U.S. patent application number 11/494332 was filed with the patent office on 2007-07-12 for expandable luggage with locking expansion mechanism.
Invention is credited to Jason V. Drew, Karl Konrad, Richard J. Krulik, Georgene Rada, Richard J. Rekuc, Steven J. Rekuc.
Application Number | 20070158157 11/494332 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38666874 |
Filed Date | 2007-07-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070158157 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Krulik; Richard J. ; et
al. |
July 12, 2007 |
Expandable luggage with locking expansion mechanism
Abstract
An item of expandable luggage having a main body and an
expandable member. A locking expansion means connects the main body
to the expandable member, and includes at least one fixed plate and
corresponding slidable plate slidably coupled together. Each fixed
plate is fixedly mounted to the main body and includes a plurality
of locking apertures. Each slidable plate is fixedly mounted to the
expandable member and includes an expansion control mechanism for
controlling displacement of the slidable plate with respect to its
corresponding fixed plate. Each expansion control mechanism
includes an actuator for engaging a first end of a rotatable crank.
A locking element includes opposing first and second ends. The
second end of the locking element engages the second end of the
crank. The first end of the locking element slidably engages with
one of the apertures of the first fixed plate in response to the
actuator engaging the corresponding crank.
Inventors: |
Krulik; Richard J.; (Dix
Hills, NY) ; Rada; Georgene; (East Northport, NY)
; Drew; Jason V.; (Port Jefferson, NY) ; Rekuc;
Richard J.; (Asbury, NJ) ; Konrad; Karl;
(Allentown, PA) ; Rekuc; Steven J.; (Bloomsbury,
NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
ABELMAN, FRAYNE & SCHWAB
666 THIRD AVENUE, 10TH FLOOR
NEW YORK
NY
10017
US
|
Family ID: |
38666874 |
Appl. No.: |
11/494332 |
Filed: |
July 26, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10456171 |
Jun 5, 2003 |
7093700 |
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11494332 |
Jul 26, 2006 |
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10092764 |
Mar 6, 2002 |
6575272 |
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10456171 |
Jun 5, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
190/103 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 7/0022 20130101;
A45C 7/0031 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
190/103 |
International
Class: |
A45C 7/00 20060101
A45C007/00 |
Claims
1. An item of luggage (10) having an adjustable interior volume
comprising: a main body (14) having a bottom floor (12), a
plurality of opposing sidewalls (18a, b,c,d,), a first frame (26)
and a second frame (28); an expandable member (50) having an
adjustable height comprising a plurality of opposing sidewalls, an
expandable member support frame (52) and a zipperless expandable
gusset (54), wherein the gusset is located between and expandably
connected to the main body (14) and the expandable support frame
(52); an access panel (24) joined to the expandable member (50);
and locking expansion means (100) connecting the main body (14) to
the expandable member (50) comprising at least one first fixed
plate (40) and at least one second slidable expansion plate (60)
slidably coupled together, wherein each first fixed plate (40) is
fixedly mounted to the main body (14), and each second slidable
expansion plate (60) is fixedly mounted to the expandable member
support frame (52) and includes an expansion control mechanism
(120) for controlling displacement of said second slidable
expansion plate (60) with respect to its corresponding first fixed
plate (40), each said expansion control mechanism (120) comprising:
a rotatable cam member (62) mounted to said second slidable
expansion plate (60) proximate the expandable member support frame
(52); an elongated link member (66) having first and second
opposing ends, said first end being rotatably coupled to said cam
member (62); an elongated bar member (70) having opposing first and
second ends and at least one sidewall therebetween, said first end
of the bar member being slidably coupled to said first fixed plate
(40) in a first bar position, and the second end of the bar member
being pivotly coupled to said second slidable expansion plate (60)
and the second end of the link member; wherein rotation of said cam
member (62) slidably moves said second slidable expansion plate
(60) from a first position to a second position relative to said
first fixed plate (40).
2. The item of luggage according to claim 1, wherein said at least
one first fixed plate (40) comprises a pair of first fixed plates
(40) mounted on opposing sidewalls of the main body (14), and said
at least one second slidable expansion plates (60) comprises a pair
of second slidable expansion plates (60) mounted on opposing
sidewalls of the expanding member (50), wherein each second
slidable expansion plate (60) is slidably affixed to a
corresponding one of said first fixed plates (40).
3. The item of luggage according to claim 1, wherein said bar
member (70) moves to a second bar position to lock said second
slidable expansion plate (60) into said second position relative to
said first fixed plate (40).
4. The item of luggage according to claim 3, wherein the first bar
position is substantially orthogonal with respect to the second bar
position.
5. The item of luggage according to claim 1, further comprising
gripping means (72) located on the second slidable expansion plate
(60) to facilitate the movement of said at least one second
slidable expansion plate (60) between said first and second
positions.
6. The item of luggage according to claim 1, wherein the first end
of the link member (66) is coupled to the cam member (62) by a link
pin (65).
7. The item of luggage according to claim 1, wherein the second end
of the link member (66) is coupled to the second end of the bar
member (70) by a link pivot pin (86).
8. The item of luggage according to claim 1, wherein the first end
of the bar member (70) includes a flattened bottom portion
(74).
9. The item of luggage according to claim 1, wherein the second end
of each bar member (70) comprises an outward projecting bar member
pin (35) formed along the sidewall.
10. The item of luggage according to claim 9, wherein each first
fixed plate (40) comprises an elongated groove (32) formed along an
interior surface of said first fixed plate proximate said first bar
position, said groove being sized to receive said bar member pin
(35), wherein said groove (32) guides said bar member pin (35) as
said bar member moves between said first and second bar
positions.
11. The item of luggage according to claim 10, wherein the groove
(32) includes opposing curved ends (34).
12. The item of luggage according to claim 1, wherein said
expansion control mechanism (120) further comprises a cam control
knob (64) coupled to the rotatable cam member (62) and adapted to
rotate said cam member (62).
13. The item of luggage according to claim 12, wherein the cam
control knob (64) comprises a hinged handle (61) to manually turn
said cam control knob (64).
14. The item of luggage according to claim 12, wherein the cam
control knob (64) is elongated having opposing first and second
ends, wherein said first end of said cam control knob is coupled
along a central axis of the cam member (62), and the second end of
the cam control knob comprises a handle 61 for manually turning
said cam control knob (64).
15. The item of luggage according to claim 14, wherein the cam
control knob handle (61) is hinged to the second end of said cam
control knob (64).
16. The item of luggage according to claim 14, wherein the cam
control knob handle (61) projects outwardly from the second end in
a direction normal is hinged to the plane of the cam control knob
(64).
17. The item of luggage according to claim 1, wherein the cam
member (62) is rotatable approximately 180 degrees.
18. The item of luggage according to claim 1, wherein the expansion
control mechanism (120) further comprises a pair of opposing cam
blocks (71) spaced apart about the circumference of said cam member
(62), said cam member (62) including a tab (77) projecting outward
and extending a distance sufficient to contact said cam blocks (71)
and prohibit further rotation of said cam member (62).
19. The item of luggage according to claim 1, wherein said opposing
cam blocks (71) are spaced approximately 180 degrees apart.
20. The item of luggage according to claim 1, wherein said
expansion control mechanism (120) further comprises an actuator
(88) coupled to the cam member (62).
21. The item of luggage according to claim 20, wherein said
actuator includes a cam control knob (64) adapted for manually
rotating said cam member (62).
22. The item of luggage according to claim 20, wherein said cam
control knob (64) includes a hinged handle (61).
23. The item of luggage according to claim 20, wherein said cam
control knob (64) includes a first end and a second opposing end,
said first end being coupled to said cam member (62) and said
second end including an outwardly extending handle adapted for
manually rotating said cam member (62).
24. An item of luggage (10) having an adjustable interior volume
comprising: a main body (14) having a bottom floor (12), a
plurality of opposing sidewalls (18a,b,c,d,), a first frame (26)
and a second frame (28); an expandable member (50) having an
adjustable height comprising a plurality of opposing sidewalls, an
expandable member support frame (52) and a zipperless expandable
gusset (54), wherein the gusset is located between and expandably
connected to the main body (14) and the expandable support frame
(52); an access panel (24) joined to the expandable member (50);
and locking expansion means (100) connecting the main body (14) to
the expandable member (50) comprising at least one first fixed
plate (40) and at least one second slidable expansion plate (60)
slidably coupled together, wherein each first fixed plate (40) is
fixedly mounted to the main body (14) and includes a plurality of
locking apertures (45), each second plate (60) being fixedly
mounted to the expandable member support frame (52) and including
an expansion control mechanism (120) for controlling displacement
of said second slidable expansion plate (60) with respect to its
corresponding first fixed plate (40), each expansion control
mechanism (120) comprising: an actuator (88) mounted to said second
slidable expansion plate (60) proximate the expandable member
support frame (52) and for controlling expansion and retraction of
said second slidable expansion plate (60) and gusset (54); at least
one crank (130) having a first end (136) and an opposing second end
(134), said crank positioned in a first direction along said second
slidable expansion plate (60), wherein said first end (136) is
positioned proximate said actuator (88), and said at least one
crank is rotatable upon engagement with said actuator (88); and at
least one locking element (110) respectively associated with the at
least one crank (130), each locking element (110) having a first
end (114) and an opposing second end (116) and positioned in a
second direction along said second slidable expansion plate (60),
wherein each said second end (116) of the locking element engages
the second end (134) of a corresponding crank (130), and wherein
engagement between said first end (114) of said at least one
locking element (110) with one of said apertures (45) of said first
fixed plate (40) is controlled by said actuator (88) with the
corresponding crank (130).
25. The item of luggage according to claim 24, wherein said at
least one locking element (110) further comprises: a boss (119)
extending longitudinally outwards from the first end (114) of the
locking element (110); and an aperture (117) formed through the
second end (116) of the locking element (110) and sized to receive
the second end (134) of the rotatable crank (130).
26. The item of luggage according to claim 25, wherein said
engagement between said first end (114) of said at least one
locking element (110) with one of said apertures (45) of said first
fixed plate (40) comprises insertion of the boss (119) through said
aperture (45) to retain said second slidable expansion plate (60)
in a locked position with respect to said first fixed plate
(40).
27. The item of luggage according to claim 26, wherein said
actuator (88) is manually engaged with the first end (136) of the
at least one crank (130).
28. The item of luggage according to claim 25, wherein
disengagement between said first end (114) of said at least one
locking element (110) with one of said apertures (45) of said first
fixed plate (40) comprises removal of the boss (119) from said
aperture (45) of said first fixed plate (40).
29. The item of luggage according to claim 28, wherein said
actuator (88) disengages the first end (136) of the at least one
crank (130), and in response, the second end (134) of the crank
(130) rotates in a direction to slidably disengage said boss (119)
from said aperture (45).
30. The item of luggage according to claim 25, wherein said at
least one locking element (110) further comprises a channel (118)
extending longitudinally between said first and second ends, said
channel (118) being sized to receive a biasing spring (112).
31. The item of luggage according to claim 30, wherein said biasing
spring (112) is compressed upon rotation of said crank (130) and
expanded upon release of said actuator (88).
32. The item of luggage according to claim 25, wherein the second
direction of said locking element (110) is substantially orthogonal
with respect to the first direction of said at least one crank
(130).
33. The item of luggage according to claim 25, wherein said at
least one crank includes a pair of cranks, and said at least one
locking element includes a pair of locking elements.
34. The item of luggage according to claim 24, wherein said
actuator (88) comprises a push-button for engaging said at least on
crank (130).
35. The item of luggage according to claim 24, wherein said
actuator (88) pivots around a pivot point (89), such that a lower
interior portion (90) of the actuator engages said first end (136)
of the at least one crank (130) to cause said at least one crank to
rotate and engage a corresponding locking element (110).
36. The item of luggage according to claim 24, wherein said
actuator comprises a latch handle (87) for engaging said at least
on crank (130).
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a Continuation-in-Part of U.S.
application Ser. No. 10/456,171, filed Jun. 5, 2003, which is a
Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/092,764, filed Mar. 6,
2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,575,272, issued Jun. 10, 2003, the
contents of which are incorporated by reference herein and made a
part of this application.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to expandable
luggage, and particularly to expandable luggage having a zipperless
expansion gusset with an easily accessible adjustable locking
expansion mechanism.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The needs of travelers for luggage space can vary
considerably depending on the duration of a trip, types of clothing
and other gear required, and the climate of the destination, to
name a few. One way travelers accommodate these needs is by using
expandable luggage that have heretofore been provided. Expandable
luggage also offers the traveler a possible cost savings by
avoiding the need to purchase more than one piece of luggage.
Moreover, the capability of expanding a piece of luggage permits
the traveler to change the carrying capacity throughout the course
of a trip. Expandable luggage of varying construction and designs
are well known in the art.
[0004] Examples of existing expandable luggage include U.S. Pat.
Nos. 6,220,411, 6,059,078, and 6,021,874, wherein '078 and '874 are
commonly assigned to the present assignee. However, these designs
have some disadvantages. For example, each of the luggage pieces
disclosed therein contain an expandable portion or gusset requiring
a zipper that must be manipulated into an open or closed position
in order to expand or retract the expandable zippers. The zippers
can become stuck and/or damaged due to wear and tear from the
environment a typical piece of luggage encounters, or simply due to
use over an extended period of time.
[0005] Another disadvantage pertains to the location of the various
locking mechanisms for maintaining the luggage in an expanded
state. For example, in '411, the locking mechanism is located near
the lower portion of the bridge plate at the bottom of the luggage,
making the locking mechanism difficult to reach and operate when
the luggage is packed and the user needs to increase the volume of
the luggage to accommodate the storage of additional items.
Similarly, the location of the hook and loop fastening mechanism in
'078 and '874 used in adjusting the volume of the luggage disclosed
therein, is located near the bottom of the luggage, making the
fastening mechanism difficult to reach and operate when the luggage
is packed and the user needs to increase the volume of the luggage
to accommodate the storage of additional items. There is therefore
a need for an improved expandable luggage having zipperless
expandable portion which overcomes these and other disadvantages
associated with existing expandable luggage. As used herein
"luggage" is intended to include all manner of containers, for
example, but without limitation, briefcases.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In general, it is an object of the present invention to
provide an expandable item of luggage, suitcase, bag or the like
having an intermediately located zipperless expandable portion or
gusset with a multi-positional locking expansion mechanism. The
interior storage volume of the item of luggage can be easily
adjusted, and directly corresponds to the retracted, various
intermediate, and completely expanded states of the zipperless
gusset.
[0007] The item of luggage preferably comprises a main body
portion, an expandable body portion and an access panel. The main
body has first (lower) and second (upper) support frame elements,
inner and outer surfaces, a bottom wall, and a pair of opposing
sidewalls. The expandable body portion is adjustably coupled to the
main body by a multi-positional locking expansion mechanism, and
includes a support frame, a pair of opposing sidewalls and a
zipperless expandable gusset. The zipperless expandable gusset is
intermediately located between, and adjustably coupled to, the
upper support frame element and the expandable body support
frame.
[0008] The locking expansion mechanism preferably includes a
locking element, a lock release element, a first expansion plate
fastened to the upper and lower support frames of the main body,
and a sliding second expansion plate fastened to the support frame
of the expandable body portion. The first expansion plate includes
a locking lug, preferably a pair of lugs, slidably coupled to a lug
receiving slot, preferably a pair of slots, located on the second
expansion plate. The locking expansion plates are slidably
engageable and lockable to permit expansion and retraction of the
zipperless gusset by adjustments in the height of the expandable
body. The locking element is capable of engaging the locking lug in
order to control the sliding and locking of the second expansion
plate with respect to the first expansion plate. The lock release
element for unlocking the expansion plates is easily operated and
conveniently located near or on the sliding plate handle situated
by the top region of the expanding body to provide for easy
accessibility, thereby permitting the user to adjust (e.g.,
manually by hand) the interior storage volume of the item of
luggage without having to unpack in order to gain access to the
unlocking mechanism, as is commonly the problem with expandable
cases in the prior art. In a preferred embodiment, the item of
luggage comprises a pair of locking expansion mechanisms located on
opposing sidewalls.
[0009] The locking expansion mechanism connects the main body to
the expandable member, and includes a first fixed (stationary)
plate and a second slidable expansion plate slidably coupled
together. The first fixed plate is fixedly mounted to the main
body, while the second plate is fixedly mounted to the expandable
member support frame and includes an expansion control mechanism
for controlling displacement of the second slidable expansion plate
with respect to the first fixed plate.
[0010] The access panel is preferably attached to the expandable
body portion by a zipper and hinged element. Additionally, one or
more handles, straps or the like are preferably mounted on the
outside of the luggage body for easy lifting and carrying, and
wheels or the like are preferably mounted on the luggage for easy
transport.
[0011] Another object of the invention is to provide an item of
luggage further including a web of resilient plastic material or
the like attached to the interior side of gusset between the gusset
and the inner adjacent side walls of the main body and the
expandable body. The web preferably extends between the respective
opposing peripheral upper and extendable frame elements such that
when the luggage is collapsed the gusset is drawn towards the
interior region of the luggage, thereby allowing the opposing frame
elements to come into contact without the user having to manually
retract the gusset to the desired interior position. The web of
resilient plastic material is preferably attached to the interior
side of the gusset by an appropriate fastening means including, but
not limited to an adhesive or the like.
[0012] As noted above, the locking expansion means connects the
main body to the expandable member. In one embodiment, the locking
expansion means includes at least one first fixed plate and at
least one second slidable expansion plate slidably coupled
together. Each first fixed plate is fixedly mounted to the main
body. Each second slidable expansion plate is fixedly mounted to
the expandable member support frame and includes an expansion
control mechanism for controlling displacement of said second
slidable expansion plate with respect to its corresponding first
fixed plate.
[0013] In one preferred embodiment, each expansion control
mechanism comprises a rotatable cam member mounted to the second
slidable expansion plate proximate the expandable member support
frame. An elongated link member includes first and second opposing
ends, where the first end is rotatably coupled to the cam member.
The expansion control mechanism further includes an elongated bar
member having opposing first and second ends and at least one
sidewall therebetween. The first end of the bar member is slidably
coupled to the first fixed plate in a first bar position. The
second end of the bar member is pivotly coupled to the second
slidable expansion plate and the second end of the link member.
Rotation of the cam member slidably moves the second slidable
expansion plate from a first position to a second position relative
to the first fixed plate.
[0014] In one embodiment, the at least one first fixed plate
comprises a pair of first fixed plates mounted on opposing
sidewalls of the main body, and the at least one second slidable
expansion plates comprises a pair of second slidable expansion
plates mounted on opposing sidewalls of the expanding member. Each
second slidable expansion plate is slidably affixed to a
corresponding one of the first fixed plates.
[0015] In one embodiment, the bar member moves to a second bar
position to lock the second slidable expansion plate into the
second position relative to the first fixed plate. Preferably, the
first bar position is substantially orthogonal with respect to the
second bar position.
[0016] In one embodiment, a gripping means is located on the second
slidable expansion plate. The gripping means facilitates the
movement of the at least one second slidable expansion plate
between the first and second positions.
[0017] In one embodiment, the first end of the link member is
coupled to the cam member by a link pin, and the second end of the
link member is coupled to the second end of the bar member by a
link pivot pin. Optionally, the first end of the bar member
includes a flattened bottom portion.
[0018] In one embodiment, the second end of each bar member
includes an outward projecting bar member pin formed along the
sidewall. Each first fixed plate comprises an elongated groove
formed along an interior surface of the first fixed plate proximate
the first bar position. The groove is sized to receive the bar
member pin, wherein the groove guides the bar member pin as the bar
member moves between the first and second bar positions.
Optionally, the groove includes opposing curved ends.
[0019] In one embodiment, the expansion control mechanism further
includes a cam control knob coupled to the rotatable cam member.
The cam control knob is adapted to manually rotate the cam member,
such as by including a hinged handle to manually turn the cam
control knob. In one embodiment, the cam member (62) is rotatable
approximately 180 degrees.
[0020] In an alternate embodiment, the cam control knob is
elongated and includes opposing first and second ends, wherein the
first end of the cam control knob is coupled along a central axis
of the cam member. The second end of the cam control knob comprises
a handle 61 for manually turning the cam control knob. In one
embodiment, the cam control knob handle is hinged to the second end
of the cam control knob. Alternatively, the cam control knob handle
projects outwardly from the second end in a direction normal is
hinged to the plane of the cam control knob.
[0021] In one embodiment, the expansion control mechanism further
comprises a pair of opposing cam blocks spaced apart about the
circumference of the cam member, the cam member includes a tab that
projects outward and extends a distance sufficient to contact the
cam blocks, thereby prohibiting further rotation of the cam member.
Preferably, the opposing cam blocks are spaced approximately 180
degrees apart.
[0022] In an alternative preferred embodiment, the item of luggage
includes an adjustable interior volume comprising a main body
having a bottom floor, a plurality of opposing sidewalls, a first
frame and a second frame. An expandable member having an adjustable
height comprises a plurality of opposing sidewalls, an expandable
member support frame and a zipperless expandable gusset, wherein
the gusset is located between and expandably connected to the main
body and the expandable support frame. Optionally, an access panel
is joined to the expandable member.
[0023] In one embodiment a locking expansion means connects the
main body to the expandable member, and comprises at least one
first fixed plate and at least one second slidable expansion plate
slidably coupled together. Each first fixed plate is fixedly
mounted to the main body and includes a plurality of locking
apertures. Each second plate is fixedly mounted to the expandable
member support frame and including an expansion control mechanism
for controlling displacement of the second slidable expansion plate
with respect to its corresponding first fixed plate.
[0024] Each expansion control mechanism comprises an actuator that
is mounted to the second slidable expansion plate proximate the
expandable member support frame. The expansion control mechanism
controls expansion and retraction of the second slidable expansion
plate and gusset. At least one crank has a first end and an
opposing second end, where the crank is positioned in a first
direction along the second slidable expansion plate. The first end
of the crank is positioned proximate the actuator, and the at least
one crank is rotatable upon engagement with the actuator. At least
one locking element is respectively associated with the at least
one crank. Each locking element has a first end and an opposing
second end, and is positioned in a second direction along the
second slidable expansion plate. Each second end of the locking
element engages the second end of a corresponding crank. Engagement
between the first end of the at least one locking element with one
of the apertures of the first fixed plate is controlled by the
actuator with the corresponding crank.
[0025] In one embodiment the at least one locking element further
comprises a boss extending longitudinally outwards from the first
end of the locking element, and an aperture is formed through the
second end of the locking element. The aperture is sized to receive
the second end of the rotatable crank.
[0026] In one embodiment, engagement between the first end of the
at least one locking element with one of the apertures of the first
fixed plate includes insertion of the boss through the aperture to
retain the second slidable expansion plate in a locked position
with respect to the first fixed plate. The actuator is manually
engaged with the first end of the at least one crank.
[0027] Disengagement between the first end of the at least one
locking element with one of the apertures of the first fixed plate
includes removal of the boss from the aperture of the first fixed
plate. In one embodiment, when the actuator disengages the first
end of the at least one crank, the second end of the crank rotates
in a direction to slidably disengage the boss from the
aperture.
[0028] In one embodiment, the at least one locking element further
comprises a channel that extends longitudinally between the first
and second ends. The channel is sized to receive a biasing spring.
In one embodiment, the biasing spring is compressed upon rotation
of the crank and expanded upon release of the actuator.
[0029] In one embodiment, the second direction of the locking
element is substantially orthogonal with respect to the first
direction of the at least one crank. In one embodiment, the at
least one crank includes a pair of cranks, and the at least one
locking element includes a pair of locking elements.
[0030] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be
set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part
will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that
description or recognized by practicing the invention as described
herein, including the detailed description which follows, the
claims, as well as the appended drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] FIG. 1 is a partial cutaway view of an item of luggage fully
expanded according to one embodiment of the invention;
[0032] FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the item of luggage in FIG.
1;
[0033] FIG. 3A-3C depict cutaway views of the multi-positional
releasable locking expansion mechanism according to one embodiment
of the invention;
[0034] FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the locking expansion
mechanism in FIG. 3;
[0035] FIG. 5A is an interior plan view of the item of luggage and
releasable locking expansion mechanism in the fully retracted
state;
[0036] FIG. 5B is an exterior plan view of the item of luggage and
releasable locking expansion mechanism in FIG. 5A;
[0037] FIG. 6 is an interior plan view of the item of luggage and
releasable locking expansion mechanism in FIG. 5A in an
intermediate position between the fully extended and retracted
positions;
[0038] FIG. 7A is an interior plan view of the item of luggage and
releasable locking expansion mechanism in FIG. 5A in the fully
extended position;
[0039] FIG. 7B is an exterior plan view of the item of luggage and
releasable locking expansion mechanism in FIG. 7A;
[0040] FIG. 7C is an interior perspective view of the item of
luggage and releasable locking mechanism plates shown in FIG.
7A;
[0041] FIG. 8 is an interior perspective view of a multi-positional
releasable locking expansion mechanism according to another
embodiment of the invention;
[0042] FIG. 9 is an exterior plan view of the embodiment of an
expansion control mechanism shown in FIG. 8, taken along line 9-9
of FIG. 8;
[0043] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-positional
releasable locking expansion mechanism of FIG. 8, taken along line
10-10 of FIG. 9;
[0044] FIG. 11 is a bottom cross-sectional view of the
multi-positional releasable locking expansion mechanism of FIG. 8,
taken along line 11-11 of FIG. 8;
[0045] FIG. 12 is a perspective view, partially cut-away, of the
multi-positional releasable locking expansion mechanism of FIG. 8,
taken in an expanded state;
[0046] FIG. 13 is an exterior plan view of the expansion control
mechanism of FIG. 12, taken along line 13-13 of FIG. 12;
[0047] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-positional
releasable locking expansion mechanism of FIG. 12, taken along line
14-14 of FIG. 13;
[0048] FIG. 15 is a partial cross-sectional view of the
multi-positional releasable locking expansion mechanism of FIG. 12,
taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 12;
[0049] FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of the multi-positional
releasable locking expansion mechanism of FIG. 12, shown in a
retracted state;
[0050] FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of the multi-positional
releasable locking expansion mechanism of FIG. 12, shown in an
expanded state;
[0051] FIG. 18 is an interior perspective view of another
embodiment of an expansion control mechanism of the present
invention;
[0052] FIG. 19 is an exterior plan view of the expansion control
mechanism of FIG. 18, taken along line 19-19 of FIG. 18;
[0053] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the expansion control
mechanism of FIG. 18, taken along line 20-20 of FIG. 19;
[0054] FIG. 21 is an interior perspective view of a
multi-positional releasable locking expansion mechanism according
to yet another embodiment of the invention;
[0055] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the multi-positional
releasable locking expansion mechanism shown in FIG. 21, taken
along line 22-22 of FIG. 21;
[0056] FIG. 23 is a bottom perspective view of the expansion
control mechanism of FIG. 21, taken along line 23-23 of FIG.
21;
[0057] FIGS. 24-27 depict exterior partial cutaway perspective
views of the expansion control mechanism suitable for use with the
embodiment of FIG. 21;
[0058] FIGS. 28-32 depict exterior partial cutaway perspective
views of another embodiment of the expansion control mechanism
suitable for use with the embodiment of FIG. 8; and
[0059] FIGS. 33-37 depict exterior partial cutaway perspective
views of another embodiment of the expansion control mechanism
suitable for use with the embodiment of FIG. 18.
[0060] To facilitate understanding of the invention, the same
reference numerals have been used, when appropriate, to designate
the same or similar elements that are common to the figures.
Further, unless stated otherwise, the drawings shown and discussed
in the figures are not drawn to scale, but are shown for
illustrative purposes only.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0061] Reference will now be made to the preferred embodiments of
the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the
accompanying drawings FIGS. 1-37. An exemplary embodiment of an
item of luggage, suitcase, bag or the like of the present invention
is shown in FIG. 1, and is designated generally throughout by
reference numeral 10.
[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1-7, there is depicted an item of luggage
10 including a multi-positional releasable locking expansion
mechanism 100 for supporting the expansion and retraction of an
expandable zipperless portion or gusset 54 in accordance with the
invention. Referring to FIG. 1, item of luggage 10 includes a cover
or skin 80 made of a suitable material such as ballistic nylon, a
main body 14, and as shown in FIG. 2, an expandable body portion
50, and an access panel 24. The access panel 24 is preferably
attached to the main body 14 by a zipper 38 as shown in FIG. 1 and
a hinged element 36 as shown in FIG. 2. Main body 14 is supported
by bottom wall 16, lower (first) support frame element 26, upper
(second) support frame 28, and opposed outer side walls
(18a,18b,18c,18d) as shown in FIG. 1. Expandable member 50 includes
an expandable member support frame 52, a pair of opposing
sidewalls, and an expandable zipperless gusset 54. Gusset 54 is
intermediately located between and coupled to upper support frame
28 and expandable member support frame 52.
[0063] Multi-positional releasable locking expansion mechanism 100,
best depicted in FIGS. 1, 3A-7C, and 21-23, preferably includes, a
locking element 110, an expansion control mechanism 120, a
substantially rectangular first stationary (fixed) expansion plate
40, a substantially rectangular second slidable expansion plate 60,
a cover panel 75 (FIG. 4) that is removably attached to the second
slidable expansion plate 60, and at least one spring-biased
rotatable crank 130. The first stationary expansion plate 40 is
attached by appropriate fasteners 78 (e.g., bolts, screws, rivets)
passing through reinforced openings 55 to upper 28 and lower 26
support frame members of main body 14, and second slidable
expansion plate 60 is attached by appropriate fasteners 78 (e.g.,
bolts, screws, rivets) to expandable body support frame 52, as
shown in FIG. 5A.
[0064] As shown in FIGS. 3A-3C and 4, first stationary expansion
plate 40 preferably includes a pair of parallel spaced apart
locking lugs 42 slidably coupled to a pair of corresponding
parallel spaced apart elongated lug receiving slots 68 positioned
between legs 30 located on the second slidable expansion plate 60.
The expansion plates (40, 60) are slidably formed and lockable by
positioning locking element 110 in any pair of opposing locking
apertures 45 formed in the first stationary expansion plate 40 in
order to permit expansion and retraction of zipperless gusset 54 by
adjustments in the height of expandable body 50.
[0065] More specifically, as depicted in FIG. 3A, opposing locking
elements 110 are slidably seated in corresponding channels 133
formed proximate the lower portion of the second slidable expansion
plate 60. Referring to FIGS. 3B and 3C, the locking elements 110
include ends 116 that are engaged by the spring-biased rotating
crank (130) activated mechanism, and opposing ends 114 that are
capable of engaging lower and upper locking aperture pairs 45
located along opposing lateral edges 41 of the first stationary
expansion plate 40, to thereby provide at least two locking
positions for the second slidable expansion plate 60 with respect
to first stationary expansion plate 40. A person skilled in the art
will appreciate that additional opposing pairs of apertures 45 can
be provided along the lateral edges 41 of the first stationary
expansion plate 40 to provide intermediary or additional locking
positions.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 4, in one embodiment each locking element
110 is elongated in shape and has a first end 114, a second
opposing end 116, and a channel 118 formed therebetween each
opposing end. Each locking element channel 118 is sized to receive
a biasing spring 112, which can be compressed and expanded during
operation to enable the expansion and retraction of the second
slidable expansion plate 60 and the gusset 54. The first end 114
includes an outwardly extending projection or boss 119 formed along
the longitudinal axis of the locking element 110. The boss 119 is
sized to be inserted into and retracted from the locking aperture
45. The second end 116 includes an aperture 117 that is sized to
receive a corresponding lower end 134 of a spring-biased rotatable
crank or rod 130.
[0067] Referring to FIGS. 3A and 21, the opposing locking elements
110 are illustratively shown inserted in corresponding horizontal
channels 133 along the lower portion of the second slidable
expansion plate 60. The locking elements 110 extend inward a
distance from the lateral edges 43 and towards the center of the
second slidable expansion plate 60.
[0068] Each spring-biased rotatable crank 130 extends proximately
from the lower edge of the second slidable expansion plate 60 to
the expansion control mechanism 120. That is, the cranks 130 extend
substantially the height of the second slidable expansion plate 60
and are positioned substantially perpendicular to the locking
elements 110. Each crank 130 includes a shaft 135 having a lower
end 134 and an upper end 136. Each lower end 134 is bent
approximately 90 degrees and is inserted into the aperture 117 of
the locking element 110 to enable the movement of the locking
element 110.
[0069] Referring to FIG. 4, the upper ends 136 of the cranks 130
are offset from the lower ends 134. In one embodiment, each upper
end 136 includes a first bend 138 and a second bend 139 which
collectively create the offset. The first bend 138 is directed
outwards approximately 90 degrees and extends a distance (e.g., 1/4
to 3/4 inches) substantially perpendicular to the shaft 135, while
the second bend 139 is directed upwards approximately 90 degrees to
extend the upper end 136 substantially parallel to the shaft 135
for engagement with the expansion control 120.
[0070] In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIGS. 3A-3C and 4,
the expansion control mechanism 120 includes an actuator 88, such
as a push-button 88 activating mechanism (FIG. 5A), which rotates
both cranks 130 to thereby disengage the locking elements 110 from
the paired opposing apertures 45. In one embodiment, the expansion
control mechanism 120 includes push-button 88 that can slide
inwards and outwards along opposing guide pins 122 and guide tracks
124 (FIG. 3A) in a direction normal to the exterior surface of the
second slidable expansion plate 60. The push-button 88 can be
manually moved inwards by a user to engage the spring-like upper
ends 136 of the cranks 130, which then rotate to cause the pair of
locking elements 110 to disengage from the opposing pair of
apertures 45 formed in the lateral edges 41 of the first stationary
expansion plate 40, as discussed above. When the locking elements
110 are in the "unlocked" position (i.e., disengaged from the
apertures 45), the user can pull (or push) the second slidable
expansion plate 60 to an expanded (or retracted) state, such that
the elongated receiving slots 68 of the second slidable expansion
plate 60 slide around and are guided by the locking lugs 42 of the
first stationary expansion plate 40. Thus, the locking lugs 42
serve as guide pins when the second slidable expansion plate 60 is
slidably moved with respect to the first stationary expansion plate
40.
[0071] The user can return the push-button 88 to its normal outward
position by releasing the push-button 88. Upon release, the
spring-like upper ends 136 of the crank 130 exert an outward force
to move (push) the button 88 along the opposing guide pins 122 and
guide tracks 124 in the reverse direction.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 22, in an alternative embodiment, the
push-button actuator 88 is arranged to pivot about a pair of
opposing fasteners or bosses 89. In this manner, the entire push
button 88 does not slide inward and outwards, as the embodiment
discussed with respect to FIG. 4. Rather, the push-button 88 pivots
around pivot points 89, such that the lower interior portion 90 of
the push-button comes into contact with the upper ends 136 of the
cranks 130 to cause them to rotate and engage the locking elements
110, as discussed above.
[0073] FIGS. 24-27 depict exterior cutaway perspective views of
another embodiment of the expansion control mechanism 120 suitable
for use with the embodiment of FIGS. 4 and 22. Referring to FIG.
24, the second slidable expansion plate 60 and gusset 54 are in a
retracted state. In an alternative embodiment of the actuator 88
discussed in FIG. 4, the expansion control mechanism 120 is
rectangular in shape and includes a latch handle 87, which can be
manually pulled outward in a direction substantially normal to the
plane of the second slidable expansion plate 60, as shown in FIG.
25. The locking elements 110 are inserted through the lower
apertures 45 of the first stationary expansion plate, as shown in
FIGS. 3A and 3B.
[0074] Referring to FIG. 25, the lower portion of the latch handle
87 is pulled outward, such that the upper portion of the latch
handle 87 moves inward and contacts the upper ends 136 of the
cranks 130. The upper portion of the latch handle 87 provides an
external force that causes the upper ends 136 and lower ends 134 of
the cranks 130 to rotate, thereby pulling the locking elements 110
in an inward direction, as discussed above with respect to FIGS.
3C. Once the locking element bosses 119 (FIG. 4) are pulled out of
the apertures 45, the second slidable expansion plate 60 can be
extended (e.g., pulled upwards) in relation to the first stationary
expansion plate 40 as shown by the upward directional arrows in
FIG. 26.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 27, the latch handle 87 is shown in its
normal released position, which allows the cranks 130 to rotate
back to their normal position. Referring to FIG. 3B, the biasing
springs 112 then expand in the locking element channels 118 to
drive the bosses 119 into the upper apertures 45 of the first
stationary plate 40, to thereby lock the second slidable expansion
plate 60 in the expanded position. One skilled in the art will
appreciate that other expansion control mechanism 120 can be
utilized to force the cranks 130 to rotate to cause the locking
elements 110 to engage or disengage with the apertures 45.
[0076] Referring to FIG. 3A, in any embodiment, the inward movement
of the push-button 88 (or latch handle 87 of FIGS. 24-27) causes at
least a portion of the interior surface 126 of the push-button 88
to contact the upper ends 136 of the crank. The offset, as
illustratively shown in FIGS. 4 and 23, causes the lower ends 134
of the cranks 130 to rotate. The rotation of the lower ends 134
pulls the locking elements 110 inwards which compresses the biasing
springs 112. Referring to FIG. 3C, the bosses 119 are withdrawn
from the apertures 45 formed in the lateral edge 41 of the first
stationary expansion plate 40. At this time, the user can then pull
or push on the plate handle 72 to slide the second slidable plate
with respect to the first stationary plate, and thereby extend or
retract the gusset 54.
[0077] When the user releases the actuator push-button 88 (or latch
handle 87), the cranks 130 rotate back in the opposite direction
and return the push-button 88 (or latch handle 87) back to its
normal position. Referring to FIG. 3B, the locking element 110 is
shown positioned in the lower portion of the second slidable
expansion plate 60, with the lower ends 134 of the cranks 130 in a
normal non-rotated state. The springs 112 have expanded to their
normal state and the bosses 119 extend through the apertures 45 in
a normal locking position.
[0078] In a preferred embodiment, the expansion control mechanism
120 is conveniently located near or on a sliding plate handle or
grip 72 situated towards the top region of expandable body 50 to
provide for ease of accessibility and operability. The user is
thereby able to adjust the interior storage volume of the item of
luggage without having to unpack in order to gain access to the
expansion control mechanism 120. In a preferred embodiment, the
item of luggage comprises a pair of releasable locking expansion
mechanisms 100 located on opposing sidewalls.
[0079] In another embodiment of the invention depicted in FIG. 2,
an item of luggage 10 further includes gusset retracting means,
which in the embodiment shown comprises a web 76 (drawn in phantom)
of resilient plastic material or the like attached to the interior
side 84 of gusset 54, situated between outer gusset wall and inner
adjacent side walls of main body 14 and the expandable body 50.
Resilient web 76 extends between the respective opposing peripheral
region of upper frame 28 and extendable body frame 52, so that when
expanded luggage item 10 is collapsed or retracted, gusset 54 is
drawn towards the interior region of the luggage, thereby allowing
the opposing frame elements (28, 52) to come into contact with each
other, without the user having to manually retract gusset 54 to the
desired interior position, and away from interfering with the
retraction of luggage 10. The web of resilient plastic material 76
is preferably attached to the interior side 84 of gusset 54 by an
appropriate fastening means including, but not limited to, an
adhesive, mechanical fasteners, stitching, or the like.
Alternatively, the resilient web 76, or individual resilient
elements in the form of flexible stays (not shown), can be sewn to
the gusset 54, or alternatively, in a sleeve or pockets provided
for this purpose Support frame members (26, 28, 52) are preferably
made of a substantially rigid material to provide strength and
rigidity to top, bottom and side walls of main body 14 and
expanding body assembly 50. Support frame members (26, 28, 52) each
optionally have the shape of an endless loop-like rectangular
member and extend around the outer perimeter of main body 14 and
expanding body assembly 50, between an inner lining 22 and outer
skin 80.
[0080] The first stationary expansion plate 40, cover plate 75, and
second slidable expansion plates 60 are each made from any suitable
rigid material such as plastic, or from any suitable metal such as
steel or aluminum. Fasteners 78 can be of any suitable type such as
conventional rivets or screws.
[0081] Although luggage 10 has been shown with two releasable
locking expansion mechanism 100 on opposing side walls, it should
be appreciated that an item of luggage having more or less than two
releasable locking expansion mechanism 100 is within the scope of
the present invention. As will be understood by one of ordinary
skill in the art seen, a variety of alternative embodiments can be
provided within the scope of the present invention.
[0082] As shown in FIG. 2, a wheeled framework and wheels 48 are
preferably mounted on the rear of bottom wall of main body 14 and
are each made from any suitable material such as plastic and are
secured together by any suitable fastening means such as rivets
(not shown). The wheels are preferably made from rubber, plastic or
any other suitable material, and are rotatably mounted in spaced
apart positions along the rear lower edge of main body 14 for
rotation about an axle. In an alternative embodiment, luggage 10 of
the present invention can be provided without wheeled framework and
wheels 48 so as to be suitable only for carrying by a handle,
shoulder strap or both. The framed case can also be other than in
the shape of a right parallel piped as depicted in FIGS. 1-7.
[0083] A first handle means or strap handle 46 is optionally
secured in the middle of top wall to permit carrying of suitcase 10
in an upright position. A second handle means or strap handle 44 is
optionally secured in the middle of outside wall (see FIG. 2) to
permit carrying of suitcase 10 on its side.
[0084] A zipper 38 extends around the edge of access panel 24 and
top edge of expandable body 50. Panel 24 preferably pivots at
hinged element 36 from a top wall of the expandable body to open
and thus permit access to the main storage cavity for the storage
and or transport of items, including, but not limited to, clothing
and other travel accessories. One or more secondary zippers (not
shown) optionally extending across the outside of the access panel
24 can be provided to permit access to front pockets (not
shown).
[0085] FIG. 8 is an interior perspective view of a multi-positional
releasable locking mechanism 100 according to another embodiment of
the invention. FIG. 8 should be viewed in conjunction with FIGS.
9-20. The multi-positional releasable locking expansion mechanism
100 includes the first stationary expansion plate 40, the second
slidable expansion plate 60, and an expansion control mechanism 120
(FIG. 12). The first stationary expansion plate 40 is coupled to
the support frame 28 along the interior of the sidewalls 18 of the
luggage 10, while the second slidable expansion plate 60 is
attached to the gusset 54, as discussed above with respect to FIGS.
1-7.
[0086] The second slidable expansion plate 60 slidably interfaces
with first stationary expansion plate 40. Specifically, the
receiving slots 68 of the second slidable expansion plate 60
interface with the locking lugs 42 of the first stationary
expansion plate 40 in a similar manner as discussed above with
respect to FIGS. 1-7. The releasable locking expansion mechanism
100 is illustratively shown in an upright position, however, such
upright positioning is not considered as being limiting. Rather,
the gusset 54 can be expandable and retractable with respect to any
of the walls or sides 18 of the luggage 10.
[0087] The second slidable expansion plate 60 is expanded and
retracted by the expansion control mechanism 120, which is coupled
to the first and second expansion plates 40 and 60. The expansion
control mechanism 120 includes a cam member 62, a link member 66
and an elongated bar member 70. The cam member 62 is attached to
the second slidable expansion plate 60,.while the bar member 70 is
slidably attached to the first stationary expansion plate 40. The
link member 66 includes a first end that is coupled to the cam
member 62, and a second end that is coupled to the bar member
70.
[0088] In one embodiment, the cam member 62 is fastened to the
second slidable expansion plate 60 by a central boss 63 (e.g., a
circular boss shown in FIG. 10) protruding from the cam member 62
in a direction normal to the plane of the cam member 62 and the
second slidable expansion plate 60. The second slidable expansion
plate 60 includes an orifice 59 (FIG. 14) sized to receive the boss
63 and formed proximate the upper portion of the second slidable
expansion plate 60. The central boss 63 enables the cam member 62
to be rotated about the central axis of the boss 63.
[0089] Referring to FIG. 9, a cam control knob 64 is attached to
the cam boss 63 to allow a user to manually rotate the cam member
62, as will be discussed below in greater detail. The cam control
knob 64 can be fixedly attached to the boss 63 by a fastener or by
snap-fitting the control knob 64 over the boss 63. In one
embodiment, the control knob 64 includes a receptacle 67 (FIG. 10)
for receiving the boss 63. Referring to FIG. 10, the cam member 62
is positioned along the interior wall of the second slidable
expansion plate 60, while the control knob 64 is positioned
adjacent to the cam member 62 along the exterior wall of the second
slidable expansion plate 60. Accordingly, the boss 63 extends
though orifice 59 formed in the wall of the second slidable
expansion plate 60. In one embodiment, the control knob 64 includes
a handle 61 that is hinged at one end to the control knob 64.
Preferably, the boss 63 and receptacle 67 are keyed to enable the
control knob 64 to turn the cam member 62 without slippage. The
hinged handle 61 can be pulled outward in a direction normal to the
plane of the control knob 64 and cam member 62, and allows a user
to grasp the handle to rotate the control knob 64, which in turn,
contemporaneously rotates the cam member 62.
[0090] In one embodiment, the rotation of the cam member 62 is
limited by a tab 77. As illustratively shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the
tab 77 extends outward along the plane of the cam member 62. A pair
of opposing blocks 71 extends outward in a direction normal from
the interior wall of the second slidable expansion plate 60. The
opposing blocks 71 are positioned approximately 180 degrees apart
and along the circumference of the cam member 62, such that the tab
77 will abut the blocks 71 when the user attempts to rotate the cam
member 62 greater than 180 degrees. One skilled in the art will
appreciate that the 180 degree spacing between the opposing blocks
71 is provided for illustrative purposes only and is not considered
as limiting.
[0091] The link member 66 is coupled at its first end to the cam
member 62 via a fastener, such as a link pin 65. In one embodiment,
the cam member 62 includes an orifice formed proximate the
perimeter of the cam member 62 that is sized to receive the pin 65
to rotatably couple the link member 66 to the cam member 62.
[0092] Referring to FIG. 8, the bar member 70 is illustratively
elongated in shape, and is positioned along the interior wall of
the second slidable expansion plate 60. The bar member 70 has a
first end that includes an orifice 82 for receiving a fastener 78p
(e.g., rivet) that fixedly secures the lower portion of the second
slidable expansion plate 60 to the bar member 70. The opposing
second end of the bar member 70 includes a flattened bottom portion
74, the function of which is discussed below in further detail.
[0093] The first end of the bar member 70 and the second end of the
link member 66 each include an orifice that are axially aligned for
receiving a link pivot pin 86 therethrough. That is, the link pivot
pin 86 extends through the orifice in the first end of the bar
member 70, as well as the orifice in the second end of the link
member 66, to permit rotation of the second end of the link member
66 and first end of the bar member 70 with respect to each
other.
[0094] As illustratively shown in FIGS. 8 and 11, when the gusset
54 is in the retracted state, the bar member 70 is positioned
substantially horizontal along the lower portion (e.g., flange or
edge) 47 of the first stationary expansion plate 40, such that the
first end of the bar member is directed towards the lateral edge 41
of the first stationary expansion plate 40. The cam member 62 is
positioned a distance from the lateral edge 43 of the second
slidable expansion plate 60, and the link member 66 extends between
the cam member 62 and bar member 70, such that the link member 66
is at an angle (offset) with respect to the lateral edges 41 and 43
of the first and second plates 40 and 60.
[0095] Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the operation of
multi-positional releasable locking expansion mechanism 100 for
enabling the expansion and retraction of an expandable zipperless
portion or gusset 54 is illustrated. FIG. 16 shows the expansion
control mechanism 120 when the gusset 54 is in a retracted or
collapsed state, while FIG. 17 shows the expansion control
mechanism 120 when the gusset 54 is in an expanded state.
[0096] Referring to FIG. 16, the lower portion of the first
stationary expansion plate 40 includes a groove 32 having opposing
upwardly directed curved ends 34. The bar member 70 is positioned
adjacent to the groove 32. A fixedly attached pin 35 projects
outward from the second end of the bar member 70 in a direction
normal to the sidewall and extends into the adjacent groove 32 of
the first stationary expansion plate 40. The groove 32 is sized to
receive the pin 35 and functions as a track for guiding the second
end of the bar member 70 during expansion and retraction of the
second slidable expansion plate 60.
[0097] When the gusset 54 is in the retracted state, the tab 77 of
the cam member 62 is positioned at point A of FIG. 16 against the
one opposing cam blocks, e.g., cam block 71.sub.1. Further, the pin
35 at the second end of the bar member 70 is positioned proximate
the curved end 34.sub.1 of the groove 32.
[0098] Referring to FIG. 16, the cam member 62 is manually rotated,
illustratively 180 degrees, by turning the cam control knob 64, as
discussed with respect to FIGS. 8-10. As the cam member 62 is
rotated, illustratively clockwise between 0 and 90 degrees, the
link member 66 pushes downward on the first end of the bar member
70, while the second end of the link member 66 and bar member 70
that are coupled by link pivot pin 86 rotate or pivot about the
fastener 78p, which retains the first end of the bar member 70 to
the first stationary expansion plate 40. That is, the link pivot
pin 86 rotates clockwise about the fastener 78. Further, the second
end of the bar member 70 is driven longitudinally in a clockwise
direction, such that the pin 35 slides along the upward curved end
portion 34.sub.1 of the groove 32 to Point C in FIG. 16.
[0099] Referring to FIG. 17, as the cam member 62 is further
rotated from 90 to 180 degrees (e.g., in the upward direction) to
the second cam block 71.sub.2 (labeled Point B), the link member 66
is also rotated and pulls the bar member 70 upward, such that the
pin 35 guides the first end of the bar member 70 along the groove
32 towards the curved end portion 34.sub.2 (labeled Point D), which
is formed proximate the lateral edge 41 of the first stationary
expansion plate 40. As the cam member 66 is rotated, the second
slidable expansion plate 60 slides upwards. Further, the bar member
70 continues to slide upward to a substantially vertical position
with respect to the lateral edge 41 of the first stationary
expansion plate 40.
[0100] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 15, once the bar member 70 is in a
vertical position, the flat portion 74 of the second end of the bar
member 70 is seated on the lower edge 47 of the first stationary
expansion plate 40. The flat portion 74 is provided to stabilize
the bar member 70 in the vertical position, while the second
slidable expansion plate 60 and the gusset 54, are fully extended
with respect to the first stationary expansion plate 40.
[0101] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the user can lower the gusset
54 by rotating the cam member 62 in a counter-clockwise direction.
Comparing FIG. 13 to FIG. 9, the cam control knob 64 is shown
rotated by 180 degrees. The rotated cam member 62 causes the link
member 66 to move in a downward direction, which causes the link
pivot pin 86 rotate counter-clockwise about fastener 78p. As the
pin 86 rotates about the fastener 78p, the second end of the bar
member 70 is guided downwards via the pin 35 along the curved
groove portion 34.sub.2 and groove 32, thereby retracting the
second slidable expansion plate 60, illustratively, in a downward
direction. Once the cam member 62 has been rotated
counter-clockwise 180 degrees, the bar member 70 comes to rest in
the substantially horizontal position as shown in FIG. 16.
[0102] FIGS. 28-32 depict exterior cutaway perspective views of
another embodiment of the expansion control mechanism 120 suitable
for use with the embodiment of FIG. 8. Referring to FIG. 28, the
gusset 54 is shown in a retracted state. The control expansion
mechanism 120 is circular in shape and includes a hinged control
knob handle 61, which can be manually pulled outward in a direction
substantially normal to the cam control knob 64, as shown in FIG.
29.
[0103] Referring to FIG. 30, the cam control knob 64 and cam member
62 are rotated by the knob handle 61 (e.g., semicircular handle
61), which rotates the link member 66 and bar member 70 in a manner
discussed above with respect to FIGS. 8-17. As the cam control knob
64 is turned, the second slidable expansion plate 60 becomes
partially extended with respect to the first stationary expansion
plate 40. Referring to FIG. 31, the control knob 64 is completely
rotated (e.g., 180 degrees), such that the second slidable
expansion plate 60 is completely extended. In FIG. 32, the knob
handle 61 is pushed inwards to its normal position, that is, flush
with the exterior surface of the control knob 64. The second
slidable expansion plate 60 and gusset 54 are retracted in a
similar manner by turning the cam control knob 64 in the opposite
direction.
[0104] FIGS. 18 through 20 depict another embodiment of an
expansion control mechanism 120 suitable for use with the
releasable locking expansion mechanism 100 of FIG. 8. The expansion
control mechanism 120 of FIGS. 18-20 is the same as the embodiment
shown in FIGS. 8-14, except that the cam control knob 64 is
elongated, and the cam control knob handle 61 is not hinged to the
cam control knob 64. Rather, the cam control knob 64 is attached
along its interior surface to the boss 63 proximate a first end,
while the knob handle 61 is attached to the exterior surface
proximate the opposing second end of the knob 64.
[0105] As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, a user can grasp the handle 61
to rotate the second end of the elongated control knob 64 about the
central axis of the boss 63. In one embodiment, a cutout or slot 58
is formed along the exterior surface of the second slidable
expansion plate 60 to allow the control knob 64 to be positioned
flush with the exterior surface of the second slidable expansion
plate 60.
[0106] Referring to FIG. 20, a pair of opposing orifices or
recesses 57 are formed 180 degrees apart from each other on
opposite sides of the boss 63 of the cam member 62. Additionally,
the control knob 64 includes a boss 56 formed on the interior
surface of the control knob 64. The control knob boss 56 is aligned
to slidably engage one of the recesses 57, thereby locking the
control knob 64 in position when the second slidable expansion
plate 60 is in the expanded state or the collapsed state. As
illustratively shown in FIGS. 18-20, the control knob 64 is
positioned such that the second slidable expansion plate 60 is in
its retracted state. When the control knob 64 is rotated 180
degrees, as shown in phantom in FIGS. 19 and 20, the second
slidable expansion plate 60 is in its expanded state.
[0107] FIGS. 33-37 depict exterior cutaway perspective views of
another embodiment of the expansion control mechanism 120 suitable
for use with the embodiment of FIG. 18. Referring to FIG. 33, the
gusset 54 is in a retracted state. The control expansion mechanism
120 includes a substantially rectangular shaped hinged control knob
handle 61 that can be manually pulled outward in a direction
substantially normal to the cam control knob 64, as shown in FIG.
34.
[0108] Referring to FIG. 35, a user can rotate the cam control knob
64 by grasping the knob handle 61. Rotating the cam member 62
pushes the link member 66 and bar member 70 in a manner discussed
above with respect to FIGS. 18-20. As the cam control knob 64 is
turned, the second slidable expansion plate 60 is partially
extended from the first stationary expansion plate 40. Referring to
FIG. 36, the control knob 64 is completely rotated (e.g., 180
degrees), such that the second expansion plate 60 is completely
extended. In FIG. 37, the knob handle 61 is returned to its normal
position, that is, flush with the exterior surface of the control
knob 64. One skilled in the art will recognize that the cam control
knob 64 is rotated in the opposite direction to retract the second
slidable expansion plate 60 and gusset 54.
[0109] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various
modifications and variations can be made to the present invention
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus,
it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications
and variations of this invention that come within the scope of the
appended claims and their equivalents.
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