WO2021129942A1

WO2021129942A1 - Luggage case with a mounting for a removable lock

Info

Publication number: WO2021129942A1
Application number: PCT/EP2019/087079
Authority: WO
Inventors: Patrick KWAN;
Original assignee: Samsonite IP Holdings S.à r.l.
Priority date: 2019-12-27
Filing date: 2019-12-27
Publication date: 2021-07-01
Also published as: CN219220071U

Abstract

A luggage case (102) includes at least one closure mechanism (138) and a removably mounted lock body (146) having an actuation mechanism (141) with a first locked configuration and a second unlocked configuration. A mounting arrangement removably mounts the lock body to the luggage case. When the lock body is mounted to the luggage case, the actuation mechanism may selectively secure the at least one closure mechanism (138). When the lock body is separated from the luggage case, the actuation mechanism may also selectively secure another object or objects (178).

Description

LUGGAGE CASE WITH A MOUNTING FOR A REMOVABLE LOCK

TECHNICAL FIELD

[1] The present disclosure relates generally to luggage articles, and more specifically to a luggage case with a mounting for a removable lock.

BACKGROUND

[2] Locks for luggage cases are commonly used to prevent tampering. However, where the locks are integrated with the luggage case, the locks are often usable only in one configuration on one piece of luggage. Accordingly, their use may be limited.

[3] It is therefore desirable to provide an improved locking system for a luggage case, and more specifically a luggage case having mounting for a removable lock that addresses one or all of the above described problems and/or which more generally offers improvements or an alternative to existing arrangements.

SUMMARY

[4] The present disclosure provides a luggage case including at least one closure mechanism and a removably mounted lock body having an actuation mechanism with a first locked configuration and a second unlocked configuration. A mounting arrangement removably mounts the lock body to the luggage case. When the lock body is mounted to the luggage case, the actuation mechanism may selectively secure the at least one closure mechanism. When the lock body is separated from the luggage case, the actuation mechanism may also selectively secure another object or objects. Additionally, when the lock body is separated from the luggage case, the actuation mechanism may selectively secure another object by selectively securing at least another (for example a second) closure mechanism.

[5] Additionally or separately, the mounting arrangement may include a mounting holder that retains the lock body, where the lock body is separable from the mounting holder from the interior of the luggage case.

[6] In addition, or separately, the mounting holder may include a recess formed in an outer surface of the luggage case.

[7] In addition or separately, the mounting holder may include a mounting plate or a housing defining an interior cavity. [8] In addition or separately, the mounting holder may be a housing defining an interior cavity where the lock body is removable from the interior cavity though an access door formed in the housing.

[9] In addition, or independently, the lock body may include a release member that interacts with a primary locking mechanism to secure the at least one closure mechanism when the actuation mechanism is in the first locked configuration and the lock body is mounted to the luggage case. .

[10] In addition or separately, the interior cavity may be shaped such that the release member of the lock body is aligned to interact with the primary locking mechanism when the lock body is retained in the interior cavity.

[11] A luggage case of any previous luggage case is provided, where a securement member is selectively retained by the actuation mechanism when the lock body is separated from the luggage case.

[12] A luggage case of any previous luggage case is provided, where the lock body further includes a release member that interacts with a secondary locking mechanism to secure the securement member when the actuation mechanism is in the second locked configuration and the lock body is separated from the luggage case.

[13] A luggage case of any previous luggage case is provided, where the securement member is an elongated flexible member.

[14] A luggage case of any previous luggage case is provided, where at least one attachment mechanism secures the lock body to the mounting holder.

[15] A luggage case of any previous luggage case is provided, where the lock body includes at least one aperture and the at least one attachment mechanism engages with the at least one aperture of the lock body to secure the lock body to the luggage case.

[16] A luggage case of any previous luggage case is provided, where the securement member is retained along the lock body when the lock body is attached to the mounting holder.

[17] A luggage case of any previous luggage case is provided, where the attachment mechanism includes a sliding mechanism accessible from an interior of the luggage case to disengage from the at least one aperture of the lock body and release the lock body from the mounting holder. [18] A luggage case of any previous luggage case is provided, where the mounting arrangement is located at least partially in a recess in a surface of the luggage case.

[19] Additionally or separately, the mounting arrangement may include a release member that selectively secures the at least one closure mechanism when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case.

[20] Additionally or separately, the lock body may include a second release member that may selectively secure other objects when the lock body is separated from the luggage case.

[21] Additionally or separately, the actuation mechanism may include a combination lock that cooperates with the release member when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case and cooperates with the second release member when the lock body is separated from the luggage case. The mounting arrangement may include a keyed lock that cooperates with the release member to secure the at least one closure mechanism when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case.

[22] Additionally or separately, a combination lock may be formed as part of the lock body.

[23] Additionally or separately, the mounting arrangement may comprise a housing defining an interior cavity for receiving the lock body. The interior cavity may comprise an aperture such that a portion of the lock body is accessible through the aperture when the lock body is contained in the interior cavity. The aperture may be sized such that the lock body is secured within the housing from the exterior of the luggage case.

[24] Additional embodiments and/or features are set forth in part in the description that follows, and will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the specification or may be learned by the practice of the disclosed subject matter. A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and the drawings, which forms a part of this disclosure. One of skill in the art will understand that each of the various aspects and features of the disclosure may advantageously be used separately in some instances, or in combination with other aspects and features of the disclosure in other instances.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[25] The description will be more fully understood with reference to the following figures in which components are not drawn to scale, which are presented as various examples of the present disclosure and should not be construed as a complete recitation of the scope of the disclosure, characterized in that:

[26] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a luggage article in a closed configuration including a locking system according to some examples of the present disclosure;

[27] FIGs. 2A-2B show an isometric view of a locking system of the present disclosure in a primary locking configuration. FIG. 2A shows a primary locking mechanism in an engaged position to secure zipper pulls of a luggage article. FIG. 2B shows the lock in a disengaged position;

[28] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the locking system of the present disclosure viewed from the inside of a piece of luggage;

[29] FIG. 4 is an enlarged, fragmentary cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2A and showing the mounting mechanism of the locking system on the luggage article;

[30] FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the locking system of the present disclosure;

[31] FIGs. 6A-6D show an enlarged, fragmentary cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2A and showing the mounting mechanism of the locking system on the luggage article. FIG. 6A shows a lock body fastened to a mounting housing using a mounting mechanism in an engaged position. FIG. 6B shows the lock body resting in the mounting housing with the mounting mechanism in a disengaged position. FIG. 6C shows the lock body removed from the mounting housing with the mounting mechanism in a disengaged position. FIG. 6D shows an alternate embodiment of the mounting mechanism;

[32] FIGs. 7A-7C show an isometric view of the locking system in a secondary locking configuration. FIG. 7A shows a cable of the secondary locking mechanism retained in a groove on the lock body of the locking system. FIG. 7B shows the cable of the secondary locking mechanism in an extended, disengaged configuration. FIG. 7C shows the locking system engaged in the secondary locking configuration;

[33] FIG. 8 shows the secondary locking mechanism in an engaged position;

[34] FIGs. 9A-9C show a mounting mechanism attached within an exterior surface of a piece of luggage. FIG. 9A is an isometric view of the locking mechanism mounted on a mounting plate attached within the exterior surface of the piece of luggage. FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the mounting housing viewed from inside of the piece of luggage. FIG. 9C is an enlarged, fragmentary cross-sectional view taken along line 9C-9C of FIG. 9A. [35] FIGs. 10A-10D show a locking system of the present disclosure. FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the locking system. FIG. 10B is a section of the locking system mounted in a piece of luggage taken along section line 10B-1 OB of FIG. 10A. FIG. 10C shows the removable lock of the locking system securing the primary locking mechanism in a locked position. FIG. 10D is a section view showing the removable lock of the locking system securing the primary locking mechanism in a locked position, taken along section line 10D- 10D of FIG. 10C.

[36] FIGs. 11A-11C show a locking system of the present disclosure. FIG. 11A is a perspective view of the locking system. FIG. 11 B shows a lock body of the locking system in an open position. FIG. 11C shows a secondary locking mechanism removed from the lock body of the locking system.

[37] FIG. 12 shows a secondary locking mechanism of the locking system of the present disclosure.

[38] FIG. 13 is an isometric view of a locking system of the present disclosure;

[39] FIGs. 14A-14E show a locking system of the present disclosure. FIG. 14A shows the lock body of the locking system inside a recess. FIG. 14B shows a lock body of the locking system. FIG. 14C shows a lock body of the locking system with a pinching sliding mechanism in a position to open an access door of an upper enclosure of the lock body. FIG. 14D shows a lock body of the locking system with a removable lock removed from the upper enclosure. FIG. 14E shows a lock body of the locking system with a removable lock removed from the upper enclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[40] According to the present disclosure, a locking system for a luggage case is provided. The locking system includes a lock body selectively removable from a luggage case, and has a primary locking configuration when secured to the luggage case, and a secondary locking configuration when separate from the luggage case. In the primary locking configuration, the primary locking mechanism may secure the closure mechanism, and in the secondary locking configuration (separate from the luggage case) the lock body may secure other objects. The locking system may also include a mounting arrangement for removably mounting the lock body to the luggage case. The mounting arrangement may include a mounting holder on the luggage case to removably secure the lock body to the luggage case. The mounting holder includes an attachment mechanism that is actuable from the interior of the luggage case to release or secure the lock body to the luggage case.

[41] In one implementation, an actuation mechanism on the lock body includes a lock structure, a release member, and an aperture. The lock structure, in one example, may include the lock itself (e.g., for example dials for a combination lock or a keyed lock structure) and interior structure of the lock. The actuation mechanism may cooperate with either a primary locking mechanism when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case, or may cooperate with a secondary locking mechanism when the lock body is separate from the luggage case.

[42] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a luggage article in a closed configuration including a locking system 104 according to some examples of the present disclosure. The luggage article 100 includes a luggage case 102 formed from a plurality of walls or panels (hereinafter “panels” for the sake of convenience without intent to limit) defining an internal storage volume in which to carry a user’s belongings. In one example, the luggage case 102 may be formed from opposing front and rear panels 110, 112 and a plurality of side panels extending between the front and rear panels 110, 112. For instance, the luggage article 100 may include opposing top and bottom panels 114, 116 and opposing left and right side panels 118, 120 extending between the front and rear panels 110, 112. Corner regions 132 may be defined by the intersection of any two or three adjacent panels.

[43] The luggage article 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 is an upright spinner soft side case but may be many types of luggage, including a hard side spinner case, a hybrid spinner case, a container, a backpack, a duffle bag, or the like. For example, the luggage case 102 may be molded from hard side material, or formed from a combination of hard side material and soft side material (known as “hybrid” construction). In some examples, the luggage case 102 may be formed entirely from soft side material. The hard side material may be a thermoplastic material (self-reinforced or fiber-reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, PE, or biaxially oriented polypropylene, among others. The soft side material may be nylon, canvas, polyester, leather, PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene, and/or PE, among others.

[44] The luggage article 100 may be moved between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration, a lid and a base may be positioned adjacent to each other to enclose a user’s belongings within the internal storage volume of the luggage article 100. To allow selective movement of the lid and the base between the open and closed configurations, the lid and the base may be pivotably attached together by a hinge 196 or similar mechanism.

[45] The luggage article 100 may include a closure mechanism 138 to releasably secure the lid and the base together in the closed configuration. The closure mechanism 138 may be a discrete mechanism, such as a latch, or may be a continuous closure mechanism positioned along at least a part of the length of a line between the lid and the base, such as a zipper closure. The closure mechanism may have elements, such one or more zipper pull to allow the closure mechanism to be opened and closed. The closure mechanism 138 may be secured using the locking system 104 to prevent unwanted entry into the luggage case 100. The luggage case 100 may include additional closure mechanisms 115, for example to close pockets formed in the lid of the luggage case 100.

[46] With continued reference to FIG. 1, the luggage article 100 may include one or more support members to support the luggage article 100 against a support surface (e.g., against the ground). The support members, which may be a foot, a fixed wheel assembly, a spinner wheel assembly, or any combination thereof, may be associated with any suitable panel of the luggage case 102, such as in at least one example connected to at least the bottom panel 116. As shown, the luggage article 100 may include four support members 124. In some examples, the luggage article 100 may include one or more carry handles 122,123 and/or a retractable tow handle (not shown) extendable from a rear panel of the luggage article.

[47] FIGs. 2A-2B show an isometric view of the locking system 104 of the present disclosure in a primary locking configuration, wherein the lock body 146 is positioned on and secured to the luggage case and the actuation mechanism 184 is in a primary configuration. In the primary configuration, the actuation mechanism may generally include a locking bar 152, a release member 148, and internal components of the lock body 146. When the lock body 146 is secured to the luggage case, a primary locking mechanism 140 cooperates with the actuation mechanism in the primary configuration. The primary locking mechanism 140 may include and engaged position and a disengaged position.

[48] FIG. 2A shows one example of the primary locking mechanism 140 in an engaged position, in this example to secure zipper pulls 106, 108 of a luggage case. FIG. 2B shows the lock body 146 in a disengaged position. In the primary locking configuration, the lock body 146 is positioned on and releasably secured to the luggage case. In the secondary locking configuration, the lock body 146 is separated from the luggage case. In the primary locking configuration, the lock body 146 is secured to a mounting holder 149, such as in this example a mounting plate 150, attached to the body of the luggage article. As shown in FIGs. 2A-2B, the mounting plate 150 is attached to the surface of the luggage article. Accordingly, when the lock body 146 is secured to the mounting plate, the lock body 146 protrudes from the surface of the luggage article. In other implementations, the mounting holder 149, for example the mounting plate 150, may be attached to the luggage article such that the lock body 146 protrudes to a lesser extent, or is substantially even with, or below, the surface of the luggage article surrounding the lock body 146 when the lock body 146 is mounted to the mounting plate. This configuration is discussed in more detail with respect to examples provided below.

[49] In the primary locking configuration, in the example where the lock body is secured to the luggage case, the actuation mechanism 184 is configured to cooperate with a primary locking mechanism 140. In FIGs. 2A-2B, in this example, the primary locking mechanism 140 may include at least a single locking slot 180 for receiving and retaining an element of one or more closure mechanisms, such as zipper pulls 106, 108. In other implementations, the primary locking mechanism 140 may include another type of zipper pull lock, such as a zipper pull lock with individual slots for each zipper pull 106, 108. In other implementations, the primary locking mechanism 140 may include another type of lock for securing zippers, cables, or may be a lock for a different function on a luggage case, such as a clamp for securing together shell components of a clamshell suitcase, or for securing the closure mechanism for a pocket, removable battery, or other component.

[50] In the example shown of the primary locking mechanism 140 in FIGs. 2A-2B, the single locking slot 180 is sized and designed to receive one or more zipper pulls 106, 108. The zipper pulls 106, 108 mate side-by-side together and are received within the single locking slot 180. A locking bar 152 of the actuation mechanism extends through the apertures formed in the zipper pulls 106, 108, and is maintained in position to retain the zipper pulls 106, 108 within the locking slot 180, and is movable, such as being deflected or retracted from the apertures formed in the zipper pulls 106, 108 when zipper pulls 106, 108 are removed from the slot 180 when the actuation mechanism acts to disengage the primary locking mechanism 140.

[51] As shown in FIG. 2B, when the primary locking mechanism 140 is not retaining the zipper pulls 106, 108, the zipper pulls 106, 108 are freely movable to open and close the luggage case. To lock the luggage case, as shown in FIG. 2A, the zipper pullers 106, 108 are oriented to mate together and align with the slot of the primary locking mechanism 140. In this example, the mounting plate and the lock body 146 may be located at any position on the luggage case where the primary locking mechanism 140 is accessible to the zipper pulls 106, 108.

[52] In the example shown in FIGs. 2A-2B, the primary locking mechanism 140 is actuated by a combination lock 144 and a release member 148, in this example a button, operating in conjunction with the combination lock 144 as part of the actuation mechanism. In other implementations, the actuation mechanism may include, for example, a keyed lock operating in conjunction with the release member 148. In this example, the release member 148 is an actuator in the form of a button 188. Instead of a button, other structures may be used, such as a rocker switch or a sliding mechanism. When the combination lock 144 is at the correct position (e.g. , the dials are turned so that the dials show the correct combination), the release member 148 can be depressed to unfasten the primary locking mechanism 140. When the release member 148 is depressed, the primary locking mechanism 140 releases (is unlocked) to allow the zipper pullers 106, 108 to be removed from the primary locking mechanism 140.

[53] The lock body 146 may also include an overriding lock 142 as part of the actuation mechanism. The overriding lock 142 may allow the locking system 104 to conform to security regulations. For example, in one implementation the overriding lock 142 is a keyed lock to allow the luggage case to be opened by security personnel during inspection, or by a separate key for allowing inspection in other circumstances. The overriding lock 142 also allows the releasing member 148 to operate to release the primary locking mechanism 140 so that the luggage case may be opened.

[54] FIG. 3 shows a bottom portion of the mounting holder 149 from an interior surface 121 the luggage case, and shows the actuator 154 for the attachment mechanism used to selectively secure and release the lock body 146 from the mounting holder 149 and luggage case. This structure is described in more detail below, and particularly with respect to this example mainly in FIGS. 4, 5, and 6A-D.

[55] FIG. 4 shows an enlarged, fragmentary cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2A showing the mounting holder 149 with the attachment mechanism securing the lock body 146 on the mounting holder 149, for this example being the mounting plate 150, when the attachment mechanism is in a first, locked, configuration. FIG. 5 shows the same or similar enlarged, fragmentary cross-sectional view, showing the mounting holder 149 with the attachment mechanism releasing the lock body 146 from the mounting plate 150 when the attachment mechanism is in a second, unlocked, configuration. FIGs. 6A-6D show, in detail, the structure of the attachment mechanism when in the first configuration and retaining the lock body 146 on the mounting plate 150, as well as the structure of the attachment mechanism when in the second configuration and releasing the lock body 146 from the mounting plate 150.

[56] The mounting arrangement of the locking system 104 on the luggage case include mounting holder 149, such as in this example the mounting plate 150, which is affixed to the surface of the luggage case. The mounting plate 150 includes a top portion 156 and a bottom portion 158. The bottom portion 158 of the mounting plate 150 is mounted inside of the luggage case and the top portion 156 of the mounting plate 150 is mounted on the outer surface of the luggage case. The top portion 156 of the mounting plate 150 and the bottom portion 158 of the mounting plate 150 are secured by fasteners 152 to clamp a wall of the luggage case between them and secure the mounting plate 150 in the selected location. The top portion 156 of the mounting plate 150, the bottom portion 158 of the mounting plate 150, and the wall 120 of the luggage case each include apertures to accommodate the fasteners 152. In this example, the mounting plate is positioned in an aperture formed in the wall of the luggage case and defining peripheral edges. The top 156 and bottom 158 portions of the mounting plate 150 clamp portions of the peripheral edge of the luggage case.

[57] As shown in FIG. 4, the top portion 156 of the mounting plate 150 may include a base wall 182 and side walls 166. The base wall 182 may engage the surface 120 of the luggage case 102. The side walls 166 may assist in locating the lock body 146 within the mounting plate 150. The side walls 166 may be of a uniform height, or, as shown in FIG. 3, a non-uniform height, such as including one or more notches to accommodate the interaction of zipper pulls with a primary locking mechanism and/ora notch to accommodate the release member 148.

[58] In some implementations, the top portion 156 of the mounting plate 150 may include structures to improve retention of the lock body 146. For example, in one implementation, the top portion 156 of the mounting plate 150 may include a groove 157 configured to retain a complementary ridge 147 on the lock body 146. In another implementation, the ridge and groove structure may be reversed, or other detent features may be implemented. [59] The lock body 146 is retained on the mounting plate 150 through an attachment mechanism formed in this example on the bottom portion 158 of the mounting plate 150. The attachment mechanism may include one or more projection features 162 that are inserted through at least one corresponding aperture 160 in the lock body 146 to engage the lock body 146 and secure it to the mounting plate 150. While one aperture and one projection feature may be used, in this example two of each are shown. The projection features may be movable, such as rotatable or slidable, as described below.

[60] As shown in FIG. 4, the projection features may each be a post 162 that includes an upper flange 164. In the example shown in FIG. 3, the upper flanges 164 are generally elongated, having a length dimension greater than a width dimension. For instance, the upper flanges 164 may be generally oblong, oval, or rectangular in shape. The two posts 162 are engaged with a sliding mechanism 154 as is described below.

[61] When the lock body is retained in the mounting plate 150, the upper flanges 164 are located inside the lock body, having passed through the respective apertures 160 in the lock body 146. The upper flanges are oriented relative to the aperture 160 such that they cannot pass through the respective aperture 160 to disengage the lock body 146 from the mounting plate 150. For example, the apertures 160 are elongated in shape having a length dimension larger than a width dimension. When the upper flanges 164 are oriented so that the long dimension of the upper flanges are generally aligned with the long dimension of the respective aperture (the first orientation), the upper flanges may be received through the respective apertures. In this example, the length and width dimensions of the upper flanges are slightly less than the corresponding length and width dimensions of the aperture in order to fit through the aperture when the long dimensions are aligned. The length dimension of the flanges are greater than the width dimension of the respective apertures so that the flanges may not pass through the aperture when the flanges are not aligned lengthwise with the apertures. As in FIG. 4, when the flanges 164 are mis-aligned with the respective apertures 160, then lock body 146 is secured by the mounting plate 150 by the attachment mechanism. This is the first engaged configuration of the attachment mechanism, where the attachment mechanism engages at least one of the apertures 160 of the lock body 146 to secure the lock body to the luggage case. As in Fig. 5, when the flanges 164 are aligned with the respective apertures 160, the flanges may pass through the apertures 160, and allow the lock body 146 to be released from attachment mechanism 162 and removed from the luggage case. This is the second, disengaged, configuration of the attachment mechanism.

[62] The actuator member 154 of the attachment mechanism, with reference to FIGs. 3 and 5, is operably connected with each of the projection features, which in this example are the posts 162. The actuator member in this example is a slide tab that moves linearly on the bottom portion of the mounting plate and causes each of the posts to rotate from the first engaged configuration (where the flanges 164 are misaligned with the respective aperture 160) and the second disengaged configuration (where the flanges 164 are aligned with the respective aperture 160). In this example, the actuator member 154 includes opposing arms 155. Each of the opposing arms 155 engages the base of one of the posts 162. As the mechanism 154 is moved from left to right, the opposing arms also move and cause the two posts 162 to rotate approximately 90 degrees, rotating the upper flanges 164 a corresponding 90 degrees. When the upper flanges 164 are rotated, the upper flanges 164 are moved from a first orientation being in alignment lengthwise with the apertures 160 to a second orientation being not in alignment lengthwise with the respective apertures. As noted above, when the flanges 164 are not in alignment with the apertures 160, the lock body 146 is secured to the mounting holder 149 (in this example the mounting plate 150) and luggage case, and when the flanges are moved to a an orientation where they are aligned with the apertures 160, the lock body 146 may be removed from the luggage case.

[63] In other implementations, the apertures 160 may be shaped such that the apertures 160 are wider at a first end and narrower at a second end. Accordingly, the upper flanges 164 are sized such that the upper flanges 164 may be inserted into the wider first end of the apertures 160. The width of the upper flanges 164 is greater than the width of the narrower second end of the apertures 160 and the upper flanges 164 cannot pass through the second end of the apertures 160 to release the lock body 146 from the mounting plate 150. In these implementations, the mechanism 154 engages each of the posts 162 in a manner to translate the posts 162 corresponding with the movement of the mechanism 154. When the actuator member 154, in this example, slides (moves) from left to right (for instance as shown in Fig. 3), the upper flanges 164 move (such as by translation) from the wider first end of the apertures 160 to the narrower second end of the apertures 160 and the lock body 146 is retained in securement with the mounting plate 150. FIG. 3 shows the bottom portion 158 of the mounting plate 150 on an interior surface of a luggage case, as viewed from inside the luggage case. The sliding mechanism 154 is accessible from the interior of the luggage case. In some implementations, the mounting plate 150 may be located on top of any liner in the interior of the luggage case for ease of access. In other implementations, the mounting plate 150 may be located beneath any liner if desired.

[64] FIG. 5 shows the lock body 146 disengaged from the mounting plate 150, with the attachment mechanism in a disengaged configuration. To move the attachment mechanism from a position that retains the lock body 146 as shown in FIGs. 2A-2B to the disengaged configuration of FIG. 5, the actuator member 154 is moved, such as by sliding or moving along a path, to a disengaged position, as discussed in further detail below with respect to FIGs. 6A-6C. As shown in FIG. 3, the actuator member 154 is accessible from inside of the luggage case and is moved from left to right to move from a retaining position to the disengaged position. As the actuator member 154 moves from left to right, the posts 162 rotate until the upper flanges 164 are in an alignment with the apertures 160 that allows the upper flanges 164 to be removed from the apertures 160.

[65] FIGs. 6A-6D provide additional details of the attachment mechanism. FIG. 6A shows the lock body 146 attached to the upper portion 156 of the mounting plate. To retain the lock body 146, the upper flanges 164 of the posts 162 are retained within the respective aperture 160 in the lock body 146. As discussed above, the upper flanges 164 have a generally elongated shape, such that when the upper flanges 164 are oriented to be in the engaged position shown in FIG. 6A, the upper flange 164 does not fit through the aperture 160 and thus the lock body 146 is secured to the luggage case. The posts 162 also include a post base 163 and a post extension 165. A connecting member 155 connects the post base 163 to the sliding mechanism 154.

[66] FIG. 6B shows the upper flange 164 and post 162 rotated to an orientation which creates a disengaged configuration. As described above, when the sliding mechanism 154 is slid (moves) from left to right, the post 162 rotates sufficiently to cause the elongated portion of the upper flange 164 to be in alignment with the shape of the aperture 160 in the lock body 146. When the actuator member 154 moves from left to right, the connecting members 155 cause the base 163 of the post 162 to rotate the entire post 162. For example, the post base 163 shown in FIG. 6A is pushed when the actuator member 154 moves from left to right. The connection point between the connecting member 155 and the post base 163 is located so that the pushing of the connecting member 155 causes rotation of the post base 163, and, with the post base 163, rotation of the post extension 165 and the upper flange 164. For the other post 162 not shown in FIG. 6A, the connecting member 155 pulls on the post base 163, causing rotation in a similar manner.

[67] The rotation of the upper flanges 164 cause the upper flanges 164 to move to a disengaged configuration of the attachment mechanism. Once the upper flange 164 is rotated to the disengaged configuration, the lock body 146 can be removed from the upper portion 156 of the mounting plate, as shown in FIG. 6C. In the disengaged configuration, the upper flanges 164 are rotated so that the elongated portion aligns with the aperture 160 to allow the upper flanges 164 to move through the aperture 160. The actuation member 154 may, in an alternative, move in a different manner in order to cause the posts 162 to rotate. For instance, the actuation member 154 may rotate to cause the posts 162 to correspondingly rotate.

[68] As shown in FIG. 6D, in some implementations, the attachment mechanism may use other structures to secure the lock body 146 to the luggage case. For example, rotating posts 162 can be replaced with translating L-shaped posts 166, which include top flanges 165. In an engaged position of the attachment mechanism, the top flanges 165 extend such that a portion of the top flange 165 is in contact with an peripheral edge forming the aperture 160’, preventing the L-shaped posts 166 from being removed through the apertures 160’. In a disengaged position of the attachment mechanism, the top flanges 165 align with the openings provided by the apertures 160’ to allow the top flanges 165 to be removed through the apertures 160’. The L-shaped posts 166 move linearly, with the actuator member 154’, which in this case is has a linear sliding motion. The actuation member 154’ is connected to the L-shaped posts 166 through connecting members 155’. The connecting members 155’ are connected to the L-shaped posts 166 such that, when the actuation member 154’ is moved linearly, the L-shaped posts 166 also move linearly, moving the top flanges 165 between the engaged and disengaged positions.

[69] When two posts 162 are used as part of the attachment mechanism, the two posts 162 may be placed roughly equidistant from the sides of the mounting plate 150 and the center of the mounting plate 150 to provide a secure connection between the lock body 146 and the mounting plate 150. In other implementations, the bottom portion of the mounting plate 150 may include one post 162 or more than two posts 162. In some implementations, the bottom portion of the mounting plate 150 may include multiple actuation members 154 as part of the attachment mechanism to move the posts 162 between engaged and disengaged positions. [70] FIG. 7 A is an isometric view of the locking system 104 in a secondary locking configuration, where the lock body has been released from the luggage case, and can be used to secure other articles or objects if desired, where the actuation mechanism 184 cooperates with a secondary locking mechanism 176. As with the primary locking mechanism 140 described above, the combination lock 144 and release member 148 are part of the actuation mechanism in its secondary configuration and act with the secondary locking mechanism 176 to secure and release the securement member 170. For example, as shown in FIGs. 7B and 7C, in the secondary locking configuration, the secondary locking mechanism 176 selectively secures a securement member 170 in the form of a flexible member, such as in one example a cable 170. When the lock body 146 is mounted to the luggage case (in the first locking configuration), the securement member 170 is stored on the lock body and may be inoperable. When in the secondary locking configuration and separated from the luggage case, the securement member 170 may be moved into a configuration for use to secure objects or articles.

[71] FIG. 7A shows the cable 170 of this example retained in a groove 174 on the lock body 146. FIG. 7B shows the cable 170 in an extended configuration ready for use. FIG. 7C shows the cable 170 in a locked configuration with the cable 170 being used to secure other objects, such as a purse to a chain link fence.

[72] As shown in FIG. 7A, when the lock body 146 is removed from the mounting plate, the cable 170 is retained in a groove 174 located on the lock body 146. The groove 174 may be retained in the groove by a friction-fit or other retention structure. The cable 170 is positioned in the groove on the lock body 146 to not interfere with the positioning of the lock body 146 in the mounting holder 149. The groove 174 may extend around at least a portion of the periphery of the lock body. The groove 174 may be at least as long as the cable portion, and may be sized to be deep enough so that the cable portion is below flush with the peripheral edge of the lock body. The groove 174 may be of different dimensions to also retain the free end of the cable, which may be shaped differently than the length of the cable portion. In other implementations, a separate retaining mechanism, such as a pivoting retaining member, may retain the cable and/or free end of the cable 170 in the groove 174 of the lock body 146. In other implementations, the cable 170 may be retained by a retaining mechanism other than a groove 174 located on the periphery of the lock body 146.

[73] FIG. 7B shows the cable 170 in an extended configuration ready for use. The free end 168 of the cable 170 may be pivotally attached to the lock body 146 to allow the cable 170 to move as directed by a user. For example, the pivoting end 172 of the cable 170 may be secured to the lock body 146 using a pin fitting. In other implementations, the cable 170 may have a fixed non-pivoting connection.

[74] FIG. 7C shows the free end 168 of the cable 170 inserted into an aperture 186 of the secondary locking mechanism 176, which in this example includes an aperture 186 in the lock body 146. The free end 168, in this example, is first passed through a chain link fence and then through the handle of a carry bag before being received in the aperture 186.

[75] The distal end 168 of the cable 170 is selectively secured in the aperture 186 by use of the actuation mechanism in the secondary configuration, including the combination lock 144 and release member 148. The actuation mechanism may be used to unlock the locking system 104 and remove the free end 168 of the cable 170 from the aperture 186. Though the combination lock 144 is shown in FIG. 7C, other unlocking mechanisms, such as a keyed lock, are contemplated as part of the actuation mechanism in the secondary configuration. When the combination lock 144 is in a correct unlocking configuration, the release member 148 may be used to release the distal end 168 of the cable 170 from the aperture 186. In other implementations, a slider or a rocker switch may be used in place of the release member 148.

[76] Once locked, the distal end 168 of the cable 170 may also be removed from the aperture 186 using an overriding or secondary locking mechanism 142, such as a standardized keyed (TSA) lock, which in this example may be included as part of the actuation mechanism. Accordingly, security personnel may be able to unlock the locking system 104 to inspect the contents of luggage.

[77] FIG. 8 shows the secondary locking configuration used to lock other objects together, such as locking a bag 178 to an external structure, such as a chain link fence. The free end 168 of the cable 170 may be placed through the handle of the bag 178 and through the chain link fence. With the combination lock 144 set at the correct configuration (unlocked), the free end of the cable 170 is then inserted into the aperture 186 of the secondary locking mechanism 176. The cable 170 may then be removed from the aperture 186 as discussed above with respect to FIGs. 7A-C, where the combination lock 144 is set to the proper configuration, and the release member 148 is then actuated to allow the free end 168 to be removed from the aperture 186. The locking system may be used in the secondary locking configuration in a variety of other situations. For example, the locking system may be used to lock a locker or door designed to receive a combination lock or to lock conventional zipper pulls together on any type of bag or luggage case.

[78] FIG. 9A shows the lock body 146 mounted on a mounting plate 250 attached to the exterior surface of the luggage case, and received in a recess 284 formed in the exterior of the luggage case. The recess 284 includes a base wall and side walls forming a periphery of the recess 284. As shown, when a lock body 146 is mounted to the mounting plate 250, a top surface of the lock body 146 is roughly flush with the exterior surface of the luggage case so that in one example does not extend above the exterior surface surrounding the recess in order to not be caught on objects as the lock body moves relatively (like over a floor, on a belt, or past other luggage cases). In this implementation, the surface of the luggage case includes a recess configured to accommodate a lock body 146 of the mounting mechanism. In soft sided luggage cases, the indentation may be formed by removing part of the surface of the luggage case to form an aperture having peripheral edges, and placing a mounting plate that itself forms a recess and is secured around its periphery to the edges of the aperture. In hard sided luggage cases, the recess may be formed during the molding process. For example, the indentation may be built into a mold for the luggage case. As shown in FIG 9A, the recess 284 in a hard sided or soft sided luggage case may be longer than the lock body 146 so that the release member 148 of the lock body 146 is accessible by a user to release a primary locking mechanism 140 of the lock body 146.

[79] FIG. 9B shows the mounting plate 250 as viewed from the inside a luggage case 120. In the implementation shown in FIG. 9B, the recess 284 is formed in a hard sided luggage case. As shown, an actuation member 254 may be accessible from the inside of the luggage case to disengage the lock body 146 from the mounting plate 250. The actuation member 254 is similar to the actuation member 154 described with respect to FIGs. 6A-6D and is described in more detail below.

[80] FIG. 9C shows additional detail of the mounting configuration described in FIG. 9A. As shown, the lock body 146 rests within the recess 284 in the surface of the luggage case 120. As in previous examples, the mounting plate 250 includes a bottom portion 258 and a top portion 256 on either side of the surface of the luggage case 120. The bottom portion 258 of the mounting plate 250, the surface of the luggage case 120, and the top portion 256 of the mounting plate 250 may be connected using fasteners 252. The top portion 256 of the mounting plate 250 includes side walls 256 to retain the lock body 146 on the mounting plate 250. Additionally, the mounting plate 250 may include an actuating member and one or more attachment mechanisms similar to those discussed above with respect to FIG. 3. For example, the mounting plate 250 shown in FIG. 9C includes posts 262 formed by a post base 263 connected to an upper flange 264 by an extension 265. The post base 263 is connected to the actuating member 254 by connecting members 255. When the actuating member 254 moves laterally, the connecting members 255 may cause the post base 263 to rotate, rotating the upper flange 264 to a disengaged configuration, as discussed with respect to FIGs. 6A-6C. Alternatively, the mounting plate 250 may include other attachment mechanisms, such as the L-shaped posts 166 described above with respect to FIG. 6D. The L-shaped posts 166 are also attached to the actuating member 154 by connecting members 155 and move laterally with the actuating member 154 to move the L-shaped posts 166 between an engaged position and a disengaged position.

[81] In some implementations, the mounting holder 149 may be formed by the recess itself, and not require a mounting plate. For example, a hard sided luggage case may be formed such that the outer surface of the luggage case includes a recess for receiving a lock body 146. In this example, the lock body 146 may be attached to the luggage case via an attachment arrangement extending into the recess. For example, the attachment arrangement may include one or more attachment mechanisms exposed through apertures in the recess of the surface of the luggage case, where the one or more attachment mechanisms, such as posts with flanged tops as described above, may releasably engage with the apertures in the lock body 146 as discussed above. The attachment mechanisms may be removed from the inside of the luggage case to allow the lock body 146 to separate from the luggage case and be used in the secondary locking configuration.

[82] In some implementations of the locking system, the locking system includes a mounting holder 350 defined by a housing 347 defining an interior cavity 372. In the example shown in FIGS. 10A and B, the mounting holder 350 includes an upper enclosure 347 having an interior cavity 372 in which is positioned a removable lock 346. As shown in FIG. 10A, the upper enclosure 347 fits into a recess housing 356. The recess housing 356 is generally rectangular in shape and is sized such that the upper enclosure 347 fits comfortably within the recess housing 356. The lower surface of the recess housing 356 also includes apertures for receiving fasteners 352 and a rectangular opening. The recess housing 356, as shown here, is received in a recess 321 formed in the outer surface of the luggage case 120. The recess housing 356 may sit generally flush, slightly below flush, or slightly above flush with the surrounding field of the sidewall of the luggage case 120. In a soft side case, the recess housing 356 may be positioned in an aperture formed in the outer surface of the luggage case. The upper enclosure 347 sits within the recess housing 356. It may be generally flush with, slightly below flush or slightly above flush, with the upper extent of the recess housing 356 and the surrounding field of the sidewall of the luggage case.

[83] The upper enclosure 347 is generally rectangular in shape. The bottom surface of the upper enclosure 347 includes apertures for receiving fasteners 352 and an access door 364. The access door 364 can be opened and closed, and rotates about a hinge 366 located at an edge of the access door 364.

[84] The upper enclosure 347 fits within the recess housing 356. Apertures in the bottom surface of the upper enclosure 347 align with apertures in the bottom surface of the recess 356 to receive fasteners 352. As shown in FIG. 10B, the fasteners 352 extend through a surface 320 of a luggage case, the recess housing 356, and the upper enclosure 347 to secure the mounting enclosure to the luggage case. Further, when the upper enclosure 347 is fit within the recess housing 356, the access door 364 aligns with the rectangular opening 363 in the bottom surface of the recess housing 356 such that the access door 364 is functional when the upper enclosure 347 and the recess housing 356 are mounted to the luggage case 120.

[85] When the access door 364 is in an open position, an interior cavity 372 in the upper enclosure 347 is accessible. The interior cavity 372 is bounded by the access door 364, side walls 373, and an upper surface 357 of the upper enclosure 347. The upper surface 357 of the upper enclosure 347 includes an upper opening 374. The upper opening 374 covers a portion of the upper surface 357 of the upper enclosure 347 extending between the side walls 373 of the interior cavity 372.

[86] The upper enclosure 347 may also include components of an actuation mechanism 398 in a primary configuration cooperating with a primary locking mechanism 340 for the locking system 300. The primary locking mechanism 340 may include a pair of slots 388 in the surface of the upper enclosure 347. As shown in FIG. 10A, the actuation mechanism may include a combination lock 344, a release member 341, and tines 384 and 386 that extend across the slots 388 to secure the zipper pulls of a luggage case similarly or the same as described above with respect to FIGs. 2A and 2B. The actuation mechanism may also include inner components of the lock, such as components connecting the release member 341 with the tines 384 and 386. With the combination lock 344 set in the unlocked configuration, portions of a zipper pull may be positioned into a corresponding slot 388 and secured therein by the corresponding tine 384 or 386. The release member 341 may be actuated to allow the zipper pull(s) to be removed from the slots 388 when the combination lock is set to the unlocked configuration. When the combination lock 344 is not set to the unlocked configuration, the release member 341 may not be moved, and the zipper pulls are thus secured in the slot(s) 388 by the respective tine 384 or 386. The actuation mechanism may include an overriding lock 342 also located in the upper enclosure 347. The overriding lock 342 may be, for example a keyed lock so that security personnel can control the primary locking mechanism 340.

[87] As shown in FIG. 10B, the locking system 300 is mounted to the surface of a luggage case 320 using fasteners 352. The fasteners 352 extend through the surface of the luggage case 320, the recess housing 356, and the upper enclosure 347. The removable lock 346 is located within the interior cavity 372 of the upper enclosure 347 and the access door 364 is in a closed position to hold the removable lock 346 in the upper enclosure 347. The access door 364 opens into the interior of the luggage case 320.

[88] When the removable lock 346 is engaged in the interior cavity 372, the dials of the combination lock 344 can be used to control the tines 384 and 386 of the. FIG. 10C shows the mechanical connection between the removable lock 346 and the tines 384 and 386. When the removable lock 346 is placed within the interior cavity 372, an outer surface 381 of the spring loaded button 380 is in contact with a transfer link 382.

[89] The transfer link 382 is in contact with the tines 384 and 386. In some implementations, such as the implementation shown in FIG. 10C, the tines 384 and 386 are nested such that each of the tines 384 and 386 are physically connected to the transfer link 382. In other implementations, the tine 386 may be physically connected to the tine 384, while the tine 384 is physically connected to the transfer link 382. In yet another implementation, the tines 384 and 386 may be formed from a single structure. As a consequence of the connection between the transfer link 382 and the tines 384 and 386, when the removable lock 346 is in a locked configuration and the spring loaded button 380 is in its outermost position (such as shown in Fig. 10C) and blocked from moving inwardly into the removable lock 346, the transfer link 382 blocks the tines 384 and 386 from moving laterally across the slots 388 to disengage from and release the respective pull tab in each slot 388. In contrast, when the dials of the combination lock 344 are in the correct combination, the spring loaded button 380 is able to move into the removable lock 346, the and thus the transfer link 382 is allowed to move laterally and allow the tines 384 and 386 to move laterally within their respective slots 388 to release zipper pulls retained by the tines 384 and 386.

[90] In some implementations, such as the locking system 300 shown in FIG. 10B, the release member 341 may be operatively connected to the tines 384 and 386, causing the tines 384 and 386 to move laterally. In these implementations, a lower portion of the overriding securement structure 342 fits within a center portion of the transfer link 382. When the spring loaded button 380 is in the second unlocked position, sliding the release member 341 towards the spring loaded button 380 moves the transfer link 382 laterally, moving the tines 384 and 386 laterally, retracting the tines 384 and 386 from the slots 388 in the upper enclosure 347.

[91] FIG. 10D shows a section view of the removable lock body 346 within the upper enclosure 347. As described above, the spring loaded button 380 has a first locked position where the transfer link 382 and the tines 384 and 386 are prevented from moving laterally towards the removable lock 346, holding the tines 384 and 386 in place across the slots 388. The spring loaded button 380 is shown in FIG. 10D in the first locked position. The spring loaded button 380 extends inwardly into the removable lock 346. The inner portion of the spring loaded button 380 includes blocking rings 390. The blocking rings 390 fit around the substantially cylindrical inner portion of the spring loaded button 380. The blocking rings 390 are shaped to engage with tumbler rings 392 on the underside of the dials 344 of the actuation mechanism. The tumbler rings 392 extend around the underside of the dials 344 but are not positioned on the underside of the portions of the dials 344 depicting the numbers that represent the combination for unlocking the combination lock 344.

[92] As shown in FIG. 10D, when the dials 344 are not turned to the unlocking combination, the tumbler rings 392 engage with the blocking rings 390 to prevent the spring loaded button 380 from moving inwardly to disengage the tines 384 and 386. When the dials 344 are turned to the unlocking combination, the blocking rings 390 are not obstructed by the tumbler rings 392 and the spring loaded button 380 can move to the second unlocked position. In turn, the transfer link 382 and the tines 384 and 386 can move laterally. Additionally, when the spring loaded button 380 is moved to the second unlocked position, a notch 394 on the inner portion of the spring loaded button 380 is disengaged from the distal end 386 of the securement structure 370 because of the movement of the spring loaded button 380. Accordingly, the shape of the spring loaded button 380 allows the combination lock 344 to engage with both the primary locking mechanism 340 and the secondary locking mechanism 397.

[93] As shown in FIG. 11B, the removable lock body 346 fits within the interior cavity 372 of the upper enclosure 358. When the removable lock 346 is placed within the interior cavity 372, the dials of the actuation mechanism are accessible via the upper opening 374 in the upper enclosure 347, as shown in FIG. 10A. In some implementations, side walls of the interior cavity 372 may be shaped such that the removable lock 346 is keyed to fit within the interior cavity 372 in only one orientation. Accordingly, the removable lock 346 may be easily replaced in the interior cavity 372 and less likely to be placed in the interior cavity 372 in the wrong orientation.

[94] In some implementations, when the removable lock 346 is placed within the interior cavity 372 of the upper enclosure 347, the cable 370 is deformed to fit within the interior cavity 372. Accordingly, when the access door 364 is closed, the cable 370 of the removable lock 346 is contained within the upper enclosure 347, as shown in FIG. 11 A. In other implementations, an opening 365 in the access door 364 may allow the cable 370 to protrude outside of the upper enclosure 347, as shown in FIGs. 10B - 10D.

[95] The removable lock 346 may be removed from the upper enclosure 347 and used in the secondary locking configuration, with the actuation mechanism in a secondary configuration, in one example, including the combination lock 344, the spring loaded button 380, and the securement member 370. Components of the actuation mechanism may cooperate with an aperture 386 of the secondary locking mechanism. Referring to FIGs. 11A - 11C, a latch 368 on the access door 364 of the upper enclosure 347 may be moved to allow the door 364 to open and swing about the hinge 366. Once the access door 364 is open, the removable lock 346 may be removed from the upper enclosure 347 and the luggage case 320, used independently of the upper enclosure 347.

[96] The removable lock body 346 broadly includes a securement member 370 in the form of a flexible member, such as in one example a cable 370. The secondary locking mechanism 397 secures the free end of the securement member 370 in aperture 386 as shown in FIG. 12. The removable lock body 346 includes a combination lock 344, shown as dials in FIG. 12. A spring loaded button 380 is also included on the removable lock body 346. When the dials of the combination lock 344 are turned to the correct combination, a spring loaded member 393 in the removable lock body 346 is free to move laterally. When the spring loaded member 393 is free to move laterally, the spring loaded button 380 may be moved from a first locked position to a second unlocked position (i.e. , by pushing the spring loaded button 380) to release a latch that secures a distal end 386 of the cable 370 in the aperture 382, freeing the distal end 386 of the cable 370.

[97] As shown in FIG. 13, the locking system 400 includes a mounting holder 450 having a housing 447 defining an interior cavity 472 for receiving a lock body including a removable lock 445 located within an upper enclosure 447. The recess housing 456 is substantially similar to the recess housing 356, but is instead shaped to hold the upper enclosure 447. Accordingly, the recess housing 456 has a larger width than the recess housing 356.

[98] The upper enclosure 447 has a structure similar to the upper enclosure 347. As shown in FIGs. 14A, 14B, and 14C, the upper enclosure 447 is generally rectangular in shape. A bottom surface of the upper enclosure 447 includes apertures for receiving fasteners. The bottom surface of the upper enclosure 447 also includes an access door 464. The access door 464 can be opened using a release mechanism 468 located near a first edge of the access door 464. In this example, the release mechanism 468 includes two sliding mechanisms that move oppositely of one another. When the sliding mechanisms are moved inwardly towards one another, protrusions 476 controlled by a respective sliding mechanisms move from a position where the protrusions 476 are engaged with recesses 478 in the side wall 473 of the upper enclosure 447. When the protrusions 476 are disengaged from the recesses 478, the access door 464 can be opened by rotating the access door 464 about a hinge 466 located at a second edge of the access door 464.

[99] An interior cavity 472 of the upper enclosure 447 is accessible when the access door 464 is opened. The interior cavity 472 is bounded by the access door 464, side walls 473, and an upper surface 457 of the upper enclosure 447. An upper opening 474 in the upper surface of the upper enclosure 447 is located above the interior cavity 472. The upper opening 474 covers a portion of the upper surface 457 of the upper enclosure 447 extending between the side walls 473 of the interior cavity 472.

[100] The upper enclosure 447 also includes a primary locking mechanism 440 for the locking system 400. As shown in FIG. 13, the primary locking mechanism 440 may include a pair of slots that secure the zipper pulls of a luggage case. An actuation mechanism in a primary configuration may include an overriding lock 442 also located in the upper enclosure 458 for travel security purposes as described above.

[101] Referring to FIGs. 14B - 14D, when the release mechanism 468 is actuated to allow the access door 464 to open, the lock body 445 may be removed from the interior cavity 472 of the upper enclosure 447, and is in the secondary locking configuration. The lock body 445 utilizes the secondary locking mechanism 497 including in one example, the aperture 486 and the actuation mechanism in a secondary configuration including in one example a combination lock 444, a securement member 470, and a spring loaded button 480. Like the lock body 346, the removable lock 445 broadly includes a securement member 470 in the form of a flexible member, such as in one example a cable 470. The secondary locking mechanism 497 secures the free end of the securement member 470 in aperture 486 as shown in FIG. 14D and 14E. The lock body 445 includes the combination lock 444, shown as dials in FIG. 14D. A spring loaded button 480 is also included on the removable lock 445. When the dials of the combination lock 444 are turned to the correct combination, a spring loaded button 480 in the removable lock 445 is free to move laterally, allowing the spring loaded button 480 to move from a protruded position to an indented position (i.e., by pushing the spring loaded button 480). When the spring loaded button 480 is in the indented position, a latch that secures a distal end of the cable 470 in an aperture 486 in the lock body 445 is released, freeing the distal end of the cable 470.

[102] The locking system 400 is shown in FIG. 14A. As shown, the upper enclosure 447 fits within the recess housing 450. The fasteners 452 extend through the luggage case surface 420, the recess housing 450, and the upper enclosure 447. The removable lock body 445 is located within the interior cavity 472 of the upper enclosure 447 and the access door 464 is in a closed position to hold the removable lock 445 in the interior cavity 472.

[103] The combination lock 444 is included in the actuation mechanism in both the primary configuration and the secondary configuration in a manner similar to the combination lock 344 as described above. The combination lock 444 interacts with interior structures on the spring loaded button 480 to allow the button 480 to move from a protruded position to an indented position. When the button 480 (generically, the release member) is free to move laterally, the transfer link may also slide to move laterally. The combination lock 444 interacts with a transfer link that is physically connected to tines of the primary locking mechanism 440. Accordingly, the motion of the button 480 causes the transfer link and the tines also move laterally, which unlocks the primary locking mechanism. In contrast, when the combination lock 444 is in a locked position, the spring loaded button 480 is prevented from moving laterally, which, in turn, blocks the release member (spring loaded button 480) and transfer link from sliding, keeping the tines of the primary locking mechanism 440 from moving laterally to not release the zipper pulls positioned in the primary locking mechanism 440.

[104] The disclosure above includes accessing the attachment mechanism that releasably secures the mounting holder from the interior of the luggage case in order to release the lock body from its engagement with the luggage case. This configuration helps keep the lock body from being removed accidentally or when the luggage case is locked in a closed configuration. It is contemplated generally that the attachment mechanism that releasably secures the mounting holder may be positioned for access from outside the luggage case, in which case the lock body may be separated from the luggage case without accessing the interior of the luggage case.

[105] All relative and directional references (including: upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, side, above, below, front, middle, back, vertical, horizontal, and so forth) are given by way of example to aid the reader’s understanding of the particular examples described herein. They should not be read to be requirements or limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use unless specifically set forth in the claims. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, joined, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a connection of elements and relative movement between elements. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other, unless specifically set forth in the claims.

[106] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the presently disclosed examples teach by way of example and not by limitation. Therefore, the matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The following claims are intended to cover all generic and specific features described herein, as well as all statements of the scope of the present method and system, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall there between.

Claims

1. A luggage case (102) comprising: at least one closure mechanism (138); a removably mounted lock body (146) having an actuation mechanism (141) with a first locked configuration and a second unlocked configuration; a mounting arrangement removably mounting the lock body (146) to the luggage case (102); wherein: the actuation mechanism (141) selectively secures the at least one closure mechanism (138) when the lock body (146) is mounted to the luggage case (102); and the actuation mechanism (141) may selectively secure other objects (178) when the lock body (146) is separated from the luggage case (102).

2. The luggage case of claim 1, wherein the mounting arrangement comprises: a mounting holder (149) configured to retain the lock body (146); and the lock body (146) is separable from the mounting holder (149) from the interior of the luggage case (102).

3. The luggage case of claim 2, wherein the mounting holder (149) includes a recess (284 ) formed in an outer surface of the luggage case (102).

4. The luggage case of claim 2, wherein the mounting holder (149) includes a mounting plate (150) or a housing (347) defining an interior cavity (372).

5. The luggage case of claim 4, wherein the mounting holder (349) is a housing (347) defining an interior cavity (372) and the lock body (346) is removable from the interior cavity (372) through an access door (364) formed in the housing.

6. The luggage case of claim 2, wherein a release member (341) interacts with a primary locking mechanism (140) to secure the at least one closure mechanism (138) when the actuation mechanism (141) is in the first locked configuration and the lock body is mounted to the luggage case.

7. The luggage case of claims 5 or 6, wherein the interior cavity (372) is shaped such that the release member (341) is aligned to interact with the primary locking mechanism (140) when the lock body (346) is retained in the interior cavity.

8. The luggage case of claim 1 , further comprising: a securement member (370) selectively retained by the actuation mechanism (141) when the lock body (346) is separated from the luggage case (102).

9. The luggage case of claim 8, wherein the lock body (346) includes a release member that interacts with a secondary locking mechanism to secure the securement member (370) when the actuation mechanism (141) is in the second locked configuration and the lock body (346) is separated from the luggage case (102).

10. The luggage case of claim 9, wherein the securement member (370) is an elongated flexible member.

11. The luggage case of any of claims 2 through 10, wherein at least one attachment mechanism secures the lock body to the mounting holder.

12. The luggage case of claim 11 , wherein: the lock body (346) further includes at least one aperture (160); and the at least one attachment mechanism engages with the at least one aperture (160) of the lock body (146,346) to secure the lock body (146, 346) to the luggage case (102).

13. The luggage case of claim 11 , wherein the securement member (370) is retained along the lock body (146, 346) when the lock body is attached to the mounting holder.

14. The luggage case of claim 12, wherein the attachment mechanism includes a sliding mechanism (154, 154’, 254), accessible from an interior (121) of the luggage case to disengage from the at least one aperture (160) of the lock body (146, 346) and release the lock body from the mounting holder.

15. The luggage case of claim 3, wherein the mounting arrangement is located at least partially in the recess (284).

16. The luggage case of claim 1, wherein the mounting arrangement (356) includes a release member (341) that selectively secures the at least one closure mechanism (138) when the lock body (346) is mounted to the luggage case (102).

17. The luggage case of claims 1 or 16, wherein the lock body (346) includes a second release member (380) that may selectively secure other objects when the lock body (346) is separated from the luggage case.

18. The luggage case of claim 17, wherein the actuation mechanism includes a combination lock (344) that cooperates with the release member (341) when the lock body (346) is mounted to the luggage case (102) and cooperates with the second release member (380) when the lock body (346) is separated from the luggage case.

19. The luggage case of claim 16 or 18, wherein the mounting arrangement includes a keyed lock that cooperates with the release member (341) to secure the at least one closure mechanism (138) when the lock body (346) is mounted to the luggage case.

20. The luggage case of claim 18, wherein the combination lock (344) is formed as part of the lock body (346).

21. The luggage case of claim 20, wherein the mounting arrangement comprises a housing (347) defining an interior cavity (372) for receiving the lock body.

22. The luggage case of claim 4 or 21 wherein the interior cavity (372) comprises an aperture such that a portion of the lock body (346) is accessible through the aperture when the lock body (346) is contained in the interior cavity (372).

23. The luggage case of claim 22 wherein the aperture is sized such that the lock body (346) is secured within the housing (347) from the exterior of the luggage case (102).