KR20180072739A - Travel bag article with outer partition - Google Patents

Abstract

 A primary internal compartment having a bottom portion 70,80 including wheels 80 and a top wall 20,122 located opposite the bottom portion 15. A suitcase (10, 200, 500) comprising a housing (12) defining a housing (15, 15). A top comprising a recessed compartment having an internal volume (105) that may be separated from the primary internal storage compartment.

Description

Travel bag article with outer partition

The present invention relates to luggage cases and, in particular, wheeled generally rectangular suitcases with wheels.

The suitcase case generally provides an internal volume for storing user contents in the suitcase. When traveling or when rapid access is needed, it is difficult to access the main internal volume of the suitcase case. Difficulties are related to sorting through the bulk of the contents contained within the internal volume to obtain the desired content.

Additionally, opening the lid or shell portion to the contents of the internal volume is difficult in many situations, such as in a narrow space or even on the floor. Also, while side pockets are perceived to be provided on the outside of the suitcase case, they are frequently insufficient in size or geometry. The pockets are located on the vertical sides of the suitcase case, which may be inaccessible because it is located at the bottom of the suitcase, and because it is far from the pull handle, There is a tendency to be located.

Luggage cases, or suitcases, can be contrasted with other types of suitcases and bags. In particular, these suitcase cases now typically include one or more wheels on their lower edges and are generally rectangular in shape, as compared to more amorphously structured bags, such as bachpacks / rucksacks. The structure that defines the storage volume is more rigid.

Documents that may be relevant to the present invention in terms of including various approaches to baggage compartments are provided in PCT Pub. No. WO2014 / 097337A1, U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 2005/0284717, PCT Pub. No. WO2014 / 177863A1, GB2512089, U.S. Pat. Pub. No. 20150027833, U.S.A. Pub. No. 20140166416, European Pat. No. 2630889, U.S. Pat. Pat. No. 7374071, U.S. Pat. Pat. No. 5526907, and U.S. Pat. Pat. No. 5526907. However, these proposals may be improved.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to solve the problems described above, or more generally to improve or even improve the existing apparatus without the need to access the improved suitcase case, and in particular, without opening the main internal volume of the suitcase and uncomfortably positioned side pockets It is desirable to provide an improved travel bag partition that provides easy access for users providing alternatives.

Thus, in accordance with the present invention there is a suitcase case provided as described in the specification and the appended claims. The described suitcase case provides an improved location of the compartment structure that may be simplified or improved access to content stored in the suitcase case.

The suitcase case may have a plurality of internal storage compartments, and an improved second compartment partitioned from the main compartment and positioned above the top front (and also the wall) of the suitcase case. The second partition is separated from the main partition by one or more walls or panels. By placing the second storage compartment over the top front of the suitcase case and by separating it into at least two storage compartments, the user can place the main compartment or the side faces There is room for convenient access without having to access the pocket formed in the pocket.

When the second partition is located above the upper wall of the suitcase case, the user need not go far to open the side pockets and there is no need to operate a securement mechanism without a clear view. Advantageously, the second compartment is a proximal portion of the carrying handle and the pull handle utilized to carry the suitcase case to allow the user to conveniently open, close, access, utilize, . The second compartment can be folded to reduce the space occupied inside the main compartment.

The present invention provides a suitcase case, which may in particular comprise a bottom portion with wheels. The suitcase case may also include a front and rear opposite the main wall, with opposite sides of the minor wall connecting the pull handle and the front, and a rear main wall housing the opposite rear side of the main panel. The luggage case may further include a lower portion defining a main interior volume, a top wall, a bottom wall, and a top wall positioned opposite the bottom portion with the main wall. At least one of the top wall or the side wall may include an aperture opening into a partition operable to be separately stored from the housing storing the pull handle.

The present invention particularly provides a suitcase case that may include a housing defining a main interior storage compartment. The housing may include a bottom portion having a bottom wall and wheels, a plurality of side walls, and a top wall opposite the bottom wall. The housing may be operatively open to provide access to the main interior storage. The top wall may define an opening having a plurality of edges. One of the edges may form a hinge with a cover panel that allows access through the opening into the recessed second small storage compartment. The hinge may be operable to allow the cover panel to move relative to the top wall.

The recessed partitions may be operable for storage of user goods and separated from the main interior storage compartment. In one alternative, the partition extends into the main interior storage compartment. The plurality of side walls forming the housing may include opposite main and rear walls. The rear main wall may include a pull handle. The opposite side wall may extend between the opposing main front and back walls.

In one embodiment, the front wall may form a hinge with one side wall and form an access to the main interior partition by connecting it with the other side wall together with a releasable fastener. In another alternative embodiment, the side wall and one of the top and bottom walls may include a separable seam that forms a separate portion of each of the side walls, the top wall, and the bottom wall. The other side wall may include a hinge connecting the split portion by forming a clamshell type housing. The clamshell type housing may advantageously be made of a rigid side material, and some users may provide a desirable structure for transporting the article while traveling.

According to various embodiments, at least one of the edges, or alternatively the plurality of edges, may define the aperture in the partition, and in one example at least one of the plurality of edges is parallel to the perimeter of the top wall . The partition may extend from the top wall of the suitcase case into the main interior storage compartment.

A fastener comprising a zipper may detachably fix the cover panel to the top wall or may attach at least one edge of the cover panel to the top wall. The cover panel may cover between 30% and 50% of the top wall to provide various concave partition sizes. The cover panel hinges provide access to more conveniently based on the location of the user relative to the suitcase case, adjacent to or on the side of the top wall adjacent the main front wall. The top wall or bottom wall may be formed of at least a plurality of rigid shell materials and at least a portion of one of the sub-walls or the main front and back walls may be partially formed into a plurality of soft side surfaces forming at least a hybrid structure .

The hybrid structure allows for structural diversity when forming the case and allows for a variety of performance characteristics (localized weight differences, local wear resistance, local strength aspects) and the appearance flexibility of the suitcase case Sometimes this is desirable.

In various embodiments, the opening may be formed of a second shell and a hard shell material extending from the opening toward the bottom wall of the case. The cover panel may comprise a more flexible material than a rigid shell material. The second small storage compartment may be folded.

The second small storage compartment may comprise a plurality of side panels with a bottom panel and a bottom panel formed from a material of greater rigidity than the plurality of side panels. The plurality of side panels may be formed by attaching the second small storage compartment to the upper wall around the periphery of the opening.

In many instances, the second concave partition may be formed by a bag or bag made of a flexible material and may be aligned with an opening, e.g., at least partially coupled (fixed) around the edge of the opening, It may be folded in volume. The second concave partition may extend into the main partition.

According to various embodiments, the plurality of side panels may be operable to reduce the size of the partitions to fit the contents, or to fold over themselves to reduce the volume occupied by the main partitions. The connection between the first side panel and the lower panel may be folded toward the upper wall. The bottom panel may be folded toward the second side panel until the bottom panel is substantially parallel to the second side panel.

The first side panel may be folded toward the opening for the second small storage compartment until the first side panel is substantially parallel to the top wall. The second small storage compartment may comprise a bracing panel which connects to the lower panel and extends to the rear main wall of the suitcase case such that the compartment is folded towards the rear wall Forward slides the partition.

According to various embodiments, a frame structure may be included in the suitcase case, and a portion of the frame structure extends between the intersections of at least any two adjacent panels. This frame configuration improves the strength. Additionally or alternatively, a portion of the frame portion may include a frame for supporting a minor side face (also "wall") of the suitcase case about its periphery. This frame structure option enhances the manufacture, strength and weight of at least soft sided or hybrid luggage cases.

According to various embodiments, the outer rim structure may extend around at least a portion of the periphery of the top wall, when the suitcase case is at least partially comprised of a soft side material. This outer rim structure may provide additional strength to the top wall of the suitcase case, improve the abrasion resistance of the portion of the suitcase case, and provide a desirable appearance.

According to various embodiments, the handle assembly may be positioned at least partially in a recessed area that is at least partially defined in the side top wall, and the handle assembly includes a carrying handle, at least a retracted position and an operative position, And a carrying handle mounted within the concave region moving in a pivotal manner. This configuration of the handle assembly concentrates the force to lift and carry the travel case by the carrying handle within the area of the already structured travel case for use with the pull handle.

This can reduce the cost of the configuration by creating a single component to assemble both the carrying handle and the pull handle into the suitcase case. This is also because the suitcase case is not lifted from the center of the upper wall or panel but instead is lifted from the bezel structure with reinforcements for use with the pull handle and connected to the frame Reducing the need to reinforce or reinforce the top wall of the suitcase case to support the hanging weight of the suitcase case.

According to various embodiments, the suitcase case may be made up at least in part of a soft sided material, and may include a rear major wall including a pull handle, and an access panel a major front wall that forms an access panel.

According to various embodiments, the travel bag case, the travel case case comprising the second component may be made of a soft material, the bottom portion may be made at least partially of a hard side material, or to support the travel case and wheels And has a relatively rigid bottom structure.

According to various embodiments of the suitcase case comprising the second component, the suitcase case may be at least partially comprised of rigid side material, the rear major wall having a pull handle, At least one minor side wall and one of the top and bottom walls defining a separable seam forming a separate portion of each of the minor side wall, top wall and bottom wall, a separable seam and the other minor side wall comprises a hinge connecting the individual parts to form a clamshell type housing.

According to various embodiments, a suitcase case including a secondary recessed compartment may include side walls formed from soft side material and rigid side material to define a hybrid construction have.

In another example, the suitcase case includes a housing defining a major internal storage compartment, and also includes a lower portion having a lower wall and wheels, a plurality of side walls, The top wall includes an aperture defined by at least one of the edges or alternatively the plurality of edges.

The luggage case also includes a concave partition that is coupled to the top wall and that is substantially aligned with the opening, the concave partition at least partially folds into the main interior storage partition, And the concave partition may be at least partially partitioned from the main interior storage compartment.

In this example, alternatively, the top wall may be formed at least partially a rigid frame portion. The rigid frame portion may include a rim extending at least partially around a periphery of the top wall to at least partially surround the recessed partition. Further in this example, the top wall may include a front edge portion, a rear edge portion and an opposite side edge portion, wherein the rim extends along at least a portion of each of the three edge portions, or alternatively at least the opposite side edge portion Or alternatively the rim has a concave partition over at least two sides.

The rigid frame portion and rim may be covered by the material, or may be external to the material and exposed. The rigid frame portion may substantially provide additional strength to the suitcase case, and specifically to the top wall of the suitcase case.

In addition, in this example, the concave partition may extend from the top wall of the suitcase case into the main interior storage compartment.

Further in this example, the concave partition extends from the opening formed in the upper wall of the suitcase case toward the lower wall of the suitcase case.

In addition, in this example, a plurality of side panels forming a concave partition is attached to the top wall at or near the edge of the opening.

Additionally, in this example, the plurality of edges defining the opening are parallel to the peripheral or peripheral edge portion of the top wall.

In a further example, a fastener secures the cover panel releasably to the top wall and attaches at least one edge of the cover panel to the top wall.

In still yet another example, the concave partition comprises a plurality of side panels with a bottom panel and a bottom panel formed from a material having greater stiffness than the plurality of side panels. In addition, in this example, in one embodiment, the plurality of side panels may be self-collapsible.

In another example, the concave partition includes a lower panel and a bracing panel that engages one of the side walls of the selected suitcase case. This bracing panel biases the recessed partitions to collapse towards one of the selected side walls.

In another embodiment, the plurality of side walls forming the housing of the suitcase case includes opposite main and main back walls, opposite extending side walls extending between the opposite main and rear surfaces, The hinge may be formed between the upper wall adjacent the main front wall or the upper wall adjacent to the main rear wall to allow different access to the compartment based on the position of the hinge. Lt; / RTI >

In yet another example, at least one of the plurality of side walls of the suitcase case and the upper wall may be formed at least partially from the soft side material.

In another example, the frame structure may be included in the suitcase case and the portion of the frame structure extends along the intersection between the intersections of at least any two adjacent walls

In another example, an external rigid rim structure extends around at least a portion of the perimeter of the top wall.

In yet another example, the travel bag case including the partition may also include a handle assembly at least partially positioned at least in a recessed area that is partially formed in the top wall, and the handle assembly may include a carrying handle and an extendable Includes a pull handle. The carrying handle may be pivotally mounted at least in the recessed region for movement between a retracted position and an operative position. In addition, in this example, the extendible pulling handle with a hand grip may be engaged in the recessed area. In addition, in this example, the concave region may be formed in a positioned bezel structure adjacent the rear edge of the top wall.

In another example, the outer rim may extend along the rear edge of the top wall, and the recessed area may be formed in a rim that may optionally be exterior. The formation of recessed areas in the outer rim may reduce or eliminate the need to have a separate bezel structure on the suitcase case.

In another example, the carrying handle may include a grip portion, at least a arm portion extending from the grip portion, and at least one of the arm portions may be pivotally coupled in a concave region, and the grip portion may include at least a first position And a second position at the top wall end and is accessible by the user.

In addition, in this example, at least one arm portion may be inclined relative to the top wall in at least one position. In addition, in this example, at least one arm portion may be pivotally coupled to the side wall forming at least a partially recessed region. In addition, in this example, the gripping portion may be positioned in alignment with the hand grip of the pulling handle, or away from the hand grip of the pulling handle. In addition, in this example, at least one arm portion may extend from the grip portion, and may include first and second arms extending from the grip portion, and may be spaced at regular intervals.

Also in this example, the carrying handle may be biased to the first position.

In still yet another example, the suitcase case includes a housing defining a main interior storage compartment and includes a lower wall and wheels, a lower portion having a plurality of side walls, and a top wall having a circumference, The wall comprises a recessed partition in an opposite lower wall and comprising an opening defined by at least one of the edges or one of the plurality of edges, and a recessed partition engageable with and substantially aligned with the upper wall, wherein the recessed partition At least partially dividing and extending at least partially into the main interior storage compartment, the cover panel selectively covering the opening and selectively permitting access into the compartment through the opening and defining a recessed, Lt; RTI ID = 0.0 > pivotally < / RTI >

Additional embodiments and features are set forth in the following description, which, upon review of the specification, will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and may be learned by practice of the subject matter of the invention. A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and drawings forming a part of this disclosure.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the various structures, aspects and features of the invention may each be used advantageously separately or otherwise in combination with other aspects and features of the present invention, Structure or may be disclosed as a structure.

It is to be understood that the phraseology is not necessarily drawn to scale and that it is not to be construed as a complete recitation of the present invention but rather as a manifestation of the various embodiments of the invention, Will be.
1 is a top perspective view of a travel case with a closed partition.
2 is a top perspective view of a travel case having an open partition.
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a travel case with both a major internal compartment open and a second secondary smaller compartment.
4 is a top view of the suitcase case of claim 1;
Figure 5 is a side cross sectional view of the travel case of Figure 2 taken along line AA section shown in Figure 4;
Fig. 6 is a detailed view of the cross-sectional view of Fig. 5 taken at section B shown in Fig. 5 with the partition shown in the first position shown in Fig.
FIG. 7 is a detail view of the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5 taken at section B shown in FIG. 5 with a second in-position partition moved from the section shown in FIG. 5;
8 is a top perspective view of an example of a suitcase case having a carry handle that is fastened to the cover panel of the closed compartment.
Figure 9 is an enlarged partial view of the travel case of Figure 8 with a partially open cover panel to expose the container portion.
Figure 10 is a top view of the travel case of Figure 8 showing the frame structure.
Figure 11 is a rear perspective view of the travel case of Figure 8 showing the frame structure.
Figure 12 is a plan view of another example of a travel case having a structural rim formed around a peripheral portion of the top wall of the travel case together with the top compartment closed.
Figure 13 is a top perspective view of the travel case of Figure 12 with a cover panel in an open position to expose the container portion.
Figure 14 is an example of a travel case of the present invention including a pivoting carry handle.
Figure 15 is an example of the travel case of Figure 14 with a carrying handle pivoting in an extended position.
Figure 16 is an enlarged view of the bezel of the travel case of Figures 14 and 15, with a carrying handle pivoting in a retracted position and in an extended position, (an enlarged view).
17 is a plan view of another example of a travel case having a structural rim formed around a part of the periphery of the upper wall of the travel case together with the closed upper part.
FIG. 18 is an enlarged perspective view of the travel case of FIG. 17; FIG.
Figure 19 is an enlarged perspective view of the handle assembly of the travel case of Figure 17 with the carrying handle in the operative position.
Figure 20 is an enlarged perspective view of the handle assembly of the travel case of Figure 17 with the carrying handle in the folded position.
Figure 21 is a perspective view of another example of a travel case having a structure rim formed around the position of the periphery of the upper wall of the travel case together with the closed upper partition.
Figure 22 is a perspective view of the travel case in Figure 21 with an open top divider;

The suitcase case described herein provides an improved compartment structure that provides simple and improved access to the contents stored within the suitcase case. The suitcase case may have a plurality of internal storage compartments, and a second compartment partitioned from the main compartment and positioned above the top surface of the suitcase case. The second partition is divided from the main partition by one or more walls or panels.

By placing the second storage compartment over the top surface of the suitcase case, and by dividing it into two storage volumes, the user can conveniently access the contents of the second compartment without having to access a pocket formed on the main compartment, Lt; / RTI > Preferably, the second compartment is adjacent to a carrying handle and a pull handle utilized to carry the suitcase case.

1, the luggage case 10 includes a variety of travel bags (not shown) having a main interior storage compartment 15 (see FIG. 5) operable to define a relatively large volume and to store sundry items . The suitcase case 10 also defines a second compartment 100 which is also referred to as a concave compartment above the upper portion of the suitcase case 10 such as the top wall 20 and the second compartment 100, Defines a separate minor volume from the main storage volume, which may extend into the main interior storage compartment 15. [

The suitcase case 10 may have a housing structure 12 of various shapes and sizes, including, but not limited to, a substantially cuboid or parallel-pipe housing structure 12. The suitcase case 10 may also be structured as any other shape defining a main interior storage compartment for storage. As shown in the various figures, the luggage case 10 may be a vertical or upright-type having a width and a depth less than the height. The travel luggage case 10 may include a panel or wall 50 serving as a lid 52 and may be connected to the main interior storage compartment 15 via an access 17, The closure mechanism can be selectively opened along the hinge 19 so as to allow access to the hinge.

The fastener 55 may comprise one or more of a zipper, buckles, snaps, hooks and loop system, buttons, Fastening elements, and the like. As shown in Figures 1-5, the fastening element 55 may be a zipper extending around the sides of the plurality of panels. Although the particular suitcase case 10 illustrated in each of the figures is shown as an access panel, it should be understood that the main interior storage (as shown here, for example, the front panel 50) A door which can be opened by a zip attachment 55 for obtaining access to the partition 15 is formed.

Also shown separately in FIG. 3 is an example of opening the second partition 100 by illustrating an example of partitioning between a primary or major internal storage partition 15 and a second partition 100. In this example, and as described and illustrated herein, the partition 100 (also referred to below as 218) is located inside the suitcase case, and the partition 100 is underneath the configured side wall, (See FIG. 5).

In another alternative example, the partition 100 may also be formed at least partially exterior to the side wall on which the partition 100 is constructed and still maintain the advantage of keeping the article accessible to the user, But is not completely contained within the housing structure of the housing.

In another embodiment, the luggage case 10 may have a clam shell structure where one of the clam shells forms a lid. Thus, the housing 12 may include opposite main and side walls 50 and 60, one of the minor side walls and the top and bottom walls 70 may be separate A separable seam 55 may be included.

One side wall (e.g., wall 40) may include a hinge 19 connecting the separated portions by forming a clamshell type housing when closed, and the clamshell Thereby forming a main inner storage compartment 15. Other designs may also benefit from the present invention provided herein, and a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand the applicability of the present invention to other suitcase case designs herein.

1 to 5, the suitcase case includes a housing structure 12 and side walls 30, 40 defining the width thereof, front and rear main walls 50, 60, and upper and lower opposite walls 20, 70 that define the height thereof. The walls together define a primary interior storage compartment 15.

The lower wall 70 is configured to include the wheel 80, rests, etc. as in Figure 5 and to act as the primary bottom platform when the travel case 10 is in the raised position . ≪ / RTI > In this orientation, the partition 100 may remain on the upper portion of the suitcase case 10, such as the top wall 20 when the suitcase is in the raised position.

The partition 100 is accessible through the opening 102 formed in the top wall 20. The opening 102 may have at least one edge or may have a plurality of peripheral edges 115 defining a recess in the top wall 20. A plurality of peripheral edges 115 extend parallel to the perimeter of the top wall so that the opening and top wall have a similar shape. The inner volume of the partition 100 forming the container 105 may be defined by one or more inner walls.

4, one or more interior walls may include a back wall 150, a front wall 160, opposite end walls 130, 140, and a bottom wall 120, And each is attached to an adjacent wall along a respective edge. Each side wall 130, 140, 150, 160 defines a top edge. One or more upper edges may be in contact with the upper wall 20 to secure and suspend the partition 100 from the upper wall 20, such as, for example, the inner surface 22 of the upper wall 20 .

The contact of the top wall of one or more walls may be substantially aligned with the periphery 115 of the opening 102. One or more walls (e.g., 120, 130, 140, 150, 160) of the partition 100 define a container portion 105 having a volume or recess, The second partition 100 is separated from the internal storage partition 15. [

In one example, panel 150 and panel 120 are connected to attachment point 122. The upper wall 20, the upper wall 110 and the edge 115 of the opening 102 along the panel 150 may be connected to an attachment point 152 which forms the hinge 112. Panel 120 and panel 160 may be connected to attachment point 124. The attachment point 156 connects the panel 160 to the upper portion 20.

With regard to the partition 100 or the partition 218 (as mentioned in the examples described below), the periphery of the plurality of edges may be a rectangle, a square, a circle, a half-circle, One continuous edge having the shape of an oval or other required opening may be formed. In one example, walls 12, 130, 140, 150, 160 may be continuous or separate, or they may be separate and fixed and continuous together.

In another example, the concave compartment 100 or 218 does not need to be secured to a plurality of edges forming an opening in the edge or top wall. Instead, the wall making up the partition 100 or 218 may be joined to another portion of the top wall remote from the edge or edge forming the opening, or may be coupled to another wall of the suitcase case.

The walls 120,130, 140,150 and 160 may be flat or curved and may be rigid, semi-rigid or flexible and may be a single later of the fabric fabric, a laminate of fabrics and foam, or even a plastics sheet material. One or more walls 120,130, 140,150, 160 may divide the smaller second storage compartment 100 from the main storage volume. The wall is connected with the upper edge of the side wall extending and extending from around the periphery of the opening 102.

The partition 100 may have a defined shape, or the partition 100 may be amorphous. In alternative embodiments, the partition 100 may have a wall-type structure single wall that forms a recess, or even a recess, of the container portion 105 and that divides from the main interior partition 15 with fewer walls connected together. Some embodiments may have fewer panels than others. In such an embodiment, there may be a smaller attachment point.

In an example, in embodiments having side panels 130 and 140 in partition 100, side panels 130 and 140 may be positioned adjacent to each other, such as, for example, panels 120, 150, You can also have attachment points with the panel. In embodiments without side panels 130, 140, such attachment points are not provided. In embodiments of the partition 100 having an amorphous shape, the partition may be formed as a single or multiple panels in this manner, with the partition having a flexible shape similar to that of the basket, although the partition is not defined.

The opening 102 is optionally covered by a cover panel 110. The cover panel 110 may be any type of removable cover that is operable to separate a door, a lid, a flap, panel or container portion 105 from the external environment. It is possible. At the first position of the cover panel 110, the indentations formed by the partition 100 are accessible (see Figures 2 to 7). At the second position of the cover panel 110, the recess formed by the partition 100 is covered by the cover panel 110 (see FIG. 1), thereby at least partially enclosing the partition 100 and its contents .

In this example, the cover panel 110 includes a flexible panel (not shown) having a long side edge (working in parallel with the front and back walls 50,60) and a short opposite side edge (working in parallel with the side walls 30,40) to be. Each side edge of the cover panel 110 substantially aligns with the peripheral side surface 115 of the opening 110. The cover panel 110 can be pivotable along a side 112 of the opening 102 by a living hinge or by a separate hinge structure (e.g., a hardware style hinge) (not shown).

One or more other side edges of the cover panel 110 are separately attached to adjacent edges of the opening 102. The detachable attachment may include a securement mechanism 118, such as, for example, a zipper. Other types of fasteners may also be used, including buckles, snaps, hooks, loops, buttons, and the like. The fixing device 118 selectively contacts the edge 115 of the opening 102 with the edge of the cover panel 110 to selectively fix the cover panel 110 above the opening 102. [

When the cover panel 110 is opened, the cover panel 110 may be secured in the open position by a fastening device such as, for example, a collar and a loop fastening device. In another embodiment, the cover panel 110 may be a rigid side panel formed by a plastic injection mold or a plug mold or the like. The cover panel 110 may be connected to the top wall 20 and / or the partition panel similarly to the soft side panels discussed above.

As illustrated in Figures 6-7, the partition 100 may be folded, preferably. For example, the interior side walls (e.g., 120, 130, 140, 150, 160) may be flexible enough to allow the partition 100 to fold, (E.g., 156, 122, 124) may be flexible enough to allow the wall to fold or pivot about another and allow partition 100 to fold.

The partition 100 may be folded less than the force applied to the partition 100 by the article stored in the main inner partition 15. Alternatively, the partition may be bent before the user loads and may be folded by a fastener such as, for example, a snap, a strap or hook, and a loop fastener. Lt; / RTI > position. This flexibility of the inner side wall allows the partition 100 to extend when it is desired to use the partition 100 and to bend when it is not desired to use the partition.

Bending of the partition 100 maximizes the volume of the primary interior storage compartment 15 when the partition 100 is not desired to be used. On the other hand, extending the partition 100 maximizes the internal volume of the partition 100 and provides a separate usable space separate from the main interior partition 15.

The ability of panels (e.g., 120, 150, 160) to pivot relative to each adjacent panel is illustrated in detail in FIG. 6 or FIG. 6 and 7 both show a detail view of section AA of FIG. 5 taken in view B of FIG. 5, with the difference that FIG. 6 shows the partition 100 in the extended position, FIG. 7 shows the folded position The partition 100 is shown. In one example, each attachment point 152, 156, 122, 124 may be similarly flexible, such as, for example, a living hinge.

The panels 120,150, 160 may fold themselves by allowing them to fold or extend the partitions. As an example, as shown in FIG. 6, panels 150 and 120 may be folded upward along path C as shown. The panel 120 is foldable toward the panel 160. The panel 150 is capable of folding toward the opening in the partition until the panel 150 is sufficiently parallel to the top wall 20. This folded position is illustrated in Fig. Hereinafter, the panel 150 and the panel 120 may extend backward in the opposite direction along the path C shown in Fig. During folding, the side panels 130, 140 may fold or buckle back on its own, as shown by the example of the fold lines 132.

In alternative embodiments, the partition 100 may include a rigid or semi-rigid inner wall. In this example, one or more inner walls of the partition may retain its shape, thereby limiting the ability of the partition 100 to fold. The rigid inner wall may be molded in a fixed form.

In various examples, the partition 100 may be substantially supported from the opening 102. Additional features may be present to maintain the position of the partition 100. For example, a brace 170 may be formed from one or more various walls defining the main interior storage compartment 15 of the suitcase case 10 from the bottom of the partition (e.g., the bottom panel 120) You can extend it.

The braces 170 may be any structure that may be connected to one or more portions of the partition 100 to inhibit their movement, such as, for example, straps, screws, hardware, and the like. In one example, attachment point 124 may also connect bracing panel 170 to panel 120 and panel 160. The bracing panel 170 may be connected to the side wall of the rear panel 60, for example, via the attachment point 132.

The attachment point 132 may be located at a seam between the side wall 60 and the top portion 25. In one embodiment, particularly in the embodiment having the rigid shell upper portion 25, The bracing panel 170 may be biased towards the partition 100 with respect to at least one side wall, such as, for example, the panel 60 shown in Figs. 5-7. This bias allows the compartment 100 to be folded toward the rear panel 60 only.

In addition, partition 100, top wall 20 may include one or more handles. For example, the carrying handle 90 and / or the pull handle 92 may form part of the top wall 20. The partition 100 may be positioned between the two handles. The upper transport handle 90 may occupy the area of the upper portion 20 or may not be occupied by the partition 100 otherwise. For example, the upper carrying handle 90 may be biased towards one of the side panels and away from the centerline of the suitcase.

Each handle 92, 90 may be positioned so as not to interfere with the opening of the partition 100. In some embodiments, the carrying handle 90 may be attached directly to the partition 100 so that if the cover panel 110 is released, the handle 90 can be used to open the partition 100, 110) can be used to lift the suitcase when tightened. The suitcase case 10 may also include a side carrying handle on the side panel.

According to the example shown in Figs. 1 to 7, the luggage case 10 may be soft-sided, rigid-sided, or hybrid construction. One or more of the side walls 30, 40, 50, 60 may be formed with both a soft and rigid lateral configuration for forming a suitcase with a hybrid structure. The top wall 20 and / or the bottom wall 70 may be substantially rigid as well as portions of the soft material, such as the handle 90 or the cover panel 110, for example.

The hard side portion may be formed of a thermoplastic or other hard side material type and may be formed by injection molding, plug molding, vacuum molding, or other methods. The soft side portion may be made of a flexible material, may be one or more layer thicknesses, and may include stiffening panels for general molding. The partition 100 may be located on a side wall having a hybrid structure, on a side wall having a soft side structure, or on a side wall having a hard side structure.

1 or 2, the upper wall 20 of the suitcase case 10 may be made of a rigid side structure forming a rigid frame portion and, in one example, may be formed as an edge or sholders And may extend below portions of the side walls 30, 40, 60 that together form the upper portion 25 of the suitcase case. The hard-shelled top portion 25 may include an opening 102 formed with a partition 100 positioned within the opening 102. The hard-

The side surface of the upper portion 25 may be operable to attach to the side walls 30, 40, 60. The rigid-shell portion provides sufficient strength and rigidity to allow for the shape of the opening 102 without sacrificing the overall rigidity of the luggage case 10.

One or more of the side walls 30,40, 50,60 may be made of a fabric or similar soft side material and the adjacent portion may be made of a combination of the travel bag case 10 and the rest of the wheel 80 It is made of hard side material (eg injection-molded plastic) that is sufficient to hold. Other components of the case may include, for example, a tow handle 92, a handle housing, braces, rods, skeletons, and similar structural features, It may also be formed of a hard material such as plastic.

In various examples, the tow handle 92 may be located within the housing 95, or may be located at or around the rear panel 60. The housing 95 may be positioned as part of one or both of the top wall 20 and the back wall 60. The opening 102 may separate or fall from access to the housing 95 for any opening or pulling handle 92.

In various other embodiments, the partition 100 may be located on any side wall of the travel case 10, such as side wall 30 or side wall 40, for example. However, the placement of the partition 100 over the top of the suitcase case 10 allows for quick access by the user during transport of the suitcase case 10, especially in an upright position. The openings 102 may occupy the entire area of the top wall 20 or may only occupy a portion of this area. The opening 102 may occupy more than 10% of the top wall 20.

1 to 4, the panel 110 may cover more than 50% of the area and may include a handle 90 (occupying a portion of the remainder of the area) and a rear wall 60. In one particular embodiment, May be located between the pulling grips 92 located in the vicinity. The opening 102 may be between 20% and 60% of the area of the top wall 20 and is preferably between about 30% and 50% of the top wall 20 area or about 50% %.

The cover panel 110 may be opened in any direction. For example, the hinge 112 may be positioned on the side of the upper portion 20 adjacent the tow handle 92 and the panel 110 is opened from the toe handle 92. In one embodiment, the hinge 112 may be located in the upper portion 20 adjacent the centerline or the carrying handle 90 of the suitcase case 10, as shown in FIG. 1 or FIG.

In another embodiment, the hinge 112 may be located adjacent to the access panel 50 and open toward the pull handle 92. Although the partition 100 is shown as a cuboid with four sides with the panel 110, it can be seen that the partition could be of any shape or size. Likewise, the panel 110 may be of any shape or size, for example, in the example having three or more separate sides, or having two sides, or at least one curved edge.

The container portion 105 may have a minor internal volume that at least divides from the internal volume of the storage compartment 15 by the lower panel 120. [ The lower panel 120 may be structured in a variety of ways. For example, as described above, the bottom panel may be hung from the top of the suitcase by one or more panels (e.g., 130, 140, 150, 160). Alternatively, the lower panel 120 may extend from the side walls of two or more suitcase cases (e.g., 30, 40, 50, 60).

The combination of these two approaches is such that the lower panel is suspended from one side of the travel case 10 side panel (e.g., panel 60) and from the upper portion 20 of the travel case 10, )) On the other side. In some instances, the partition 100 may be only partially closed to form an incomplete barrier between the partition 100 and the main interior storage compartment 15.

For example, the ends of the partition 100 near the side wall 30 and the side wall 40 may not be closed. That is, the panel 170 may not exist. In this way there may be some minor openings between the container portion 105 and the main inner reservoir 15. Alternatively, one or more side walls of the partition 100 may be selectively disconnected from adjacent side walls or bottoms to allow some access to the main compartment through the partition 100.

Each of the various attachment points may be formed by any known process or structure. By way of example, such processes and structures include sewn seams, hardware (e.g., hinges, fasteners, etc.), adhesives, or others that form connections at various attachment points. In some instances, each panel may be formed continuously, for example, through a molding process, or a piece of fabric. (I.e., there is little or no attachment point)

The various panels of the concave partition 100 may be formed of many types of materials such as, for example, natural or artificial artificial, polymers, composites, and the like. In one example, one or more of the panels 150, 160, 170, 140 may be formed from a flexible fabric, as applicable. The various panels may also be formed from different materials, respectively. For example, as shown in Figure 6 or Figure 7, the bottom panel is stiffer than the side panel.

One of the various ways to do this is to provide the inside of the form on the bottom panel. The interior of the foam may also form a panel 120 that is more rigid than the side panels (e.g. panel 1600 or panel 150) Or a separate side panel providing the structure.

In some examples, one or more side panels (e.g., 150, 160, 170, 140) may be formed of one or more fabric layers. For example, the side panels extending between connection points 152 and 122 may include two fabric layers 154 and 150. Multiple layers may add strength without sufficient effect on flexibility.

The travel case formed with the soft side structure is shown in further detail Figures 8,9,10,11. Similar to the suitcase case shown in FIGS. 1-5, the suitcase case 200 includes a housing structure 202 having a main interior storage compartment and opposite side walls 204, 206 defining the width thereof ), Front and rear main walls 208, 210 defining the depth thereof, and upper and lower opposite walls 212, 214 (FIG. 11) defining the height thereof.

The lower wall 214 may include an undercarriage 215 (FIG. 11) to support the attachment of spinner type wheels, trolley wheels, or other types of wheels. The pull handle 92 is coupled to the bezel structure 240 and extends along a rear face and includes tubes 217 that engage respective collars 219 on the lower structure 215 . The tube 217 may be an extendable or telescopic tube that allows the hand grip 221 to extend and retract.

In this configuration, joining the tube further strengthens the frame to handle the load carrying the luggage case case onto the wheel. Together, this wall defines a primary interior storage compartment 216. The wall of the soft side luggage case may be made of a flexible material, and may include one or more layers, and may include one or more reinforcement panels for a substantial shape and structure. Additionally, the soft side travel bag shell may include an inner frame, as shown in FIG. 10 or FIG.

In addition, as in the case of the suitcase shown in Figures 1 to 7, a partition 218 is formed in the top wall 212, and a hinge between the cover portion and also the closed position (Figure 8) and the open position (Figure 9) May be accessible through openings or openings 220 with the mentioned cover panel 222 movable relative to the region 224. In this example, the hinge region includes a living hinge that may be formed of a material from which the cover panel 222 is made, or other similar material.

The partition 218 is internally defined and extends into the main storage compartment, similar to the examples provided above for the partition 15 of Figures 1-7. The cover panel 222 is secured to the edge 226 of the opening 220 by a releasably securable mechanism 225, such as, for example, a zipper structure or a hook-and-loop fastener. do.

The carrying handle 228 (shown as a dash) may optionally be secured to the cover panel 222 in FIG. 8 to steer the suitcase case when the user is lifting and in an upright orientation. In this configuration, the cover panel 222 is secured by a releasably securable mechanism 225 that is strong enough to withstand the stresses of the suitcase case lifted by a carrying handle, such as a zipper structure, Or may be secured to the wall 212.

The soft side structure of the suitcase case shown in Figs. 8-11 may include the frame structure 230 and is best seen in Figs. 10 and 11. Fig. The frame structure may be located at least partially within the suitcase case and may extend around the circumference of the suitcase case, which may be defined by the intersection of substantially any two adjacent side walls.

The frame structure may include a wire frame 232 formed around a respective side wall 204, 206, each forming a respective side frame. The front edges of the side walls 204 and 206 are joined around the side edges of the front main wall 208 and the rear edges of each side wall 204 and 206 are joined around the edges of the rear main wall 210 .

Each side wall 204, 206 is coupled to the structure 215 of the lower wall 214. The upper end of each side wall 204, 206 is coupled to the end of the upper wall 212, respectively. The frame structure 230 is substantially formed in the peripheral region of the top wall 212 to allow access to the partition 218 through the cover panel 222. [

10 and 11, protruding member 234 extends along the front edge of top wall 212 at or near the intersection with front main wall 208 and provides strength in that area. A connector 236 is coupled to the wire frame 232 of each side wall 204,206 to receive and couple each end of the projection 234, Helping to strengthen structure 230.

A separate protruding member 238 extends from the connector 236 in each of the non-facing frames 233 along the rear edge of the top wall 212 at or near the intersection with the rear main wall 210, 2 to a central bezel structure 240 that receives a pull handle such as pull handle 92. The two protruding members 238 and the central bezel structure 240 are joined together to attach the side frame 233 together across the intersection of the top wall 212 and the rear main panel 210 to form the frame 230, .

A sheet 239 of a curing material such as a polypropylene board is disposed between the top wall 212 and the rear main wall 210 from the top region of the rear main wall 210 to cover a portion of the top wall 212. [ Lt; / RTI > interface. The end of the sheet 239 may be formed at or near the rear edge of the partition 218. This seat 239 is coupled with the soft side panel forming the rear main wall 210 and the top wall 212 to help provide rigidity to the area in which the seat 239 extends. The sheet 239 may also be combined with a frame structure.

Additional examples of suitcase cases including dividers 218 are shown in Figs. 12 and 13 with similar structures as described and illustrated by way of example in Figs. 8-11, and have like reference numerals for convenience. In this example, the suitcase case is a hybrid luggage case having a structure of both soft side material and rigid side material combined. The top wall 212 may be formed of a frame portion 243 that is at least partially relatively rigid, which engages the frame structure 230.

The frame portion 243 may be partially or wholly covered by the soft side material of the top wall 212 or may be partially or wholly outside the soft side material of the top wall 212. In this example, the frame portion 243 includes a relatively rigid rim structure 242, which may be formed around at least a portion of the periphery 241 of the top wall 212, (Not shown).

In this example, the rim 242 is external and extends around a portion of the periphery 241 formed by the opposite short edge of the top wall 212, and around the top wall 212 and the rear main wall < RTI ID = 210 along the back edge. In this configuration, the free end of the rim 242 may also extend over a portion of the front edge at the intersection of the top wall 212 and the front major side 208, and may extend a desired distance along the vertical edge of the front major side 208 It may also extend downwards.

The rim 242 may be located around more or less of the periphery of the top wall 212 that includes the entire top wall 212. [ The rim 242 may also extend continuously or discontinuously around all or a portion of the periphery 241. The extension of the rim 242 around the partition 218 is substantially equal to the extension of the rim 242 about the periphery of the top wall 212 because the partition 218 is located in the central portion of the top wall 212. [ Do.

The rim 242 may be relatively co-linear with the top wall 212 and may be relatively underneath the top wall 212 or may be relatively deep with the top Or may protrude above the wall 212. The partition 218 is at least partially framed by the rim 400. The rims 242 of Figures 12 and 13 may be formed of plastic, metal or other materials, or a combination thereof, to be relatively rigid.

The rim 242 specifically adds strength to the top wall 212 of the suitcase case 200 and not only includes the periphery 241 but also provides additional curing to the frame structure 23. The rim 242 may also provide improved abrasion resistance to the area of the suitcase case covered by the rim 242. This additional stiffening and strengthening provided by the rim may make the use of the carrying handle 228 coupled to the panel 222 of the partition 218 more convenient.

The terms "periphery" or "perimeter ", as used herein, are intended to encompass a peripheral or peripheral region of the outer extent of the described structure. For example, the periphery of the top wall 212 includes the actual geometric periphery of the top panel, as well as the area adjacent and inserted from the geometric periphery of the top wall 212.

In another example, as shown for example in FIGS. 14-16, the travel bag case includes an selectively openable partition 218 located in the top wall 212, 212 also includes a handle assembly 260 mounted in a recessed area 262 located in the recessed area 262. [ In this example, the suitcase case is similar to that shown and described in Figures 8 to 11, respectively, and similar structures may be denoted by like reference numerals.

In many cases, the handle assembly 260 is positioned to extend and retract at least partially outwardly within the recessed area 262. [ The recessed area 262 may be formed of soft side, rigid side, hybrid or other type of suitcase case and may be located at least partially or wholly in the top wall 212. 14-16, the recessed area 262 may be formed at an intersection of the upper wall 212 and the rear main side 210, for example, Is formed by the housing structure 264 in the vicinity thereof.

As shown in Figures 14-16, the handle assembly 260 may include only an extendable pull handle 268 and a carrying handle 270, or only a carrying handle 270, each having a recessed area 262 ) And, in one example, at least partially on a portion of the bezel structure 266. [ The extendable pull handle 268 may be mounted along the back wall of the suitcase case, as described above with respect to FIG. 11, and may also be coupled to the lower portion of the suitcase case.

The carrying knob 270 may be at least partially mounted within the bezel structure 266 to pivot against the suitcase between the retracted position and the operative position.

In the retracted position (FIG. 14), the carrying knob 270 is positioned to allow access to the extendable pull handle 268. In the operative position, the carrying handle 270 is configured to extend substantially upright relative to the top wall 212 of the suitcase case and to allow the user to grip the carrying handle 270 to lift the suitcase case It can also be pivoted. In addition, the carrying knob 270 may be movably coupled only with the bezel structure 266 without the pull tab 268. [

The bezel structure 266 may be a molded plastic insert located at the interface of the rear main side 210 and the top wall 212 of the suitcase case. Optionally, the handle assembly 260 may be secured to the suitcase case without the use of a bezel structure 266. The handle assembly may include a transport handle 270 that individually pivots, an individually extendable pull handle 268, or a transport handle and an extendable handle that both pivot.

In some instances, and with reference to FIG. 16, the carrying handle 270 may include a central gripping portion 272 and at least one arm portion extending from the gripping portion 272. At least one arm portion may include first and second arms 274 extending from or opposite the opposite end of the elongated grip portion 272.

The elongated grip portion 272 includes a top surface 276 and a bottom surface 278 and with a less of a contour upper surface 276 this contour is substantially flat It may have a flat shape. The width of the gripping portion 276 and each arm 274 are defined by the edges of the inner and outer 280 and 282 edges.

Because the gripping portion 272 extends between the arms 274 having an upper surface 276 at an inclined position with respect to the length of each arm 274, 282 are shorter than the inner edge 280 of each arm 274. The upper portion 276 of the grip portion 272 faces away from the suitcase case in the retracted position.

Each arm 274 has a corresponding coupling feature located in the bezel structure 266 to create a pivotal coupling between the carrying handle 270 and the bezel 266. [ RTI ID = 0.0 > 284 < / RTI > The coupling feature 284 on each arm 274 may include an outwardly extending boss 286 and a corresponding coupling feature on the bezel may be configured to receive the boss 286 rotatably And may include openings 288. In this example, the opening 288 rotatably engages the corresponding boss 286 to form a pivotal configuration, and rotatably engages the carrying handle 270 with the bezel structure 266.

16, the terminal ends 290 of the arms 274 are located on opposite side walls 292 of the bezel structure 266, on the lower wall 293 of the bezel structure, 266, which, in one example, assists the handle when creating a low profile for the top wall 212 of the suitcase when in the retracted position. If desired, the position of the coupling feature may be moved vertically as well as fore and aft in the bezel structure.

In one example, the carrying knob 270 may move between at least the retracted position (the broken line shown in Fig. 16) and the operating position (the solid line shown in Fig. 16). In the retracted position, the lower surface of the gripping portion contacts the periphery of the bezel structure 266, which also overlaps and movably contacts the gripping portion with the upper wall 212 of the suitcase case.

In this position, most of the length of the arm 274 extends obliquely to the upper wall 212 of the suitcase case and is largely accommodated in the concave region of the bezel structure 266. [ The gripping portion 272 extends a small amount over the top wall 212 of the suitcase case and the top surface 276 of the gripping portion 272 extends substantially parallel to the top wall 212 of the suitcase case Define a relatively low profile.

The upper surface 276 may also be inclined to the upper wall 212 of the suitcase case or may extend further or closer from the upper wall 212 of the suitcase case and still be considered to maintain a lower profile . The retention portion 272 in the retracted position is positioned relative to the top wall 212 of the suitcase case to create a low profile, nearly identical position relative to the top wall 212, causing accidental catching of the carrying handle, Thereby reducing snagging.

When retracted, the position of the gripping portion 272 also allows the user to approach and contact the gripping portion 272 and to move it to the operative position. In the operating position shown in Figure 16, the carrying knob 270 extends substantially directly upward with respect to the bezel with the arm 274 in a substantially vertical position (see Figure 14). The upper surface 276 of the grip portion 272 is inclined with respect to the upper wall 212 of the suitcase case and away from the suitcase case toward the rear main side 210 ).

In this orientation, the user may grasp the gripping portion 272 by palpate contact with the gripping portion 272. [ The carrying handle 270 may rotate further away from the top wall 212 of the suitcase case as in one example where it contacts the bottom peripheral edge 294 of the recessed area 262. [ The carrying handle 270 is biased toward the retracted position by a biasing member such as a spring configured to create a retraction force when the carrying handle is moved from the retracted position to the operative position It is possible. When not in use, the biasing member, together with the lower profile, helps to maintain the carrying handle in the retracted position.

The arm 274 is defined by the pivot structure formed by the contact of the arm 274 and the opposite side wall 292 of the bezel as the carrying knob 270 pivots between the retracted position and the operative position. And pivot about the pivot axis 296. The coupling feature (e.g., opening 288) of the bezel structure is positioned laterally at various locations in the region adjacent to the rear wall 298 of the recessed region 262 adjacent the open side of the recessed region 262 ).

The lateral location may adjust the position of the carrying handle 270 relative to the center of gravity of the suitcase case. The coupling feature of the bezel structure 266 may be vertically positioned between the peripheral rim 294 of the bezel structure 266 and the floor of the bezel structure 266. [

Separately or together, the lateral and vertical position of the coupling feature affects the position of the pivot axis 296 of the carrying handle. The axis of rotation of the carrying handle 270 defined by the shaft 296 generally conforms to the extended path of the pulling handle 268 defined when the pulling handle 268 and / or the carrying handle 270 are in their fully extended position (approximately in line with).

The pivot axis 296 of the transport handle 270 defined by the pivot structure may be located in the bezel structure 266 as described above. In one example, the axis of rotation 296 is substantially located at or near the plane defined by the extension of the pulling tab 268.

The rotational axis 296 may be positioned to pass through the fully retracted hand grip of the pull handle 268 or may extend over a fully retracted hand grip of the pull handle 268 . In this position, the carrying knob 270 is pivoted such that the carrying knob 270, in the upright extended position, as shown in Figure 16 extends above or substantially in alignment with the pulling handle 268, ). ≪ / RTI >

Additional examples of suitcase cases 200 that include dividers 218 are shown in Figures 8-11, and with similar structures shown and described as examples in Figures 12-13, 17, 18, 19, and 20, respectively. In this example, the travel bag case is a hybrid case having a structure in which both the soft side material and the hard side material are combined.

In this example, the suitcase case 200 includes a second compartment 218, a top wall 212 that may be at least partially formed by a relatively rigid frame portion 380 that engages the frame structure 230, Includes a handle assembly coupled within a recessed area that is at least partially positioned above the wall (212). The frame portion 380 may be partially or wholly covered by the soft side material of the top wall 212 or may be partially or wholly external to the soft side material of the top wall 212.

In this example, the frame portion 380 includes a relatively rigid rim 400, which may be formed around at least a portion of the periphery 241 of the top wall 212, The pulltrusion members 234 of the first and second extruded members. The rim 400 may extend a certain distance along the side walls and the front and back main walls. The rim 400 may extend continuously or discontinuously around the periphery and may be exposed around the entire periphery or only a portion of the entire periphery, as described below.

The rim 400 may be relatively flush with the top wall 212 or may be below the top wall 212 or may include a top wall 212 that forms, for example, elongated ribs or ribs, (Not shown). The rims 400 of Figures 17-20 may be made of plastic (e.g., by press form molding or injection molding), metal (metal), or other Materials, or combinations thereof.

The rim 400 not only provides additional stiffening to the frame 230 but also adds strength to the top wall 212 of the suitcase case 200 in particular. The rim 400 may also provide improved abrasion resistance for portions of the suitcase case that are protected by the rim structure. In this and other examples, the frame structure 230 may include protrusions, wire frame structures, hard sided members, or other components of a combination or subcombination as needed have.

The rim 400 includes a front portion substantially parallel to one of the front main wall 208, the rear main wall 210 and the opposite side walls 204 and 206 of the suitcase case 200, portion 408, a rear portion 410 and opposing side portions 412 and 414 body 406 in that order. A corner region 416 is formed between adjacent portions 408, 410, 412, and 414, and each corner region 416 has a substantially corner or adjacent front and rear main walls 208, 210 And the opposite side walls 204, 206. In this way,

The back portion 410 and the opposite side portions 412, 414 are typically external to the soft side material and may thus be exposed. Portions 408, 410, 412, and 414 define a central recess 424. The front portion 408 may be covered by the soft side material and not exposed, as shown in Figs. 17 and 18, or alternatively the front portion 408 may be outside the soft side material. Alternatively, the front portion 408 may not be included in the main body 406 of the rim 400.

Portions 410, 412 414 of the main body 406 define an outer surface 418, a top surface 420, and an inner surface 422 in the outer portion, for example in this example. The outer surface 418 of each exposed portion is substantially aligned with the main wall 210 or the opposite side walls 204, 206, for example, in substantially the same plane. The inner surface 422 of each exposed portion forms a wall surrounding the central recess 424.

The central recess 424 is deeper at the rear edge 425 adjacent to the rear main wall 210 and less deep at the front edge 427 adjacent the front main wall 208, Or slopes upwardly tapering from the front edge 427 to the front edge 427. The soft side material may form a surface of the top wall 212 within the central recess and may be stitched to the rim 400, for example.

The partition 218 is formed in the top wall 212 in the central recess 424. The cover panel 222 may be used to provide a secure access to the main compartment such as, for example, a zipper or hook-and-loop fastener to selectively allow access and closing of the minor compartment. And is fixed around the cover panel 222 by an optional releasable mechanism.

The cover panel 222 may be folded about a hinge positioned substantially adjacent the rear edge of the central recess, or alternatively may be positioned substantially adjacent the front edge of the central recess, or alternatively may be substantially centered But may be positioned adjacent one of the two opposite side edges of the recess 424. [ The partition 218 is at least partially framed by the rim 400.

The recessed region 426 may be formed at least partially above the top wall 212 of the suitcase case and in this example the recessed region includes at least an opposing side wall 428 and a recessed region 424, May be formed in the rear portion 410 of the rim 400 along with the rim 426. [ The handle assembly, the recessed area, and the bezel structure are similar to those shown and described with reference to Figs. 14-16, and a common reference number may be used for common features.

The rear portion 410 of the rim 410 forming the concave region 426 may be referred to as a bezel structure 436 (also referred to elsewhere as the housing structure 264). In this example, the handle structure including the carrying handle 432 and the pull handle 434 may be at least partially coupled to a portion of the recessed region 426 as described below. The opposite side walls 428 may or may not be parallel to another and may have a profile of the transitions between the outer surface 418, the upper surface 420 and the inner surface 422 It can also have the form defined by.

In this example, the profile is substantially triangular, but may be other geometric or non-geometric shapes. In this example, the back wall is not shown in the recessed area, but the back wall may alternatively be included as needed and may extend substantially aligned with the inner surface 422 of the back portion 410. The lower wall 430 may include a lower recess 431 that provides access for the user to grasp the pull handle 434.

The extendable pull handle 434 may be mounted along the rear wall 210 of the travel case, as described above with respect to Figures 8-11, and may also be coupled with the lower portion of the travel case . The carrying knob 432 may again be at least partially mounted within the bezel structure to pivot about the travel case between the retracted position and the operative position, again having a similar structure as shown and described with respect to Figs. 14-16.

In the retracted position, shown in dashed line in FIG. 18, the carrying knob 432 is positioned to allow access to the extendable pulling handle 434. 18, the carrying handle 434 is configured to extend substantially upward with respect to the top wall 212 of the suitcase case and to allow the user to move the carrying handle 434 to lift the suitcase case, As shown in FIG.

The carrying handle 432, the pull handle 434, and the bezel structure 436 include the same or similar structural features and associated functions as described with respect to the examples shown and described in Figs. 14, 15, and 16 You may.

In one example, the transport knob 432 may be moved at least between a retracted position (shown in dashed lines in Figs. 18 and 20) and an actuated position (shown in solid lines in Figs. 18 and 19). In the retracted position in FIG. 20, the carrying handle 432 may extend into the central recess 424 and may overlay the upper wall 212 of the suitcase case. In this position, the carrying handle 432 may be flush with or above the top surface 420 of the rim 440.

In the retracted position, the lower surface of the grip portion 438 is movably engaged with the grip portion 438 on the upper wall 212 of the suitcase case. In this position, the length of a substantial portion of the arm 444 extends along the top wall 212 of the suitcase case and at least partially accommodates in the recessed area 426 of the bezel structure 436. The gripping portion 438 extends about the recessed region to define a relatively low profile. The upper surface 442 of the grip 438 may also be angled relative to the upper wall 212 of the suitcase case.

The retention portion 438 in the retracted position is positioned relative to the upper wall 212 of the suitcase case to create a lower profile, approximately the same position relative to the upper wall 212 to reduce accidental engagement and tearing of the carrying handle . The position of the gripping portion 438 when retracted also allows the user to approach and contact the gripping portion 438 to move to the operative position.

18 and 19, the handle 432 extends substantially directly upward relative to the bezel structure 436, and each arm 444 is in a generally vertical position. 19, the upper surface 442 of the grip portion 438 is angled relative to the upper wall 212 of the suitcase case and is angled towards the rear main side 210 (e.g., outward) Away from the case. In this orientation, the user may grasp the gripping portion 438 while holding the gripping portion 438 in the palm of his hand.

The handle 432 may be rotated further away from the top wall 212 of the suitcase case, as in one example for contacting the bottom peripheral edge 446 of the concave region 426. [ The carrying handle 432 is biased toward the retracted position by a biasing members such as a spring configured to create a retraction force, for example, when the carrying handle is moved from the retracted position to the operative position It is possible. The biasing member, when not in use, helps to maintain the carrying handle in the retracted position, with a low profile.

The transport handle 432 is pivoted between the retracted and actuated positions relative to the pivot axis 448 defined by the pivot structure 450 formed by the contact of the arm 444 and the opposite side wall 428. [ Again, as described above with respect to the example described in Figures 14-16, the vertical position of the coupling feature on the lateral and opposite side walls 428 affects the position of the pivot structure 450 Which deforms the position of the pivot shaft 448 of the carrying handle.

The axis of rotation of the carrying handle 432 defined by the shaft 448 is pivoted by the pull handle 434 which is defined when the carrying handle 432 is moved to the fully extended position of the pulling handle 434 and / As shown in FIG.

In one example, the axis of rotation 448 is substantially located at or near the plane defined by the extension of the pull tab 434. The pivot shaft 448 may be positioned to pass through the fully retracted hand grip of the pull tab 434 or may be positioned to extend over the fully retracted hand tab of the pull tab 434 As indicated by the solid line in FIG. In this position, the carrying knob 438 can pivot about a pivot axis 448, as shown in solid lines in Figs. 18 and 19, in an upwardly extending position. The carrying knob 432 extends above the pull tab 434 and at substantially the same height.

Additionally, as in the case of the travel bag shown and described in the other example, the partition 218 may be used to disengage the securable mechanism 225 (e.g., a zipper) and open the cover panel 222 And by folding the cover panel 222 against the hinge 224. The partition 218 is internally defined, for example, similar to the example provided above with respect to the partition 105 of FIGS. 1-7.

Figs. 21 and 22 show another example of coupling the second partition 218. Fig. In this example, the suitcase case 500 includes a second compartment 218, a top wall 212 that may be at least partially formed by a relatively rigid frame portion 380 that engages the frame structure 230, And a handle assembly coupled within the recessed area that is at least partially located on the wall.

The frame portion 501 may be partially or wholly covered by the soft side material of the top wall 212 or may be partially or wholly external to the soft side material of the top wall 212. The frame portion 501 may extend a certain distance below the end walls. In this example, the frame portion 501 includes an outer rim 503, which may be formed around at least a portion, such as the opposite edge portion of the top wall 212, for example.

In this configuration, the outer rim 503 may be configured with relatively rigid cover members, which may be formed around at least a peripheral portion 241 of the top wall 212, Shaped member 234 as shown in FIG. In this example, the suitcase case may have a similar structure to that shown and described with respect to Figs. 8-11 and Figs. 17-21, and the bezel structure and handle assembly may be similar to Figs. 14-16 and 17-21 May have a structure similar to that shown and described with respect to FIG.

21, the upper side lateral edges 504 and 506 of the suitcase case 500 are defined at the intersection of the upper wall 212 and the respective opposite side walls 204 and 206. In this example, the cover member 508 is positioned on each opposite upper side edge. In another example, the cover member may be located at the opposite front and rear edges of the top wall 212. [

Each cover member 508 is made of a relatively rigid hard sided material and forms a portion of the opposite lateral edge of the top wall 212 and defines a portion of each of the opposite walls 204, Extend over the portion. The cover member 508 is positioned over the opposite side of the partition 218 and at least partially frames the partition 218. The cover member 508 may be flush with the top wall 212 and may be at the same height as the top wall 212 and below the top wall 212 or over the top wall 212 as in one example forming ribs or ribs. It is possible.

The cover member 508 may be formed of a thermoplastic or other type of rigid side material or may be injection molded, plug molded, vacuum molded, or otherwise formed in other manners. . Each cover member may be formed of a single integral portion or multiple portions joined together to create a single functional member. The cover member 508 provides enhanced abrasion resistance to portions of the suitcase case that are covered by the edges. The cover member is also engaged with the frame structure 230 of the soft side portion of the suitcase case 500 to provide the required stiffness.

The cover member 508 is secured along each peripheral edge to adjacent soft side material by sewing, adhering, or other suitable technique. 20 and 21, the upper peripheral edge 510 of the cover member 508 is fixed to the soft side material of the upper wall 212 and the rear peripheral edge 512 of the cover member 508 The front peripheral edge 514 of the cover member 508 is fixed to the soft side material of the front main wall 208 and the bottom peripheral edge of the cover member 508 is fixed to the soft side material of the rear main wall 210, (516) is secured to the soft side material of the side panel (204).

As noted above, the soft side material may comprise more than one layer of various types of materials that may include plastic stiffening sheets.

Each cover piece 508 is joined to the inner frame structure 230 to create a suitably rigid suitcase case. The connector component 518 is coupled with the respective cover piece 508 and is in turn joined to the protruding component used to form the frame structure 230. 21, the connector component 518 is secured to a cover member 508, in which the connector component 518 is disposed adjacent the side edge of the side wall 204 and adjacent the lower edge 516 of the cover member. Rear main wall < RTI ID = 0.0 > 210 < / RTI >

The connector component 518 is sewn, glued or secured to the cover member 508. The connector component 518 includes one or more cavities for engaging the ends of the tensile projections. 21, the connector component 518 receives the end of the protrusion 526 extending across the rear main wall 210 of the suitcase case 500 and includes a side wall 206, Accommodates the end of the projection 528 extending along the intersection between the rear main walls 210 and receives the end of the projection 530 extending across the side wall 206.

Other connector elements 518 are similarly configured to accommodate respective pulltrusion members used to form the frame structure 230. Alternatively, the wire frame structure used to form the side panels for the soft side luggage, for example as shown in Figures 8-11, may also be used with or without the use of pulltrusions or other frame members It may be used as a frame structure separately.

A sheet 239 of a stiffening material, such as, for example, a polypropylene board, is provided on the top wall 212 to cover a portion of the top wall 212, And back main wall 210, and extends around the bezel structure in this example. The sheet 239 provides the required bending transition between the rear main wall and the top wall 212.

The end of the sheet 239 may be formed at or near the rear edge of the partition 218. The seat 239 is coupled to the flexible side panel forming the rear main wall 210 and the top wall 212 and coupled with the bezel structure to assist in providing stiffness over the area over which the seat 239 extends. . The sheet 239 may also be combined with the frame structure.

According to the example shown and described with respect to Figures 14-16, the handle structure may be located in a recessed area formed in the housing structure, for example a bezel structure. The concave region is positioned adjacent the top wall 212 and the rear main wall 210 and this concave region is at least partially located above the top wall 212. [ In this example, the handle assembly including the carrying handle 432 and the pull handle 434 may be at least partially engaged with a portion of the recessed region 426 as described below.

The extendable pull handle may be mounted along the rear wall 210 of the suitcase case as described above with respect to Figures 8 to 11 and may also be associated with the lower portion of the suitcase case. The carrying handle may be at least partially mounted within the bezel structure 436 and in this example may be at least partially mounted in the recessed region to pivot against the suitcase case between the retracted position and the operative position, Again having a similar structure as shown and described with respect to Figures 14-16.

In the retracted position shown in FIG. 20, the carrying handle is positioned to allow access to the extendable pull handle. 21, the carrying handle may be pivoted to extend substantially upward relative to the top wall 212 of the suitcase case, and the user may grip the carrying handle to lift the suitcase case .

In many of the examples described herein, the second concave partition may be formed by a bag or bag made of a flexible material, for example, at least partially bonded around the edge of the opening and folded into a small volume, Lt; / RTI > The second concave partition may extend into the main partition.

The suitcase case structure of the present invention has a broad application.

This may also be implemented in any direction, in any direction, in any direction, on the surface of the suitcase case to maximize the possibility of use of any, some, or all types of compartment, especially in the suitcase case. The apparatus and related methods according to the present invention have been described with reference to specific embodiments in order to illustrate the principles of operation.

The above description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense by way of example and by way of example and without implied limitation of the present invention, such as upper, lower, upward, downward, left, Leftward, rightward, top, bottom, side, top, bottom, front, middle, rear ( back, vertical, horizontal, height, depth, width, and the like are given by way of example to assist the reader in understanding the specific embodiments described herein. They should not be read as limitations or requirements as to the location, orientation or use of the present invention unless specifically stated to the contrary.

A connection reference (eg, attached, coupled, connected, joined, secured, etc.) must be extensively interpreted and the connection and components of the component And intermediate members between the relative movement between the first and second members. Thus, a linking reference does not necessarily imply that the two components are directly connected and are in a fixed relationship to each other, unless otherwise specified.

10, 200: Travel case case
12, 95: housing structure
15: Main internal storage compartment
19, 224: HINGE
55: fastening element
100, 218: partition
102: opening
208: Front main wall
210: rear main wall
222: Cover panel
230: frame structure
232: wire frame
234: projecting member
242, 400: rim
260: handle assembly
262: concave area
268, 434: Pull handle
270, 432: Carrying handle
274: Cancer
276, 438:
508: cover member

Claims (33)

A housing (12, 202) defining a major internal storage compartment (15);
A bottom portion (70, 80) having a bottom wall (70, 214) and wheels (80);
A plurality of side walls (30, 40, 50, 60, and 204, 206, 208, 210); And
A top wall (20, 20) including an aperture (120, 220) defined by at least one edge (115, 220), opposite the bottom wall, 212); And
A recessed compartment 100, 218 is associated with the top wall 212 and is substantially aligned with the openings 120, 220 and the recessed components 100, Partially collapsible within the body 15;
A cover panel 110, 222 that selectively covers the opening to allow selective access through the opening into the compartments 100, 218, at least partially separated from the main interior storage component 15, (10, 200, 500) comprising a hollow recessed component (100, 218). A housing (202) defining a main internal storage component (15);
A lower portion (70, 80) having a lower wall (214) and a wheel (80);
An opening (220) defined by an opposite bottom wall and at least one edge (115);
A recessed compartment 218 is associated with the top wall 212 and is substantially aligned with the opening 220 and the recessed component is at least partially subdivided from the main interior storage component 15, Extends at least partially into the main interior storage component (15);
A cover panel (222) selectively covering the opening to allow selective access through the opening into the compartment (218); And
A travel case (200, 500) comprising a transport handle (270, 432) pivotally coupled to a recessed region (262, 426) located at least partially above the top wall (212). 3. The method according to claim 1 or 2,
A travel case (10, 200, 500) in which the upper walls (20, 212) are formed at least partly of a rigid frame portion (243, 380). The method of claim 3,
A suitcase case (10, 200, 500), wherein the rigid frame portion includes a rim (242, 400) at least partially extending around the perimeter (241) of the top wall (212). 5. The method of claim 4,
The top wall 212 includes a front edge, a rear edge and opposing side edges and the external rim includes at least a portion of the top wall 212 A suitcase case (10, 200, 500) extending along portions of three edges. 5. The method of claim 4,
The top wall 212 includes a front edge, a rear edge and opposing side edges and the external rim includes at least portions of opposite side edges A travel case (10, 200, 500) extending along. 5. The method of claim 4,
A suitcase case (10, 200, 500) in which the outer rim (242, 400) engages a recessed component (118) on at least two sides. 8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
A travel case (10, 200, 500) in which the recessed components (100, 218) extend from the top wall (20, 212) of the travel case into the main interior storage component. 9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
A travel case (10, 200, 500) in which a recessed component extends from the aperture towards the lower wall (70, 214). 10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
A suitcase case (10) in which a plurality of side panels (150, 160, 170, 140) forming concave components are attached to at least one edge of the aperture in an upper wall. 11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10,
(10, 200, 500) in which at least one edge comprises a plurality of edges, and each of the plurality of edges defining the opening is parallel to a respective portion of the periphery of the top wall. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
A suitcase case (10, 200, 500) in which the cover panels (110, 222) cover between 30% and 50% of the top wall. 13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 12,
A fastener 118 is used to releasably secure the cover panels 110 and 222 to the top walls 20 and 212 and to attach the at least one edge 115 of the cover panel to the top wall The case (10, 200, 500). 14. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 13,
A travel case (10) comprising a lower panel (120) and a plurality of side panels (150, 160, 170, 140) formed from a material with a concave component having greater rigidity than the plurality of side panels. 15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14,
A suitcase case (10, 200, 500) capable of operating so that the plurality of side panels are folded on their own. 16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15,
A concave component joins a selected one of the side panels of the suitcase case to the lower panel so that the bracing panel deflects the concave component to cause the concave component to collapse towards a selected one of the side walls 170). ≪ / RTI > 17. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 16,
A plurality of side walls defining the housing includes opposite major and minor side walls 50, 60 and 208, 210, minor side walls extending between the main and side walls, A hinge 112 is formed between the cover and the top wall and the hinge is located on the top wall adjacent the main front wall or on the top wall adjacent the main back wall, , 200). 18. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 17,
Wherein at least one of the plurality of side walls (30,40, 50,60 and 204,206,208,102) and the top wall (20,212) are at least partially formed from a soft sided material 10, 500). 19. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 18,
A suitcase case (10, 200, 500) in which a frame structure is included in a portion of a frame structure extending along an intersection between at least one intersection of any two panels adjacent to the suitcase. 20. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 19,
A travel case (10, 200, 500) in which an external rigid rim structure (242) extends around at least a portion of the perimeter of the top wall (212). 21. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 20,
A handle assembly including a handle assembly (260) at least partially located in a recessed area (262, 426) formed at least partially in the top wall and including a carrying handle (270, 432) and an extendable pull handle (268, 434);
A travel case (200, 500) which is at least centrally mounted within a recessed region for movement between a retracted position and an operative position. 22. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 21,
A handle assembly 260 is at least partially located in recessed areas 262 and 426 formed at least partially in the top wall and includes a carry handle 270 and 432 and an extendable pull handle 268, < RTI ID = 0.0 > 434) < / RTI >
A travel case (200, 500) which is a pivotally mounted carrying handle in at least a recessed region for movement between a retracted position and an operative position. 23. The method of claim 21 or 22,
A travel bag in which an extendable pulling handle (268, 434) with a hand grip is connected to the recessed areas (262, 426). 24. The method of claim 23,
A travel case (200, 500) in which a recessed area is formed in a bezel structure (266, 436) positioned adjacent a rear edge of the top wall (212). 25. The method of claim 24,
A travel case 200 (200) having an exterior rim extending along a rear edge of a top wall (212) and a recessed region (262, 426) , 500). 26. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 25,
Wherein the carrying handles 270 and 432 comprise a grip portion 272 and 438 and at least one arm portion 274 and 444 extend from the grip portion;
At least one arm portion is pivotally coupled in the concave region; And
(22) that is movable between a first position proximal to the top wall (212) and a second position distal from the top wall and accessible by the user, 200, 500). 27. The method of claim 26,
A suitcase case (200, 500) in which at least one arm portion (274, 444) is inclined at least one position relative to the top wall. 28. The method of claim 26 or 27,
A travel case (200, 500) pivotally coupled to a side wall (292, 428) at least one arm portion partially defining at least a recessed region. 29. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 28,
The gripping portions 273 and 438 may be positioned in alignment with the hand grips of the pull handles 268 and 434 or may be positioned to be out of alignment with the hand grips of the pulling handle Possible case of travel bag (200, 500). 30. The method according to any one of claims 26 to 29,
Wherein at least one arm portion (274, 444) extending from the grip portion comprises first and second arms extending from a gripping portion and a spaced apart portion, (200, 500). 31. The method according to any one of claims 23 to 30,
A suitcase case (200, 500) in which the carrying handles (270, 432) are biased to a first position. 32. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 31,
When depending on the second aspect of the present invention, the pivot carry handle 270, 432 is inclined relative to the top wall 212 of the suitcase 200, 500 when the pivot carry handle 270, 432 is in the retracted position Suitcase case. 33. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 32,
A travel case case wherein the concave partitions (100, 218) are formed by a bag structure made of a flexible material.

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