the fabric panel.
- According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, illustrated in
FIG. 1 , aluggage article 100 includes ahousing 102 formed from a plurality of walls or panels (hereinafter "panels" for the sake of convenience without intent to limit) defining an internal storage volume in which to carry a user's belongings. In one embodiment, theluggage article 100 includes opposing front andrear panels 104, 106 and a plurality of side panels extending between the front andrear panels 104, 106. For example, theluggage article 100 may include opposing top andbottom panels right side panels housing 102 in combination with the front andrear panels 104, 106. The various panels may be configured or arranged to provide a desired size and shape of thehousing 102. For example, the various panels may be sized and shaped such that theluggage article 100 is taller than it is wide, wider than it is deep, or the like. - With continued reference to
FIG. 1 , theluggage article 100 includes abase 120 and alid 122 defined by a line ofseparation 124. Theluggage article 100 is transformable between different configurations, such as between a closed configuration and an open configuration, via relative movement between thelid 122 and thebase 120. For example, thelid 122 may be hingedly attached to thebase 120, such as by ahinge structure 130 or similar mechanism. In such embodiments, thelid 122 may be pivoted towards or away from the base 120 to close or open theluggage article 100, respectively. Thelid 122, which may be referred to as a first luggage portion or section, may be defined by many combinations of panels. For example, thelid 122 may be defined by the front panel 104, either entirely or in part. In some embodiments, thelid 122 may be defined by the front panel 104 and at least portions of the top, bottom, left side, and/orright side panels lid 122 includes sidewall portions. In like manner, thebase 120, which may be referred to as a second luggage portion or section, may be defined by many combinations of remaining panels. For instance, thebase 120 may be defined by the rear, top, bottom, left side, andright side panels hinge structure 130 may be a fabric strip, a piano hinge, a living hinge, spaced-apart discrete hinges, a zipper structure, an articulating joint made of elastomeric material, or the like. - The
luggage article 100 illustrated inFIG. 1 is an upright spinner case, such as a softside luggage case, but may be any type ofluggage article 100, such as a purse, a bag, a container, a backpack, etc. In like manner, thehousing 102 of theluggage article 100 may be formed at least partially from softside material, entirely from softside material, entirely from hardside material, or in a hybrid construction of softside material and hardside material. For example, at least one of the various panels may be formed from softside material with the remaining panels formed from any combination of softside material and hardside material. In one embodiment, thebase 120 may be formed completely from hardside material, with thelid 122 formed at least partially from softside material In this manner, theluggage article 100 may include at least one fabric panel 140. The fabric panel 140 comprises the front panel 104 and may also include a combination of the other panels of theluggage article 100, such as theleft side panel 112, or theright side panel 114, or any combination thereof. As described more fully below, the fabric panel 140 is supported structurally separate from the rest of theluggage article 100. For instance, the fabric panel 140 may be associated with a frame assembly separate from any other structural element of theluggage article 100. - In some embodiments, the
luggage article 100 may include one ormore support members 150 to support theluggage article 100 against a support surface (e.g., against the ground). Thesupport members 150, which may be a foot, a fixed wheel assembly, a spinner wheel assembly, or any combination thereof, may be positioned on any suitable panel, such as on thebottom panel 110. In some embodiments, theluggage article 100 may also include one or more carry handles and/or aretractable tow handle 152. For example, as shown inFIG. 1 , theluggage article 100 may include atop carry handle 154 coupled to thetop panel 108. With continued reference toFIG. 1 , the retractable tow handle 152 may be extendable from the top panel 108 (such as from adjacent the intersection between the top andrear panels 108, 106) of theluggage article 100. - The
luggage article 100 may include aclosure mechanism 160 to selectively secure thelid 122 and the base 120 together. Theclosure mechanism 160 may be positioned along or adjacent the line ofseparation 124 between thelid 122 and the base 120 (such as along a periphery of thelid 122, etc.) to allow selective actuation for opening and closing of theluggage article 100. In an open configuration, theclosure mechanism 160 is disengaged along substantially the entire length of the line ofseparation 124, thereby allowing thelid 122 and the base 120 to pivot relative to each other to any amount from partially open to fully open. In a closed configuration, theclosure mechanism 160 is engaged along at least a portion of the length of the line ofseparation 124 to limit relative movement between thelid 122 and thebase 120. Theclosure mechanism 160 may be any suitable closure device or system. For instance, theclosure mechanism 160 may be a zip closure or attachment, though other types of closure devices are contemplated, including one or more latches spaced along the line ofseparation 124. In one embodiment, the zip attachment may extend along at least three edges of thelid 122, thehinge structure 130 being positioned on a remaining edge of thelid 122. - Continuing to refer to
FIG. 1 , theluggage article 100 includes aframe structure 170 supporting thehousing 102. Theframe structure 170, which may be positioned at least partially internal to thehousing 102, may include various elements, either interconnected together, positioned separately from one another, or a combination of both. For example, theframe structure 170 may include atop pan structure 172, abottom pan structure 174, and one or more panel frames, such as a pair of side panel frames 176 and aframe 178. The side panel frames 176 may be connected to and extend between the top andbottom pan structures frame assembly 180 for thebase 120. For example, thetop pan structure 172, thebottom pan structure 174, and the pair of side panel frames 176 may be connected together to support thetop panel 108, thebottom panel 110, and the opposing left andright side panels base 120, respectively. Theframe 178, on the other hand, may be separate from any other element of theframe structure 170 to provide independent support of thelid 122. Theframe 178 is associated with the fabric panel 140 (and with the front panel 104) to support the fabric panel 140 irrespective and independent of the support provided to other portions of thehousing 102. - As noted briefly above, the
housing 102 may cover at least a portion of theframe structure 170. For example, portions of the frame structure 170 (e.g., thetop pan structure 172, thebottom pan structure 174, the side panel frames 176, and/or the frame 178) may be positioned within thehousing 102 of theluggage article 100. In this manner, theframe structure 170 may be covered by the material of thehousing 102, such as covered by softside material. In one embodiment, at least portions of theframe structure 170 may be received in a hem, a pocket, one or more discrete loops, or a groove defined within thehousing 102, as described below. In these embodiments, the hem, pocket, loops, or groove may be positioned or secured along at least portions of theframe structure 170 to couple theframe structure 170 to thehousing 102. In embodiments having a hybrid case construction, theframe structure 170 may be coupled to the hardside material and/or the softside material. For example, portions of the frame structure 170 (e.g., thetop pan structure 172, the bottom structure, and/or the side panel frames 176) may be formed integrally with the hardside material defining a portion of at least one panel of thehousing 102. In some embodiments, theframe structure 170 may be coupled to the hardside material via fasteners, corresponding retention features, adhesive, or the like. -
FIG. 2 is an exploded isometric view of theframe 178. As shown inFIGS. 1 and2 , theframe 178 includes interconnectedelongate elements 190, which may define a closed loop in some embodiments. Theelongate elements 190 may be connected together viacorner connectors 192. In one embodiment, theframe 178 may include fourelongate elements 190 connected together by fourcorner connectors 192, though other suitable configurations are contemplated. For example, theframe 178 may be characterized as substantially any permutation ofelongate elements 190 andcorner connectors 192. For instance, theframe 178 may be defined by any number of elongate elements 190 (e.g., oneelongate element 190, twoelongate elements 190, threeelongate elements 190, fourelongate elements 190, fiveelongate elements 190, etc.) and any number of corner connectors 192 (e.g., nocorner connectors 192, onecorner connector 192, twocorner connectors 192, threecorner connectors 192, fourcorner connectors 192, fivecorner connectors 192, etc.). Depending on the particular application, theframe 178 may include an equal number ofelongate elements 190 andcorner connectors 192, or may include a different number ofelongate elements 190 compared to corner connectors 192 (e.g., moreelongate elements 190 thancorner connectors 192, lesselongate elements 190 thancorner connectors 192, etc.). - The
frame 178 is sized to match a dimension of the fabric panel 140 to tension the fabric panel 140 and be retained therewith. For example, as detailed below, theframe 178 may be outwardly biased against aperipheral edge 194 of the fabric panel 140 to suitably tension the fabric panel 140 for use. In such embodiments, theframe 178 may engage at least a portion of the inside of theperipheral edge 194 of the fabric panel 140 and bias outwardly to create a tension force in the fabric panel 140. As described more fully below, theframe 178 may not be affixed to the fabric panel 140 other than by an outwardly or inwardly biased force against the fabric panel 140. As described herein, "inwardly" means within or generally towards the interior (e.g., the center) of the fabric panel 140, such as generally in the directions marked "D" inFIG. 2 . In like manner, "outwardly" means generally away from the center of the fabric panel 140, such as generally opposite the directions marked "D" inFIG. 2 . As used herein, "interior" means inner, within, or inside, such as within the internal storage volume of thehousing 102 when theluggage article 100 is in the closed configuration. Similarly, "exterior" means situated on or relating to the outside of thehousing 102 when theluggage article 100 is in the closed configuration. Additionally, theperipheral edge 194 may define a periphery or a peripheral portion of any area of the fabric panel 140, such as an entire frontal area of the fabric panel 140, a smaller limited area of the fabric panel 140, or the like. - In some embodiments, the
frame 178 may be formed from planar strips, such that theelongate elements 190 and thecorner connectors 192 are positioned within a common plane. As shown, theframe 178 may form a substantially rectangular shape with rounded corners, though theframe 178 may be formed in other suitable shapes, such as trapezoidal or circular, among others. Theelongate elements 190, which may be elongate pulltrusions, rods, wires, or the like, may extend in a straight or a substantially straight line, may be curved along their lengths, or may include a combination of straight and curved segments. Theelongate elements 190 may provide a lightweight characteristic to theframe 178. In addition, theelongate elements 190 may provide a composite structure of theframe 178 that is relatively strong for its weight. Theelongate elements 190 may include a diameter ranging between about 2mm to about 10mm (preferably between about 3.5mm to about 6.5mm), though other dimensions are contemplated depending on the size, weight, and/or strength requirements of theframe 178. - The
corner connectors 192 may be shaped to position adjacentelongate elements 190 at a desired angle to each other. For instance, thecorner connectors 192 may be shaped such that theelongate elements 190 at each corner are positioned at or substantially at 90 degrees relative to each other. In some embodiments, thecorner connectors 192 may be shaped such that theelongate elements 190 at each corner are positioned at an angle greater than 90 degrees to create an outward force on the material of the fabric panel 140 over the whole circumference of the fabric panel 140 and not just in the corners. For example, theelongate elements 190 at each corner may extend at about or greater than a 95 degree angle to each other to pretension the fabric panel 140 outwardly. Each corner connector may be curved and may be formed from the same or different material of theelongate elements 190. The curved characteristic of thecorner connectors 192 may allow smooth positioning of theframe 178 relative to the fabric panel 140 and/or limit damage to the fabric panel 140, especially when compared to frame corners having sharp edges. As shown inFIG. 2 , eachcorner connector 192 may have amain body 196 defining one ormore recesses 198 to receive theelongate elements 190. - The
elongate elements 190 may be connected to thecorner connectors 192 in substantially any manner. For instance, theelongate elements 190 may include endregions 200 designed to be slid into or otherwise positioned within therecesses 198 defined in thecorner connectors 192. This may allow simple and quick assembly of theframe 178. For instance, engagement of theelongate elements 190 within therecesses 198 may reduce or eliminate the need for mechanical fasteners (e.g., rivets or screws) for assembly. In one embodiment, theend regions 200 and/or therecesses 198 may be configured such that theend regions 200 are interference fit within therecesses 198. For instance, theend regions 200 of theelongate elements 190 may be sized annularly larger than therecesses 198 to frictionally engage theelongate elements 190 within therecesses 198. In one embodiment, eachrecess 198 may define a gap in a sidewall of themain body 196 to allow resilient expansion of therecess 198 upon insertion of theelongate elements 190 therein. Additionally or alternatively, the elongate elements 190 (e.g., theend regions 200 of the elongate elements 190) may be formed from material or constructed in a manner permitting resilient deformation thereof to accommodate insertion of theelongate elements 190 within therecesses 198. Theend regions 200 of theelongate elements 190 may be secured to thecorner connectors 192 in other manners, such as via fasteners, heat or sonic welding, adhesive, or the like. In one embodiment, theelongate elements 190 may be formed integrally with thecorner connectors 192, such as by theframe 178 being formed by a single wire or other loop. - The
end regions 200 may have a circular or non-circular cross-section keyed to the profile shape of therecesses 198 of thecorner connectors 192. A non-circular cross-section may limit twisting in theframe 178 by limiting rotation of theelongate elements 190 relative to thecorner connectors 192. For example, a non-circular profile shape of theelongate elements 190 may limit rotation of theelongate elements 190 about their longitudinal axes, thereby limiting twisting or flexion of theframe 178 and the fabric panel 140 coupled thereto. Theend regions 200 may have a teardrop, elliptical, polygonal, or other non-circular cross-section shape. In such embodiments, therecesses 198 defined in thecorner connectors 192 may include a corresponding shape to matingly receive an end of theelongate elements 190 and limit rotation of theelongate elements 190 within therecesses 198. - The
frame 178 may provide any desired aesthetic or functional property. For example, theframe 178 may be designed to be resiliently flexible or semi-rigid. In such embodiments, theframe 178 may resiliently deform or deflect during use, such as to absorb impacts to the luggage article 100 (e.g., to the fabric panel 140) and/or allow theframe 178 to be coupled to the fabric panel 140, as explained below. For example, theframe 178 may be designed to resist inward deformation or deflection. More specifically, as portions of theframe 178 are induced to deform or deflect inwardly (such as in the directions marked "D" inFIG. 2 ), theframe 178 may provide an outwardly directed biasing force resisting such deformation or deflection. The resistance to inward deformation or deflection may be provided by the material properties of theelongate elements 190, by the connection structure between theelongate elements 190 and thecorner connectors 192, and/or by the relative positioning of theelongate elements 190 and thecorner connectors 192. In one embodiment, theframe 178 may include one or more cross braces extending between twoelongate elements 190 to limit inward deformation or deflection of theframe 178. For example, one or more cross braces may extend from a middle portion of oneelongate element 190 to a middle portion of theelongate element 190 positioned at an opposite side of theframe 178. - The side panel frames 176 may be configured as desired. For example, each
side panel frame 176 may include elongate members 204 interconnected together with one or more connectors 206, either fixedly or otherwise. In one embodiment, one or more of the elongate members 204 may be connected, either fixedly or removably, to thetop pan structure 172 and/or to thebottom pan structure 174. The elongate members 204 may be connected to the connectors 206, thetop pan structure 172, and/or thebottom pan structure 174 in any suitable manner, including a manner similar to that explained above with respect to theelongate elements 190 and thecorner connectors 192. For instance, the elongate members 204 may be received at least partially within slots or cavities defined in the connectors 206, thetop pan structure 172, and/or thebottom pan structure 174. In one embodiment, the side panel frames 176 may include one or more cross braces 208 connected to and extending between adjacent elongate members 204. The cross braces 208, which may add torsional and/or lateral rigidity to the side panel frames 176, may be positioned along the height of theluggage article 100 between thetop pan structure 172 and thebottom pan structure 174. -
FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the fabric panel 140, which comprises the front panel 104.FIG. 6 is an isometric view of an additional embodiment of the fabric panel 140. Referring toFIGS. 3 and6 , the fabric panel 140 includes anouter periphery 210 defining the perimeter of the fabric panel 140. As shown, the closed loop defined by theframe 178 may correspond to theouter periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140. For example, theframe 178 may include the same or substantially the same shape and/or length as theouter periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140. - The fabric panel 140 includes a
pocket 212 defined inwardly from theouter periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140. Depending on the particular application, thepocket 212 may be an inside pocket or an outside pocket. For example, thepocket 212 may be located and open on the inside of the fabric panel 140. Theframe 178 is received within thepocket 212 to provide structural support for the fabric panel 140. The frame is removable from thepocket 212 and the fabric panel 140. In some traditional frame configurations, the fabric layers, zipper, and piping are joined fixed together with a visible stitching margin. This margin is then covered by a binding material. Although the binding material may be position inside some traditional luggage cases, such configurations may be considered as less finished. The construction of the present disclosure, however, allows the fabric panel 140 to be assembled with hidden seams as it can be turned inside out after the assembly stitching. Once the fabric panel 140 is turned inside out, theframe 178 may be inserted within thepocket 212 to tension the fabric panel 140. For example, once positioned within thepocket 212, theframe 178 is restrained within thepocket 212 and outer peripheral edges thereof to outwardly tension the fabric panel 140. - The
pocket 212, which may be referred to as a peripheral pocket, may have substantially any shape or configuration. For example, thepocket 212 may be a fabric pocket, such as formed from one or more fabric sheets, panels, or strips. In one embodiment, illustrated inFIG. 3 , thepocket 212 may be defined by two ormore fabric sheets 214 at least partially attached (e.g., stitched) along or adjacent to theouter periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140, such as on the inside of the fabric panel 140. Thefabric sheets 214 may, either collectively or individually, be considered an inner panel of the fabric panel 140. In such embodiments, thepocket 212 may be defined between the two ormore fabric sheets 214 and aninner surface 216 of the fabric panel 140. The line of attachment of thefabric sheets 214 to the fabric panel 140 may define aninner periphery 218 of thepocket 212 for engagement of theframe 178 thereto, as described more fully below. As shown, theinner periphery 218 may be rectangular or square in shape. Depending on the particular application, theframe 178 may include a corresponding or dissimilar shape. - In the embodiments described herein, the
pocket 212 may define anopening 220 through which theframe 178 is received to position theframe 178 within thepocket 212. For example, the two ormore fabric sheets 214 may not be permanently or fixedly attached to one another to define a slit or slot opening 220 therebetween and through which the peripheral frame is received to position the peripheral frame within thepocket 212. Theopening 220 may be defined inwardly from theouter periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140. For instance, theopening 220 may be defined at or adjacent the center of the fabric panel 140, within an upper portion of the fabric panel 140, within a lower portion of the fabric panel 140, or the like. In one embodiment, theopening 220 may extend around the entirety of theinner periphery 218 of thepocket 212. Depending on the particular application, theopening 220 may be selectively closed. For example, theopening 220 may be selectively closed by a zipper, hook and loop fasteners, snap fasteners, clips, or the like. - Once positioned within the pocket 212 (such as through the opening 220), the
frame 178 engages and biases outwardly against theinner periphery 218 of the pocket 212 (seeFIGS. 4 ,5 , and7 ). In one embodiment, theframe 178 may be slightly larger in size than thepocket 212 along at least one direction in order to bias outwardly against theinner periphery 218. In another embodiment, theframe 178 may be slightly smaller in size than thepocket 212 along at least one direction in order to bias inwardly against theinner periphery 218. In such embodiments, the outward bias of theframe 178 against theinner periphery 218 of thepocket 212 may create a tension force in the material of the fabric panel 140. Theinner periphery 218 of thepocket 212 may be defined inwardly adjacent theouter periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140. - In another embodiment, illustrated in
FIGS. 6 and 7 , thepocket 212 is much more open and may be defined by afabric strip 230 extending adjacent theouter periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140. In this embodiment, thepocket 212 includes a peripheral gutter or channel extending around theouter periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140, as explained below. Thefabric strip 230 may be a separate element attached to the fabric panel 140. Alternatively, thefabric strip 230 may be formed from the same material defining the fabric panel 140 but turned over as a seam. Thefabric strip 230 may include anouter perimeter edge 232 and aninner perimeter edge 234. In such embodiments, theouter perimeter edge 232 may be attached (e.g., stitched) to the fabric panel 140, such as along or adjacent to theouter periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140. Theinner perimeter edge 234 may be unattached to define theopening 220 between theinner perimeter edge 234 of thefabric strip 230 and theinner surface 216 of the fabric panel 140. For example, the fabric strip 230 (e.g., the inner perimeter edge 234) may extend a distance inwardly from theouter periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140 to define aperimeter groove 236 in which to receive theframe 178. Alternatively, theperimeter groove 236 may be defined by thefabric sheets 214. As shown inFIG. 7 , the perimeter groove 236 (also referred to as a channel) may be defined by abottom wall 238 and first andsecond sidewalls bottom wall 238. The first andsecond sidewalls bottom wall 238 in a spaced apart relationship such that theopening 220 is defined between the first andsecond sidewalls perimeter groove 236 may be u-shaped to receive theframe 178 therein. In one embodiment, theperimeter groove 236 may be open to the inside or to the center of theluggage article 100. For example, theperimeter groove 236 may be open to the center of the fabric panel 140. - Depending on the particular application, the
fabric strip 230 may define thefirst sidewall 240 of theperimeter groove 236, with theinner surface 216 of the fabric panel 140 defining at least a portion of the oppositesecond sidewall 242. Additionally or alternatively, thefabric strip 230 may curve around theframe 178 such that thefabric strip 230 defines at least portions of thebottom wall 238 and the first andsecond sidewalls FIG. 7 , thesecond sidewall 242 of theperimeter groove 236 may be defined by portions of thefabric strip 230 and theinner surface 216 of the fabric panel 140 in combination. Thebottom wall 238 of theperimeter groove 236 may define theinner periphery 218 of thepocket 212 against which theframe 178 engages and is biased against. To restrain theframe 178 within theperimeter groove 236, theinner perimeter edge 234 of thefabric strip 230 may have a perimeter smaller than theinner periphery 218 of thepocket 212 such that thefabric strip 230 extends a distance inwardly from theinner periphery 218. As such, theframe 178 may be restrained within theperimeter groove 236 between theinner surface 216 of the fabric panel 140 and thefabric strip 230. Thefabric strip 230 may define all of or a portion of both of the sidewalls of thegroove 236. - The
pocket 212 may be defined in other configurations. For example, the pocket may be defined by a U-shaped divider in the fabric panel 140. In such embodiments, theframe 178 may be held behind the gusset of the U-shaped divider. Though the above embodiments describe thepocket 212 defined between theinner surface 216 of the fabric panel 140 and one or more fabric sheets or strips attached to theouter periphery 210 of the fabric panel 140, thepocket 212 may be a dedicated pocket or void space defined in the fabric panel 140. For example, thepocket 212 may be defined within or between the layers of the lamina defining the fabric panel 140, within a zip pocket defined on the outer surface of the fabric panel 140, or similar. -
FIG. 4 is a partial cut-away view of the fabric panel 140 ofFIG. 3 and showing theframe 178 positioned within thepocket 212.FIG. 5 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view ofFIG. 6 showing theframe 178 within thepocket 212.FIG. 7 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the fabric panel 140 ofFIG. 6 and showing theframe 178 positioned within anadditional pocket 212. Referring toFIGS. 4 ,5 , and7 , theframe 178 is unattached to the fabric panel 140, to any other element of theframe structure 170, or to any other element of theluggage article 100 when positioned within thepocket 212. In other words, theframe 178 is not affixed within thepocket 212 other than by an outwardly biased force against thepocket 212, such as against theinner periphery 218 of thepocket 212, to position theframe 178 relative to the fabric panel 140 as well as to outwardly tension the fabric panel 140. In this manner, theframe 178 may "float" within thepocket 212, wherein "floating" means not fixedly attached to the fabric panel 140 or to any other element of the luggage article, whether tensioned against theinner periphery 218 or not. - Referring to
FIG. 5 , to position theframe 178 within thepocket 212, at least a portion of theframe 178 may be inserted within the opening 220 (such as within theperimeter groove 236 or between the two or more fabric sheets 214) until theframe 178 at least partially abuts against at least a portion of theinner periphery 218 of thepocket 212. The remaining portion of theframe 178 may then be positioned against theinner periphery 218 of thepocket 212. For example, one of thefabric sheets 214 or portions of thefabric strip 230 may be pulled or otherwise positioned over theframe 178 such that the entirety of theframe 178 is positioned within thepocket 212 and against theinner periphery 218 of thepocket 212. More specifically, anupper fabric sheet 214 may be bent and pulled over theframe 178. In some embodiments, resilient deformation of the frame 178 (e.g., slight bending, twisting, etc.) may be required to position theframe 178 within thepocket 212. Theframe 178 is biased against thepocket 212 to limit relative movement therebetween, such as via outward tension of theframe 178 against theinner periphery 218 of thepocket 212. Once positioned within thepocket 212, theframe 178 may maintain a shape of the fabric panel 140, such as to limit folding, collapsing, or other similar deformation of the fabric panel 140. - The luggage article 100 (e.g., the
housing 102, the fabric panel 140, etc.) and/or the frame structure 170 (e.g., the frame 178) may be formed from a variety of materials and means. For example, thecorner connectors 192 may be formed from a thermoplastic material (self-reinforced or fiber reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, and/or PTFE, among others. In some embodiments, theelongate elements 190 may be extruded from aluminum or other similar metal. In addition, theelongate elements 190 may be formed from fiber reinforced epoxy, resin, or other similar material. Thecorner connectors 192 as well as other portions of the frame structure 170 (e.g., the top andbottom pan structures luggage article 100 may be formed from softside material and/or hardside material. The softside material may be nylon, canvas, polyester, leather, PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene, and/or PTFE, among others. The hardside material may be a thermoplastic material (self-reinforced or fiber reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, and/or PTFE, among others. - 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 embodiments 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.
- Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the presently disclosed embodiments 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.
Claims (12)
- A luggage article (100) comprising:a fabric panel (140) having an outer periphery (210) and a pocket (212) having edges defining an inner periphery (218) defined inwardly from the outer periphery (210);a frame (178) defining a closed loop corresponding at least partially to the outer periphery (210) of the fabric panel (140); anda base (120);wherein the frame (178) is received within the pocket (212) unattached to the fabric panel (140) and outwardly biased against the inner periphery (218) of the pocket (212);wherein the fabric panel (140) comprises a front panel (104) of the luggage article (100), the front panel (104) defining a lid (122) of the luggage article (100);the front panel (104) is hingedly connected to the base (120), the base (120) and the lid (122) being defined by a line of separation (124) such that the luggage article (100) is transformable between a closed configuration and an open configuration, via relative movement between the lid (122) and the base (120); andwherein the frame (178) is removable from the pocket (212) and the fabric panel (140).
- The luggage article (100) of claim 1, wherein the pocket (212) defines an opening (220) inwardly from the outer periphery (210) of the fabric panel (140) and through which the frame (178) is received to position the frame (178) within the pocket (212).
- The luggage article (100) of claim 2, wherein the opening (220) extends around the entirety of the inner periphery (218) of the pocket (212).
- The luggage article (100) of any preceding claim, wherein the pocket (212) defines a perimeter groove (236) in which to receive the frame (178).
- The luggage article (100) of any preceding claim, wherein the pocket (212) is defined by a fabric strip (230) extending adjacent the outer periphery (210) of the fabric panel (140), and preferably attached to the outer periphery (210) of the fabric panel (140).
- The luggage article (100) of claim 5, wherein the fabric strip (230) extends a distance inwardly from the outer periphery (210) of the fabric panel (140) and includes an inner perimeter edge (234) with a perimeter smaller than the outer periphery (210) of the fabric panel (140).
- The luggage article (100) of any preceding claim, wherein the frame (178) is restrained by the pocket (212) to outwardly tension the fabric panel (140).
- The luggage article (100) of any preceding claim, wherein the frame (178) comprises interconnected elongate elements (190).
- The luggage article (100) of claim 8, wherein the frame (178) comprises four elongate pulltrusions connected together by corner connectors (192), the elongate pulltrusions at each corner positioned at 90 degrees or greater than 90 degrees to each other.
- The luggage article (100) of any preceding claim, wherein the frame (178) and the inner periphery (218) of the pocket (212) are rectangular or square.
- The luggage article (100) of any preceding claim, wherein the pocket (212) is defined by one or more inner panels (214) with a slot opening (220) through which the frame (178) is received.
- The luggage article (100) of any preceding claim, further comprising a plurality of panels (104, 112, 114), each panel (104, 112, 114) including a frame (178) within a pocket (212).
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP17196469.5A EP3469945B1 (en) | 2017-10-13 | 2017-10-13 | Panel frame structure for a luggage article |
CN201821673091.5U CN210043370U (en) | 2017-10-13 | 2018-10-12 | Luggage article |
CN201811188921.XA CN109662426B (en) | 2017-10-13 | 2018-10-12 | Panel frame structure for luggage |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP17196469.5A EP3469945B1 (en) | 2017-10-13 | 2017-10-13 | Panel frame structure for a luggage article |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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EP3469945A1 EP3469945A1 (en) | 2019-04-17 |
EP3469945B1 true EP3469945B1 (en) | 2021-07-14 |
Family
ID=60083897
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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EP17196469.5A Active EP3469945B1 (en) | 2017-10-13 | 2017-10-13 | Panel frame structure for a luggage article |
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EP (1) | EP3469945B1 (en) |
CN (2) | CN210043370U (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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EP3469945B1 (en) * | 2017-10-13 | 2021-07-14 | Samsonite IP Holdings S.ÀR.L. | Panel frame structure for a luggage article |
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US20050167428A1 (en) * | 1998-07-01 | 2005-08-04 | Bajer Design & Marketing, Inc. | Collapsible structure |
US6527136B1 (en) * | 2000-11-22 | 2003-03-04 | Pro-Mart Industries, Inc. | Collapsible hamper & handle |
GB2440206B (en) | 2006-07-17 | 2009-06-10 | Landor & Hawa Int Ltd | Luggage towing handle construction |
GB2441580B (en) | 2006-07-17 | 2010-01-27 | Landor & Hawa Int Ltd | Luggage construction |
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FR2944679B1 (en) | 2009-04-24 | 2011-07-22 | Delsey Soc | METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING SOFT BAGGAGE AND CORRESPONDING FLEXIBLE BAGGAGE. |
FR2949950A1 (en) | 2009-09-16 | 2011-03-18 | Delsey Soc | SOFT BAG WITH ORIENTABLE CASTERS |
GB2477087A (en) | 2010-01-20 | 2011-07-27 | Landor & Hawa Int Ltd | Improved luggage construction |
EP2363037B1 (en) | 2010-03-02 | 2013-02-20 | Stratic Lederwaren Jacob Bonifer GmbH | Trolley case |
CN201798187U (en) | 2010-07-27 | 2011-04-20 | 东莞贺捷塑胶有限公司 | Glass fiber frame |
US7984797B1 (en) | 2010-10-08 | 2011-07-26 | Delsey Luggage, Inc. | Soft sided luggage case with independent wheel hub |
EP2779861A1 (en) | 2011-11-15 | 2014-09-24 | Samsonite IP Holdings S.à.r.l. | Luggage frame structure |
US10098431B2 (en) | 2013-09-25 | 2018-10-16 | Eagle Creek | Frames for luggage items |
EP2873342B1 (en) | 2013-11-13 | 2020-06-03 | Samsonite IP Holdings S.à.r.l. | Luggage article with external frame having rods joined together by corner pieces |
CN114747852A (en) | 2015-06-30 | 2022-07-15 | 途明股份有限公司 | Modular suitcase frame |
EP3469945B1 (en) * | 2017-10-13 | 2021-07-14 | Samsonite IP Holdings S.ÀR.L. | Panel frame structure for a luggage article |
-
2017
- 2017-10-13 EP EP17196469.5A patent/EP3469945B1/en active Active
-
2018
- 2018-10-12 CN CN201821673091.5U patent/CN210043370U/en active Active
- 2018-10-12 CN CN201811188921.XA patent/CN109662426B/en active Active
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
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None * |
Also Published As
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CN210043370U (en) | 2020-02-11 |
CN109662426B (en) | 2023-02-28 |
EP3469945A1 (en) | 2019-04-17 |
CN109662426A (en) | 2019-04-23 |
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