EP3590381B1 - Article de bagage comprenant une structure de fond - Google Patents

Article de bagage comprenant une structure de fond Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3590381B1
EP3590381B1 EP18182059.8A EP18182059A EP3590381B1 EP 3590381 B1 EP3590381 B1 EP 3590381B1 EP 18182059 A EP18182059 A EP 18182059A EP 3590381 B1 EP3590381 B1 EP 3590381B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
pan
luggage article
panel
along
pan member
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
Application number
EP18182059.8A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP3590381A1 (fr
Inventor
Reinhard Meersschaert
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Samsonite IP Holdings SARL
Original Assignee
Samsonite IP Holdings SARL
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Samsonite IP Holdings SARL filed Critical Samsonite IP Holdings SARL
Priority to EP18182059.8A priority Critical patent/EP3590381B1/fr
Priority to CN201921051204.2U priority patent/CN211559021U/zh
Priority to CN201910602173.3A priority patent/CN110680064A/zh
Publication of EP3590381A1 publication Critical patent/EP3590381A1/fr
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3590381B1 publication Critical patent/EP3590381B1/fr
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
    • A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
    • A45C13/26—Special adaptations of handles
    • A45C13/262—Special adaptations of handles for wheeled luggage
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
    • A45C3/00—Flexible luggage; Handbags
    • A45C3/001—Flexible materials therefor
    • 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
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
    • A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
    • A45C13/36—Reinforcements for edges, corners, or other parts
    • 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

Definitions

  • the present disclosure relates generally to luggage articles, and more specifically to a bottom frame structure for a luggage article.
  • Some softside luggage cases include a frame structure or arrangement to support a luggage case.
  • Traditional frame configurations often include a one-piece bottom pan assembly, which may add unnecessary weight to the luggage case, and may limit design options.
  • Traditional frame configurations may also include frame structures providing insufficient rigidity to the luggage case. For example, some frame structures may allow undesirable deformation of the luggage case when a user tows the luggage case from a tow handle.
  • Documents that may be related to the present disclosure include EP2787857B1 , US3447648A , US5197580A , US5522487A , US6550592B1 , US7063212B2 , US20140311844A1 , US20150327640A1 , US20160345694A1 , US20170000232A1 , and US20170042301A1 .
  • Document EP2826394A1 discloses a luggage article including first and second halves hingedly connected together at a split line, a closure mechanism (210) releasably securing the first and second halves together.
  • the frame structure may include a split bottom pan assembly with first and second pan members selectively connected together. Edges of the first and second pan members may interlock together at or near the split line of the case, such as in a tongue and groove manner, to provide a substantially vertically rigid or solid bottom pan. The interlocking edges of the first and second pan members may be held together using a closure mechanism.
  • the closure mechanism may be a zip closure and may open to allow access to the interior of the luggage case.
  • the frame structure may further include one or more bracing assemblies spanning the split line of the case. Each bracing assembly may include first and second portions selectively engaged at the split line. The bracing assembly may disengage along the split line to allow selective opening of the case.
  • Embodiments of the present disclosure may include a luggage article.
  • the luggage article may include first and second halves hingedly connected together at a split line, a closure mechanism releasably securing the first and second halves together, and a split bottom pan assembly including first and second pan members supporting respective bottom panel portions of the first and second halves.
  • the first and second halves may be defined by front, rear, top, bottom, left, and right panels.
  • the first and second halves may be movable between a closed configuration in which the first and second halves abut each other to define a substantially enclosed space, and an open configuration in which the first half is pivoted away from the second half to allow user access to the enclosed space.
  • the closure mechanism may releasably secure the first and second halves together in the closed configuration along at least a portion of the split line.
  • Each of the first and second pan members may include a connecting edge. The connecting edges of the first and second pan members may engage and interlock together at the split line when the luggage article is in the closed configuration to form a solid bottom structure.
  • each of the first and second pan members may include one or more sidewalls extending from a periphery of a base plate.
  • the connecting edge of each pan member may extend along at least a portion of the frontal edge of the base plate.
  • the sidewalls of the first and second pan members may extend partially up the sides of the first and second halves, respectively, such that the pan members include a substantially U-shaped cross-section.
  • the first and second pan members may interlock together at the split line along a first plane and a second plane angularly spaced from the first plane.
  • the one or more sidewalls of the first pan member may interlock with the one or more sidewalls of the second pan member.
  • Each of the first and second pan members may include first and second sidewalls on opposing side edges of the base plate. The sidewalls of the first and second pan members may interlock together in a direction perpendicular to the interlocking direction of the base plates.
  • the luggage article may include a bracing assembly limiting deflection of the rear panel towards the front panel.
  • the bracing assembly may span the split line when in the closed configuration and may allow movement of the first and second halves to the open configuration.
  • the bracing assembly may include a first post extending from the first pan member adjacent to the split line.
  • the bracing assembly may include a second post extending from the second pan member adjacent to the split line. The first and second posts may abut each other along the split line on the left or right panel when the luggage article is in the closed configuration.
  • the bracing assembly may include a third post extending from the second pan member adjacent to the rear panel.
  • the bracing assembly may include a first brace connected to and extending between a distal portion of the first post and a portion of the first pan member adjacent to the front panel.
  • the bracing assembly may include a second brace connected to and extending between a distal portion of the second post and a distal portion of the third post.
  • the bracing assembly may include a third brace connected to and extending between the distal portion of the second post and a portion of the second pan member adjacent to the rear panel.
  • the luggage article may include a first bracing assembly and a second bracing assembly.
  • the first bracing assembly may span the split line along the left panel.
  • the second bracing assembly spanning the split line along the right panel.
  • the first half may be foldable into the second half when the closure mechanism is disengaged.
  • the first pan member may fold into the second half and overlie the second pan member to fold the luggage article.
  • the connecting edges of the first and second pan members may interlock together along the entire width of the bottom of the luggage article between the left and right panels. In some examples, the connecting edges of the first and second pan members may extend parallel to the split line. In some examples, the connecting edges of the first and second pan members interlock by a tongue and groove structure. In some examples, the connecting edges of the first and second pan members may interlock along a centerline of the bottom pan assembly.
  • the luggage article may include a tow handle along the rear panel.
  • the tow handle may include one or more tubes attached to the second pan member.
  • the luggage article may include a side panel frame supporting the rear panel.
  • the side panel frame may be connected to and extend from the bottom pan assembly.
  • the side panel frame may include a plurality of pulltrusions connected together.
  • the luggage article may include a fabric cover covering the first and second pan members.
  • the fabric cover may cover the side panel frame.
  • the luggage article may include a pair of spinner wheel assemblies connected to the second pan member.
  • the luggage article may include a pair of spinner wheel assemblies connected to the first pan member.
  • the luggage article may include four spinner wheel assemblies connected to the bottom pan assembly with two spinner wheel assemblies connected to the first pan member and two spinner wheel assemblies connected to the second pan member.
  • the spinner wheel assemblies may be mounted on the exterior corners of the bottom pan assembly away from the interlocking engagement between the first and second pan members.
  • a frame structure is provided that is configured to support an outer fabric cover of a luggage article.
  • the frame structure includes a bottom pan assembly and at least one side panel frame extending from the bottom pan assembly.
  • the bottom pan assembly may be a split bottom pan assembly including first and second pan members selectively connected together at the split line of the luggage article. Edges of the first and second pan members may interlock together at or near the split line to provide a substantially vertically rigid bottom pan. The interlocking edges may be held together using a closure mechanism, such as a zip closure.
  • FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate an exemplary luggage article 100 according to some examples of the present disclosure.
  • the luggage article 100 includes a split luggage case 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 104 in which to carry a user's belongings.
  • the luggage case 102 may be formed from opposing front and rear panels 110, 112 and a plurality of side panels extending between the front and rear panels 110, 112.
  • the luggage article 100 may include opposing top and bottom panels 120, 122 and opposing left and right side panels 124, 126 extending between the front and rear panels 110, 112.
  • Corner regions 132 may be defined by the intersection of any two or three adjacent panels. For example, corners formed by the intersection of any three adjacent panels may be considered a "corner region.” Edges formed by the intersection of any two adjacent panels may also be considered a "corner region.”
  • the various panels may be configured or arranged to provide a desired size and shape of the luggage case 102. As shown in FIG. 1 , the various panels may be sized and shaped to provide a height H, width W, and depth D of the luggage case 102.
  • the height H of the luggage case 102 may be defined as the distance between the top and bottom panels 120, 122.
  • the width W of the luggage case 102 may be defined as the distance between the left and right side panels 124, 126.
  • the depth D of the luggage case 102 may be defined as the distance between the front and rear panels 110, 112.
  • the panels may be sized and shaped such that the luggage article 100 is taller than it is wide and wider than it is deep, such as that shown in at least FIG. 1 .
  • Other sizes and shapes of the luggage case 102 are contemplated, and the examples shown and described are for illustration purposes only.
  • the luggage article 100 illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 is an upright spinner soft side case but may be many types of luggage, including a hard side spinner case, a hybrid spinner case, a container, a backpack, a duffle bag, or the like.
  • the luggage article 100 includes a first half 150 and a second half 152 defined by a split line 160.
  • the first and second halves 150, 152 may be sized similarly to each other, or one of the halves may be sized to include a larger or smaller internal volume.
  • the first half 150 may be sized smaller than the second half 152, such as to allow selective positioning of the first half 150 within the second half 152 for storage.
  • the first and second halves 150, 152 may be complementary portions of the luggage article 100.
  • the first half 150 may be a front half, a left half, a first luggage portion or section, or a lid of the luggage article 100.
  • the second half 152 may be a rear half, a right half, a second luggage portion or section, or a base of the luggage article 100.
  • each half includes a bottom frame structure that interlock together to form a bottom of the luggage case 102.
  • the first and second halves 150, 152 may be referred to as a lid and base, respectively, the first and second halves 150, 152 in some examples do not form a luggage case with a box and a front planar lid.
  • the first half 150 may be defined by one or more panels of the luggage case 102.
  • the first half 150 may be defined by the front panel 110, either entirely or in part.
  • the first half 150 may be defined by the front panel 110 and at least portions of the top, bottom, left side, and/or right side panels 120, 122, 124, 126 such that the first half 150 includes sidewall portions 170.
  • the second half 152 may be defined by one or more panels of the luggage case 102.
  • the second half 152 may be defined by the rear panel 112, either entirely or in part.
  • the second half 152 may be defined by the rear panel 112 and at least portions of the top, bottom, left side, and/or right side panels 120, 122, 124, 126 such that the second half 152 includes sidewall portions 172.
  • the sidewall portions 170 of the first half 150 may define the top, bottom, left side, and right side panels 120, 122, 124, 126 of the luggage case 102 in combination with the sidewall portions 172 of the second half 152.
  • the first half 150 may include a depth greater than the depth of the second half 152, or vice versa.
  • the sidewall portions 170 of the first half 150 may define more or less of the top, bottom, left side, and right side panels 120, 122, 124, 126 of the luggage case 102 than the second half 152.
  • the first and second halves 150, 152 may be sized similarly to each other such that the split line 160 extends along a centerline between the front and rear panels 110, 112 of the luggage case 102.
  • the split line 160 may extend closer to the front panel 110 or to the rear panel 112.
  • the first and second halves 150, 152 may each include a perimeter edge 180, 181, respectively, at the split line 160.
  • the perimeter edges 180, 181 may abut or extend closely adjacent to each other when the luggage article 100 is closed.
  • each of the first and second halves 150, 152 may include a trim piece along its respective perimeter edge 180 or 181.
  • the trim pieces may provide a desired aesthetic and/or functional characteristic of the luggage article 100. For instance, the trim pieces may conceal sewing lines and/or any imperfections and provide a clean appearance to, and/or a clean interface between, the first and second halves 150, 152.
  • the trim pieces may be shaped to fit together and form corresponding overlapping or interlocking structures when the luggage article 100 is closed.
  • the corresponding shapes, or trim pieces may extend along the entire lengths of the perimeter edges 180, 181, or along a portion of the lengths of the perimeter edges 180, 181, or along a single portion of each perimeter edge 180, 181, or along more than one portion of each perimeter edge 180, 181.
  • the luggage article 100 is illustrated as a soft side luggage case, but may be formed from many combinations of hard side and soft side material.
  • the luggage case 102 may be molded from hard side material, or formed from a combination of hard side material and soft side material (known as "hybrid" construction).
  • the luggage case 102 may be formed entirely from soft side material.
  • the hard side material may be a thermoplastic material (self-reinforced or fiber-reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, PE, or biaxially oriented polypropylene, among others.
  • the soft side material may be nylon, canvas, polyester, leather, PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene, and/or PE, among others.
  • the luggage article 100 may be moved between a closed configuration (see FIG. 1 ) and an open configuration (see FIG. 2 ).
  • the first and second halves 150, 152 may be positioned adjacent to each other, and in one example with at least a portion of the respective perimeter edges 180, 181 in engagement, to enclose a user's belongings within the internal storage volume 104 of the luggage article 100.
  • the respective perimeter edges 180, 181 may each, along at least a portion of the perimeter, have a shape to fit together and form corresponding overlapping or interlocking structures, such as a tongue and groove structure, to enhance the structural performance of the engaged edges when closed.
  • the first and second halves 150, 152 may be reoriented relative to each other, such as in one example towards and away from each other, to allow user access to the interior of the luggage article 100.
  • reorientation of the first and second halves 150, 152 positions the respective opening formed by each perimeter edge 180, 181 facing upwardly (in FIG. 2 ), which allows a user easy access to the internal storage volume 104 of each half.
  • the first and second halves 150, 152 may be pivotably attached together by a hinge 190 or similar mechanism.
  • the hinge 190 may include many configurations arranged to allow selective positioning, such as in one example by rotation about an axis of the hinge 190, of the first half 150 relative to the second half 152 from fully closed to fully open.
  • the hinge 190 may include any number or combination of a fabric strip, a strip of rubber, a piano hinge, a living hinge, spaced-apart discrete hinges, a zipper structure, an articulating joint made of elastomeric material, or other suitable structures that allow relative movement between the first and second halves 150, 152.
  • the luggage article 100 may include one or more support members 200 to support the luggage article 100 against a support surface (e.g., against the ground).
  • the support members 200 which may be a foot, a fixed wheel assembly, a spinner wheel assembly, or any combination thereof, may be associated with any suitable panel of the luggage case 102, such as in at least one example connected to at least the bottom panel 122.
  • the luggage article 100 may include four support members 200.
  • the luggage article 100 may include two support members 200 connected to each of the first half 150 and the second half 152.
  • the support members 200 may be connected to any suitable portion of the luggage case 102, such as at or near the corner regions 132 along the bottom panel 122.
  • the luggage article 100 may include a closure mechanism 210 to releasably secure the first and second halves 150, 152 together in the closed configuration.
  • the closure mechanism 210 may be positioned along or adjacent to the split line 160 between the first half 150 and the second half 152 to engage each of the first and second halves 150, 152 and allow selective actuation for opening and closing of the luggage article 100.
  • the closure mechanism 210 may be a discrete mechanism, such as a latch, or may be a continuous closure mechanism positioned along at least a part of the length of the split line 160, such as a zipper closure.
  • the luggage article 100 may include one or more carry handles and/or a retractable tow handle 224.
  • the luggage article 100 may include a top carry handle 230 coupled to the top panel 120 and/or a side carry handle 232 coupled to one of the left and right side panels 124, 126 (e.g., to the left side panel 124).
  • the retractable tow handle 224 may be extendable from the top panel 120 and/or the rear panel 112 of the luggage article 100.
  • the retractable tow handle 224 may be extendable from adjacent the intersection between the top and rear panels 120, 112.
  • the tow handle 224 may include many configurations allowing select positioning of the tow handle 224 for pulling the luggage article 100 across a support surface.
  • the tow handle 224 may include one or more tubes 240 and a grip 242 at a distal portion of the tube(s) 240.
  • the tow handle 224 may include a dual tube configuration, such as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , or may include a single pole configuration.
  • each tube 240 of the tow handle 224 may include a plurality of poles 246 telescopically engaged to each other to allow select extension of the tow handle grip 242 away from the luggage case 102.
  • FIGS. 3-5 are isometric views of the luggage article 100 with the luggage case 102 removed for clarity.
  • the luggage article 100 includes a frame structure 260 supporting the luggage case 102 and/or providing shape to the luggage article 100.
  • the frame structure 260 may be operable to maintain a degree of rigidity of one or more panels of the luggage case 102 to the extent needed for holding a shape of the luggage case 102 and supporting a load therein when in use.
  • the frame structure 260 which may be positioned at least partially internal to the luggage case 102, may include various elements, either interconnected together, positioned separately from one another, or a combination of both.
  • the frame structure 260 may include one or more pan assemblies and/or one or more frame assemblies connected together to define a skeletal framework of the luggage article 100, as explained below.
  • the frame structure 260 may be associated with only select portions of the luggage case 102.
  • the frame structure 260 may be associated with only the rear panel 112 and the bottom panel 122.
  • the frame structure 260 may be operable to maintain a degree of rigidity of at least the rear panel 112 and the bottom panel 122 to the extent needed for holding a shape of the luggage case 102 and supporting a load therein when in use.
  • the frame structure 260 may be associated with the rear panel 112, the bottom panel 122, and select portions of the left and right side panels 124, 126, as described below. In such examples, the frame structure 260 may not be associated with the front panel 110, the top panel 120, and the remaining portions of the left and right side panels 124, 126.
  • the frame structure 260 may provide sufficient strength and/or rigidity to the luggage case 102 to allow the luggage article 100 to be rolled, carried, lifted, etc. while also allowing portions of the luggage case 102 to collapse, bend, compress, etc., such as for storing of the luggage article 100.
  • the frame structure 260 may be arranged such that at least one, or portions, of the front panel 110, the top panel 120, the left side panel 124, and the right side panel 126 is movable and/or deformable relative to the frame structure 260 to open, close, expand, or collapse the luggage case 102 depending on the particular application.
  • Such configurations may also reduce the weight of the luggage article 100 compared to traditional case constructions with a full skeletal framework along each panel of the case.
  • the frame structure 260 may include additional frameworks and/or structural members.
  • the frame structure 260 may include a top framework or pan assembly, a front framework, and/or additional rods or wire loops to structure the first and second halves 150, 152.
  • the frame structure 260 includes a bottom pan assembly 270 and at least one side panel frame 272 connected thereto.
  • the bottom pan assembly 270 includes a split pan configuration.
  • the bottom pan assembly 270 includes first and second pan members 280, 282.
  • the first and second pan members 280, 282 may selectively engage each other to provide a degree of rigidity to the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102.
  • the first and second pan members 280, 282 may provide a vertical rigidity to the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102.
  • the side panel frame 272 may include a plurality of structural elements coupled together, such as elongate rods, pulltrusions, or pan structures connected together.
  • the one or more tubes 240 of the tow handle 224 may be attached to the bottom pan assembly 270, such as to the second pan member 282.
  • the luggage case 102 may cover at least a portion of the frame structure 260.
  • the frame structure 260 may be covered by the material of the luggage case 102, such as covered by softside material.
  • the luggage case 102 may be defined by a fabric cover covering at least portions of the frame structure 260.
  • the frame structure 260 may be secured to the luggage case 102, such as by one or more panels, hems, pockets, loops, sleeves, etc., secured (e.g., stitched) to the luggage case 102.
  • the frame structure 260 may be coupled to the hardside material and/or to the softside material.
  • portions of the bottom pan assembly 270 and/or the side panel frame 272 may be formed integrally with the hardside material defining a portion of at least one panel of the luggage case 102.
  • the frame structure 260 may be coupled to the hardside material via fasteners, corresponding retention features, adhesive, or the like.
  • the first pan member 280 may include a base plate 290 with opposing front and rear edges 292, 294 and opposing side edges 296.
  • the front and rear edges 292, 294 may extend between the left and right side panels 124, 126 of the luggage case 102.
  • the front edge 292 may extend along or adjacent to at least a portion of the split line 160 between the first and second halves 150, 152.
  • the rear edge 294 may extend along or adjacent to the intersection between the front panel 110 and the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102.
  • the side edges 296 may each extend between the split line 160 and the front panel 110 of the luggage case 102.
  • the side edges 296 may each extend along or adjacent to the intersection between the bottom panel 122 and the left or right side panel 124 or 126 of the luggage case 102.
  • the first pan member 280 may include one or more sidewalls extending from a periphery of the base plate 290.
  • the first pan member 280 may include a first sidewall 300 extending generally upwardly from one side edge 296 of the base plate 290.
  • the first pan member 280 may also include a second sidewall 302 extending generally upwardly from the other side edge 296 of the base plate 290.
  • the first and second sidewalls 300, 302 of the first pan member 280 may extend partially up the sides of the first half 150 such that the first pan member 280 includes a generally U-shaped cross-section.
  • the base plate 290 of the first pan member 280 may include many configurations.
  • the front, rear, and opposing side edges 292, 294, 296 of the base plate 290 may be linear or curve along their respective lengths.
  • the front and rear edges 292, 294 may extend parallel to the split line 160 of the luggage case 102.
  • the side edges 296 may extend perpendicularly to the split line 160.
  • the side edges 296 may extend parallel to the intersections between the bottom panel 122 and the left or right side panel 124 or 126 of the luggage case 102.
  • the side edges 296 may extend perpendicularly to at least one of the front and rear edges 292, 294 of the base plate 290.
  • the first pan member 280 may include a smooth transition between the base plate 290 and the first and second sidewalls 300, 302.
  • the transition between the base plate 290 and the first and second sidewalls 300, 302 may provide a radiused intersection between the bottom panel 122 and the left and right side panels 124, 126 of the luggage case 102.
  • the base plate 290 includes a structural framework providing a lightweight and relatively rigid structural characteristic to the first pan member 280. Though shown as a honeycomb structure, the structural framework of the base plate 290 may include other interconnected closed cell shapes and configurations, such as a plurality of interconnected elements, PP board, or the like.
  • the first and second sidewalls 300, 302 may include many combination of a solid structure, a web structure, or a framework, among others.
  • the second pan member 282 may be configured similarly to the first pan member 280.
  • the second pan member 282 may include a base plate 310 with opposing front and rear edges 312, 314 and opposing side edges 316.
  • the front and rear edges 312, 314 may extend between the left and right side panels 124, 126 of the luggage case 102.
  • the front edge 312 may extend along or adjacent to at least a portion of the split line 160 between the first and second halves 150, 152, such as across the split line 160 from the front edge 292 of the first pan member 280.
  • the rear edge 314 may extend along or adjacent to the intersection between the rear panel 112 and the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102.
  • the side edges 316 may extend between the split line 160 and the rear panel 112 of the luggage case 102. In some examples, the side edges 316 may extend along or adjacent to the intersection between the bottom panel 122 and the left or right side panel 124 or 126 of the luggage case 102.
  • the second pan member 282 may include one or more sidewalls extending from a periphery of the base plate 310.
  • the second pan member 282 may include a first sidewall 320 extending generally upwardly from one side edge 316 of the base plate 310.
  • the second pan member 282 may also include a second sidewall 322 extending generally upwardly from the other side edge 316 of the base plate 310.
  • the first and second sidewalls 320, 322 of the second pan member 282 may extend partially up the sides of the second half 152 such that the second pan member 282 includes a generally U-shaped cross-section.
  • the base plate 310 of the second pan member 282 may include many configurations.
  • the front, rear, and opposing side edges 312, 314, 316 of the base plate 310 may be linear or curve along their respective lengths.
  • the front and rear edges 312, 314 may extend parallel to the split line 160 of the luggage case 102.
  • the side edges 316 may extend perpendicularly to the split line 160.
  • the side edges 316 may extend parallel to the intersections between the bottom panel 122 and the left or right side panel 124 or 126 of the luggage case 102.
  • the side edges 316 may extend perpendicularly to at least one of the front and rear edges 312, 314 of the base plate 310.
  • the second pan member 282 may include a smooth transition between the base plate 310 and the first and second sidewalls 320, 322.
  • the transition between the base plate 310 and the first and second sidewalls 320, 322 may provide a radiused intersection between the bottom panel 122 and the left and right side panels 124, 126 of the luggage case 102.
  • the base plate 310 of the second pan member 282 may also include a structural framework providing a lightweight and relatively rigid structural characteristic to the second pan member 282, such as interconnected closed cell shapes, a plurality of interconnected elements, PP board, or the like.
  • the first and second pan members 280, 282 may support respective portions of the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102.
  • the first pan member 280 may support a bottom panel portion 330 of the first half 150 of the luggage case 102.
  • the second pan member 282 may support a bottom panel portion 332 of the second half 152 of the luggage case 102.
  • the first and second pan members 280, 282 may interlock together to provide a degree of rigidity to the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102.
  • the first and second pan members 280, 282 may interlock together at the split line 160 to limit relative movement between the bottom panel portion 330 of the first half 150 and the bottom panel portion 332 of the second half 152 of luggage case 102, as detailed below.
  • FIG. 7 is an enlarged, fragmentary cross-sectional view showing an interlocking engagement between the first and second pan members 280, 282 of the frame structure 260.
  • each of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may include connecting edges 340, 341 that abut one another when the luggage article 100 is in a closed configuration.
  • the connecting edge 340, 341 of each of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may extend along a frontal edge of the pan members' base plate 290 or 310.
  • the connecting edge 340 of the first pan member 280 may extend along or define the front edge 292 of the first pan member's base plate 290.
  • the connecting edge 340 of the first pan member 280 may extend along the entire length of the front edge 292, along a single portion of the front edge 292, or along more than one portion of the front edge 292 of the base plate 290. In one example, the connecting edge 340 of the first pan member 280 may extend parallel to the split line 160. In some examples, the connecting edge 340 of the first pan member 280 may extend at least partially along a frontal edge of each of the first and second sidewalls 300, 302 of the first pan member 280.
  • the connecting edge 341 of the second pan member 282 may be configured similarly to the connecting edge 340 of the first pan member 280.
  • the connecting edge 341 of the second pan member 282 may extend along or define the front edge 312 of the second pan member's base plate 310, such as along the entire length of the front edge 312, along a single portion of the front edge 312, or along more than one portion of the front edge 312.
  • the connecting edge 340 of the first pan member 280 may extend along a frontal edge of the first and second sidewalls 300, 302 of the first pan member 280.
  • the connecting edge 341 of the second pan member 282 may extend along a frontal edge of the first and second sidewalls 320, 322 of the second pan member 282.
  • the connecting edge 341 of the second pan member 282 may extend parallel to the split line 160. In some examples, the connecting edge 341 of the second pan member 282 may extend at least partially along a frontal edge of each of the first and second sidewalls 320, 322 of the second pan member 282.
  • the connecting edge 340 of the first pan member 280 may abut and interlock with the connecting edge 341 of the second pan member 282.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 may abut and interlock along the entire lengths of the front edges 292, 312, along a single portion of the front edges 292, 312, or along more than one portion of the front edges 292, 312 of the first and second pan members 280, 282.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may interlock together along the entire distance between the left and right side panels 124, 126 of the luggage case 102.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 may also abut and interlock along the first and second sidewalls 300, 302, 320, 322 of the first and second pan members 280, 282.
  • one or more sidewalls of the first pan member 280 may interlock with one or more sidewalls of the second pan member 282, such as the first sidewall 300 of the first pan member 280 abutting to interlock with the first sidewall 320 of the second pan member 282 and/or the second sidewall 302 of the first pan member 280 abutting to interlock with the second sidewall 322 of the second pan member 282.
  • the first and second pan members 280, 282 may interlock together along first and second planes angularly spaced from each other.
  • the base plates 290, 310 of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may define the first plane.
  • the interlocking sidewall portions of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may define the second plane.
  • the second plane may be spaced angularly from the first plane, such as generally 90 degrees, greater than 90 degrees, or less than 90 degrees relative to each other.
  • the sidewall portions of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may interlock together in a direction perpendicular to the interlocking direction of the base plates 290, 310.
  • the examples given above are for illustration purposes only, and other configurations are contemplated, including examples where the first and second pan members 280, 282 interlock at least partly along the left and right side panels 124, 126 of the luggage case 102, as explained below.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may interlock together at the split line 160 when the luggage article 100 is in the closed configuration.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may interlock along a centerline of the bottom pan assembly 270.
  • the interlocking engagement between the connecting edges 340, 341 may provide a substantially vertically rigid bottom structure to the luggage article 100 when the luggage article 100 is closed.
  • the interlocking engagement between the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may limit lateral movement of the first pan member 280 along a plane parallel to the split line 160 and relative to the second pan member 282.
  • the interlocking engagement between the connecting edges 340, 341 may limit movement of the first pan member 280 towards or away from the top panel 120 of the luggage case 102 relative to the second pan member 282, or vice versa, as explained below. Additionally or alternatively, the interlocking engagement between the connecting edges 340, 341 may limit movement of the first pan member 280 towards or away from the side panels of the luggage case 102 relative to the second pan member 282, or vice versa.
  • the interlocking structure between the connecting edges 340, 341 may structurally support the split line in the vertical direction that the pan members may act as an integral bottom pan (when the luggage article 100 is closed), as opposed to the separate pan members that they are.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may be shaped to fit together and form corresponding overlapping or interlocking structures when the luggage article 100 is closed.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 interlock in a tongue and groove structure.
  • the connecting edge 340 of the first pan member 280 may define a tongue 350 with a tip 352.
  • the connecting edge 341 of the second pan member 282 may define a groove 360 in which the tongue 350 of the first pan member 280 is at least partially received. For example, at least a portion of the tip 352 may be received in the groove 360 to interlock the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second pan members 280, 282.
  • the groove 360 may be defined between a pair of sidewalls 362 extending from or forming the front edge 312 of the second pan member's base plate 310.
  • the tongue 350 may be moved along an engagement direction to position the tip 352 within the groove 360 and at least partially between the sidewalls 362.
  • the groove 360 has a depth dimension longer than the length of the tongue 350 such that the tip 352 of the tongue 350 does not engage the bottom of the groove 360 when engaged.
  • terminal ends of the sidewalls 362 may abut respective end surfaces of the tongue 350.
  • the tongue 350 may interlock with at least one of the sidewalls 362 to releasably secure the connecting edges 340, 341 together.
  • at least one of the sidewalls 362 may define a catch in which a portion of the tip 352 is received to releasably interlock the connecting edges 340, 341 together.
  • the catch may be defined by a combination of both sidewalls 362.
  • the engagement structure between the connecting edges 340, 341 may include other features for convenience.
  • the engagement structure may include a pair of flanges 370 extending from the connecting edge 340 of the first pan member 280.
  • the flanges 370 may be positioned at the corners of the base plate 290 and the first and second sidewalls 300, 302.
  • the flanges 370 may overlap the connecting edge 341 of the second pan member 282 when the first and second pan members 280, 282 are connected together.
  • the flanges 370 may extend over a portion of the connecting edge 341 on the interior of the luggage article 100.
  • the flanges 370 may limit movement of the first pan member 280 relative to the second pan member 282.
  • the flanges 370 may act as alignment features to properly align the first and second pan members 280, 282 so the first pan member 280 can be moved towards the second pan member 282 in the engagement direction to abut and interlock the connecting edge 340, 341 together.
  • Engagement between the tongue 350 and the sidewalls 362 may limit movement of the first pan member 280 relative to the second pan member 282 along a direction perpendicular to the engagement direction. For instance, engagement along the base plates 290, 310 of the tongue 350 within the groove 360 may limit movement of the first pan member 280 relative to the second member towards or away from the top panel 120 of the luggage case 102. Additionally or alternatively, engagement along portions of the first sidewalls 300, 320 and/or the second sidewalls 302, 322 of the tongue 350 within the groove 360 may limit movement of the first pan member 280 relative to the second pan member 282 towards or away from the side panels of the luggage case 102.
  • the engagement direction may be substantially parallel to the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102.
  • the engagement between the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may limit movement of the first pan member 280 relative to the second pan member 282 in a direction perpendicular to the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102.
  • the tongue and groove structure shown in FIG. 7 is by way of illustration only, and the connecting edges 340, 341 may include other complementary shapes and structures forming corresponding overlapping or interlocking structures when the luggage article 100 is closed.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 may abut and interlock in many configurations limiting vertical and lateral movement of the first pan member 280 relative to the second pan member 282.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 may abut and interlock along the base panels 290, 310, along the first and second sidewalls 300, 302, 320, 322, and along the corners between the base panels and sidewalls.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 may abut and interlock only along the base panels 290, 310 and the first and second sidewalls 300, 302, 320, 322.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 may abut and interlock along at least a portion of the base panels 290, 310 only.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may be held together in engagement using the closure mechanism 210.
  • engagement of the closure mechanism 210 may limit disengagement of the connecting edges 340, 341, such as limiting movement of the connecting edges 340, 341 away from each other.
  • engagement of the closure mechanism 210 may pull and/or seat the connecting edges 340, 341 together, for instance by applying a compression force across the engagement structure.
  • the closure mechanism 210 may be arranged, such as sized and shaped, such that engagement of the closure mechanism 210 compresses or otherwise moves the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second pan members 280, 282 into tight engagement.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 may remain engaged and interlocked until the closure mechanism 210 is released or disengaged. For instance, once the closure mechanism 210 is released, the connecting edges 340, 341 may be disengaged by selective movement of the first pan member 280 away from the second pan member 282.
  • FIG. 6 is a fragmentary side elevation view of the frame structure 260 and showing a bracing assembly.
  • FIG. 8 is an enlarged, fragmentary cross-sectional view showing an interlocking engagement between opposing members of the bracing assembly.
  • the frame structure 260 may include a bracing assembly 380 limiting deflection of the rear panel 112 of the luggage case 102 towards or away from the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102.
  • the frame structure 260 may include a pair of bracing assemblies, such as a first bracing assembly 382 adjacent to the left side panel 124 of the luggage case 102 and a second bracing assembly 384 adjacent to the right side panel 126 of the luggage case 102.
  • the first bracing assembly 382 may span the split line 160 along the left side panel 124.
  • the second bracing assembly 384 may span the split line 160 along the right side panel 126.
  • the luggage article 100 may include more or less than two bracing assemblies depending on the particular application. For ease of reference, the description below refers to a single bracing assembly.
  • Each bracing assembly 382, 384 may be configured similarly or differently.
  • the bracing assembly 380 may span the split line 160 when the luggage article is in a closed configuration and allow movement of the first and second halves 150, 152 of the luggage case 102 to the open configuration.
  • the bracing assembly 380 may include a first portion 390 with one or more elements positioned on one side of the split line 160 and a second portion 392 with one or more elements positioned on the other side of the split line 160.
  • the first and second portions 390, 392 on the opposing sides of the split line 160 may engage each other at or across the split line 160.
  • the first and second portions 390, 392 may disengage to allow the selective movement of the first half 150 away from the second half 152.
  • the first portion 390 of the bracing assembly 380 may be connected to the first pan member 280, such as to one of the sidewalls of the base plate 290.
  • the second portion 392 of the bracing assembly 380 may be connected to the second pan member 282, such as to one of the sidewalls of the base plate 310.
  • the bracing assembly 380 may define the first and second sidewalls 300, 302, 320, 322 of the first and second pan members 280, 282.
  • the sidewalls of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may provide the bracing characteristics of the bracing assembly 380 described herein.
  • the bracing assembly 380 may include a first post 400 extending from the first pan member 280 adjacent to the split line 160 and a second post 402 extending from the second pan member 282 adjacent to the split line 160.
  • the first and second posts 400, 402 may extend upwardly from the first and second pan members 280, 282, respectively, and towards the top panel 120 of the luggage case 102.
  • the first and second posts 400, 402 may abut each other along the split line 160 when the luggage article 100 is in the closed configuration.
  • the first and second posts 400, 402 may abut each other along the split line 160 along the left side panel 124 and/or the right side panel 126 of the luggage case 102.
  • the first and second posts 400, 402 may abut each other across the split line 160 along other panels of the luggage case 102, such as along at least a portion of the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102.
  • the first and second posts 400, 402 may abut each other in many arrangements.
  • the first and second posts 400, 402 may interlock together in a manner similar to the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second pan members 280, 282.
  • the first and second posts 400, 402 may including abutting edges 410, 411 having a shape to fit together and form corresponding overlapping or interlocking structures, such as a tongue and groove structure.
  • the abutting edges 410, 411 of the first and second posts 400, 402 may interlock along the entire lengths of the first and second posts 400, 402, along a single portion of the first and second posts 400, 402, or along more than one portion of the abutting edges 410, 411 of the first and second posts 400, 402.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may be considered to extend along the abutting edges 410, 411 of the first and second posts 400, 402.
  • the bracing assembly 380 may include other elements providing rigidity to the first and second posts 400, 402.
  • the bracing assembly 380 may include a first brace 418 connected to, and extending between, the first post 400 and the first pan member 280.
  • the first brace 418 may connect to and extend between a distal portion of the first post 400 and a portion of the first pan member 280 adjacent to the front panel 110.
  • the first brace 418 may be formed integrally with or coupled to the first pan member 280 and/or the first post 400.
  • the bracing assembly 380 may include a third post 424 extending from the second pan member 282 adjacent to the rear panel 112. As shown, the third post 424 may be defined as part of a housing 430 for the spinner wheel assembly positioned at the rear corner of the bottom pan assembly 270. Like the second post 402, the third post 424 may extend upwardly from the second pan member 282 and towards the top panel 120 of the luggage case 102.
  • the bracing assembly 380 may also include a second brace 434 connected to, and extending between, the second and third posts 402, 424. For instance, the second brace 434 may connect to and extend between the distal portion of the second post 402 and a distal portion of the third post 424, though other configurations are contemplated.
  • the second brace 434 may be a separate element coupled to the second and third posts 402, 424 or may be formed integrally with at least one of the second and third posts 402, 424.
  • the bracing assembly 380 may include any number of braces to provide a desired rigidity to the bracing assembly 380.
  • the bracing assembly 380 may include a third brace 440 connected to, and extending between, the second post 402 and the second pan member 282.
  • the third brace 440 may connect to and extend between the distal portion of the second post 402 and a portion of the second pan member 282 adjacent to the rear panel 112.
  • the third brace 440 may be connected to the housing 430 of the spinner wheel assembly positioned at the rear corner of the bottom pan assembly 270.
  • the third brace 440 may be a separate element from or may be formed integrally with at least one of the second post 402, the second pan member 282, and/or the housing 430 of the spinner wheel assembly.
  • the bracing assembly 380 may provide a rigid structure between the first pan member 280 and the rear panel 112 of the luggage case 102.
  • the first and second braces 418, 434 may jointly define a rigid strut structure 450 between the first pan member 280 and the rear panel 112 of the luggage case 102.
  • the bracing assembly 380 may limit movement of the rear panel 112 towards or away from the first pan member 280, such as folding of the rear panel 112 towards or away from the bottom panel 122, thereby providing a torsional rigidity to the luggage article 100 along an axis extending along the intersection between the rear panel 112 and the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102.
  • the strut structure 450 may be linear or curved along its length. In one example, such as shown in FIG. 6 , the strut structure 450 may extend at an angle to the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102. For instance, the strut structure 450 may be angled towards the bottom panel 122 from adjacent to the rear panel 112 to adjacent to the front panel 110. More specifically, the bracing assembly 380 may taper from the rear panel 112 to the front panel 110 across the split line 160.
  • the frame structure 260 may include a rear frame 500 attached to and extending from the bottom pan assembly 270.
  • the rear frame 500 which may be considered the side panel frame 272, extends vertically from the bottom pan assembly 270, though other positional configurations are contemplated as described below.
  • the rear frame 500 may extend from a rear portion of the bottom pan assembly 270.
  • the rear frame 500 may extend from a position adjacent to one or more rear corners of the bottom pan assembly 270.
  • the rear frame 500 may be attached to and extend away from the second pan member 282.
  • the rear frame 500 may be positioned along at least a portion of the periphery of the rear panel 112, such as including one or more elements extending along at least a portion of a perimeter of the rear panel 112. In some examples, the rear frame 500 may be positioned adjacent to the periphery of the rear panel 112, such as at, or at a position spaced away (e.g., inwardly) from, the edges of the rear panel 112. In such examples, the rear frame 500 may bias the top panel 120 away from the bottom panel 122 by outwardly tensioning the rear panel 112 and creating a tension force in the rear panel 112.
  • the rear frame 500 may include a pair of spaced apart elongate elements (e.g., a first elongate element 510 and a second elongate element 512) connected to and extending from the bottom pan assembly 270.
  • the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may be linear or curved along their respective lengths, such as to provide a desired shape to the luggage case 102. As shown, the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may extend away from the bottom pan assembly 270 to define an angle between the elongate elements and the bottom pan assembly 270.
  • first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may extend (e.g., vertically) from the bottom pan assembly 270 to define a 90 degree angle between the bottom pan assembly 270 and the first and second elongate elements 510, 512, though other angular arrangements between the bottom pan assembly 270 and the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 are contemplated, including less than 90 degrees or greater than 90 degrees, depending on the particular application.
  • proximate ends 520 of the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may be coupled to the bottom pan assembly 270 and/or to a respective support member 200.
  • the proximate ends 520 of the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may be secured to the bottom pan assembly 270 in many configurations.
  • the proximate ends 520 may be secured to the bottom pan assembly 270 by adhesive, fasteners, heat or sonic welding, corresponding retention features, or the like.
  • the proximate ends 520 of the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may be interference fit within portions of the bottom pan assembly 270.
  • the proximate ends 520 of the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may be received within corresponding slots or cavities defined in the bottom pan assembly 270.
  • the proximate ends 520 of the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may be sized annularly larger than the slots in which the elongate elements are received to frictionally engage the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 within the bottom pan assembly 270.
  • the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may be formed integrally with at least a portion of the bottom pan assembly 270, such as with at least a portion of the second pan member 282.
  • first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may be coupled to respective spinner wheel assemblies, such as in the same manner as described above.
  • first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may be coupled to one or more housing portions 530 of respective spinner wheel assemblies.
  • the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may be separate elements secured to the housing portions 530, such as by adhesive, fasteners, heat or sonic welding, corresponding retention features, or the like.
  • the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 may be formed integrally with the housing portions 530.
  • the housing portions 530 may be coupled to the bottom pan assembly 270 in a similar manner, such as by adhesive, fasteners, heat or sonic welding, corresponding retention features, or the like.
  • the housing portions 530 may also be formed integrally with at least a portion of the bottom pan assembly 270.
  • the rear frame 500 may include a cross frame member 540 coupling distal ends of the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 together.
  • the cross frame member 540 may be defined as one element or more than one element.
  • the cross frame member 540 may be defined as one or more elements in combination with other structure(s) of the luggage article 100, such as with at least a portion of the tow handle 224, a bezel structure, the luggage case 102, or any combination thereof.
  • the tow handle 224 may include a top support 550 positioned distally from the bottom pan assembly 270.
  • the top support 550 which may form a bezel connected to the luggage case 102, may be positioned on a distal end of one or more tubes 240, such as spanning between a pair of tubes 240 of the tow handle 224.
  • the cross frame member 540 may include a pair of frame elements 560 connecting the distal ends of the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 to the top support 550 of the tow handle 224.
  • the rear panel 112 may include corner pieces 568 connecting the frame elements 560 to the distal ends of the first and second elongate elements 510, 512. Each corner piece 568 may be curved and may be formed integrally with the elongate elements and/or the frame elements 560.
  • the rear frame 500 may be formed from a variety of materials and means.
  • the first elongate element 510, the second elongate element 512, and the frame elements 560 of the cross frame member 540 may be a pulltrusion to provide a lightweight characteristic to the frame structure 260.
  • the pulltrusion molding process may provide a composite structure of the rear frame 500 that is relatively strong for its weight.
  • the first elongate element 510, the second elongate element 512, and the frame elements 560 of the cross frame member 540 may include a diameter ranging between about 5mm to about 10mm (preferably between about 6mm to about 8mm), though other dimensions are contemplated depending on the size, weight, and/or strength requirements of the frame structure 260.
  • FIG. 9 is an isometric view showing the luggage article 100 in a folded configuration.
  • FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the luggage article 100 in an additional folded configuration.
  • the first half 150 may be received at least partially in the second half 152 to reduce an overall dimension of the luggage article 100 for storage.
  • the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second pan members 280, 282 may be disengaged and the first pan member 280 moved away from the second pan member 282 (see FIG. 5 ).
  • the first pan member 280 is disengaged from the second pan member 282, the first half 150 of the luggage case 102 may be positioned at least partially within the second half 152.
  • the first pan member 280 may be positioned at least partially within the second half 152.
  • the first pan member 280 may fold into the second half 152 and overlie the second pan member 282 to fold the luggage article 100.
  • the first pan member 280 may be folded towards the top panel 120 and positioned at least partially within the second half 152, such as the first half 150 folding along or adjacent to the intersection between the front and bottom panels 110, 122.
  • the first pan member 280 may be tucked or rolled into the second half 152 such that the spinner wheel assemblies connected to the first pan member 280 and the spinner wheel assemblies connected to the second pan member 282 extend in generally opposite directions, though other positional arrangements are contemplated.
  • the fabric material of the first half 150 such as the fabric material of at least the front panel 110, may be folded, bunched, rolled, or otherwise compressed and positioned at least partially within the second half 152.
  • the first pan member 280 may be tucked or rolled under the front cover material and positioned within the second half 152.
  • the compression of the fabric material of the first half 150 may occur generally in a top portion of the first half 150 due to the frame structure 260 within the first half 150 being positioned within only a bottom portion of the first half 150.
  • the luggage article 100 may be formed from a variety of materials and means.
  • the frame structure 260 may be formed from a thermoplastic material (self-reinforced or fiber reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, and/or PE, among others.
  • the first and second elongate elements 510, 512, the frame elements 560, and/or the one or more tubes 240 of the tow handle 224, among others may be extruded from aluminum or other similar metal.
  • the first and second elongate elements 510, 512 and/or the frame elements 560 may be formed from fiber reinforced epoxy, resin, or other similar material.
  • the frame structure 260 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 PE, among others.
  • the hardside material may be a thermoplastic material (self-reinforced or fiber reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, and/or PE, among others.

Claims (15)

  1. Article de bagage (100), comprenant :
    des première et seconde moitiés (150, 152) définies par des panneaux avant, arrière, supérieur, inférieur, gauche, et droit (110, 112, 120, 122, 124, 126), les première et seconde moitiés étant reliées l'une à l'autre de façon articulée au niveau d'une ligne de division (160), les première et seconde moitiés étant mobiles entre une configuration fermée, dans laquelle les première et seconde moitiés sont contiguës l'une à l'autre pour définir un espace sensiblement enfermé (104), et une configuration ouverte, dans laquelle la première moitié est éloignée, par pivotement, de la seconde moitié pour permettre un accès utilisateur à l'espace enfermé ;
    un mécanisme de fermeture (210) fixant de façon libérable les première et seconde moitiés l'une à l'autre dans la configuration fermée le long d'au moins une partie de la ligne de division (160) ;
    un ensemble socle inférieur divisé (270) incluant des premier et second éléments de socle (280, 282), le premier élément de socle supportant une partie de panneau inférieur (330) de la première moitié, le second élément de socle supportant une partie de panneau inférieur (332) de la seconde moitié, chacun des premier et second éléments de socle incluant un bord de liaison (340, 341) ;
    dans lequel les bords de liaison des premier et second éléments de socle entrent en prise et s'enclenchent l'un avec l'autre au niveau de la ligne de division lorsque l'article de bagage est dans la configuration fermée pour former une structure inférieure solide ;
    dans lequel les bords de liaison des premier et second éléments de socle sont maintenus en prise en utilisant le mécanisme de fermeture ;
    dans lequel chacun des premier et second éléments de socle inclut une ou plusieurs parois latérales s'étendant à partir d'une périphérie d'une plaque de base ; et
    dans lequel les bords de liaison (340, 341) sont contigus et s'enclenchent seulement le long des plaques de base (290, 310) et des première et seconde parois latérales (300, 302, 320, 322).
  2. Article de bagage selon la revendication 1, dans lequel :
    le bord de liaison de chaque élément de socle s'étend le long d'au moins une partie du bord avant (292, 312) de la plaque de base ; et
    les parois latérales des premier et second éléments de socle s'étendent partiellement vers le haut sur les côtés des première et seconde moitiés, respectivement, de telle sorte que les éléments de socle incluent une section transversale sensiblement en forme de U.
  3. Article de bagage selon la revendication 2, dans lequel les premier et second éléments de socle s'enclenchent l'un avec l'autre au niveau de la ligne de division le long d'un premier plan et d'un second plan angulairement espacé du premier plan.
  4. Article de bagage selon la revendication 2 ou 3, dans lequel l'une ou les plusieurs parois latérales du premier élément de socle s'enclenchent avec l'une ou les plusieurs parois latérales du second élément de socle.
  5. Article de bagage selon une quelconque revendication précédente, dans lequel les première et seconde parois latérales (300, 302, 320, 322) sont sur des bords latéraux opposés (296, 316) de la plaque de base.
  6. Article de bagage selon une quelconque revendication précédente, comprenant en outre un ensemble de renfort (380) limitant la déflexion du panneau arrière vers le panneau avant, l'ensemble de renfort couvrant la ligne de division, dans la configuration fermée, et permettant le mouvement des première et seconde moitiés vers la configuration ouverte.
  7. Article de bagage selon la revendication 6, dans lequel l'ensemble de renfort comprend :
    un premier montant (400) s'étendant à partir du premier élément de socle, adjacent à la ligne de division ; et
    un deuxième montant (402) s'étendant à partir du second élément de socle, adjacent à la ligne de division ;
    dans lequel les premier et deuxième montants sont contigus l'un à l'autre le long de la ligne de division sur le panneau gauche ou droit lorsque l'article de bagage est dans la configuration fermée.
  8. Article de bagage selon la revendication 7, comprenant en outre :
    un troisième montant (424) s'étendant à partir du second élément de socle, adjacent au panneau arrière ; et
    un premier renfort (418) relié à et s'étendant entre une partie distale du premier montant et une partie du premier élément de socle, adjacent au panneau avant.
  9. Article de bagage selon la revendication 8, comprenant en outre un deuxième renfort (434) relié à et s'étendant entre une partie distale du deuxième montant et une partie distale de la troisième montant.
  10. Article de bagage selon l'une quelconque des revendications 7 à 9, dans lequel l'ensemble de renfort comprend en outre un troisième renfort (440) relié à et s'étendant entre la partie distale du deuxième montant et une partie du second élément de socle, adjacent au panneau arrière.
  11. Article de bagage selon une quelconque revendication précédente, comprenant en outre :
    un premier ensemble de renfort selon l'une quelconque des revendications 6 à 10, le premier ensemble de renfort couvrant la ligne de division le long du panneau gauche ; et
    un second ensemble de renfort selon l'une quelconque des revendications 6 à 10, le second ensemble de renfort couvrant la ligne de division le long du panneau droit.
  12. Article de bagage selon une quelconque revendication précédente, dans lequel la première moitié est pliable dans la seconde moitié lorsque le mécanisme de fermeture est hors de prise.
  13. Article de bagage selon une quelconque revendication précédente, dans lequel les bords de liaison des premier et second éléments de socle s'enclenchent l'un avec l'autre le long de la largeur entière de la partie inférieure de l'article de bagage entre les panneaux gauche et droit.
  14. Article de bagage selon une quelconque revendication précédente, dans lequel les bords de liaison des premier et second éléments de socle s'enclenchent par le biais d'une structure à languette et rainure.
  15. Article de bagage selon une quelconque revendication précédente, comprenant en outre une poignée de traction (224) le long du panneau arrière, la poignée de traction incluant un ou plusieurs tubes attachés au second élément de socle.
EP18182059.8A 2018-07-05 2018-07-05 Article de bagage comprenant une structure de fond Active EP3590381B1 (fr)

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EP18182059.8A EP3590381B1 (fr) 2018-07-05 2018-07-05 Article de bagage comprenant une structure de fond
CN201921051204.2U CN211559021U (zh) 2018-07-05 2019-07-05 用于行李物件的底部结构
CN201910602173.3A CN110680064A (zh) 2018-07-05 2019-07-05 用于行李物件的底部结构

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3590381B1 (fr) * 2018-07-05 2022-08-03 Samsonite IP Holdings S.à r.l. Article de bagage comprenant une structure de fond
US20220175104A1 (en) * 2020-12-03 2022-06-09 Osprey Packs, Inc. Lightweight frame assemblies and associated methods
IT202100023054A1 (it) * 2021-09-07 2023-03-07 Chiara Caramelli Design Lab Rinforzo strutturale rigido interno per trolley morbidi, semi-rigidi e rigidi

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
BE690202A (fr) 1966-11-25 1967-05-02
US5197580A (en) 1991-01-07 1993-03-30 Berman Joseph J Collapsible structured luggage
US5522487A (en) 1994-06-10 1996-06-04 Lenox, Incorporated Wheeled soft luggage
US6367603B1 (en) * 2000-02-04 2002-04-09 500 Group, Inc. Containment article having a pair of hingedly connected, substantially identical plastic shells and related improvements
US6550592B1 (en) 2001-10-01 2003-04-22 Travel Caddy, Inc. Collapsible storage and carrying case
US7063212B2 (en) 2002-09-19 2006-06-20 Bill Thomas Associates, Inc. Multiple seal storage and transport container
US9375063B2 (en) * 2011-08-24 2016-06-28 Stephen Chi Yueh Chen et al. Systems and methods for collapsible luggage
EP3516982A1 (fr) * 2011-11-15 2019-07-31 Samsonite IP Holdings S.à.r.l. Châssis de bagage
ITMI20112236A1 (it) 2011-12-06 2013-06-07 Valigeria Roncato Spa Valigia.
EP2826394B1 (fr) * 2013-07-19 2020-07-15 Samsonite IP Holdings S.a.r.l Bagage à coque, cadre et verrou
FR3016778A1 (fr) 2014-01-27 2015-07-31 Delsey Soc Bagage a variation de volume
FR3017274B1 (fr) 2014-02-07 2016-05-20 Delsey Soc Bagage a structure pliable
EP2921070B1 (fr) * 2014-03-21 2016-08-24 Stratic Lederwaren Jacob Bonifer GmbH Valise à roulettes à coque souple
CN204169252U (zh) * 2014-10-24 2015-02-25 万国通路股份有限公司 行李箱架装置
KR20180023910A (ko) * 2015-06-30 2018-03-07 튜미 인코포레이티드 모듈식 여행 가방 프레임
EP3590381B1 (fr) * 2018-07-05 2022-08-03 Samsonite IP Holdings S.à r.l. Article de bagage comprenant une structure de fond

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CN110680064A (zh) 2020-01-14
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