GB2496596A

GB2496596A - Modular luggage

Info

Publication number: GB2496596A
Application number: GB1119603.7A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Gordon Brand; Rory Niles; Jon Alderton
Original assignee: CAMPBELL AND CALDER Ltd
Current assignee: CAMPBELL AND CALDER Ltd
Priority date: 2011-11-14
Filing date: 2011-11-14
Publication date: 2013-05-22
Also published as: GB201119603D0; WO2013072680A1

Abstract

A modular luggage system 1 comprises a preferably rigid frame 2 having an open sided chamber to receive a first container 3. Container 3 may contain a laptop or computer, and may be lockable to the frame 2 via a depressible button 4 which cooperates with a recess 21 on the frame 2. A pair of parallel grooves 6 may also be provided on the frame 2 to receive a second container 5, which may be a document bag. Container 5 preferably has parallel projections 20 for cooperating with the first parallel grooves 6 on the frame 2. A carry handle 8 may be positioned at an upper end of the frame 2. A third container 9, smaller than the first and second containers 3 and 5, may also be attached to the frame 2. A mounting bar 10 may be attached to the frame 2, and comprises straps 11 which may be used to carry the luggage system as a backpack.

Description

A MODULAR LUGGAGE SYSTEM

Background of the Invention

The present invention relates to luggage and, more specifically, business luggage. The typical business man will often have to travel both nationally as well as internationally, taking his office' with him. For many years the office' has been based around an adapted laptop-type bag that not only carries a laptop but also the associated laptop paraphernalia, pens and assorted basic stationery, various business and travel documentation and, if prepared for overnight stay, a change of clothes and token toiletries, to name but a few. The clothes or toiletries or both will typically be carried in an additional bag.

The means to carry or transport all of these necessary items has been varied but primarily it has included the use of a general over-sized sports or luggage-type bag which just happens to be able to fit an average sized laptop. These common, mass-produced bags have never really come to meet a high standard of quality, durability and utility, nor have they enhanced any projection of status.

Often these bags will require repair, or at worst replacement, within a short period of time. It is estimated that over a three to four year period, a typical travelling executive will have had four or so bags, all of which have degraded through normal intended use. As examples of the type of damage and degradation that can occur: seams will split; straps become detached where stitching has failed; or, the foam compresses and degrades in the straps making the bags uncomfortable.

Security is a secondary consideration for these existing bag types. They are easy to open when on the users shoulder(s) or back and are made from materials which do not inhibit ingress using a blade. These bag types therefore compromise the integrity of expensive or irreplaceable equipment or materials contained in the luggage.

The design and use of conventional bags has never really been about fitting the bag to the task but rather about fitting the task to the bag's capabilities. This has highlighted many design quality issues both from a specific functional perspective and from that of durability. This illustrates the compromise that the user has to make in order to find a suitable bag which will provide the utility needed with the durability of materials.

Additionally, too many bags that are carried at present, both from a business and general perspective, are over-weight, perhaps due to excessive content, and are potentially doing unseen irreversible damage to their users. Conventional bags, specifically for portable computers often include features and fittings that are not often used or do not include portage solutions that are of utility to the user.

The present invention addresses a need for a luggage system, particularly and executive luggage system, that allows the user to tailor the system to meet their needs, and not be limited by a design that attempts to cater for all requirements but only succeeding at some.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a modular luggage system comprising:a frame; a first container; and, a second container; wherein the frame includes means for removably coupling the first container to a first portion of the frame and means for removably coupling the second container to a second portion of the frame.

The present invention offers a single lean' system allowing individual content to have a place and purpose within the system and not simply be stored as an eclectic mix of items that make it difficult place or retrieve particular items. This importantly allows a single leaner' way of working for the travelling businessman and reduces the need to carry as many items as would have been required in the past.

The present invention provides myriad further advantages over conventional luggage designs, particularly for business use. For example, the modular luggage system provides adaptability for changes in fashion trends and advancement in technology. The modular system allows for upgrade, repair or replacement of the components or elements at any time. The modular nature of the system allows for expression of individuality and protection of ideals.

Within a modular system, each component has both an independent purpose and dual role. The system helps to streamline work flow allowing everything to have its place and each item to be easily identifiable for placement and retrieval.

Moreover, the system provides a reliable means to carry business documentation and personal computers since everything has its place within the system. As each item may be stored in a specific location, the need and propensity to overload one's bag with non essential items is reduced. The user will know exactly what he is carrying.

Additionally, the luggage system may provide a modular container adapted to cooperate with its intended contents such that the contents are transported securely and there is less free space around the item for the items to move and cause incidental damage.

The modular nature of the present invention provides a more sustainable system by using materials, joining and fastening methods that can be maintained or repaired with ease. Since each component is modular, there is no need to replace an entire bag should a defect be noted.

The means for removably coupling the first container to a first portion of the frame may comprise an open-sided chamber defining an interior space matching the exterior of the first container. In this way, the container is protected from the top, bottom, front and back, by the frame.

The first container may be lockable to the frame. The modular design reduces the number of external pockets that are often designed into typical holdall style bags and which offer little protection against opportunistic theft. Moreover, each component may be locked to the frame such that opportunistic theft of individual items is obviated.

The frame or the first container may comprise a depressible button which cooperates with a receptacle on the other of the frame or first container to lock the first container in place. The container and frame can thus be securely mated without allowing opportunistic or accidental detachment.

The frame may be adapted to receive the first and second containers at the same time.

Optionally, the first container may be adapted to encapsulate, securely, a personal computer. The modular system reduces the reliance of the typical businessman on the need for separate laptop or portable computer protection with secure storage. The modular design allows for a portable computer to be secured safely within the system.

The frame may further comprise a carry handle integral with the frame.

Optionally, the carry handle comprises a gauge such that when the carry handle supports the luggage system, the gauge provides an indication of the weight of the combined luggage system. In this way, a built-in visual or audible indicator may be provided that indicates that the weight of the bag is above safe carrying limits to aid in the health of the carrier and also to aid in the carrying of the baggage on to, for example, an aeroplane where weight limits are enforced.

Preferably, the frame comprises a channel positioned at the base of the frame and the luggage system comprises a wheel component having a wheel, the wheel component sliding into the channel of the frame. In this way, should the user require, the system can be transported using the wheels rather than carrying the system. The flexibility of the system is increased dramatically.

A third container may further be removably coupled to a base of the frame, the third container being smaller than the first and second containers. The third container is contiguous with the second container when both containers are coupled to the frame, thus providing a sleek luggage system.

Further, a mounting bar may be removably coupled to the frame, the mounting bar comprising a strap for carrying the luggage system.

The mounting bar may include a back-plate for cooperating with the back of a carrier while the straps are in use. The back-plate may comprise a contoured suspended structure! net. The contoured suspended structure! net attached to the rear mounting bar may ideally provide a means to reduce the level of discomfort!strain encountered with prolonged use as often found with other system bags which may be, in pad, due to excessive heat build up between the bag and the back of the carrier.

Additionally, a mounting bar may be removably coupled to the frame, the mounting bar comprising a wheel positioned at a base of the mounting bar and extending beyond the frame. The wheel may be positioned at an opposite end of the frame to the carry handle. The mounting bar may also further comprise an extendible handle. The wheel may be positioned at an opposite end of the mounting bar to the extendible handle. The extendible handle allows for transportation of the luggage using the wheel.

The potential for harm to the carrier is decreased by offering various methods for transporting the baggage such that if discomfort is noted, a different method can be used, such as, using the shoulder straps, handle, or by wheeling.

The means for removably coupling the first container to a first portion of the frame may also comprise a formation on the frame adapted to receive a mating formation on the first container.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, a modular luggage system is provided comprising: a substantially rigid frame having an open sided chamber to receive a first container, a first pair of parallel grooves to receive a second container, a carry handle positioned at an upper end of the frame, a second pair of parallel grooves positioned at a lower end of the frame on the same side of the frame as the first pair of parallel grooves, and a third pair of parallel grooves positioned on an opposing side of the frame with respect to the first and second pair of parallel grooves; a first container being lockable to the frame via a depressible button positioned on the first container which cooperates with a recess on the frame when the first container has been positioned in the chamber; a second container comprising parallel projections for cooperating with the first parallel grooves on the frame to retain the second container on the frame; a third container, smaller than the first and second containers, comprising parallel projections for cooperating with the second parallel grooves on the frame to retain the second container on the frame; and, a mounting bar comprising parallel projections for cooperating with the third parallel grooves on the frame to retain the mounting bar on the frame, the mounting bar further comprising transportation means.

A frame suitable for use with the modular luggage system is also provided, as is a container suitable for removably coupling to the frame of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Drawings

An example of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a luggage system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2A shows a rear view of a luggage system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and, Figure 2B shows a roar view of a frame of a luggage system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

A luggage system is described herein that allows each element of the system to be a product in its own right yet collect together and mate to form an integrated luggage system. For example, a document bag can be removed from the system and used in a stand-alone manner, without support from the other parts; as can a case for a personal computer. It is envisaged that other suitably adapted containers be used within the system.

Throughout the description, the terms top, bottom, front, back and side will be used. Each term relates to the perspective of the user carrying the bag using the straps or using the handles to transport the bag. Each term is used in the conventional manner for bags and backpacks.

The modular luggage system is based around a frame that allows different receptacles, for example a leather laptop computer case (portable computer) and leather document bag, which can be located and securely retained on the frame for carriage or transportation. It is of course contemplated that a suitable material may be used for each container; however, it has been shown that leather is preferable to the business traveller as it portrays high quality as well as being durable.

The luggage system is adaptable to any required functionality. Each receptacle can vary in design and function as long as it maintains the specific parameters for cooperating, fitting and mating onto the frame.

The luggage system can be worn like a backpack or rucksack, carried or wheeled like a briefcase or suitcase or even fixed to a bike like a pannier.

Additional components may be required and located on the frame for each transport option.

Each component may be securely fastened to the frame, or each other, by means of a lock or suitable equivalent. For example, a depressible button may be used that locates into a specific hole or receptacle at the centre of the frame structure. Release of each component may involve the button being depressed by a user whilst the component is slid to one side so that the button is then depressed against the frame allowing extraction. Each component is only secure when fully located in the frame and the arrangement may optionally only allow one component to be extracted at a time. The depressible buttons are specifically placed to prevent opportunistic removal when in transit. It is contemplated that the button and receptacle may be placed on the frame or component. Additionally, a locking system is envisaged that will secure all components to the frame through means of either a keyless or keyed means.

Alternative locking mechanisms considered include a hinged top piece on the frame and a latch on the base of the frame, and a (dual action) cam lock.

A specific exemplary embodiment of the modular luggage system will now be described in the context of Figures 1 to 3. As shown in Figure 1, a luggage system 1, when integrated, is easily transportable. The luggage system 1 comprises a main frame 2 which acts as a base for which each of the independently transportable components can be mounted.

The frame 2 may preferably be rigid, but may also be semi-rigid. The frame 2 may be made from a suitable aluminium alloy (extruded or otherwise), lightweight composite such as carbon fibre, lightweight plastic such as ABS or wood. Other suitable materials are of course envisaged. To allow for the frame to be easily expanded during manufacture or thereafter, it is contemplated that multiple materials may be used. For example, the rear portion of the frame may be made of a sturdy material, whereas other portions may be made using a more flexible material and subsequently fixed to the sturdy frame. The frame itself may be modular, with component portions able to be interchanged for alternative configurations, such as to accommodate different size container components and increasing the capacity of the system A container, in a first example a laptop outer case 3, can be slid into the main frame 2 and located and secured through use of a depressible button 4. The frame 2 includes a cooperating receptacle or hole (not shown). In this way, the computer is entirely enclosed when coupled to the frame for safety.

As shown, the laptop component 3 may be housed within an open-sided chamber, cavity or hollow portion of the frame 2 to provide protection from the top, bottom, front and back. The laptop component 3 slides into the chamber and the depressible button 4 cooperates with a recess 7 on the frame to retain the component securely in the frame. The laptop case is thus housed within the chamber and mates with the frame to remain securely in place. The chamber may be open on both sides or just on one side. A cover (not shown) may be provided over the open side of the chamber.

For convenience, Figure 1 shows the depressible button 4 on the front side, i.e. the side opposing the back of the carrier when the bag is in use; however it will be understood that this may not always be the case. The button may be positioned on either side of the component, with a recess suitably positioned on the frame. Preferably the button is positioned on the rear side, facing the back of the carrier when the luggage system is in use, such that when the bag is removed from the user the button can be depressed and accidental or opportunistic release is prevented.

Figure 2A shows a rear view of the luggage system with each component mated to the frame 2. Figure 2B also shows a rear view of the system, however, the laptop component 3 has been removed from the frame 2. In Figure 2B, the recess 7 is shown in the frame 2 for cooperation with a button 4 placed on the rear of the laptop component 3.

The laptop component 3 may be rigid or flexible and made from suitable material. The laptop case 3 may include an opening 14 for removal of the portable computer when the case has been removed from the frame. The opening would preferably at the top of the case when inserted into the system, that is, at the same end as a carry handle of the frame 2.

The laptop component 3 may also have a strap or handle so that it can be transported easily in isolation from the main frame. When mated with the frame, the laptop case may have an exposed tab or handle to aid in the removal of the bag while the button is depressed. This tab may optionally be much like the tab used to conventionally remove batteries from their housing. The tab may be alternatively attached to the frame so that pulling it removes the laptop case from the frame when the button has been depressed. When the button has not been depressed and is mated with the recess, the laptop case remains in place securely.

Another component or container, in this case a document bag 5, may also be attached to the main frame 2. The document bag 5 may include a protrusion 20 or pair of protrusions, such as upper and lower ridges, which cooperates with a groove, or pair of grooves 6, on the main frame such that it can be slid onto the frame. A depressible button (not shown) may be designed to cooperate with a recess 21 on the frame 2, such that the document bag 5 may mate with the frame and be secured in place during transit.

A carry handle 8 may be positioned at one end of the main frame 2 and may be integral with the frame. The carry handle may alternatively be positioned at a side of the frame.

A further component, in this case a box 9 for assorted items, locates and slides into the main frame from either side. To maintain an air of sophistication and a sleek design, the box 9 may be contiguous with the document bag 5 when both are mated with the frame 2, as shown in Figure 1. In this specific example, the box 9 will slide into the base of the frame using a suitable protrusion or protrusions and a cooperating groove or grooves either on the box 9 or on the frame 2.

The box 9 may be retained in place using friction or alternatively using a depressible button mechanism similar to that described above. It is also contemplated that any other suitable retention or locking mechanism may be used such as an external clasp, strap, non-depressible button and hole or zip.

The other components, for example the laptop case and the document bag, may also be retained using any suitable mechanism such as the examples given above.

In another embodiment, a locking mechanism may be incorporated into the box 9 by which a cam rotates and pushes a pin or, in the case of a dual-action cam lock, pins into either the document bag 5, frame 2 or both. In this way, the box 9 can be securely locked to the bag or frame or both such that it is not easily removable and may contain valuables. The frame or bag may be adapted to contain an interengaging mechanism with the pins of mechanism.

The box 9 may alternatively be configured as a housing or sleeve fixed to or integrated with the frame. A removable container may optionally be slid into the housing or sleeve to contain the contents. The housing may be closed at one end and opened at another with an end cap configured to cover the opening to prevent removal of the container. The end cap may be locked using a cam, latch or other suitable mechanism.

When a laptop is stored in the laptop component 3, the box 9 may hold the charger and other laptop accessories such as a pointing device. This can also be stored in the bag componentS.

In addition to simply being suitable for storing a laptop charger, the box 9 itself may have an integral transformer (not shown). In this way, the heavy portion of laptop transport is easily and tidily carried. Depending on the size of the transformer, the box may be split into a container portion or a transformer portion. Alternatively, the component may only comprise a transformer.

A mounting bar 10, shown in Figure 2A, may slide into the main frame 2 from either side in a similar manner to the components described above. The mounting bar 10 may have a strap 11 or pair of straps attached to it. These straps may be any suitable shape or material for adequate transportation. The mounting bar 10 slides into a cooperating groove 12 or pair of grooves positioned on the rear of the main frame on an opposing side to the groove or pair of grooves which are for cooperating with the document bag 5. In this way, the combined luggage system resembles a rucksack or backpack, with a document bag or the like removably attached to one side of the main frame and a mount bar with attached straps and removably attached to the opposing side.

The mount bar, when the bag is used as a rucksack or backpack type bag, may be equipped with a suspension structure fitting 13 which provides support for the user's back when carrying the bag and is designed to cooperate with the shape of the back and to space the frame 2 away from the user's back. The suspension structure 13 may be netted to reduce heating of the user.

In addition to the specific component examples described above, other components and embodiments are envisaged. For example, the carry handle may include a strain gauge or similar gauge suitable for measuring the weight of the bag. The handle will be used to pick up the bag and the strain gauge will produce a visual or audible indication of the weight of the bag. This may be useful when travelling by aeroplane where a weight limit is enforced or to provide an indication when the bag is so heavy as to be unsuitable for carrying.

Additionally, the frame or mount bar may include an extruded portion suitable to retain a wheel or wheels (not shown). The bag may comprise any number of wheels suitable for adequate transportation. In this scenario, the straps may be removed from the mount bar or retained. An extendable handle (not shown) may also be provided within a frame wall mount bar such that when the luggage system is wheeled the carrier does not need to bend over.

A channel may also be provided at the base of the frame for the addition of a wheel component (not shown). A wheel or a plurality of wheels may be slid into the channel.

A one way flex shoulder strap (not shown) may also be provided on the mount bar such that when the wheels are used an extendable handle is not required as the one way flex shoulder strap may be used to tow the bag. The shoulder strap may also be suitable for carrying the bag.

It is also envisaged that a motor (not shown) may be equipped to the frame or mount bar or as part of an additional component that cooperates with the frame, such that the product can be manoeuvred remotely.

As the luggage system may be particularly useful in a business environment, it is envisaged that the frame structure of the luggage system may itself be used as a computer casing or housing. Wireless technology such as Bluetooth® may be used to interface with a remote screen, keyboard and pointing device which would allow for better interaction and less need for specific work space. This may be of particular use in the confined space of a train or aeroplane. The computer casing or housing may be removably attached to the main frame in the same manner as the components described above or the frame itself may provide the necessary housing. An integrated projector for a portable presentation system may be removably attached in the same manner as the components described above or may be integrated into the frame or an existing component.

Claims

<claim-text>CLAIMS1. A modular luggage system comprising: a frame; a first container; and, a second container; wherein the frame includes means for removably coupling the first container to a first portion of the frame and means for removably coupling the second container to a second portion of the frame.</claim-text> <claim-text>2. A modular luggage system according to claim 1, in which the means for removably coupling the first container to a first portion of the frame comprises an open-sided chamber defining an interior space matching the exterior of the first container.</claim-text> <claim-text>3. A modular luggage system according to claim 1 or 2, in which the first container is lockable to the frame.</claim-text> <claim-text>4. A modular luggage system according to claim 3, in which the frame or the first container comprises a depressible button which cooperates with a receptacle on the other of the frame or first container to lock the first container in place.</claim-text> <claim-text>5. A modular luggage system according to any preceding claim, in which the frame is adapted to receive the first and second containers at the same time.</claim-text> <claim-text>6. A modular luggage system according to claim any preceding claim, in which the first container is adapted to encapsulate, securely, a personal computer.</claim-text> <claim-text>7. A modular luggage system according to any preceding claim, in which the frame further comprises a carry handle integral with the frame.</claim-text> <claim-text>8. A modular luggage system according to claim 7, in which the carry handle comprises a gauge such that when the carry handle supports the luggage system, the gauge provides an indication of the weight of the combined luggage system.</claim-text> <claim-text>9. A modular luggage system according to any preceding claim, in which the frame comprises a channel positioned at the base of the frame and in which the luggage system comprises a wheel component having a wheel, the wheel component sliding into the channel of the frame.</claim-text> <claim-text>10. A modular luggage system according to any preceding claim, further comprising a third container removably coupled to a base of the frame, the third container being smaller than the first and second containers.</claim-text> <claim-text>11. A modular luggage system according to claim 10, in which the third container is contiguous with the second container when both containers are coupled to the frame.</claim-text> <claim-text>12. A modular luggage system according to any preceding claim, further comprising a mounting bar removably coupled to the frame, the mounting bar comprising a strap for carrying the luggage system.</claim-text> <claim-text>13. A modular luggage system according to claim 12, in which the mounting bar includes a back-plate for cooperating with the back of a carrier while the straps are in use.</claim-text> <claim-text>14. A modular luggage system according to claim 13, in which the back-plate is a contoured net.</claim-text> <claim-text>15. A modular luggage system according to any of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a mounting bar removably coupled to the frame, the mounting bar comprising a wheel positioned at a base of the mounting bar and extending beyond the frame.</claim-text> <claim-text>16. A modular luggage system according to claim 15, in which the wheel is positioned at an opposite end of the frame to the carry handle.</claim-text> <claim-text>17. A modular luggage system according to claim 15, in which the mounting bar further comprises an extendible handle.</claim-text> <claim-text>18. A modular luggage system according to claim 17, in which the wheel is positioned at an opposite end of the mounting bar to the extendible handle.</claim-text> <claim-text>19. A modular luggage system according to any preceding claim, in which the means for removably coupling the first container to a first portion of the frame comprises a formation on the frame adapted to receive a mating formation on the first container.</claim-text> <claim-text>20. A modular luggage system comprising: a substantially rigid frame having an open sided chamber to receive a first container, a first pair of parallel grooves to receive a second container, a carry handle positioned at an upper end of the frame, a second pair of parallel grooves positioned at a lower end of the frame on the same side of the frame as the first pair of parallel grooves, and a third pair of parallel grooves positioned on an opposing side of the frame with respect to the first and second pair of parallel grooves; a first container being lockable to the frame via a depressible button positioned on the first container which cooperates with a recess on the frame when the first container has been positioned in the chamber; a second container comprising parallel projections for cooperating with the first parallel grooves on the frame to retain the second container on the frame; a third container, smaller than the first and second containers, comprising parallel projections for cooperating with the second parallel grooves on the frame to retain the second container on the frame; and, a mounting bar comprising parallel projections for cooperating with the third parallel grooves on the frame to retain the mounting bar on the frame, the mounting bar further comprising transportation means.</claim-text> <claim-text>21. A frame suitable for use with the modular luggage system of any preceding claim.</claim-text> <claim-text>22. A container suitable for removably coupling to the frame of any preceding claim.</claim-text> <claim-text>23. A modular luggage system as hereinbefore described with reference to the appended drawings.Amendments to the claims have been filed as follows.CLAIMS1. A modular luggage system comprising: a frame; a first container; and, a second container; wherein the frame includes means for removably coupling the first container to a first portion of the frame and means for removably coupling the second container to a second portion of the frame; wherein the means for removably coupling the first container to a first portion of the frame comprises an open-sided chamber defining an interior space matching the exterior of the first container.
2. A modular luggage system according to claim 1, in which the first C\J 15 container is lockable to the frame. r(.0
3. A modular luggage system according to claim 2, in which the frame or the 0 first container comprises a depressible button which cooperates with a N-receptacle on the other of the frame or first container to lock the first container in place.
4. A modular luggage system according to any preceding claim, in which the frame is adapted to receive the first and second containers at the same time.
5. A modular luggage system according to claim any preceding claim, in which the first container is adapted to encapsulate, securely, a personal computer.
6. A modular luggage system according to any preceding claim, in which the frame further comprises a carry handle integral with the frame.
7. A modular luggage system according to claim 6, in which the carry handle comprises a gauge such that when the carry handle supports the luggage system, the gauge provides an indication of the weight of the combined luggage system.
8. A modular luggage system according to any preceding claim, in which the frame comprises a channel positioned at the base of the frame and in which the luggage system comprises a wheel component having a wheel, the wheel component sliding into the channel of the frame.
9. A modular luggage system according to any preceding claim, further comprising a third container removably coupled to a base of the frame, the third container being smaller than the first and second containers.
10. A modular luggage system according to claim 9, in which the third container is contiguous with the second container when both containers are C\J 15 coupled to the frame. r(.0
11. A modular luggage system according to any preceding claim, further 0 comprising a mounting bar removably coupled to the frame, the mounting bar N-comprising a strap for carrying the luggage system.
12. A modular luggage system according to claim 11, in which the mounting bar includes a back-plate for cooperating with the back of a carrier while the straps are in use.
13. A modular luggage system according to claim 12, in which the back-plate is a contoured net.
14. A modular luggage system according to any of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a mounting bar removably coupled to the frame, the mounting bar comprising a wheel positioned at a base of the mounting bar and extending beyond the frame.
15. A modular luggage system according to claim 14, in which the wheel is positioned at an opposite end of the frame to the carry handle.
16. A modular luggage system according to claim 14, in which the mounting bar further comprises an extendible handle.
17. A modular luggage system according to claim 16, in which the wheel is positioned at an opposite end of the mounting bar to the extendible handle.
18. A modular luggage system according to any preceding claim, in which the means for removably coupling the first container to a first portion of the frame comprises a formation on the frame adapted to receive a mating formation on the first container.(\J 15
19. A modular luggage system comprising: a substantially rigid frame having an open sided chamber to receive a first container, a first pair of parallel grooves to receive a second container, a carry 0 handle positioned at an upper end of the frame, a second pair of parallel grooves positioned at a lower end of the frame on the same side of the frame as the first pair of parallel grooves, and a third pair of parallel grooves positioned on an opposing side of the frame with respect to the first and second pair of parallel grooves; a first container being lockable to the frame via a depressible button positioned on the first container which cooperates with a recess on the frame when the first container has been positioned in the chamber; a second container comprising parallel projections for cooperating with the first parallel grooves on the frame to retain the second container on the frame; a third container, smaller than the first and second containers, comprising parallel projections for cooperating with the second parallel grooves on the frame to retain the second container on the frame; and, a mounting bar comprising parallel projections for cooperating with the third parallel grooves on the frame to retain the mounting bar on the frame, the mounting bar further comprising transportation means.
20. A frame suitable for use with the modular luggage system of any preceding claim.
21. A container suitable for removably coupling to the frame of any preceding claim.
22. A modular luggage system as hereinbefore described with reference to the appended drawings. (4 r (0N-(4</claim-text>