MXPA97000946A - Mechanism of safety belt and retractable auxiliary clamp for equipment case - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a suitcase for luggage capable of carrying luggage for auxiliary luggage, and also capable of being secured to an object, the suitcase for luggage comprises: a main body having an outer surface, said outer surface defines an interior cavity said main body has an opening that selectively can be opened and closed to allow access to the interior cavity, a handle or handle fixedly attached to the main body for use in transportation of the luggage case, and a safety belt mechanism and luggage fastener mounted on said main body, said mechanism comprises: a housing defining a receptacle, a clutch mechanism fixed in the receptacle, a flexible elongated strap having an inner end and an outer end, the inner end is fixedly attached to the clutch mechanism, a hook attached to the outer end of the belt, a lid pivotally attached to the housing adjacent to the receptacle and having a selectively open first position and a second position, wherein the receptacle is accessible and having a selectively closed position in which the cover covers the receptacle, the cap includes cam surfaces positioned to engage the mechanism of clutch in the first and second open positions, and to be uncoupled from the clutch mechanism when in the closed position, and where in the closed position the extension of the strap is fixed, and where in the first open position the strap can extend from the clutch mechanism, and where in the second open position the belt can extend from and retract into the clutch mechanism

Description

RETRABLE MECHANISM AUXILIARY SUITCASE HOLDER AND SAFETY RONZAL AND METHOD This invention relates to suitcases, and more particularly with a new and improved clamping mechanism 5 of auxiliary case and safety mechanism of halter, and method, the mechanism being mounted on a Main suitcase and is used to secure at least the main suitcase with another object or to transport an auxiliary suitcase along with the main suitcase. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Suitcases have traditionally been transported by lifting them using a carrier handle. However, in recent times, particularly with large pieces of luggage or those adapted to carry items heavy wheels, wheels have been mounted in the suitcase, and an auxiliary guide handle or pull string has been used to push or pull the suitcase onto its wheels. This type of wheeled suitcase has _ / - * - met with considerable acceptance due to the fact that larger weights can be transported relatively easily. To take advantage of the conveniences of suitcases with wheels, devices have been developed to attach an auxiliary suitcase to the main case with wheels to allow several suitcases to be transported simultaneously. 25 The auxiliary luggage securing devices have been well received by travelers because it allows them. , t- more easily transport more than one suitcase at the same time.

Instead of carrying two suitcases in their hands, travelers can attach an auxiliary suitcase to a suitcase with wheels and simply pull the suitcase across the floor, transporting both suitcases at the same time with a minimum amount of effort. The auxiliary luggage hold mechanism makes the same effort involved in the transportation of luggage through the doors, in crowded passenger routes, and? over great distances much less burdensome for the traveler. Initially, the auxiliary suitcase fastening devices used fixed length belts or expandable belts that were wrapped around the auxiliary suitcase as well as a part of the wheeled suitcase to secure two 5 suitcases together. However, these belts were not permanently attached. The potential for the tape to get out of control, the , - difficulty in adjusting the length of the tape, the discomfort of having to store the tape separately, and the risk of losing it were the factors that discouraged the use of these separate belts. Removable devices attached to the main case such as straps or hooks are also used to attach auxiliary cases to a main case. However, removable devices may also fail to fully satisfy users. The storage of the removable device in the main case is a drawback since the device consumes valuable storage space and is sometimes difficult to access when the main case is 5 packed. Removing the device and storing it anywhere creates an inconvenience because its access is limited and the device can easily be lost. The devices permanently attached to a main case for transporting auxiliary cases also present /? Consequences related to inconvenient use. When permanent fastening devices are not used to attach an auxiliary suitcase, they are often projected from the suitcase and have the risk of breaking, sticking or otherwise catching with other items. The permanent nature of the devices fastening in the main suitcase can also make them difficult to store. A common difficulty for several of the fastening devices described above is related to the adjustment of the fastening device to accommodate auxiliary suitcases of different sizes Typically, when the fastening device includes a strap or a strap with a hook, the length of it must be adjusted. The adjustment of the belt often requires the manipulation of the latter and of a closing or looping device. The degree of manipulation required often makes it very difficult for the user to adjust in a convenient manner, particularly if the user is wearing gloves or carrying other articles. The fastening devices using hooks attached to the outside of the main case do not provide any adjustment to accommodate the different sizes of the auxiliary cases. Because the hook is not adjustable, the auxiliary suitcase is often attached to the main suitcase in a non-optimal position for proper balance and transportation. - >; Another common inconvenience for many of the previously described fastening devices relates to the storage of the device when it is not in use. Many times the clamping device must be removed, bent or otherwise manipulated in an inconvenient manner before being stored. Any difficulty in storing the device detracts from its total utility. While the carrying capacity of the auxiliary suitcase is a feature of popular baggage, baggage safety becomes more important as well. 0 Many situations arise during the trip, in which the suitcases are susceptible to being stolen. Suitcases are sometimes stolen when they are left unattended or when the traveler's attention is diverted. There are several situations during the trip where a traveler must leave their luggage unattended, such as when buying a ticket, using the bathroom, or eating in a restaurant. Additionally, the traveler's attention is often diverted from luggage even when the luggage is not left unattended. When making a call > Telephone, snoozing, reading or conversing with another to spend time distracts the traveler's attention enough to allow the luggage to be stolen. Security devices have been developed in an attempt to alleviate the problems associated with stolen luggage. By using a safety device, a traveler can leave their bags unattended more safely. The safety device usually attaches the suitcase to any suitable object, such as a chair, a pole or other suitcase. Security devices provide a sufficient level of security to stop potential thieves and thereby give travelers mental relief. • - The first security devices were separated from the suitcases. Typically, the security devices included an elongated, flexible member of fixed length 0 having a releasable and attachable end to the outside of the suitcase and a free end which was wrapped around the suitcase and secured behind the suitcase or bag. itself. While effective during use, separate security devices were inconvenient to apply, store and retrieve. For example, when it was not in use, the separate security device had to be stored in a location that would not interfere with the use of the suitcase, still having to be conveniently accessible to allow the traveler to use the device whenever he wished. In addition, they had to be attached to the outside of the suitcase and a separate padlock device had to be attached to the free end for reconnection to the suitcase or member. Recently, security devices have l '? become more convenient to store and use. The safety devices have been developed to extend from and retract into the main suitcase, making the safety device easily accessible for the traveler to use. This last type of security device has made of luggage safety devices more attractive to consumers by alleviating the problems of having to store a . * - separate article and recover them from an inconvenient location. It is with respect to these considerations and other background information related to luggage safety devices of the prior art that have evolved significant improvements of the present invention. Characteristics and objectives of the invention One of the important aspects of the present invention relates to an annex of the auxiliary suitcase and security tether mechanism which is permanently attached to the main case to avoid problems of misplacement or loss, the which is extended to the desirable degree to accommodate a variety of different types and sizes of auxiliary luggage, which is available for use independent of the other functionality of pull handles or pull-outs and similar to the main suitcase, which is retractable in a manner Automatic, which is retractable when not in use to avoid problems of hindrance, rupture, exposure and the like, which be able to be locked in any of the extended or retracted positions, and which is capable of being used to ensure at least the main suitcase to an object. According to these and other aspects, the present invention relates to a new and improved auxiliary suitcase fastening mechanism and associated method for securing an auxiliary suitcase to a main suitcase to be supported on and by an exterior surface of a main suitcase, and to secure at least the main suitcase to an object. The annex of the auxiliary suitcase and security halter mechanism, attached to the main suitcase, supports an auxiliary suitcase on the main suitcase and secures the latter to an object. The clamping mechanism comprises a clutch mechanism, an elongated flexible belt having an inner end fixedly attached to the clutch mechanism and the other end joined to a hook, the clutch mechanism is adapted to pull the flexible belt onto the clutch mechanism. clutch and retract the hook towards the clutch mechanism. A cap is pivotally mounted adjacent to the clutch mechanism and has a selectively open position where the hook and strap are accessible, and a closed position where the cap covers the clutch mechanism and the belt hooks to the point where the strap is retracted over the clutch mechanism. The lid engages the clutch mechanism in the open position to release the clutch mechanism whereby the belt can extend from the clutch mechanism in the closed position to impede the movement of the clutch mechanism and fix the extension length of the belt. A bolt mechanism is placed on the lid to lock it in the closed position. Specifically, the lid has selectively first and second open positions when the hook and strap are accessible. The lid engages the clutch mechanism in the first position to release the belt so that it can extend from the clutch mechanism. The cap engages the clutch mechanism in the second position to retract the belt whereby it is pulled into the clutch mechanism until it is taut. The clutch mechanism comprises a spring-loaded rotating shaft to which the inner end of the belt is attached and under which the belt is wound and a ratchet and gear assembly fixedly attached to the shaft. One second is pivotally mounted in the clutch mechanism, the cover in the first position pivots to the lock to uncouple it from the gear and retainer assembly to allow > - the arrow rotates to allow the extension of the belt. A pawl is also mounted on the clutch mechanism, and the cover in the second position pivots the pawl to uncouple it from the pawl and ratchet assembly to allow the spring loaded arrow to rotate to further extend the belt or retract it. The lid is uncoupled from the latch and latch in the closed position, and the latch and retainer are adapted to engage the engagement and ratchet assembly and prohibit the arrow from rotating. In one embodiment, the clamping mechanism includes a housing which defines a receptacle, which in turn stores the clutch and belt mechanism. The lid, in the closed position covers the receptacle and in the open positions, discovers the receptacle. The hook at the end of the belt can be replaced in the receptacle for coupling to the clutch mechanism, and the cap can be locked in the closed position to secure the hook, and thereby the belt, in the receptacle. If the strap becomes entangled around an attachment, such as a lantern pole or other suitcase, and the hook is then locked in the receptacle, the mechanism then acts as a safety harness. The invention also relates to a new and improved method of assembling a fastening mechanism of the auxiliary case and safety halter. The method comprises the steps 1 of mounting an elongated shaft in a ratchet and gear assembly by inserting a first end of the shaft into an axial recess of the engagement and ratchet assembly, attaching a first end of the flexible belt to the shaft. elongated and wind the strap on the arrow to produce a first sub-assembly containing the belt, arrow and gear and ratchet assembly; mounting the first subassembly in a housing when inserting the first subassembly through an opening in a first end portion of the first and second end portions forming the housing; do coinciding the two end portions of the housing to form it and at the same time inserting a second end of the arrow through an opening in the second end portion of the housing; mount a spring cartridge on the second end of the arrow; pivotally mounting a latch on the first end portion in a position to engage and disengage from the ratchet and gear assembly; pivotally mounting the pawl on the first end portion in a position for coupling and uncoupling the engagement assembly and ratchet; joining a reinforcing ring defining a base portion and two elongated legs to a perimeter of the housing, the base and legs encircling the housing; and pivotally joining a cap, having laterally opposite pins and extending laterally toward the legs of the reinforcing ring. A more complete appreciation of the present invention and its scope can be obtained from the accompanying drawings, which are briefly summarized below, the following detailed description of the present preferred embodiments of the invention, and the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a perspective view of a wheeled suitcase * "" having an auxiliary suitcase securing mechanism and safety strap embodying the present invention, shown with the unused fastening mechanism. Figure 2 is an enlarged partial perspective view of the wheeled suitcase shown in Figure 1, with a lid illustrating a knocker on the lid, a reinforcing ring, a hook, a strap and a clutch mechanism. Figure 3 is a partial enlarged perspective view similar to Figure 2, illustrating a clutch mechanism and a strap attached to the clutch mechanism at its lower end and attached to the hook at the other end. Figure 4 is an enlarged partial perspective view similar to Figure 3, illustrating the securing mechanism and safety halter supporting an auxiliary suitcase and pull handle extended from the wheeled suitcase. Figure 5 is a perspective view of an alternate use of the securing mechanism and safety halter to support an auxiliary suitcase. Figure 5A is a perspective view of another alternate use of the securing mechanism and safety halter to support an auxiliary suitcase. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the wheeled suitcase as shown in Figure 5, illustrating the use of the securing mechanism and safety halter to secure the wheeled suitcase and the auxiliary suitcase to an object. Figure 7 is an exploded view of the securing mechanism and safety latch. Fig. 8 is an enlarged elevation view of the securing mechanism and safety latch taken substantially in the plane of line 9-9 of Fig. 8, illustrating a coil spring attached to an arrow of the clutch mechanism.

Fig. 10 is a sectional view of the securing mechanism and safety latch taken substantially in the plane of line 10-10 of Fig. 8, illustrating the belt wound around an arrow, and the hook encompassing and coupling to the clutch mechanism. Fig. 11 is a sectional view of the securing mechanism and safety latch taken substantially in the plane of line 11 of Fig. 8. Fig. 12 is an enlarged sectional view of the securing mechanism and safety latch taken substantially in accordance with Figs. the plane of line 12-12 of Figure 5, illustrating • the coupling of the hook with the clutch mechanism when the strap is used to support an auxiliary suitcase. Fig. 13 is an enlarged sectional view of the securing mechanism and safety latch taken - "*" substantially in the plane of line 13-13 of Fig. 8, illustrating the engagement of a lock and detent with a gear and ratchet assembly of the gear mechanism when the cover 0 is closed. Fig. 14 is an enlarged sectional view of the securing mechanism and safety latch taken substantially in the plane of line 14-14 of Fig. 3, illustrating the cam surfaces of the lid with the latch and retainer when the lid It is in a first open position. Fig. 15 is an enlarged sectional view of the securing mechanism and safety latch taken substantially in the plane of line 15-15 of Fig. 2, 5 illustrating the cam surfaces of the lid with the latch and ratchet when the lid it is in a second open position. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION An auxiliary suitcase securing mechanism and safety strap 22, which embodies a form of the present invention, is attached to a main suitcase 24 as shown in Figures 1-6. The securing mechanism and safety latch includes a housing 26, a belt 28, a hook 32, a clutch mechanism 38 and a cover 36. The housing 26 defines a receptacle 38 and is attached to the main suitcase 15 24. The mechanism The clutch mechanism 34 is positioned within the housing 26. The clutch mechanism 34 is capable of rotating about a longitudinal axis within the housing 26. The belt 28 is an elongate and flexible member having opposite internal and external ends 42, 44. The end 20 of the belt 28 is attached to the clutch mechanism 34 to allow the belt to be wound and unwound from the clutch mechanism 34 when the belt 28 is retracted or retracted. The hook 32 defines a generally rigid J-shaped member and is attached to the outer end 44 of the belt 28.

The belt 28 and the hook 32 are functionally extendable from and retractable in the receptacle 38 or wound on respectively, the clutch mechanism 34. Referring generally to Figures 1 and 10, 5 when the securing mechanism and the safety halter not in use, the belt 28 and the hook 32 are contained within the receptacle 38 in the retracted position. In the retracted position the belt 28 is wound around the clutch mechanism 34 within the receptacle 38, and the hook J3'3 fits on the belt 28, facilitating convenient storage of the belt and the hook. The cap 36 is pivotally attached to an upper edge 48 of the housing 26, and is capable of pivoting to a closed position substantially covering the receptacle regardless of the position of the receptacle. strap 28 and hook 32. Cover 36 can be locked in the closed position by a lock mechanism 46. To extend strap 28, cover 36 must be open to allow clutch mechanism 34 to rotate, unwind belt 28 and hook 32 of the mechanism clutch 34. When extended the strap and the hook can be used to attach an auxiliary suitcase 52 to the main case 24 as shown in figures 4, 5 and 5a, joining the main suitcase to an object 54 for safety reasons as it is shown in figure 6, or both. The clutch mechanism 34 allows adjustment of the extension of the belt 28 to a desired length and length. The lid 36 can be left open to expose the receptacle 38, but it is preferable to close it on the receptacle, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, when the belt 28 and the hook 32 are extended. Referring generally to FIGS. 4, 5 and 5a, the securing mechanism and security halter 22 functions as an auxiliary suitcase fastening mechanism in at least 3 ways. A first way is for the hook 32 to attach a portion of an auxiliary bag, such as a handle 56, to thereby support the auxiliary case 52. The auxiliary case 52 can also be supported directly by the belt 28. For example, a length of the belt 28 extends from the clutch mechanism 34 to wind around the portion of the auxiliary case 52, and the hook 32 is then placed back in the receptacle 38 to engage the mechanism "" "• engagement 34. When the cover 36 is closed, the auxiliary suitcase 52 is then fixedly secured to the main suitcase 24, as shown in FIG. 5. Alternatively, a length of the belt 28 extending from the engaging mechanism 34, is wound around the portion of the auxiliary suitcase 52, and the hook 32 is then releasably attached to a traversed bar 52 attached to a pull handle 62 when it is in an extended position, as shown in Figure 5A.

Referring to Figure 6, the securing and safety mechanism 22 also functions as a safety device. If the user wishes to secure the main case 24 to an object 54 such as a lantern post, the belt 28 can extend from the clutch mechanism 34 and wind around the object 54, the hook being placed after returning inside the receptacle for coupling to the clutch mechanism 34. The lid 36 is then closed and locked, denying access to the receptacle 38 to unauthorized persons Je./ for decoupling the hook 32 from the clutch mechanism 34. The belt 28 can be passed through without handle cases 56 or other auxiliary cases 52 or any other appropriate portion such as to secure a plurality of cases at the same time. 15 The functionality of the restraint mechanism and safety tether 22 is centered around the extension of the - ', strap 28 and hook 32 from clutch mechanism 34, and interaction of clutch mechanism with cover 36. Position of cover 36 controls clutch mechanism 34, which in turn controls the withdrawal and retraction of the belt 28 and the hook 32. When the lid pivots to a first open position 64, as shown in Figure 14, its clutch mechanism 34 allows the belt and hook to extend from the receptacle 38 but not retract back into the receptacle 38. When the lid 36 is pivoted to a second open position 66 As shown in Figure 15, the clutch mechanism 34 is prone to retract the belt until there is no slack in it. The strap can also be extended further when the lid is not in the second position, subject to the aforementioned propensity or retraction. When the lid 36 is in the closed position as shown in Figure 13, the clutch mechanism 34 eliminates any further extension or retraction of the belt 28.

-. The strap 28 and the hook 32 are thus able to support an auxiliary suitcase 52 (Fig. 4, 5, 5A) or to securely attach the auxiliary suitcase 24 to an object 54 (Fig. 6). The suitcase 24 can be a conventional suitcase with rigid sides having a main body 68 formed of two essentially rigid covers 72, each having a rigid cover 73, as shown in Figure 1. Each cover has a face panel side 74 and 4 perpendicular edge panels 76. A hinge (not shown) attached to the lower edge panels 76 pivotally joins the covers 0 72. A carry handle 78 is attached to one of the covers 72 or in a position located centrally on an edge panel 76 facing upwards to allow the case 24 to be carried in a conventional manner. A pair of caster wheels 82 are rotatably mounted on the bottom of one of the edge panels 76. The casters 86 engage a support surface, such as the floor to allow the case 24 to slide instead of being carried. in the user's option. The pull handle 62 is selectively extendable from and retractable from the inside of the case in a panel facing a side 74, as shown in Figures 1 and 5. The pull handle 62 when extended, is used to pull or maneuvering the auxiliary suitcase 54 on the wheels 82. The The pulling handle 62 is retractable for storage when the suitcase 24 is not being maneuvered on the wheels 82 by the user Having explained the general structure and function of the present invention, the structural details, such as in FIG. 2 a 15 of the auxiliary suitcase securing mechanism 22 security latch 22 will now be described.The securing mechanism and safety halter at or adjacent to the intersection of a large front panel 74 and a lower edge panel 76 in the main case 24, as Shown in Figures 1 to 5. Referring to Figure 7, the housing 26 comprises opposite end portions 84, 86 and a reinforcing ring 90. The end portion 84 includes a base wall 88, a rear wall 92 and a side wall 94. The side wall has an inner surface 96 and an outer surface 98, and the side wall defines a circular opening 102 having a perimeter 104. A cylindrical wall 106 extends over ubstancially circular to the outer wall 98 of the side wall 94 and is attached around the perimeter 104 of the opening 102. The cylindrical wall 106 has a proximal end 108 attached to the outer side 198 of the side wall 94, and a distal end 110 that is projected far from the near end. A plurality of similarly oriented L-shaped notches J * r? 112 (two are shown in Figure 7) are formed in cylindrical wall 106 and open in distal end 110. In an upper portion 114 of side wall 94, a recess opening inwardly and upwardly 116 is defined, with a flange 118 extending perpendicularly rearwardly to starting from a front wall 122 of the recess 116. The inner surface 96 of the side wall 94 also defines a recess "- cylindrical 168 positioned below step 128, which extends from outer surface 98 (not shown). Rear wall 92 of end portion 84 defines an integrally formed lower portion 124 and a lower portion 126 which coincide to form a step 128 extending forwardly on the base wall 88. The upper portion of the rear wall 92 has a slightly arched shape, while the lower wall 126 of the rear wall 92 has a severe arched or concave shape. The base wall 88 and the back wall 92 define a continuous internal edge 132. A plurality of cylindrical elongated pins 134 are fixedly attached to the inner edge 132 and extend perpendicular therefrom. The inner edge 132 defines an elongate spine 136 extending perpendicularly from the inner edge 132 along the greater part of the inner edge length 132. A tongue 138 is formed integrally with the rear wall 92 adjacent an upper end 142 of the back wall 92, and extends upwardly from the top 142. The base wall 88 of the first portion 84 defines a front edge 144, a tongue 146 is integrally formed with the base wall 88 and extends downwardly therefrom, adjacent the edge intersection. inner 132 and front edge 154. A hollow cylindrical pin 145 extends perpendicularly outwardly from the outer surface 98 of side wall 94. The hollow pin defines a cylindrical cavity 147 internally threaded. The other end portion 86 of the housing 26 includes a base wall 88 ', a rear wall 92' and a side wall 94 '. The side wall 94 'has an inner surface 96' and an outer surface 98 '. The side wall 94 'defines a circular opening 102' having a perimeter 104 '. A wall 148 is fixedly joined along the perimeter portions 104 'of the opening 102' and extends perpendicularly outwardly from the outer surface 98 'to form a partial cylinder. The wall 148 has a proximal end 152 which is attached to the outer surface 98 'of the side wall 94', and a distal end 104. An end wall 156 is fixedly attached to and extends between and along the distal end 154 of the wall 148 to partially cover the opening 102 'in the side wall 94'. A The axial circular opening 158 is formed through the end wall 156. A solid cylindrical pin 162 and a hollow cylindrical pin 164 each extend perpendicularly outward from the outer surface 98 'of the wall. lateral 94 '. The hollow pin 164 defines an internally threaded cylindrical cavity 166. "" "• The back wall 92 'defines an integrally formed upper portion 124' and a lower lateral portion 126 'which coincide to form a loin 128' extending towards the outside (not shown) that corresponds laterally to the spine 128 in the first portion 84 of the housing 26. A tab 138 'is formed integrally with the rear wall 92' adjacent an upper end 142 'of the rear wall 92', and extends upwardly from the upper end 142 '. An upwardly open inner recess 116 'is formed in an upper portion 114' of the side wall 92 ', and has a rearwardly extending shoulder 118' covering a portion of the recess 116 '. The recess 116 'is laterally opposed to the corresponding recess 116 formed in the other portion 84. Still referring to Figure 7, and more generally to Figures 10 and 11, the base wall 88' and the rear wall 92 'together form an edge continuous internal 132 '. An elongate spine 136 'extends inwardly from the inner edge. A plurality of recesses 172 (not shown) is formed along the inner edge 132 'to receive the opposed pins 134 of the first end portion 84 located in the corresponding positions. The base wall 88 'of the end portion 86 defines a front edge 144'. A tongue 146 'is integrally formed with and extends downwardly from the base wall 88' adjacent the intersection of the inner edge 132 'and the leading edge 144'. The inner surface 96 'of the side wall 94' defines a cylindrical recess 168 corresponding in location and which is laterally opposed to the cylindrical recess 168 formed in the side wall 94 of the end portion 84. The cylindrical recess 168 'extends outwardly. from the outer surface 98 'of the side wall 94'.

The reinforcing ring 90 generally has a U-shape and defines a base portion 174 integrally formed with two laterally opposite upwardly extending legs 176. Each leg 176 has a distal end 178, and each has a similar arcuate shape. Each of the upwardly extending legs 176 define a notch laterally open to the inside 182 at their distal ends 178. Each of the sideways laterally extending tabs 184 define a plurality of openings 186, are formed integrally at the end distal 178 of the legs 176. A tongue 188 extends perpendicularly upwardly from the distal ends 178 of each of the legs 176. The tongue 188 laterally opposes each other by defining an opening 192. A collar 194 extends rearwardly from the center of the base portion 174 of the reinforcing ring 90 and defines a vertically oriented opening 196. Referring to Figures 7 and 11, when assembling the end portions 84 and 86 and the reinforcing ring 90 to form the housing 26, the portion 84 and the portion 86 are oriented to engage with each other along the inner edges 132, 132 '. The inwardly extending pins 134, in the portion 84 are received by the recesses 172 formed in the other end portion 86 while the spines 136, 136 'along the inner edges 132, 132' of both portions 84, 86 overlap and couple together to provide positional stability of each portion 84 and 86 with respect to the other. When the portion 84 and the portion 86 are joined together, they form the receptacle 38 defined by a base wall 88, 88 'a back wall 92,92' and opposite side walls 94, 94 '. The rear wall and the base wall of the receptacle 38 are simply the combination of the rear walls 9292 'and the base walls 88, 88' of the two end portions 84 and 86. The reinforcement ring 90 fits over the housing 26 and helps hold the two portions 84, 86 together. The downwardly depending tabs 146, 146 'extend from the base walls 88, 88' are adjacent to each other when the portions 84, 86 are joined. The adjacent tabs 146, 146 'fit closely within the opening 196 formed by the rearwardly extending collar 194 194, formed in the base portion 174 of the collar 90. The legs 176 of the reinforcing collar 90 are flexibly elastically shaped. laterally away from each other to allow the openings 186 of the ring 90 to receive the outwardly extending pins 145 and 164, which are used together with a fastener 187 inserted through the opening 186 and received threadably within the cavities cylindrical threaded 147 and 166 on the outwardly extending pins 145 and 164, respectively. The tabs 144 and 146 are restricted in the opening 196, while the pins 145, 164 are received in the openings 186 when the legs 176 are flexed back to their normal position. The portions 84 and 86, are thus locked together to form the receptacle 38. A tension bar 193 extends through the receptacle 38, when the housing 26 is assembled. The tension bar 193 comprises an elongated cylindrical rod 195 having opposite ends 197, 199, with each end received within one of the cylindrical recesses 168 formed on the internal surfaces 96 and 96 'of the side walls 94 and 94'. of the portions 84 and 86 of the housing 26. The recess 168 holds the tension bar in position. Referring now to Figures 7, 9, 12 and 13, the clutch mechanism 34 comprises a rigid cylindrical shaft 5 having a first and a second opposite end 202, 204, a combination gear assembly. "" 'and ratchet 206 attached to the first end 202 of the arrow 198, and a spring case 207 attached to the second end 204 of the arrow. A rigid disk 208 is concentrically connected to the arrow in a fixed perpendicular orientation, and is adjacent rather than for separation from the second end 204. A slot 212 has two widths 214, 216 which bisect the arrow along its length in two. portions except where the arrow is attached to the disc 208. The greater width 214 is contiguous to one side of the arrow 198 while the smaller width 116 is contiguous along the opposite side of the arrow. The gear-ratchet combination assembly 206 comprises a generally circular ratchet 218 integrally formed with a gear 222 which is integrally formed with a circular disk 226. The ratchet 218 has the shape of a sawtooth 220, while the gear 222 has square-cut tooth 224. The circular disk 226 defines a uniform perimeter 228. The pawl 218, the -3 gear 222 and the disk 216 are all centered about the same axis. The disc 226 is oriented towards an inner side 232 of the engagement and ratchet assembly 206, while the pawl 218 faces an outer side 234 of the engagement and ratchet assembly 234 of the engagement and ratchet assembly 206, thereby sandwiching the gear 222 between the "*" two. An inner side 232 of the gear and ratchet assembly 206 defines a cylindrical axial recess 236. The outer side 234 of the gear and ratchet assembly 206 defines an axially oriented cylindrical shape extension 238. The axially oriented cylindrical recess 236 on the inner side 232 of the gear and ratchet assembly 206, has a tab 242 (Fig. 11) formed at one of its ends. The recess 236 receives the first end 202 of the arrow 198 and maintains a rotational orientation fixed to each other because the tongue 242 within the recess 236 engages the groove 212 in the first end 202 of the arrow 198 when the arrow is inserted into the recess 236 Referring to Figures 7 and 13-15, the gear and ratchet assembly 206 further comprises a latch 244 and a retainer 246. The latch 244 releasably engages the gear 222, while the latch 246 releasably couples to the latch 246. ratchet 218, as described below in greater detail. The lock 244 comprises a cylindrical pivot support body 248 having an arm 252 extending substantially radially from the support body 248. A second lever arm 254 extends substantially radially from the support body 248. The arm 252 defines an L-shape in general that has a proximal end 256 fixedly attached to the cylindrical support body 248, and a distal end 258 defining a tongue 262 extending at an angle "" substantially straight from the length of the arm 252. A pin 264 is fixedly attached to and extends outwardly from the distal end 258 of the L-shaped arm 252. The retainer 246 comprises a hollow cylindrical pivot support body 266 having an arcuate shaped arm 268 extending radially from the support body 266. A straight lever arm 272 also extends substantially radially from the support body 266. The arcuate arm 268 defines a proximal end 274 fixedly attached to the body. of cylindrical support 266, and an opposite distal end 276. The distal end 276 of the arcuate arm 268 defines a tongue 278 extending from the arm 268. A pin 282 is fixedly attached and extends outward from the distal end 276 of the arm in arcuate shape 268. The engagement and ratchet assembly 206, when attached to the arrow 198 and assembled in the securing mechanism and safety tether 22, s and rotatably placed inside the wall ! .d partial cylindrical 148 and is partially covered by the end wall 156, as explained below. The cylindrical support body 248 of the latch 244 pivotally receives the hollow cylindrical pin 164 extending outwardly from the outer side 98 'of the wall15 side 94 'of the second portion 86. The hollow cylindrical support 266 of the retainer 246 pivotally receives the pin "solid cylindrical" 162 extending from the outer surface 98 'of the side wall 94' of the second portion 86 to form a pivotable relationship. When they join this In this manner, the latch 244 and the retainer 246 engage the gear 222 and ratchet 218, as will be described further below. A spring 284 under tension is fixed between the pin 264 extending from the distal end 258 of the safety 244 and the pin 282 extending from the distal end 276 of the retainer 246. The tension spring 284 acts to bias the distal ends 258 and 276 of the L-shaped arm 252 and of the arched arm 268 toward each other, which will be described further below. Referring in general to Figures 7, 9 and 11, the spring cartridge 207 is attached to the end 204 of the arrow 198 opposite the ratchet and gear assembly. The spring cartridge 207 comprises a spring 286 positioned within a hollow cylindrical container 288 having an inner end 298 and an outer end 294. The outer end 294 of cylindrical container 288 defines a wall 296 having an axially oriented opening 298 formed through him. The inner end 292 of the cylindrical container 288 is open, exposing the spring 286. The spring 286 is a spring coil comprising a length 302 of metal strip having an outer end 304 and an inner end 306. The spring 286"*" is wound in concentric spirals about an axis and is restricted within the cylindrical container 288. The outer end 304 of the spring 286 is adapted for coupling an edge of a notch 308 formed in the wall of the cylindrical container 288 for anchoring the spring 286 thereto. One end 306 of the spring 286 is bent to form a tongue 312. The spring 286 is subjected to a load when it is wound and placed inside the cylindrical container 288. A plurality of keys 314 extend radially outwardly from the wall of the cylindrical container 288. , as will be described later. The spring cartridge 207 is attached to the second end 204 of the arrow 198. The tongue 312 on the inner end 5 of the spring 306 is inserted into the slot 212 at the second end 204 of the arrow. The functional purpose of spring 286 with respect to arrow 198 will be described in greater detail below. Referring generally to Figures 3, 7, and 10, the strap 28 is an elongate flexible member, preferably made of woven nylon fabric. The inner end 42 of the belt 28 overlaps itself and is sewn to define a hem 316 having a thickness of approximately twice the thickness of the remainder of the belt 28. The inner end 42 of the The strap is detachably attached to the arrow 198 when the strap 28 is inserted through the slot 212 in the arrow 198, and '? *' ** placing the hem 316 on the inner end 42 of the strap 28 within the greater width 214 of the slot 212 in the arrow 198. The hem 316 in this way couples the interface between the greater width 214 of the slot 212 and the smaller width 216 of the slot 212, and restricts any further movement of the belt 28 through the slot 212. The strap 28 is thus fixed to the arrow 198 and is capable of being wound around the arrow 198 as the arrow rotates about the longitudinal axis. The belt 28 is attached to the arrow 198 before the clutch mechanism 34 is placed inside the receptacle 38. The outer end 44 of the belt 28 is fixedly attached to the hook 32. The hook 32 generally has a rigid shape of J defining a tip 317 and a base 319. The shape of J defines a convex external side 318, a concave inner side 322, and laterally opposite edges 324. The hook defines a finger hole opening 326 formed adjacent the tip 317. Referring now to figures 7 and 10-15, the lid 36 comprises a rigid plate 328 having an upper surface 329, a lower surface 330 and a base portion 332. The base portion 332 has laterally opposite extensions that are downwardly dependent, one of which forms a plurality of cam surfaces 336, 336 'as will be described further below. The downwardly dependent extensions 334 also define an outwardly extending cylindrical pin 338. Each of the pins 338 is pivotally received in the correspondingly located openings * 192 formed in the tabs 188 that extend upwardly from the legs 176. of reinforcement ring 90. The flange 36 is thus pivotally attached to the reinforcing ring 90, and can pivot from a closed position when the plate 328 substantially covers the receptacle 38, to at least one open position. A latch 327 releasably holds the lid 36 in the closed position as shown in FIGS. 10 and 12. The latch 327 is constructed within the lid 36. In a preferred embodiment, the top surface 329 of the lid defines a hollow recess 342 having a base wall 344, a rear wall 346, a front wall 348, and opposite side walls 352. A pressure plate 358 fits within the walls of the recess 342, and defines a trailing edge 362, a edge front 364, and opposite side sides 366. The pressure plate 358 is mounted within the recess to pivot about the trailing edge 362. A pair of detents 376 are pivotally mounted on the rigid plate 328 and depend on the bottom surface 330 .

Knocker retainers are in laterally opposite locations to correspond to opposite recesses 116 and 116 ' * "" ** - formed in the upper part of the side walls 94, 94 ', when the lid is in the closed position (Fig. 2). Knob retainers comprise a main body 378 that defines an L-shaped extension that is downwardly dependent 384. The latch detents 376 are oriented towards a forward position, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10.

When the pressure plate 358 is actuated by a user by pressing down on the edge 364 of the pressure plate 358, the pressure plate 358 contacts the latch detents 376 and pivots them to cause the arm in shape of L 384 move to a backward position. When the pressing plate 358 is released by the user, the latch detents 376 are pivoted to return to the forward position. The lid 36 is latched releasably in the closed position by the coupling of the L-shaped arms 384 with the flanges 118 and 118 'which partially cover the open recesses 116 and 116'. When the pressure plate 358 is pressed causing the L-shaped arm 384 to pivot in the rearward direction, the L-shaped arm 384 disengages the lips 118, 118 'and allows the cover 36 to move in pivot to at least one open position. The latch retainers automatically re-couple the "" "'" flanges 118, 118' when the lid pivots to the closed position. Each L-shaped arm 384 of each latch detent 376 defines an angled surface oriented downwardly 394. Each flange 118 and 118 'defines an angled surface facing upwardly 396. When the lid pivots to the closed position, the angled surface 394 engages the angled surface 396, causing the L-shaped arm to be move in a pivot in a backward direction. When the lid is in the closed position, the angled surfaces 394 and 396 become uncoupled, and the L-shaped arm 384 pivots back to the forward position and engages the flange 116 and 116 'resulting in the lid being maintained in the closed position and with knocker. The lock mechanism 46 comprises a block 398 operated by a key cylinder 402 (Fig. 7). When a key (not shown) is inserted into the key cylinder 402the latter can rotate to place the block 398 to prohibit the depression of the pressure plate 358. Thus, the depression of the pressure plate 358 can not cause the latch detents 376 to pivot back and disengage the lips 118 and 118 '. As shown in Figure 9, the spring cartridge 207 is generally received within the cylindrical wall 106 when the spring cartridge 207 is mounted on the arrow 198. When the spring cartridge 207 is mounted on the arrow 198, the second end of the arrow 198 is inserted through the opening 102 in the side wall 94 of the end portion 84 of the housing 26. The slot 212 at the end 204 of the arrow 198 is inserted through the opening 102 in the side wall 94 of the end position 84 of the housing 26. The slot 22 at the end 204 of the arrow 198 engages the tab 312 formed on the inner end 306 of the spring before the keys 312 extending from the cylindrical container 288 are inserted into the L-shaped notches 112 formed in the wall 106. Because the inner end 306 of the spring 286 is held in a fixed position by the engagement of the tongue 312 with the slot 212 in the arrow 198, the cylindrical container 288 can then be rotated about its longitudinal axis to either load further (winding) the spring 286 or unloading (unwinding) the spring. Once the load has been adjusted to the desired level, the spring cartridge 207 is further pushed onto the arrow 198 while the keys 314 are aligned with and inserted into the notches 112, as shown in Fig. 9. The engaging the keys 314 in the slots 112 fixes the orientation of the spring cartridge 207 within the cylindrical wall 106 and establishes the load on the spring 286 at the determined level. The engagement of the keys 314 with the notches 112 is typically called a "bayonet mount". The cylindrical container has a gnarled or knurled external surface 289 to allow the user to easily grip the cylindrical container when the load is set on the spring cartridge. The end wall of the cylindrical container of the spring cartridge can also define a plurality of openings (not shown) for receiving corresponding tool members (not shown) to allow the user to fix the load in the spring case with a tool rather than by the use of the user's fingers. Referring now to Fig. 11, when the clutch mechanism 34 is assembled with the housing 26, the arrow 198 extends through the receptacle 38 of the housing 26. A peripheral edge 404 of the disc 208 mounted near the second end 204 of the arrow extends into the receptacle, and a portion of the perimeter of the disc 226 on the inner side of the ratchet and engagement assembly also extends into the receptacle 38. The tension bar 193 extends through the receptacle 378 when the 26 housing is assembled. Referring in general to Figures 10, 12 and 13, the strap 38 extends from the arrow 198 back and down to wind around the tension bar "*" ~ 193, and then extending forward out of the receptacle 38. This spinning sequence helps to provide uniform extension and retraction of the belt 28 from the arrow 198. The The tension bar also greatly reduces the potential for the belt to wrap on the arrow in an incorrect manner, such as with slack or out of lateral alignment. The tension bar 193 also helps support the weight of an auxiliary suitcase 52 by directing the weight force of the auxiliary suitcase toward the rear of the housing and away from the front portion of the housing. Continuing with Figure 11, the arrow 198 is supported in a rotational relationship within the receptacle 38 by its first end 202 and its second end 204 that are coined in respective openings 156 and 298. The first end 202 is fixed within the engaging assembly. and ratchet 206, as described above, and the cylindrical extension 238 of the outer side 234 of the engagement and ratchet assembly 206 is rotatably inserted into and through the opening 158. The second end 204 of the arrow is supported in a rotational relationship by the rotary insertion into and through the opening 298 defined in the cylindrical container 288 of the spring cartridge 207. Both ends of the arrow 198 are effectively tucked into respective openings 158 and 298, allowing the arrow 198 to rotate about its longitudinal axis to retract and extend the strap from it. In order to facilitate the understanding of the operation of the present invention, the assembly of the securing mechanism and safety halter 22 will now be described. First, the belt 28 is attached to the arrow 212 by inserting the inner end 42 of the belt 28 into the slot 212 in arrow 198. Preferably, belt 28 is then wound around arrow 198, as shown in FIG. 10. Gear and ratchet assembly 206 is then attached to arrow 198 when inserting first end 202. of the arrow 198 within the axial recess 236 formed in the inner side 232 of the engagement and ratchet assembly. The slot 212 in the arrow 198 engages the tab 242 formed in the recess 236 to prohibit the arrow 198 from rotating independently of the ratchet and engagement mechanism 206. Then, the portions 84 and 86 are oriented to engage with each other along their internal edges 123 and 132 ', respectively, to form the housing 26, which defines the receptacle 38. When the portions 84 and 86 are formed together, the arrow 198 with gear and ratchet assembly 206, and tension bar 193 remain within receptacle 38. Opposite ends 197 and 199 of tension bar 193 are inserted into cylindrical recesses 168 and 168 ', respectively, when portions 84 and 86 are joined. The tension bar 193 is thus held in place. Also, when the portions 84 and 86 are joined, the engagement and ratchet assembly is inserted through the opening 102 'formed in the side wall 94'. The cylindrical extension 238, formed on the outer side 234 of the engagement and ratchet assembly 206, is also inserted into the opening 158 formed in the end wall 156 of the wall 148 that extends outwardly of the opening 102 '. The extension 238 is rotatably piled on the opening 158. The spring cartridge 207 is then mounted on the second end of the arrow 198. The spring 286 is placed on the spring cartridge 207 such that the second end 204 of the spring 286 is received in the axial opening 298 formed in the end wall 296 of the spring cartridge 207. The inner end 306 of the spring 286 is positioned for engagement with the arrow 198. The spring cartridge 207 is then oriented with the second end 204 of the arrow 198 to ensure that tab 312 on inner end 306 of spring 286 engages slot 212 when arrow 198 is inserted through the spring. Once the inner end 306 of the spring 286 is engaged in the slot 212, the spring cartridge 207 can rotate about its axis to load or unload the spring 286 as previously described. The spring cartridge 207 is then mounted on the second end 204 of the arrow 198 to cause the key 314 to engage the L-shaped notches 112 formed in the cylindrical wall 106. The engagement of the keys 314 in the notches in the form of L 112, which forms a bayonet assembly, fixes the spring cartridge 207 inside the cylindrical wall 106 and does not allow the spring cartridge to be pulled from the arrow 198, or to rotate by effecting the loading of the spring 286. The second end 204 of arrow 198 is rotatably piled into opening 298, supporting arrow 198 and allowing it to rotate. The latch 244 and the retainer 246 are then pivotally mounted on the hollow cylindrical pin 164 and the solid cylindrical pin 162, respectively, to engage the gear 222 and ratchet 218, respectively. The spring 284 is then attached from the pin 264 extending from the latch 244 to the pin 282 extending from the retainer 246 to bypass the latch and retainer to engage the gear 22 and ratchet 218, respectively. The shroud 90 is then placed on the end portions 84 and 86 to help keep them together end portions, and simultaneously pivotally moving the lid to allow pivoting from the closed position to the open positions 64 and 66. The tabs adjacent 146 and 146 'extending from each of the end portions 84 and 86 are positioned within the opening 196 formed in the collar 194 extending from the base 174 of the reinforcing ring. The legs 176 of the reinforcing ring 90 are flexed to separate to allow the openings 186 formed in the tabs 184 to extend from the legs 176 to be aligned with the hollow pins 145 and 164 (on the outer side of the latch 244). The fastener 187 is then inserted through each of the openings 186 and is threadedly received within the pins for attaching the reinforcing ring 90 to the portions 84 and 86. The pin 162 is inserted into the opening 185 on the side of the retainer 246. 5 While the legs 174 are flexed outwards, the pins 338 formed in the base portion 332 of the lid 36 are oriented to align with the openings 192 formed in the tongues 188 that extend upwardly of the legs 174. When the legs 174 are released to resume "7_ Or its normal position, the pins 338 are pivotally inserted within the openings 192 to form a pivot joint around which the lid can pivot. The attachment mechanism of the auxiliary case and security halter 22 is thus assembled and ready to be mounted on a main case 24. In operation, the auxiliary case and security harness attachment mechanism 22 is capable of performing various functions, each one of which is related to the interaction between the lid 36, the clutch mechanism 34, and the belt 28 and the hook 32. Referring in general to figures 9 to 14, the various interactions between these components are shown. In the closed position, as shown in Figure 10, the full length of the belt 28 is wound around the arrow 198, and the hook 32 is placed inside the receptacle 38 such that the concave inner side 322 r- of the hook encircles the belt wound on the arrow. The side edges 324 of the hook engage the portions of the disks 208, 226 that extend into the receptacle. In the retracted position, the base 319 of the hook 32 extends rearwardly under the arrow 198 and towards the tension bar 406. A finger loop 406 comprising a loop of the belt 28 attached to the base 319 of the hook 32, extends outward from the front of the receptacle 38 to provide? the user with a convenient grip with which to pull the hook 32 out of the receptacle 38 when the securing mechanism and safety halter is to be used. In the closed position, the lid 36 is pivoted into a downward position to substantially cover to the receptacle 38, and also to the belt 28 and to the hook 32 if they were there. In the closed position the lid 36 is -7"fastened and can not be opened unless the pressure plate 358 is actuated to release the latch or latch trigger from the recesses 116. The cover 36 can be locked in position closed by acting on the latch mechanism 46 which disables the pressure plate 358, as described above. As shown in Figure 13, when the lid 36 is in the closed position, the cam surfaces 336, 336 'which depend on the base 332 of the lid 36 do not engage any of the lever arms 254, 272, respectively. Because r there is no coupling between the cam surfaces 336, 336 ', and the lever arms 254, 272, the distal ends 258, 276 of the L-shaped arm 252 and the arcuate-shaped arm 268 5 are deflected one towards the other by tension spring 284 for engaging gear 222 and ratchet 218, respectively. Specifically, the coupling of the distal end 258 of the latch 244 which engages the meshing of the square cutting teeth 222 forbids the arrow 198 to rotate about JSO your axis in any direction. To remove the strap 28 and the hook 32 from the receptacle 38, the user must pivot the lid 36 within either the first open position 64 (Fig. 14) or the second open position 66 (Fig. 15). With lid 36 open, the The user can access the hook 32 and the belt 28 from inside the receptacle 38. In the first open position 64, "*" as shown in Fig. 14, the cam surface 336 of the lid engages the lever arm 254 of the latch 244 and causes the latch 244 to pivot about its pivot joint 248 and release the distal end 258 of the L-shaped arm 252 coupling with the gear with square cutting teeth 222. The decoupling allows the belt 28 to be removed, and the uncoiled belt of the arrow 189 causing the arrow to turn in the direction counterclockwise with reference to figure 14. The retainer 246 that engages the shark tooth pawl 128 does not interfere with the unwinding of the belt 28 from the arrow 198 because the distal end 276 of the retainer 246 slides as far as possible. along the gradual slope of each engagement tooth 220 to allow the arrow 198 to rotate about its longitudinal axis counterclockwise. As the belt 28 is withdrawn and the arrow 198 rotates in the opposite direction to the cuffs of the watch, the spring 286 coils, causing the load on the spring to increase.

The increased load of the spring in turn increases the force in the spring 286 by attempting to rotate the arrow 198 clockwise to retract the belt 28. The retainer 246 prohibits the arrow 198 from rotating in one direction. clockwise, with reference to Fig. 14, when the lid 36 is pivoted to a first position / '~ * 64. The distal end 276 of the detent 246 engages the abrupt surface on the tooth 220 of the ratchet with shark teeth 218 which prevents the arrow 198 from rotating in the clockwise direction. To allow the spring 286 to retract the belt 28 by driving the arrow 198 clockwise, the lid 36 must be pivoted to a second, more open position 66, as shown in Figure 15. The lid 36 in the second more open position 66 is additionally pivoted by passing the occupied position in the first open position 64 to an almost vertical orientation or by passing the vertical in relation to the securing mechanism and safety halter 22. The base portion 332 of the lid 36 engages the tab 138, 138 'when the lid is in the second open position 66. The tabs 138, 138' restrict the lid from being opened further. The pivotal movement of the lid 36 in this position causes the cam surface 336 'on the lid 36 to engage the lever arm 272 on the retainer 246, while the first cam surface 336 is in continuous engagement with the cam arm. lever 254 on latch 244. Coupling of cam surface 336 'with lever arm 272 causes latch 246 to pivot about its pivot joint 266 and disengage distal end 276 of ratchet catch 246 with shark teeth 218. Neither with the retainer 246 nor with the padlock 244 engaging the pawl 218 or the gear 222, respectively, the spring 286 is then able to cause the arrow 198 to turn clockwise to retract the tape 28 and roll it up around the arrow 198 until the belt 28 is fully retracted, any slack in the belt can be obtained, the cover 36 is moved back to the first position 64 or the lid 36 is closed.

The securing mechanism and security loom 22 allows the user to carry an auxiliary suitcase 52 in one of three ways. Referring to Figure 4, the first one is for supporting the auxiliary case 52 through the hook 32. The user first pivots the lid 36 to the first open position 64 to engage the cam surface 336 with the lever arm 254 which uncouples the padlock 244 of gear 222 and allows belt 28 to be removed. The appropriate length of the belt 28 is removed from the engaging mechanism 34 and the lid 36 is closed to disengage the first cam surface 336 from the lever arm 254 and allows the tension spring 284 to bypass the padlock to engage the cutting gear square 222. The extension length of the belt 28 is fixed in this way. The hook 32 can then be coupled with a portion of the auxiliary case 52 to support the weight thereof. Referring to Fig. 5, the second way of carrying an auxiliary suitcase 52 is to wind the belt 28 around a portion of the auxiliary suitcase 52 and to place the hook 32 back into the receptacle 38 of the securing mechanism and security halter 22 The hook 32 surrounds the arrow 198, and the side edges 324 of the hook 32 are supported on the inner edges of the disks 208, 226 extending inwardly from the side walls 94, 94 '. The tip 317 of the hook 32 also engages the shoulder or step 128 that extends forward from the rear wall 92, 92 'of the receptacle (Fig. 12). The coupling of the tip 317 and the step or shoulder 128 helps to prevent the arrow 198 from carrying the full weight of the auxiliary case 52. By closing the lid 36, as described above, the length of the belt 28 is fixed. to Fig. 5A, the third way by which an auxiliary suitcase 52 is supported, requires that the hook 32 and the belt 28 be removed from the receptacle 38, wound around a portion of the auxiliary suitcase 52, and extended to the bar traversed 58 adjacent to the pull handle 62, to which the hook is then attached. Closing the lid 36 fixes the length of the belt 28 at that point. In all three clamping modes, the strap 28 and the hook 32 can return to the retracted position within the receptacle 38 by uncoupling the strap 28 or the hook 32 from the auxiliary case, and pivoting the lid 36 to the second open position 66. In the second open position 66, the second the cam surface 336 'on the lid engages the lever arm 272 on the retainer 246 and causes the latter to disengage from the shark tooth ratchet 218, which in turn allows the spring 286 to turn to the arrow 198 clockwise and retract the belt when winding the arrow 198. Also, the length of the belt 28 can be reduced after the auxiliary case has been fastened to the pivot of the cover in the second position open The securing and securing mechanism 22 is also used as a safety mechanism by pivoting the lid 36 either in the first 64 or second open position 66, removing the belt 28 and the hook 32 from the receptacle 38, winding it around an object 54 , replace the hook within the receptacle 38, close the lid 36, and actuate the latch mechanism 46. The hook 32 is thus locked within the receptacle 38 and can not be removed without opening the lid 36. The hook 32 engages to the clutch mechanism 34 as described above and as shown in Figure 12 to provide a secure restriction of the hook 32 within the receptacle 38. The strap could be wound through or around various objects 54 to secure more than one suitcase to the Same time. A currently preferred embodiment of the present invention and many of its improvements have been described with a degree of particularity. This description has been made by way of a preferred example. However, it is understood that the scope of the present invention is defined by the following claims, and not necessarily by the detailed description of the preferred embodiment.

Claims (25)

1. R E I V I ND I C A T I O N S 1. A securing mechanism for an auxiliary suitcase and a safety harness to support an auxiliary suitcase on a main suitcase, and to secure at least the main suitcase 5 to an object, said securing mechanism and safety latch is attached to the main case and comprises: a clutch mechanism; a flexible elongated strap having an inner end and an outer end, the inner end is fixedly attached to the clutch mechanism; a hook attached to the outer end of the belt; the clutch mechanism is adapted to pull the flexible strap therein and retract the hook towards it; a lid mounted pivotally adjacent to the mechanism 15 has a selectively open position, where the hook and strap are accessible, and which has a '"* selectively closed position where the cover covers the clutch mechanism and the strap or hook to extend the strap to the point where it is retracted within the mechanism of 20 clutch; the cap engages the clutch mechanism in the open position to release it, whereby the strap can be pulled out of and extended from the clutch mechanism; the cover engages the clutch mechanism in the closed position to keep the clutch mechanism fixed, whereby the extension of the belt is fixed.
2. 2. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety tether, according to claim 1, further comprising: a lock mechanism on the cover to lock it in the closed position.
3. 3. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety jig, according to claim 1, wherein: the lid has selectively open first and second positions, where the hook and strap are accessible; the cover engages the clutch mechanism in the first position to release the belt whereby it can extend from the clutch mechanism; and the cap engages the clutch mechanism in the second position to retract the belt whereby it is pulled into the clutch mechanism until it is taut.
4. 4. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety latch, according to claim 3, wherein the clutch mechanism comprises a spring-loaded rotating shaft to which the inner end of the belt is attached and on which it is wound. the belt.
5. 5. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety halter, according to claim 4, wherein said meshing mechanism further comprises: a gear and ratchet assembly fixedly attached to said arrow; a lock pivotally mounted on the gear mechanism, the cover in the first open position pivots to the lock to uncouple it from the gear and ratchet assembly to allow the arrow to rotate to allow extension of the strap; a detent pivotally mounted on the clutch mechanism, the cover in the second open position pivots the retainer to disengage it from the engagement and ratchet assembly to allow the spring-loaded shaft to rotate to further extend the belt or to retract it; and the cover uncoupled from the latch and latch in the closed position, the latch and latch is adapted to engage the latch and gear assembly to prohibit the arrow from rotating.
6. 6. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety lock, according to claim 5, further comprising: a lock mechanism in the cover for locking the cover in the closed position.
7. 7. A securing mechanism of an auxiliary suitcase and security strap to support an auxiliary suitcase on a main suitcase, and to secure at least the main suitcase to an object, said securing mechanism and security lock is attached to the main suitcase and comprises: a housing defining a receptacle; a gear mechanism positioned inside the receptacle; a flexible elongated strap having an inner end and an outer end, the inner end is fixedly attached to the clutch mechanism; a hook attached to the outer end of the belt; a cap pivotally attached to the housing adjacent the receptacle and having a selectively open first position and a second position, wherein the receptacle is accessible and having a selectively closed position in which the cap covers the receptacle, the cap engages the clutch mechanism in the first and second open position, and uncoupling from the clutch mechanism when in the closed position; and wherein in the closed position the extension of the belt is fixed, and wherein in the first open position the belt can extend from the clutch mechanism, and wherein in the second open position the belt can extend from and retract in the clutch mechanism.
8. 8. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety halter according to claim 7, wherein the spring mechanism is spring loaded to automatically retract the belt within the clutch mechanism when the cover is in the open position.
9. 9. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety halter according to claim 8, wherein the clutch mechanism further comprises a rotary arrow on which the belt is rolled and unrolled.
10. 10. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety halter according to claim 9, wherein the clutch mechanism further comprises a gear and ratchet assembly fixedly attached to said arrow.
11. 11. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety lock according to claim 10, wherein the clutch mechanism further comprises: a lock pivotally attached to the housing, the cover engages the lock in the first and second open positions to cause that the latch disengages from the engagement and ratchet assembly to allow the arrow to rotate to extend the belt, - a detent pivotally attached to the housing, the cap engages the detent in the second open position to cause it to disengage from the engagement assembly and Ratchet to allow the arrow to rotate to extend or retract the belt; and the lid uncouples from the latch in the closed position to cause the latch to engage the latch and ratchet assembly and prevent the arrow from rotating.
12. 12. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety latch according to claim 11, wherein the cover further comprises a plate and a base portion extending therefrom, the base portion engages the latch when? < 3 the lid is in the first open position and the base portion engages the retainer and latch when the lid is in the second open position.
13. 13. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety halter according to claim 12, wherein the cover 15 further comprises: a first cam surface that depends' X downwardly from the base portion, - a second cam surface that it depends down from the base portion; 20 and wherein the first cam surface engages the latch when the lid is in the first open position, and wherein the second cam surface engages the latch and the first continuous cam surface to engage the latch when the lid is on the latch. second open position.
14. 14. - The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety halter according to claim 8, wherein the clutch mechanism further comprises: an elongated rotating arrow on which the belt is rolled and unrolled, - and a spring case attached to the arrow to provide rotational deviation.
15. 15. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety halter according to claim 14, further comprising: a spring cartridge comprising: a hollow cylindrical container, the container defining a slot and having an end wall defining an axial opening, a plurality of keys radially extending from the container, the coil spring comprises a length of metal tape wound in concentric circles on itself, and the coil spring defines an inner end and an outer end, the outer end is placed on said slot and the inner end is bent to form a tongue; and wherein the clutch mechanism further comprises an elongated rotating shaft on which the belt is wound and unwound, the shaft defines a groove substantially along its length, wherein the tongue engages the groove in the shaft to provide rotational deflection between the arrow and the spring when the arrow is received through the spring, and the arrow is additionally received in the axial opening for attaching the spring cartridge to the arrow.
16. 16.- A mechanism for securing an auxiliary suitcase and safety loom to support an auxiliary suitcase on a main suitcase, and to secure at least the main suitcase to an object, said securing mechanism and security halter 10 is attached to the main case and comprises: a housing defining a receptacle; - a gear mechanism positioned within the receptacle; a flexible elongated strap having an inner end 15 and an outer end, the inner end is fixedly attached to the clutch mechanism and is extendable or / - retractable from it; a lid pivotally attached to the housing adjacent the receptacle and having a first position and a second position selectively open, wherein the receptacle is accessible and having a selectively closed position wherein the lid covers the receptacle, the lid engages the mechanism of clutch in the first and second open positions, and disengages from the clutch mechanism when in the closed position; and wherein in the closed position the extension of the belt is fixed, and wherein in the first open position the belt can extend from the clutch mechanism, and wherein in the second open position the belt can extend from and retract in the clutch mechanism.
17. 17. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety halter according to claim 16, further comprising a hook fixedly attached to the outer end of the belt, the hook generally having a rigid form of J defining a tip and a base portion , a convex upper surface, a concave lower surface, and a pair of laterally opposed edges.
18. 18. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety halter according to claim 17, wherein the clutch mechanism further comprises: an elongated rotating shaft having a first and a second opposite end on which the belt is rolled and unrolled , a gear and ratchet assembly fixedly attached to the arrow at the first end, and a disk of rigid circular shape, defining a perimeter, fixedly attached to the arrow at the second end, - and where the opposite side edges of the hook engage to the clutch mechanism along one side edge and the perimeter of the disk along the other side edge when the clutch mechanism is received within the concave surface of the hook.
19. 19. The auxiliary fastening mechanism and safety lock according to claim 18, wherein said cover further comprises a lock mechanism having a bolted and unlocked mode, and the lock mechanism can be locked when the lid is in the closed position.
20. 20. A suitcase capable of carrying auxiliary cases, and also capable of being secured to an object, the suitcase comprises: a main body having an exterior surface, said exterior surface defining an internal cavity, said main body having a selectively open aperture. -ble and lockable to allow access to the inside of the cavity; a handle or handle fixedly attached to the main body for use in transporting the suitcase, - and an auxiliary suitcase securing mechanism and security strap mounted on said main body, said mechanism comprising: a housing defining a receptacle; a gear mechanism positioned inside the receptacle; a flexible elongated strap having an inner end and an outer end, the inner end is fixedly attached to the clutch mechanism; a hook attached to the outer end of the strap, a lid pivotally attached to the housing adjacent the receptacle and having a first position and a second position selectively open, wherein the receptacle is accessible and which has a selectively closed position where the lid covers the receptacle, the lid engages the clutch mechanism in the first and second open positions, and disengages the clutch mechanism in the closed position, - and where in the closed position the extension of the belt is fixed, and where in the first open position the strap can extend from the clutch mechanism, and wherein in the second open position the strap can extend from and retract into the clutch mechanism.
21. 21. The suitcase as claimed in clause 20, wherein said suitcase rests on a support surface, the suitcase further comprises: a pair of wheels mounted on said cover and selectively engageable with said support surface for transporting said cover to along the support surface.
22. 22. The suitcase as claimed in clause 21, wherein: wherein said main body comprises two covers, each cover comprises a side face panel and four edge panels formed integrally and extending substantially perpendicular from the side face panel , said four edge panels define a perimeter; the covers are detachably joined along the perimeter; and the mechanism attached to the covers is adjacent to an intersection of the side face panel and one of the four edge panels.
23. 23.- A securing mechanism and safety halter for securing an object to a carrier, said halter mechanism comprising: an elongated flexible tape having an inner end and an outer end, - means attached to the inner end of the strap for retract this inside a housing; means attached to the outer end of the belt to hold the outer end of the belt to an object or belt around the object and to the outer end again in said retraction means; clutch means for releasing the retraction means whereby the strap can be pulled to an extended position from the housing and for coupling said retraction means to hold the strap in a fixed position in the housing or extended from the housing; and cover means for controlling access to said retraction means and for controlling the clutch mechanism, the cover means allow access and release of the retraction means when in an open position and prevent access to the retraction means and the engagement of the retraction means when in the closed position, such that in the open position, the securing means can be extended to be held with the object, and in the closed position the securing means and the strap are maintained in a fixed position with the object subject to them.
24. 24. The apparatus according to claim 23 and in addition: means for locking the cover means in the closed position.
25. 25. - A method for assembling a mechanism of attachment of auxiliary suitcase and safety loom, said method comprises the steps of: mounting an elongated arrow in a gear and ratchet assembly when inserting a first end of the arrow into an axial recess of a gear and ratchet assembly, - t joining a first end of a flexible belt to the elongated shaft and winding the belt over the shaft to produce a first subassembly containing the belt, arrow and belt and gear assembly, - assemble the first sub-assembly within the housing when inserting the first subassembly through an opening in a first end portion of a first and second portions forming the housing; matching the two portions of the housing to form this and at the same time inserting a second end of the arrow through an opening in the second end portion 0 of the housing; mounting a spring cartridge within the second end of the arrow, pivotally mounting a latch on the first end portion in a position to engage and uncouple the ratchet and gear assembly, pivotally mount the retainer on the first portion r extreme in a position for engaging and uncoupling the engagement and ratchet assembly, - attaching a reinforcing ring defining a base portion 20 and two elongated legs to a perimeter of said housing, - said base and said legs surrounding the housing, - and joining pivotally a cap, having laterally opposed pins extending outwardly, on said legs of the reinforcing ring. EXTRACT A clamping mechanism (22) comprises a clutch mechanism (34), an elongated flexible belt (28), having an internal end fixed to the clutch mechanism (34) and the other outer end (44) attached to a clutch mechanism (34). hook (32), the clutch mechanism is spring deflected to pull the belt (28) into the clutch mechanism (34) and retract the hook (32) towards the clutch mechanism (34). A cap 36 is pivotally mounted adjacent to the clutch mechanism (34) and has an open position in which the hook (32) and the belt (28) are accessible, and a closed position where the cover (36) covers the mechanism. of clutch (34) and to the belt (28) or hook (32) to the point where the belt (28) is retracted within the clutch mechanism (34). The lid (36) engages the mechanism of 15 clutch (34) in the open position to release the clutch mechanism (34) whereby the belt (28) can extend from the clutch mechanism (34) and engage it in the closed position to prevent movement of the clutch mechanism ( 34) and fix the extension length of the belt (28). 20 DAU