US20190045937A1

US20190045937A1 - Collapsable luggage bed

Info

Publication number: US20190045937A1
Application number: US15/970,179
Authority: US
Inventors: Connell Reynolds
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-08-11
Filing date: 2018-05-03
Publication date: 2019-02-14
Also published as: CN109380841A

Abstract

A collapsible luggage bed is described that includes a luggage body and a frame coupled to the luggage body, where the frame includes brackets that form hinge receptacles. Receiver hinges are positioned in the hinge receptacles and pivotably coupled to the frame via the brackets, where each of the receiver hinges comprises channels for storing at least a base of a multitude of telescoping members. The collapsible luggage bed has a lying surface provided by a first bed section configured to pull out from the frame in a first direction and a second bed section configured to pull out from the frame in a second direction opposite that of the first direction.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/544,210 entitled “LUGGAGE CONVERTIBLE TO BED,” filed Aug. 11, 2017, the contents of which being incorporated by reference in their entirety herein.

BACKGROUND

Many opportunities arise where a traveler is in need of a place to sit or lie down, such as an airport when a lack of seating or bedding is available. Airports often provide seating; however, the seating is often uncomfortable and restricts the ability to lie down comfortably. U.S. Patent Application No. 2013/0256072 discusses a suitcase configured to transform to a bed. It includes a frame with a hinge. The frame is secured to a first portion and a second portion. The second portion is pivotally connected to a first portion about the hinge. The first portion and the second portion respectively include a first inner face and a second inner face. The first inner face includes a first mattress and the second inner face includes a second mattress. However, due to the positioning of the mattress in the storage compartment, clothes and other personal items are not able to be stored in the interior. Also, the mattress lies nearly flat on the floor, which can be undesirable, especially in situations in which a floor of an airport or bus terminal is unsanitary. The same is true with respect to the foldable portable dog bed discussed in German (DE) Patent No. 20 2014 007 476 U1.
U.S. Pat. No. 8,016,089 discusses a combination suitcase and chair apparatus. Hidden within the suitcase are four legs and a section leg that provide for the apparatus to be used as a chair. The four legs telescope and provide for the first section to be the adjustable height chair bottom. The section leg pivots and telescopes from the second section such that the second section is an adjustably angled chair back. The section leg is removably covered by a flap substantially like the flaps that cover the four legs of the first section. Both the first section and second section have a removable cushioned mat. However, a chair is unsuitable for lying down purposes.

SUMMARY

According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, a collapsible luggage bed is provided that may be beneficial for use in traveling situations, such as during delays in a train station, bus station, airport, or similar situation, as well as situations in which a standard bed is not typically available. The collapsible luggage bed may include, for example, a luggage body having a frame coupled to a surface of the luggage body. Receiver hinges may be pivotably coupled to the frame via hinge brackets. A first bed section and a second bed section may be provided that is configured to retract from the receiver hinges in a first lateral direction and second lateral direction, respectively. The first bed section may include a first set of legs configured to pivot downwards and support the first bed section. Similarly, the second bed section may include a second set of legs configured to pivot downwards and support the second bed section. A lying surface may include a fabric or other material being configured to couple to at least the first bed section and the second bed section. As such, a bed surface is provided that may have a width substantially similar to or larger than a width of the luggage body. Additionally, the bed surface may be raised from the ground by way of the bed legs and the luggage body.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Many aspects of the present disclosure can be better understood with reference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, with emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the disclosure. Moreover, in the drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

FIG. 1 is a top, front perspective view of a collapsible luggage bed shown in an expanded state reading for use as a bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a callout region of FIG. 2 showing the exploded perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is another enlarged view of a callout region of FIG. 2 showing the exploded perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a top, front perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed shown in a collapsed state reading for use as luggage according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a rear, front perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed shown in an expanded state reading for use as a bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the collapsible luggage bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a top, plan view of the collapsible luggage bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a front view of the collapsible luggage bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed shown in use as a bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a receiver hinge for use in the collapsible luggage bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a photograph showing a side perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a photograph showing a front, top perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is another photograph showing a front, top perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates to luggage configured to provide a collapsible cot or a bed that, in some embodiments, provides a lying surface raised from the ground. As noted above, many opportunities arise where a traveler is in need of a place to sit or lie down, such as an airport when a lack of seating or bedding is available. Airports often provide seating; however, the seating is often uncomfortable and restricts the ability to lie down comfortably.
Accordingly, in various embodiments of the present disclosure, a collapsible luggage bed is provided that may be beneficial for use in traveling or in other situations in which a standard bed is not typically available. Further, the collapsible luggage bed may include dimensions suitable for placement in an overhead bin on an airline while providing the ability to transform into a cot or a bed with a quick and minimal transformation. The term “collapsible” used herein can refer to the ability of the bed to transition between a ready-for-use state for sleeping or lying down and a not-in-use state such that the luggage can be used for standard travel.
In various embodiments, the collapsible luggage bed may include, for example, a luggage body having a frame coupled to a surface of the luggage body. Receiver hinges may be pivotably coupled to the frame via hinge brackets. A first bed section and a second bed section may be provided that is configured to retract from the receiver hinges in a first lateral direction and second lateral direction, respectively. The first bed section may include a first set of legs configured to pivot downwards to support the first bed section. Similarly, the second bed section may include a second set of legs configured to pivot downwards to support the second bed section. A lying surface (also referred to as a “bed surface”) may include a fabric cover configured to couple to at least the first bed section and the second bed section. As such, a bed surface is provided that may have a width substantially similar to or larger than a width of the luggage body. Additionally, the bed surface may be raised from a ground surface by way of the bed legs and the luggage body.
Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, a perspective view and an exploded perspective view of a collapsible luggage bed 100 are shown, respectively, according to various embodiments. Further, FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 may be also be referenced, where FIG. 3 includes an enlarged view of callout region 3 shown in FIG. 2, and FIG. 4 includes an enlarged view of callout region 4 shown in FIG. 2. Referring to these figures collectively, the collapsible luggage bed 100 may include, for example, a luggage body 103. The luggage body 103 may be a piece of luggage similar to conventional pieces of luggage, such as those having fixed or telescoping handles, wheels (e.g., two or four wheels), and fabric or plastic surfaces (not shown for sake of convenience). As such, the luggage body 103 may be somewhat or substantially rectangular and include six or more sides in some embodiments.
The collapsible luggage bed 100 may include a frame 106 that is configured to be coupled to an exterior surface of the luggage body 103, such as a rear surface of the luggage body 103 (or a surface not having storage pockets). In some embodiments, the frame 106 may have a substantially flat bottom surface. To this end, in some embodiments, the rear surface of the luggage body 103 may include a substantially flat surface to better receive the frame 106 in embodiments in which the frame 106 is also substantially flat.
The collapsible luggage bed 100 may further include receiver hinges 109 a . . . 109 d (collectively “receiver hinges 109”). The receiver hinges 109 may be pivotably coupled to the frame 106 in various embodiments. The receiver hinges 109 may pivot about a coupling mechanism, such as a screw or a bolt, to fold the components of the collapsible luggage bed 100 in towards the frame 106 (e.g., for when a bed component of the collapsible luggage bed 100 is not-in-use), or to fold out the components such that the bed of the collapsible luggage bed 100 can be used, as will be discussed.
The receiver hinges 109 may receive components of a first bed section 112 and a second bed section 115, as well as provide direct support for a third bed section 118 (e.g., a central bed section), as will be discussed. The first bed section 112, second bed section 115, and third bed section 118 may be described as, when retracted from the frame 106, collectively forming a lying surface 120, or a surface suitable for a human, pet, or other object to lie, sleep, or sit down thereon. The first bed section 112 may include the area (as well as the components of the collapsible luggage bed 100) between the luggage body 103 and a first distal end of the lying surface 120. Similarly, the first bed section 112 may include the area (and the components of the collapsible luggage bed 100) between the luggage body 103 and a second distal end of the lying surface 120 (e.g., the distal end opposite that of the first bed section 112). The third bed section 118, also referred to as a central bed section, may include the area directly above the luggage body 103 and directly supported between ends of the receiver hinges 109.
Better shown in FIG. 4, the receiver hinges 109 may include channels 121 a . . . 121 d (collectively “channels 121”) configured to receive, retain, and store members used to support the lying surface 120. In some embodiments, the members that support the lying surface 120 may include a circular or ovular cross-section, as will be described. As such, the channels 121 may be circular or ovular to substantially conform to a shape of the members. An exterior, rear surface 122 of the luggage body 103 is also shown in FIG. 4 with the frame 106 removed.
Referring back to FIGS. 1 and 2, in various embodiments, the first bed section 112 and the second bed section 115 may be configured to retract from the receiver hinges 109 in a first direction (D₁) and second direction (D₂), respectively, where the first direction and the second direction may be opposing directions of a common axis. As such, the first bed section 112 and the second bed section 115 may include telescoping members 124 a . . . 124 f (collectively “telescoping members 124”) that collectively provide an outer frame for the lying surface 120. More specifically, longitudinally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 a . . . 124 d may be at least partially positioned in the channels 121 of the receiver hinges 109 to provide support on longitudinal sides of the lying surface 120. Further, the receiver hinges 109 may be configured to, when in an extended state, move at least a portion of the telescoping members 124 (e.g., the longitudinally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 a . . . 124 d) to a position wider than a width of the luggage body 103.
Each of the telescoping members 124 may include a plurality of tubes, such as two tubes, three tubes, or other suitable amount of tubes. Further, each of the telescoping members 124 may include an outer tube section and an inner tube section that is slidably disposed inside the outer tube section. The tube sections may be locked into position when pulled relative to each other by a packing washer or other component that is fitted around the inner tube section adjacent the open end of the outer tube, and a locknut that is fitted around an inner tube, as may be appreciated. The widest or most outer tube may be referred to as the base tube or the base of the telescoping member 124. In some embodiments, the longitudinally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 a . . . 124 d may have a base (or a tube base) coupled to the receiver hinges 109 by residing in the channels 121. In some embodiments, the longitudinally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 a . . . 124 d may include three or other suitable amount of tubes, while horizontally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 e, 124 f may include two or other suitable amount of tubes.
Horizontally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 e, 124 f may be coupled to the longitudinally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 a . . . 124 d through couplers 127 a . . . 127 d (collectively “couplers 127”) to form a rectangular frame or other frame of suitable shape and dimensions for supporting a weight of a person or animal. The horizontally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 e, 124 f may provide support for the lying surface 120 at distal ends of the lying surface 120. The couplers 127, in some embodiments, may provide a substantially 90 degree corner, although in other embodiments, corners having other shapes may be employed. The couplers 127 may include a lateral aperture and a horizontal aperture that act on a sleeve on the telescoping members 124, as shown in FIG. 3 and as will be discussed. Alternatively, the couplers 127 may include a substantially L-shaped or substantially J-shaped sleeve. Further, the horizontally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 e, 124 f may provide support at distal ends of the lying surface.
The collapsible luggage bed 100 may also include legs 130 a . . . 130 f that support various portions of the lying surface 120, such as positions at corners formed by the telescoping members 124. More specifically, the first bed section 112 may include a first set of legs 130 a, 130 b configured to pivot downwards to contact the floor and support the first bed section 112. Similarly, the second bed section 115 may include a second set of legs 130 c, 130 d configured to pivot downwards to contact the floor and support the second bed section 115. The third bed section 118 may be supported by a third set of legs 130 e, 130 f in some embodiments. In other words, the third set of legs 130 e, 130 f may be configured to support a central bed section above the frame 106 on opposing sides of the luggage body 103.
It is understood that the components of the collapsible luggage bed 100 may collapse and compact to form a tight arrangement, as shown in FIG. 5, suitable for travel and placement in overhead bins and car trunks. However, by pulling the telescoping member 124 e in the first lateral direction (D₁) and the telescoping member 124 f in the second lateral direction (D₂), the receiver hinges 109 will pivot outwards to the positions shown in FIG. 1. Further, by pulling the telescoping member 124 e in the first lateral direction (D₁) and the telescoping member 124 f in the second lateral direction (D₂), the telescoping members 124 will extend longitudinally and laterally, and the legs 130 will drop out of the channels 121 of the receiver hinges 109 and pivot downwards to their positions shown in FIG. 1.
To permit the legs 130 to pivot, the collapsible luggage bed 100 may include pivot brackets 133 a . . . 133 f (collectively “pivot brackets 133”). As such, the legs 130 can transition from being substantially parallel to the longitudinally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 a . . . 124 d in a storage, not-in-use state to the extended and in-use state shown in FIG. 1. Notably, the leg 130 f shown in FIG. 1 is illustrated as not being fully opened or extended to illustrate the ability of the leg 130 f to pivot from a storage space in the frame 106 to a position to provide support for the third bed section 118, as will be discussed.
The lying surface 120, shown in FIG. 1, may provide a surface for a person or animal to lay down, or for placement of objects as can be appreciated. In various embodiments, the lying surface 120 may include fabric, plastic, or a combination thereof configured to support at least 350 lbs. or other suitable weight. Further, the lying surface 120 may be configured to couple to at least the first bed section 112 and the second bed section 115. For instance, the lying surface 120 may couple to a distal end of the first bed section 112 and the second bed section 115 by coupling to the corners of the first bed section 112 and the second bed section 115 and/or coupling to other areas of the telescoping members 124 a . . . 124 f. Optionally, in some embodiments, the central portion of the lying surface 120 may be configured to couple to the third bed section 118.
The lying surface 120 may be coupled to the telescoping members 124 after the first bed section 112 and the second bed section 115 are pulled away from the storage space of the frame 106 to the positions shown in FIG. 1. Alternatively, in embodiments in which the lying surface 120 is fabric or any other foldable surface having suitable strength characteristics for supporting a weight of a human or other animal, the lying surface 120 can collapse and expand along with the components of the first bed section 112, the second bed section 115, and the third bed section 118. As such, the interior of the luggage body 103 (i.e., the storage compartment) is not required for storage of the lying surface 120. In some embodiments, the lying surface 120 can include a padded surface, such as a mattress-like surface.
As the receiver hinges 109 are configured to rotate outwards from a storage position in the frame 106, shown outwardly extending in FIG. 1, the frame surrounding the lying surface 120 may assume a width substantially similar to or wider than a width of the luggage body 103 in some embodiments. Additionally, the lying surface 120 may be raised from the luggage body 103 and not rely on the structure of the luggage body 103 for direct support in some embodiments. However, in alternative embodiments, the rear surface can provide direct support underneath the third bed section 118.
Referring now to FIG. 3, an enlarged exploded view of the callout region 3 of FIG. 2 is shown. Particularly, in FIG. 3, a respective one of the couplers 127 b is shown as well as one of the pivot brackets 133 b. As noted above, the couplers 127 may include a lateral aperture 139 configured to receive at least a portion of a laterally extending one of the telescopic members 124 b, acting as a sleeve, and forming an interference fit with the laterally extending one of the telescopic members 124 b. Additionally, the couplers 127 may include a horizontal aperture 142 that may receive at least a portion of the horizontally extending one of the telescoping members 124 e.
In some embodiments, the horizontally extending one of the telescoping members 124 e may also be positioned through an aperture 145 of a first portion 148 of the pivot bracket 133 b. A second portion 152 of the pivot bracket 133 b may include a cap 155, which may include a circular projection extending from a body of the second portion 152. In some embodiments, the cap 155 may have a diameter substantially similar to a diameter of a hollow interior 158 (or a channel) of the telescoping members 124. As such, the horizontally extending one of the telescoping members 124 e, for example, can be positioned through the aperture 142 of the coupler 127 b and the aperture 145 of the pivot bracket 133.
The cap 155 may be inserted into or otherwise positioned in the hollow interior 158 to join the coupler 127 b, the pivot bracket 133 b, the leg 130 b, and the telescoping members 124 b, 124 e. For instance, by inserting the cap 155 into the hollow interior 158, a partial interference fit may be formed, while permitting the second portion 152 of the pivot bracket 133 to rotate along with the leg 130 b coupled thereto. The aperture 142 of the coupler 127 and the aperture 145 of the pivot bracket 133 may traverse along the telescoping member 124, for instance, as the telescoping member 124 is pulled out from the frame 106 (e.g., to form the bed and lying surface 120 shown in FIG. 1). As such, the first portion 148 of the pivot bracket 133 and the second portion 152 of the pivot bracket 133 may separate, for instance, when the telescoping members 124 are pushed into the frame 106 and collapsed (as will be shown in FIG. 5) or couple when the first bed section 112 and second bed section 115 are pulled out the frame, as shown in FIG. 1. It is understood that other ones of the pivot brackets 133 and the couplers 127 may similarly operate.
Turning next to FIG. 4, an enlarged exploded view of the callout region 4 of FIG. 2 is shown. Notably, in FIG. 4, the frame 106 and one of the receiver hinges 109 d, as well as other components, are shown enlarged for discussion purposes. In various embodiments, the frame 106 may include various brackets 160 a . . . 160 h (collectively brackets 160) that may be employed to pivotably couple the receiver hinges 109 to the frame 106. For instance, each pair of the brackets 160 may form receiver hinge receptacles 161 a . . . 161 d (collectively “receiver hinge receptacles 161”). The brackets 160 may include a hole that can be used to receive a screw, bolt, or other coupling mechanism that allows the receiver hinges 109 to be pivotably coupled to the frame 106.
For instance, the receiver hinges 109 may include a hinge base 163 having a width substantially similar to a width positioned between respective pairs of the brackets 160. Further, the receiver hinges 109 may include a base channel 166 that permits a rod, screw, or other similar coupling mechanism to couple, or pivotably couple, the hinge base 162 of the receiver hinges 109 to the brackets 160 through the holes of the brackets 160. As such, the receiver hinges 109 may be described as pivoting about the coupling mechanism, such as a screw 169 and threaded binding barrel 170, such that various components can be retracted inwards or outwards from the frame 106.
The frame 106 may further include attaching holes 171 at various positions that permit screws or other coupling mechanisms to be employed to couple the frame 106 to the luggage body 103, as may be appreciated. As such, the components of the collapsible luggage bed 100 can be used to attach to different types and models of luggage bodies 103. In other words, a piece of standard luggage can be modified to become a collapsible luggage bed 100, for instance, by attaching the frame 106 and the associated components thereto.
The channels 121 of the receiver hinges 109 that may receive the telescoping members 124 are further illustrated in FIG. 4. The channels 121 may include a diameter substantially similar to a diameter of a base of the telescoping members 124 to form an interference fit between the receiver hinges 109 and the telescoping members 124. As such, the telescoping members 124 can pivot about the screw 169 along with the receiver hinges 109, for instance, to be positioned outwards from or inwards to the frame 106. Additionally, the channels 121 may be used to receive and store the legs 130 a . . . 130 d when the collapsible luggage bed 100 is not-in-use, as will be discussed. For instance, in some embodiments, the channels 121 a, 121 b may receive telescoping members 124, and the channels 121 c, 121 d may receive legs 130 when not in use.
Moving on to FIG. 5, the collapsible luggage bed 100 is shown in a collapsed state (or not-in-use state), which may be contrasted with FIG. 1 where the collapsible luggage bed 100 is shown in an extracted state or, in other words, a state-of-use. As shown in FIG. 5, the components of the collapsible luggage bed 100 are shown tightly compacted to the surface of the luggage body 103, allowing the overall dimensions of the collapsible luggage bed 100 to assume those that permit the collapsible luggage bed 100 to fit in overhead bins on commercial airlines. It is in this state that the luggage body 103 can be used, for instance, to store or access clothes or other items stored therein, or to use a telescoping handle (not shown) or wheels (not shown) to travel with the luggage body 103. In various embodiments, the components of the collapsible luggage bed 100 shown and described may be selectively enclosed in a pocket or pouch using a cover (not shown) that can include fabric, plastic, aluminum, or other suitable material, as well as a suitable coupling mechanism (e.g., a zipper, a button, or other attachment).
Notably, in FIG. 5, the legs 130 a . . . 130 d that support distal ends of the first bed section 112 and second bed section 115 are shown positioned in channels 121 of the receiver hinges 109. The legs 130 e, 130 f that support the third bed section 118 (e.g., the central bed section) are shown positioned on distal sides of the surface of the luggage body 103, for instance, outside the diameter of the frame 106. Given the length of bolts 175 a, 175 b (or other coupling mechanism) as being longer than a width of the brackets 133 e, 133 f, the legs 130 e, 130 f can be pulled laterally (D₃) to move the legs 130 e, 130 f beyond a width of the luggage body 103, thereby allowing the legs 130 e, 130 f to pivot downwards. It is understood that a head of the bolts 175 being wider than the bolt channel prevents the legs 130 e, 130 f from being pulled too far outwards.
Additionally, the first portion 148 and the second portion 152 of the pivot brackets 133 are shown disconnected in FIG. 5. It is understood that as the first bed section 112 and the second bed section 115 are pulled out from the frame 106, the telescoping of the horizontally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 will cause the first portion 148 and the second portions 152 of the pivot brackets 133, as well as the couplers 127, to join, as shown in FIG. 1. Notably, the telescoping members 124 will telescope as the receiver hinges 109 pivot upwards about the brackets 160. The aperture 142 of the coupler 127 and the aperture 145 of the pivot bracket 133 may traverse along the telescoping member 124, for instance, as the telescoping member 124 is pulled out from the frame 106 (e.g., to form the bed shown in FIG. 1).
Turning now to FIGS. 6-9, additional views of the collapsible luggage bed 100 are shown in a state for use (contrasted with the state of non-use shown in FIG. 5). More specifically, FIG. 6 includes a top perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed 100 opposite that of FIG. 1. FIG. 7 includes a side view of the collapsible luggage bed 100. FIG. 8 includes a top view of the collapsible luggage bed 100. FIG. 9 includes an enlarged front view of the collapsible luggage bed 100.
As noted above, the components of the collapsible luggage bed 100 may collapse and compress to form a tight arrangement, as shown in FIG. 5. However, by pulling the telescoping member 124 e in the first lateral direction (D₁) and the telescoping member 124 f in the second lateral direction (D₂), the receiver hinges 109 will pivot outwards to the positions shown in FIG. 6-9. Further, by pulling the telescoping member 124 e in the first lateral direction (D₁) and the telescoping member 124 f in the second lateral direction (D₂), the telescoping members 124 will extend longitudinally and laterally, and the legs 130 will pivot downwards. When fully extended, the legs 130 a . . . 130 d will form an angle (a) between the legs 130 and the respective ones of the telescoping members 124. In some embodiments, the angle (a) may be substantially 90 degrees. In alternative embodiments, the angle (a) may include an angle slightly above 90 degrees (e.g., between 91-95 degrees), as shown in FIG. 7.
The telescoping members 124 a . . . 124 f collectively provide an outer frame for the lying surface 120. For instance, longitudinally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 a . . . 124 d may be at least partially positioned in the channels 121 of the receiver hinges 109 to provide support on longitudinal sides of the lying surface 120. Horizontally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 e, 124 f may be coupled to the longitudinally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 a . . . 124 d through the couplers 127. The horizontally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 e, 124 f may provide support for the lying surface 120 at distal ends of the lying surface 120. Further, the horizontally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 e, 124 f may provide support at distal ends of the lying surface.
To permit the legs 130 to pivot, the collapsible luggage bed 100 may include pivot brackets 133 a . . . 133 f (collectively “pivot brackets 133”). As such, the legs 130 can transition from being substantially parallel to the longitudinally extending ones of the telescoping members 124 a . . . 124 d in a storage state to the extended and in-use state shown in FIG. 1. Notably, the leg 130 f shown in FIG. 1 is illustrated as not being fully opened or extended to illustrate the ability of the leg 130 f to pivot from a storage space in the frame 106, as will be discussed.
Moving on to FIG. 10, an example of a person 200 using the collapsible luggage bed 100 is shown according to various embodiments. The luggage body 103, like traditional luggage cases, has dimensions that are suitable for travel on commercial airlines. For instance, the luggage body 103 may include suitable dimensions for placing the luggage body 103 in an overhead bin of an airplane or into a trunk of a vehicle. However, in alternative embodiments, the luggage body 103 may assume other dimensions, as may be appreciated.
Like traditional luggage cases, the luggage body 103 may include one or more handles 203 as well as a plurality of wheels 206 a . . . 206 d (collectively “wheels 206”) coupled to at least one end of the luggage body 103 that enable the luggage body 103 to be rolled when in the luggage state, as may be appreciated. Also like traditional suitcases or other luggage, in some embodiments, the luggage body 103 may include a set of two wheels 206, a set of four wheels 206, or other suitable number of wheels 206. In some embodiments, the wheels 206 may include swivel wheels capable of 360 degrees of rotation.
In further embodiments, at least one of the first bed section 112 or the second bed section 115 may double as a retractable luggage handle, as may be appreciated. Ideally, in the non-limiting example of FIG. 10, the second bed section 115 would double as a retractable luggage handle as the wheels 206 are located on an opposite side of the luggage body 103. The wheels 206 may be positioned in such a location on a bottom of the luggage body 103 to not interfere with the person 200 or animal laying thereon. With the luggage body 103 in the upright position, an operator may press a lock release mechanism (not shown) located on top of the retractable handle. Once pressed, the operator can adjust the second bed section 115 to one of two locking heights, the first of which extends the handle for normal use and the second of which fully extending the length of the second bed section 115 to allow embedded support (e.g., legs 130) to drop into position, thereby exposing a locking pivot hinge and a locking mechanism for safe usage.
The lying surface 120 may include an amount of fabric suitable to support at least some of the body weight of the person 200 or an animal. The fabric may include a polyester fabric, a mesh fabric, or other suitable fabric. Additionally, the fabric may be padded to provide a comfortable surface. In some embodiments, at least one of the first bed section 112 or the second bed section 115 may include a built-in pillow at a respective end of the lying surface 120, for example, by having a padded portion raised from a normal surface of the lying surface 120.
In some embodiments, a rear side or surface of the luggage body 103, or the luggage body 103 itself, may be reinforced with an interior frame (not shown) to provide a greater distribution of the weight of the person 200 or an animal sitting or lying thereon. When not in use as a cot of bed, a pouch (not shown) on the luggage body 103 may be configured to store the first bed section 112, the second bed section 115, the third bed section 118, as well as any other components external to the luggage body 103. The pouch may include, for example, a Velcro® fastener, a zipper, or other fastener to hide the components of the collapsible luggage bed 100 while the bed or cot is not in use. In additional embodiments, the first bed section 112 and the second bed section 115 can fold over one another and attach to a rear side of the luggage body 103 using Velcro®, a zipper, or other suitable attachment means.
In instances in which the collapsible luggage bed 100 is used merely as luggage (and not as a folded-out cot or bed, as may be appreciated), the luggage body 103 may include dimensions below or equal to 45 linear inches (or 114 cm) in combined length, width, and height, including handles and the wheels 206. For instance, the collapsible luggage bed 100, including the frame 106 and associated components, may satisfy standard carry on size limits, which are approximately 22″×14″×9″ (or 56×35×23 cm).
The structural components of the collapsible luggage bed 100, such as the legs 130, the telescoping members 124, the couplers 127, the pivot bracket 133, the frame 106, the receiver hinges 109, and/or other components of the collapsible luggage bed 100 described herein, may be formed of lightweight aluminum, plastic, or other lightweight material that provides suitable support for a person 200 or animal. Ideally, in some embodiments, the collapsible luggage bed 100 supports at least 100 pounds, at least 250 pounds, or at least 300 pounds; however, various embodiments described herein are sufficient for supporting at least a body weighing up to 520 pounds depending on the selection of materials.
Turning now to FIG. 11, a perspective view of a receiver hinge 109 for use in the collapsible luggage bed 100 is shown according to various embodiments. As noted above, the receiver hinge 109 may be pivotably coupled to the frame 106 such that the receiver hinge 109 pivots about a coupling mechanism, such as a screw or a bolt, to collapse the components of the collapsible luggage bed 100 towards the frame 106 (e.g., for when a bed component of the collapsible luggage bed 100 is not-in-use), or to fold out the components such that a bed of the collapsible luggage bed 100 can be formed and used.
As discussed above with respect to FIG. 4, the receiver hinge 109 may include channels 121 a . . . 121 d that are configured to receive, retain, and store the telescoping members 124 used to support the lying surface 120 as well as legs 130 when in the collapsed state shown in FIG. 5. In some embodiments, the telescoping members 124 that support the lying surface 120 may include a circular or ovular cross-section. As such, the channels 121 may include a shape that substantially conforms to a shape of a base (or tube base) of the telescoping members 124, thereby forming an interference fit between the telescoping members 124 and the receiver hinge 109. A body 215 of the receiver hinge 109 may include ridges 218 due to the circular shape of the channels 121.
In some embodiments, the receiver hinge 109 may include a hinge base 163 having a width substantially similar to a width of the receiver hinge receptacles 161 or, in other words, substantially similar to a width between respective pairs of the brackets 160. In some embodiments, the width of the hinge base 163 is wider than a width of the body 215 of the receiver hinge 109. Further, the receiver hinges 109 may include base channels 166 a, 166 b that permits a rod, screw, or other similar coupling mechanism to couple, or pivotably couple, the hinge base 162 of the receiver hinges 109 to the brackets 160 through the holes of the brackets 160. As such, the receiver hinges 109 may be described as pivoting about the coupling mechanism, such as a screw 169 and threaded binding barrel 170, such that various components can be retracted inwards or outwards from the frame 106.
FIGS. 12-14 include photographs of another embodiment of the collapsible luggage bed 100, for instance, with the legs 130 and the lying surface 120 removed for illustration purposes. Specifically, FIG. 12 includes a side perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed 100 shown in a collapsed state (e.g., for use as luggage) according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, similar to FIG. 5. FIG. 13 includes a front, top perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed 100. A top handle 212 is illustrated. FIG. 14 includes another front, top perspective view of the collapsible luggage bed 100 according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.
While embodiments shown and described herein include a piece of rolling luggage, in additional embodiments, a backpack or other type of bag may be employed. For example, the luggage body 103 may include a relatively loose material storage bag (not shown) traditionally employed in backpacks; however, the frame 106 can be included in an interior of the storage bag to support an intermediate portion of a cot or a bed. The frame 106 can also provide storage and retractability of the first bed section 112 and the second bed section 115. Additionally, shoulder straps and/or a waist strap may be coupled to the luggage body 103 in some embodiments.
Disjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, or Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the context as used in general to present that an item, term, etc., may be either X, Y, or Z, or any combination thereof (e.g., X, Y, and/or Z). Thus, such disjunctive language is not generally intended to, and should not, imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, or at least one of Z to each be present.
It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure are merely possible examples of implementations set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiment(s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the disclosure. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.

Claims

Therefore, the following is claimed:

1. A collapsible luggage bed, comprising:

a luggage body;

a frame coupled to an exterior, rear surface of the luggage body, wherein the frame comprises a plurality of brackets that form a plurality of hinge receptacles;

a plurality of receiver hinges positioned in the hinge receptacles and pivotably coupled to the frame via the brackets, wherein each of the receiver hinges comprises a plurality of channels;

a plurality of telescoping members having a base coupled to the receiver hinges by residing in the channels;

a lying surface provided by a first bed section and a second bed section;

wherein the first bed section is configured to pull out from the frame in a first direction, the first bed section comprising a first portion of the telescoping members and a first set of legs configured to support a first distal end of a lying surface; and

wherein the second bed section is configured to pull out from the frame in a second direction opposite that of the first direction, the second bed section comprising a second portion of the telescoping members and a second set of legs configured to support a second distal end of the lying surface.

2. The collapsible luggage bed of claim 1, wherein the telescoping members comprise:

a plurality of longitudinally extending telescoping members providing support for sides of the lying surface; and

a plurality of horizontally extending telescoping members providing horizontal support for the lying surface at distal ends of the first bed section and the second bed section.

3. The collapsible luggage bed of claim 2, wherein the longitudinally extending telescoping members comprise three tubes and the horizontally extending telescoping members comprise two tubes.

4. The collapsible luggage bed of claim 1, further comprising a third set of legs configured to support a central bed section above the frame on opposing sides of the luggage body.

5. The collapsible luggage bed of claim 1, wherein the luggage body further comprises a plurality of wheels and at least one handle.

6. The collapsible luggage bed of claim 1, wherein the receiver hinges are configured to, when in an extended state, position at least a portion of the telescoping members wider than a width of the luggage body to provide lying surface having a width wider than the luggage body.

7. The collapsible luggage bed of claim 1, wherein the collapsible luggage bed is adapted to support at least an object weighing 250 pounds on the lying surface.

8. A system, comprising:

a collapsible luggage bed comprising a luggage body, the collapsible luggage bed being configured to transition between a first state in which a lying surface raised from a surface of the luggage body is provided and a second state in which the luggage body is transportable.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the collapsible luggage bed comprises a frame coupled to a surface of the luggage body, wherein the frame comprises a plurality of brackets that form a plurality of hinge receptacles.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein the surface of the luggage body is a rear, exterior surface of the luggage body.

11. The system of claim 9, wherein the lying surface of the collapsible luggage bed comprises:

a first bed section configured to pull out from the frame in a first direction, the first bed section comprising a first portion of a plurality of telescoping members and a first set of legs configured to support a first distal end of the lying surface; and

a second bed section configured to pull out from the frame in a second direction opposite that of the first direction, the second bed section comprising a second portion of the telescoping members and a second set of legs configured to support a second distal end of the lying surface.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the collapsible luggage bed comprises a plurality of receiver hinges positioned in the hinge receptacles and pivotably coupled to the frame via the brackets, wherein each of the receiver hinges comprises a plurality of channels.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the telescoping members comprise:

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the longitudinally extending telescoping members have a base coupled to the receiver hinges by residing in the channels.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the longitudinally extending telescoping members comprise three tubes and the horizontally extending telescoping members comprise two tubes.

16. The system of claim 11, further comprising a first set of legs for supporting a distal end of the first bed section, a second set of legs for supporting a distal end of the second bed section, and a third set of legs configured to support a central bed section above the frame on opposing sides of the luggage body.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the luggage body further comprises a plurality of wheels and at least one handle.

18. The system of claim 12, wherein the receiver hinges are configured to, when in an extended state, position at least a portion of the telescoping members wider than a width of the luggage body to provide lying surface having a width wider than the luggage body.

19. The system of claim 8, wherein the collapsible luggage bed is adapted to support at least an object weighing 250 pounds on the lying surface.

20. A method, comprising providing the collapsible luggage bed of claim 8.