U.S. patent application number 14/710558 was filed with the patent office on 2016-08-18 for item of luggage with a fold-out tray.
The applicant listed for this patent is Boban Jose. Invention is credited to Boban Jose.
Application Number | 20160235175 14/710558 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55451574 |
Filed Date | 2016-08-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160235175 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jose; Boban |
August 18, 2016 |
Item of luggage with a fold-out tray
Abstract
An item of luggage includes a first handle rod, the first handle
rod having a proximal end and a distal end, a grip coupled to the
distal end of the first handle rod, a fold-out tray including a
main panel, the main panel having a distal end, a proximal end, and
a work surface, and a connector coupled to the proximal end of the
main panel, the connector permitting the fold-out tray to be
rotated between a first position in which the work surface is
substantially parallel to the first handle rod and a second
position in which the work surface is substantially perpendicular
to the first handle rod.
Inventors: |
Jose; Boban; (San Ramon,
CA) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Jose; Boban |
San Ramon |
CA |
US |
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|
Family ID: |
55451574 |
Appl. No.: |
14/710558 |
Filed: |
May 12, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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14622849 |
Feb 14, 2015 |
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14710558 |
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62150262 |
Apr 20, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 2013/265 20130101;
A45C 7/0036 20130101; A45C 13/28 20130101; A45C 13/262 20130101;
A45C 5/14 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45C 13/26 20060101
A45C013/26; A45C 13/04 20060101 A45C013/04 |
Claims
1. An item of luggage, comprising: a first handle rod, the first
handle rod having a proximal end and a distal end; a second handle
rod, wherein the second handle rod is substantially parallel to the
first handle rod; a grip coupled to the distal end of the first
handle rod and to the second handle rod; a fold-out tray coupled to
the first and second handle rods, the fold-out tray comprising a
main panel, the main panel having a distal end, a proximal end, and
a work surface; a connector coupled to the proximal end of the main
panel, the connector permitting the fold-out tray to be rotated
between a first position in which the work surface is substantially
parallel to the first and second handle rods and a second position
in which the work surface is substantially perpendicular to the
first and second handle rods; and a pocket coupled to and disposed
between the first and second handle rods, the pocket having at
least one flap and at least one fastener enabling the pocket to be
closed, wherein, when the fold-out tray is in the first position
and the at least one flap is closed, the fold-out tray is stowed
within the pocket.
2. The item of luggage of claim 1, wherein the connector is a first
connector, and wherein the fold-out tray further comprises a leaf
coupled to the main panel by a second connector configured to
permit the leaf to rotate between a folded position in which a
first surface of the leaf is resting on the work surface of the
main panel and a deployed position in which the first surface of
the leaf is substantially adjacent and parallel to the work surface
of the main panel.
3. The item of luggage of claim 2, wherein the second connector
comprises a hinge.
4. The item of luggage of claim 1, wherein the distal end of the
main panel includes a lip.
5. (canceled)
6. The item of luggage of claim 1, wherein the connector is
slidably coupled to the first and second handle rods.
7. The item of luggage of claim 6, wherein the connector is
slidably coupled to the first and second handle rods using a sleeve
fixed to the connector, the sleeve coupled to the first and second
handle rods so that a weight of the fold-out tray fixes a position
of the connector relative to the first and second handle rods
through static friction when the fold-out tray is in the second
position.
8. The item of luggage of claim 6, wherein the first or second
handle rod comprises a support feature having an upward-facing
surface, and wherein the connector further comprises a member
having a protrusion configured to rest on the upward-facing surface
to fix a position of the fold-out tray relative to the first or
second handle rod when the fold-out tray is rotated into the second
position.
9. The item of luggage of claim 8, wherein the support feature
comprises a notch, and the protrusion has a shape to fit within the
notch.
10. The item of luggage of claim 8, wherein the support feature
comprises a groove, and the protrusion has shape to fit within the
groove.
11. The item of luggage of claim 1, wherein the connector is
slidably coupled to the first handle rod.
12. The item of luggage of claim 11, wherein the connector is
slidably coupled to the first handle rod using a sleeve fixed to
the connector, the sleeve fitting snugly around the first handle
rod so that a weight of the fold-out tray fixes a position of the
connector relative to the first handle rod through static friction
when the fold-out tray is in the second position.
13. The item of luggage of claim 11, wherein the first handle rod
comprises a support feature having an upward-facing surface, and
wherein the connector further comprises a member having a
protrusion configured to rest on the upward-facing surface to fix a
position of the fold-out tray relative to the first handle rod when
the fold-out tray is rotated into the second position.
14. The item of luggage of claim 13, wherein the support feature
comprises a notch, and the protrusion has a shape to fit within the
notch.
15. The item of luggage of claim 13, wherein the support feature
comprises a groove, and the protrusion has shape to fit within the
groove.
16. The item of luggage of claim 1, wherein the connector comprises
or is coupled to a slide member, and wherein the connector is
attached to the proximal end of the main panel by slidably engaging
the main panel with the slide member.
17. (canceled)
18. The item of luggage of claim 1, wherein the connector is
coupled to the first or second handle rod.
19. The item of luggage of claim 1, further comprising a chamber
having an opening, and wherein the first handle rod is inserted
within the chamber so that the first handle rod is capable of being
slid out of the opening into an extended position with the distal
end of the first handle rod extending out of the chamber and the
proximal end of the first handle rod remaining within the
chamber.
20. The item of luggage of claim 19, further comprising: an
engagement latch configured to keep the proximal end of the first
handle rod within the chamber when the first handle rod is in the
extended position.
21. The item of luggage of claim 20, wherein the first handle rod
includes a slot, and further comprising: a first interior rod in
the chamber, wherein the slot of the first handle rod slidably
admits the first interior rod, and wherein the engagement latch
couples the first handle rod to the first interior rod.
22. The item of luggage of claim 1, wherein the proximal end of the
first handle rod is affixed to the item of luggage.
23. The item of luggage of claim 1, wherein the connector is a
first connector, and wherein the proximal end of the first handle
rod is coupled to the item of luggage by a second connector.
24. The item of luggage of claim 23, wherein the second connector
is a hinge.
25. The item of luggage of claim 1, further comprising a wheel and
a compartment, and wherein the proximal end of the first handle rod
is coupled to the wheel, and the compartment is disposed between
the distal end of the first handle rod and the proximal end of the
first handle rod.
26-28. (canceled)
29. The item of luggage of claim 1, wherein the connector is
slidably coupled to the first or second handle rod.
30. (canceled)
31. The item of luggage of claim 1, wherein the at least one
fastener comprises a hook-and-loop fastener, a zipper, a button, or
a snap.
32. The item of luggage of claim 1, wherein the at least one flap
comprises a first flap and a second flap, and wherein the at least
one fastener enables the first flap to be secured to the second
flap.
33. The item of luggage of claim 1, wherein the at least one flap
comprises a flexible material.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The device and methods disclosed herein relate generally to
luggage, and particularly to fold-out trays for luggage.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Many people choose to use suitcases with extension handles
when traveling. The extension handles make it possible to tow
luggage behind the user rather than carrying the luggage in hand or
using shoulder straps. The result is less strain and exertion for
the user, particularly where the luggage in question has wheels.
Currently existent extension handles, however, can be somewhat
unwieldy to grip, and provide mobility that is less than ideal.
Current designs also fail to take advantage of the opportunities
afforded by the additional structure that extension handles
represent for use with accessories.
[0003] Therefore, there remains a need for a luggage with more
ergonomic extension handles having more features for user
convenience.
SUMMARY OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0004] In one aspect, an item of luggage includes a first handle
rod having a proximal end and a distal end. A grip is coupled to
the distal end of the first handle rod. The item of luggage also
includes a fold-out tray, the fold-out tray having a main panel
having a distal end, a proximal end, and a work surface. A
connector attached to the proximal end of the main panel permits
the tray to be rotated between a first position substantially
parallel to the first handle rod and a second position
substantially perpendicular to the first handle rod.
[0005] Other aspects, embodiments and features of the disclosed
device and method will become apparent from the following detailed
description of the invention when considered in conjunction with
the accompanying figures. The accompanying figures are for
schematic purposes and are not intended to be drawn to scale. In
the figures, each identical or substantially similar component that
is illustrated in various figures is represented by a single
numeral or notation at its initial drawing depiction. For purposes
of clarity, not every component is labeled in every figure. Nor is
every component of each embodiment of the device and method is
shown where illustration is not necessary to allow those of
ordinary skill in the art to understand the device and method.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] The preceding summary, as well as the following detailed
description of the disclosed device and method, will be better
understood when read in conjunction with the attached drawings. It
should be understood that the invention is not limited to the
precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.
[0007] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of a collapsible suitcase;
[0008] FIG. 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of a collapsible suitcase;
[0009] FIG. 1C is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of a collapsible suitcase;
[0010] FIG. 1D is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of a collapsible suitcase;
[0011] FIG. 1E is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of a collapsible suitcase;
[0012] FIG. 2A is a schematic diagram illustrating step in
collapsing an embodiment of a collapsible suitcase;
[0013] FIG. 2B is a schematic diagram illustrating step in
collapsing an embodiment of a collapsible suitcase;
[0014] FIG. 2C is a schematic diagram illustrating step in
collapsing an embodiment of a collapsible suitcase;
[0015] FIG. 2D is a schematic diagram illustrating step in
collapsing an embodiment of a collapsible suitcase;
[0016] FIG. 2E is a schematic diagram illustrating step in
collapsing an embodiment of a collapsible suitcase;
[0017] FIG. 2F is a schematic diagram illustrating step in
collapsing an embodiment of a collapsible suitcase;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of
a supplemental support mechanism used in a collapsible
suitcase;
[0019] FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram illustrating an exterior
covering of an embodiment of a collapsible suitcase;
[0020] FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram illustrating an exterior
covering of an embodiment of a collapsible suitcase;
[0021] FIG. 4C is a schematic diagram illustrating an exterior
covering of an embodiment of a collapsible suitcase;
[0022] FIG. 4D is a schematic diagram illustrating an exterior
covering of an embodiment of a collapsible suitcase;
[0023] FIG. 4E is a schematic diagram illustrating a detail of a
lid of an embodiment of a collapsible suitcase;
[0024] FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle attached to an item of luggage;
[0025] FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle usable with an item of luggage;
[0026] FIG. 5C is a schematic diagram illustrating on embodiment of
an extension handle usable with an item of luggage.
[0027] FIG. 6A is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle usable with an item of luggage;
[0028] FIG. 6B is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle usable with an item of luggage;
[0029] FIG. 6C is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle usable with an item of luggage;
[0030] FIG. 7A is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with a pocket;
[0031] FIG. 7B is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with a fold-out tray;
[0032] FIG. 7C is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with a fold-out tray;
[0033] FIG. 7D is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with a fold-out tray;
[0034] FIG. 7E is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with a fold-out tray;
[0035] FIG. 7F is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with a fold-out tray;
[0036] FIG. 7G is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with a fold-out tray;
[0037] FIG. 7H is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with a fold-out tray;
[0038] FIG. 7I is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with a fold-out tray, showing a perspective
view of the top side of the tray with a slide member;
[0039] FIG. 7J is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with a fold-out tray, as seen from the front
edge of the tray;
[0040] FIG. 7K is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with a fold-out tray, with a view of the
underside of the tray and a slide member;
[0041] FIG. 8A is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with an engagement latch;
[0042] FIG. 8B is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with an engagement latch;
[0043] FIG. 8C is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with an engagement latch;
[0044] FIG. 8D is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with an engagement latch;
[0045] FIG. 8E is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle with an engagement latch;
[0046] FIG. 9A is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle incorporated in a chamber;
[0047] FIG. 9B is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle incorporated in a chamber;
[0048] FIG. 9C is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle incorporated in a chamber;
[0049] FIG. 9D is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle incorporated in a chamber;
[0050] FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle attached to an item of luggage;
[0051] FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle attached to an item of luggage;
[0052] FIG. 10C is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment
of an extension handle attached to an item of luggage; and
[0053] FIG. 11 is a flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of the
disclosed method for collapsing a collapsible suitcase.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS
[0054] Embodiments of the disclosed suitcase provide travelers with
an easily foldable suitcase that is compact when collapsed and
rigid and protective when deployed. In some embodiments, the
collapsed form of the disclosed suitcase may easily be carried as a
satchel, stowed in other luggage items, or stored in a closet for
future use. Some embodiments also include a uniquely ergonomic
handle for pulling wheeled embodiments, as well as additional
pockets for storage and trays to support electronic devices and
books for work or entertainment.
[0055] FIGS. 1A-1E depict some embodiments of a collapsible
suitcase 100. FIGS. 2A-2F illustrate the steps involved in
collapsing some embodiments of the suitcase 100; in some
embodiments, unfolding or deploying the suitcase involves reversing
the steps illustrated in FIGS. 2A-2F. As an overview, some
embodiments of the collapsible suitcase 100 include a rigid bottom
panel 101, a rigid rear panel 102 connected to the bottom panel 101
by means of at least one rear hinge 103, two side panels 104 each
connected to the bottom panel by means of at least one side hinge
105, and one front panel 106 connected to the bottom panel 101 by
means of at least one front hinge 107.
[0056] Viewing FIGS. 1A and 1B in further detail, in some
embodiments the bottom panel 101 has an interior surface 108, and
an exterior surface 109. The bottom panel 101 may be any shape
conducive to its use as described herein. The bottom panel 101 may
be substantially polygonal; for instance, the bottom panel 101 may
be substantially square. The bottom panel 101 may be a
substantially regular polygon. The bottom panel 101 may be
substantially an irregular polygon; for instance, the bottom panel
101 may be rectangular. The bottom panel 101 may be trapezoidal.
The bottom panel 101 may be substantially a combination of
polygons. As an example bottom panel 101 may be describable in as a
combination of variously sized and formed triangles. The bottom
panel 101 may be curved. The bottom panel 101 may be elliptical.
The bottom panel 101 may be circular. The bottom panel 101 may be a
more complex curved form, such as a bent or irregular ellipse. The
bottom panel 101 may be any combination of curved and polygonal
forms; for instance, the bottom panel 101 may be rectangular with
rounded corners. The bottom panel 101 may be a parabola truncated
by at least one straight line. The bottom panel 101 may have
indentations in its perimeter. The bottom panel 101 may have
protrusions from its perimeter. In some embodiments, the bottom
panel 101 is substantially quadrilateral; the bottom panel 101 may,
for instance, be a rectangle, trapezoid, or parallelogram with
sharp, squared, or rounded corners. In some embodiments, the bottom
panel 101 has a rear edge 110. The bottom panel 101 may have a
front edge 111. The bottom panel 101 may have two side edges 112.
In some embodiments, the bottom panel has additional edges.
[0057] The bottom panel may be constructed of any material or
combination of materials that make the bottom panel rigid. In some
embodiments, the bottom panel 101 is rigid if the bottom panel 101
exhibits only small amounts of displacement relative to the size of
the bottom panel 101 when forces typical for the operation of a
suitcase act against the interior 108 or exterior 109 surface of
the bottom panel 101. For instance, if the suitcase 100 is in its
deployed form, as set forth in further detail below, and a person
leans on the middle of the exterior surface 109 for support, the
person may feel the bottom panel 101 flex only slightly; in some
embodiments, the person may be incapable of detecting any
displacement of the bottom panel at all. The bottom panel 101 may
be constructed of materials including wood. The bottom panel 101
may be constructed of materials including plywood. The bottom panel
101 may be constructed of materials including metal. The bottom
panel 101 may be constructed of materials including hard plastic,
such as thermosetting plastics, hard thermoplastics such as
polyvinyl chloride (PVC), high-density polyethylene (HDPE),
polytetraflouroethylene, or hard polypropylene. The bottom panel
101 may be constructed of materials including natural polymers. The
bottom panel 101 may include one or more layers of flexible
material around the rigid material. The flexible material may
include cloth, rubber, or other flexible polymers; the flexible
material may be any material suitable for the construction of the
exterior cover 400 as described in further detail below. The bottom
panel 101 may be composed wholly or in part of flexible material
stretched over a rigid frame or mesh. The bottom panel 101 may be
composed wholly or partially of fiberglass.
[0058] The rear panel 102 may be constructed of any materials or
combination of materials suitable for the construction of the
bottom panel 101. The rear panel 102 may be any shape suitable for
the shape of the bottom panel 101. In some embodiments, the rear
panel 102 has an interior surface 113, an exterior surface 114, a
top edge 115, two side edges 116, and a bottom edge 117. The at
least one rear hinge 103 may allow the rear panel 102 to be rotated
between a folded position in which the interior surface 113 of the
rear panel is substantially parallel to the interior surface 108 of
the bottom panel 101, as shown below in FIG. 2E, and a deployed
position in which the interior surface 113 of the rear panel 102 is
substantially perpendicular to the interior surface 108 of the
bottom panel 101.
[0059] The two side panels 104 may be constructed of any materials
or combination of materials suitable for the construction of the
bottom panel 101. Each side panel 104 may be any shape suitable for
the shape of the bottom panel 101. In some embodiments, each side
panel 104 has an interior surface 118, an exterior surface 119, a
top edge 120, a rear edge 121, a front edge 122, and a bottom edge
123. The at least one side hinge 105 may allow each side panel 104
to be rotated between a folded position in which the interior
surface 118 of the side panel 104 is substantially parallel to the
interior surface 108 of the bottom panel 101, as shown below in
FIGS. 2C-2D, and a deployed position in which the interior surface
118 of the side panel 104 is substantially perpendicular to the
interior surface 108 of the bottom panel 101.
[0060] The front panel 106 may be constructed of any materials or
combination of materials suitable for the construction of the
bottom panel 101. The front panel 106 may be any shape suitable for
the shape of the bottom panel 101. In some embodiments, the front
panel 106 has an interior surface 124, an exterior surface 125, a
top edge 126, two side edges 127, and a bottom edge 128. The at
least one front hinge 107 may allow the front panel 106 to be
rotated between a folded position in which the interior surface 124
of the front panel 106 is substantially parallel to the interior
surface 108 of the bottom panel 101, as shown below in FIG. 2B, and
a deployed position in which the interior surface 124 of the front
panel 106 is substantially perpendicular to the interior surface
108 of the bottom panel 101.
[0061] In one embodiment, the suitcase 100 includes at least one
latch 128 that secures the front edge 122 of at least one of the
side panels 104 to the front panel 106 when the at least one side
panel 104 is in deployed position and the front panel 106 is
rotated into deployed position. The at least one latch 128 may be
constructed of any material or combination of materials suitable
for the construction of the bottom panel 101. The at least one
latch 128 may have one component attached to one or both side edges
127 of the front panel, and a second component attached to one or
both front edges 122 of the side panel 104. The at least one latch
128 may be formed to engage automatically when the front panel 106
is rotated into deployed position between the deployed side panels.
As a non-limiting example, the at least one latch 128 may have a
spring-biased bolt with an angled end that causes the bolt to
retract slightly when an object presses against the bolt in a
direction substantially orthogonal to the direction in which the
bolt moves, and to be urged back into an extended position in the
absence of external pressure, as in a tubular latch for a door.
Persons skilled in the art will be aware of many other latches
designed to engage automatically. The at least one latch 128 may
have a component that enables the user to engage or disengage the
at least one latch 128 manually; for instance, the at least one
latch 128 may engage automatically when the front panel 106 is
swung into deployed position between the two side panels, and
remain engaged until a user disengages the at least one latch 128
manually; for instance, as shown in FIG. 2A, the user may disengage
each latch 128 prior to folding down the front panel 106 to
commence collapsing the suitcase 100. In some embodiments, at least
one additional latch (not shown) secures one or both side panels
104 to the rear panel 102 when the rear panel 102 is in deployed
position and the one or more side panels 104 are rotated into
deployed position.
[0062] In some embodiments of the suitcase, 100, at least one side
edge of the rear panel includes at least one first engagement
member 129, and the rear edge of at least one side panel has a
second engagement member 130 that slidably engages the first
engagement member 129, fixing the side panel 104 to the rear panel
102, when the rear panel 102 is already in deployed position and
the side panel 104 is rotated into deployed position. As an
example, one or both of the side edges 116 of the rear panel 102
have one or more protrusions 131 in a direction substantially
perpendicular to the interior surface 113 of the rear panel 102;
the one or more protrusions 131 may extend from the top edge 115 to
the bottom edge 117 of the rear panel 102. Continuing the example,
the one or more protrusions 131 may have at least one indentation
or slot 129 positioned to engage a corresponding member 130
slidably. Further continuing the example, the rear edge 121 of at
least one side panel may have at least one protrusion or tab 130
that slide into the at least one indentation or slot 129 in the at
least one protrusion 131 when the rear panel 102 and each side
panel 104 are in their unfolded positions. The mutually engaging
members may secure the side panels 104 to the rear panel 102; the
side panels 104 may be further secured in the deployed position by
the at least one latch 128 securing the side panels 104 to the
front panel 106, causing the suitcase 100 to present a solid and
rigid body when fully deployed. For instance, the front panel 106
may prevent the side panels 104 from rotating out of their deployed
positions when the front panel 106 is in its deployed position,
causing the engagement members 129, 130 to secure the rear panel in
its deployed position, and lending rigidity to the connection
between the rear panel 102 and the side panels 104
[0063] The hinges 103, 105, 107 may be constructed of any material
or combination of materials suitable for the construction of the
bottom panel 101. The hinges 103, 105, 107 may have progressively
larger clearances so that when the panels are folded in a certain
order, each panel can rest on top of the previously folded panels
in its folded position, substantially parallel to the top surface
108 of the bottom panel 101. For instance, in some embodiments, the
at least one front hinge 107 has a first clearance permitting the
interior surface 124 of the front panel 106 to rest on the interior
surface 108 of the bottom panel 101 when the front panel 106 is in
folded position, as shown in FIG. 2B; for instance, the at least
one front hinge 107 may have a pivot point 107a at or very close to
the juncture of the bottom edge 128 of the front panel 106 and the
front edge 111 of the bottom panel 101. The at least one side hinge
105 of each side panel 104 may have a larger clearance to fit the
side panel 104 over the front panel 106 when the front panel 106 is
in its folded position; for instance, each of the at least one side
hinges 105 may have a second clearance sufficiently larger than the
first clearance to allow the interior surface 118 of the side
panels 104, when in folded position, to rest on top of the exterior
surface 125 of the front panel 106 when the front panel 106 is in
folded position. As an example, the pivot 105a of the least one
side hinge 105a may be offset from the junction of the bottom edge
123 of each side panel 104 and the corresponding side edge 112 of
the bottom panel 101; the offset may be substantially the same as
the thickness of the front panel 106. In some embodiments, the two
side panels overlap each other in folded position; in that case,
one of the two side panels may have a hinge with a third clearance
(not shown) permitting the interior surface 118 of that side panel
104, when in folded position, to rest on top of the exterior
surface 119 of the other side panel 104 when the other side panel
104 is in folded position. For instance, the offset of the hinge of
one side panel 104 may be greater than the offset of the hinge of
the other side panel. The at least one rear hinge 103 may have a
larger clearance than that of the at side hinges 105 to fit the
rear panel over the folded side panels 104 when the rear panel 102
is moved into its folded position; for example, in some
embodiments, the at least one rear hinge 103 has a third clearance
sufficiently larger than the second clearance to allow the interior
surface 113 of the rear panel 102, when in folded position, to rest
on top of the exterior surfaces 119 of the side panels 104 when the
side panels 104 are in folded position. The at least one rear hinge
103 may have a pivot point 103a that is further offset from the
juncture of the bottom edge 117 of the rear panel 101 and the rear
edge 110 of the bottom panel 101 than the offset of the side hinges
105. The offset may be substantially the same as the combined
thickness of the front and side panels when folded together, or
slightly larger to accommodate folds of the exterior covering 400,
described in further detail below. The offset of the rear hinge 103
may be greater if the side panels 104 overlap each other when
folded, as described above. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS.
2C-D, the top edges 120 of two side panels do not meet in the
middle of the suitcase 100 when the two side panels 104 are in
folded position, resulting in a gap between the two side panels'
top edges 120; the rear hinge 103 may have a narrow central portion
103b to allow the rear hinge to pass between the top edges 120 of
two side panels.
[0064] In some embodiments, at least one side panel 104 has at
least one projection 132 at the front edges 122. The at least one
projection 132 may be substantially orthogonal to the plane of the
interior surface 118 of the at least one side panel 104. In some
embodiments, the at least one projection 132 allows the side edges
127 of the front panel 106 to fit snugly against the at least one
projection 132 while being slightly inset from the side edges 112
of the bottom panel 101, allowing greater freedom of movement for
the at least one hinge 105 of the side panels 104 when the side
panels 104 rotate into folded position. Likewise, the at least one
projection 131 of rear panel 102 may enable the rear edges 122 of
the side panels 104 to be slightly inset from the rear edge 111 of
the bottom panel 102, allowing the bottom panel 102 to swing over
the side panels 104 when being rotated into folded position. The
top edge 126 of the front panel 106 may line up with the rear edges
122 of the side panels 104 when the front panel 106 is in folded
position. The corners of the suitcase formed by the panels 101,
102, 104, 106 may be sharp or rounded, depending on the shapes of
the panels, engagement members, and extensions. In some
embodiments, the front edge 122 at least one of the side panels 104
has a third engagement member 134, and the corresponding at least
one side edge 127 of the front panel 106 has a fourth engagement
member 135 that slidably engages the first engagement member 134,
fixing the front panel 106 to the at least one side panel 104, when
the at least one side panel 104 is already in deployed position and
the front panel 106 is rotated into deployed position. This may be
implemented as described above for the first 129 and second 130
engagement members in reference to FIG. 1A.
[0065] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, the suitcase 100
includes one or more additional structural elements to increase the
strength of the suitcase 100 when deployed. For example, the bottom
panel 101 may have at least one peg 300 set perpendicularly to the
interior surface 108 of the bottom panel 101 where the bottom edge
of the back panel 102, side panel 104, or front panel 106 contacts
the interior surface 108 of the bottom panel 101 when deployed, for
insertion in a corresponding hole in the bottom edges; for
instance, as shown in FIG. 3, the at least one peg 300 may be
located on the portion of the interior surface 108 of the bottom
panel 101 where the bottom edge 117 of the rear panel 102 contacts
the interior surface 108 when the rear panel 102 is deployed. Some
embodiments include at least one hole 301 in the bottom edge of the
back panel, side panel, or front panel, the at least one hole
positioned to pass over the at least one peg when the rear panel,
side panel, or front panel is rotated into deployed position.
Continuing the example, the bottom edge 117 of the rear panel 102
may have at least one hole 301 positioned to pass over the at least
one peg 300 when the rear panel 102 is rotated into deployed
position.
[0066] In some embodiments, the suitcase 100 has one or more wheels
133. In some embodiments, the suitcase 100 has a first wheel 133 at
the corner formed by the rear edge 110 of the bottom panel 101 and
a side edge 112 of the bottom panel 101, and a second wheel 133 at
the corner formed by the same side edge 112 of the bottom panel 101
and the front edge 111 of the bottom panel 101. In other
embodiments, the suitcase has four or more wheels. The wheels 133
may be oriented in a fixed direction relative to the suitcase 100.
The wheels 133 may be mounted on pivots; for instance, the suitcase
100 may have four wheels attached to the corners of the bottom
panel 101, a side panel 104, the front panel 106 or the rear panel
102. The one more or wheels 133 may be constructed of any material
or combination of materials suitable for the construction of the
bottom panel 101.
[0067] In some embodiments, the suitcase 100 has an exterior
covering 400. In some embodiments, the exterior cover 400 is
flexible. The exterior cover 400 may be constructed entirely of
flexible materials. The exterior cover may 400 may include one or
more rigid portions; for instance, the exterior cover 400 may
include one or more rigid panels (not shown) joined to one another.
The rigid panels may be joined by flexible sections; for instance,
the rigid panels may be joined by strips or sections of flexible
material (not shown); the rigid panels may be contained in pockets
in a flexible material covering the entire external covering 400.
The rigid panels may be constructed of any material or combination
of materials suitable for the construction of the bottom panel 101.
In some embodiments, the exterior cover 400 is made wholly or in
part of flexible material. The flexible material may be textile
material; the textile material may include natural fibers. The
natural fibers may include plant material, such as cotton, linen,
hemp, or manila hemp; for example, the flexible material may be a
woven product such as canvas. The natural fibers may include animal
fibers such as wool or silk. The flexible material may include
synthetic fibers, including fibers made from synthetic polymers,
such as nylon and polypropylene. The flexible material may include
fibers made from natural materials, such as rayon. The flexible
material may include leather. The flexible material may include one
or more sheets of natural polymers, such as rubber. The flexible
material may include one or more sheets of synthetic polymers, such
as flexible plastics.
[0068] In some embodiments, the flexible material is flexible along
one axis, but not along another. For instance, the flexible
material may include many closely-placed thin but long rigid
substantially parallel strips or rods stuck to a flexible material,
with sufficient space between the strips or rods to allow the
material to flex along an axis substantially parallel to the
strips; the strips or rods may prevent the flexible material from
bending along any axis having a substantial component orthogonal to
the direction of the strips or rods. The strips or rods may be
rigid as defined above in for the bottom panel 101 in reference to
FIGS. 1A-2F.
[0069] The exterior covering may include a first portion 400a fixed
to the exterior surface 119 of each side panel 106 and connecting
the front edges 122 of the two side panels to each other, so that
the exterior surface 125 of the front panel 106 rests against the
first portion 400a when the front panel 106 is in deployed
position; in other words, the first portion 400a of the exterior
covering 400 may wrap around the front and sides of the suitcase
100. In one embodiment, the exterior cover 400 or any portions
thereof may be fixed to the exterior surface of a panel if the
exterior cover 400 covers substantially all of the exterior surface
of the panel both when the panel is folded and deployed; the
exterior cover may be adhered or fastened to the exterior surface
of the panel. The exterior cover may have a pocket or sleeve
containing the panel; the panel may be sewn between layers of the
exterior cover 400. The first portion 400a may have a first
perimeter edge 401 against the bottom edge 123 of both of the side
panels 104 and against the front edge 111 of the bottom panel 101
and a second perimeter edge 402 against the rear edge 121 of each
side panel 104, the top edge 120 of each side panel, and the top
edge 126 of the front panel 106 when the front panel 106 is in
deployed position. The exterior covering 400 may include a second
portion 400b fixed to the exterior surface 109 of the bottom panel
109 and fixed to the exterior surface 114 of the rear panel 102. In
some embodiments, the second portion 400b may have a first
perimeter edge 403 fixed to the first perimeter edge 401 of the
first portion 400a, a second perimeter edge 404 against one side
edge 116 of the rear panel 102, and a third perimeter edge 405
against the other side edge 116 of the rear panel 102. The first
portion 400a and second portion 400b may or may not represent the
physical sections assembled to create the exterior covering 400 in
practice. In some embodiments, the first portion 400a and second
portion 400b are made separately and fixed together, for instance
by sewing the first perimeter edge 401 of the first portion 400a to
the first perimeter edge 403 of the second portion 400b. In other
embodiments, the exterior covering 400 is made of more sections
attached together by sewing or other means; the divisions between
sections may not correspond to divisions between the second portion
400b and the first portion 400a. In some embodiments, the exterior
covering is constructed as a monolithic whole; for instance, the
exterior covering 400 may be made as a cross-shaped sheet with its
center sized to cover the exterior surface 109 of the bottom panel,
and arms sized to cover the side panels 104, rear panel 102, and
front panel 106, to be sewn or otherwise attached together at the
corner of the front panel 106 with the side panels 104. Persons
skilled in the art will be aware of other methods of construction
and design that may be substituted for those described here to
create the exterior covering 400 as described herein. In some
embodiments, where the exterior covering 400 is flexible around
only one set of parallel axes, the axes are arranged in the first
portion 400a in a direction running from the bottom edge to the top
edge of each side panel and the front panel. In some embodiments,
the exterior covering 400 near to a hinge is flexible along an axis
parallel to the axis of rotation of that hinge.
[0070] In some embodiments, the second portion 400b includes a lid
406 that may be folded to a closed position covering an opening in
the suitcase 100 bordered by the top edge 115 of the rear panel
102, the top edge 120 of each side panel 104 and the top edge 126
of the front panel 106, when the rear panel 102, the side panels
104, and the front panel 106 are in deployed position. The lid 406
may have any shape sufficient to cover the opening. The lid 406 may
be secured to the opening by a zipper 407. The zipper 407 may have
a first half 407a that covers the second perimeter 402 of the first
portion 400a and a second half 407b covering the second perimeter
edge 404 of the second portion 400b, a portion of the lid 406 that
contacts the second perimeter 403 of the first portion 400a when
the lid 406 is in the closed position, and the third perimeter edge
405 of the second portion. Thus, the zipper 407 may run up one side
edge 116 of the rear panel 202, along the top edge 120 of the
adjacent side panel 104, along the edge of the first portion 400a
that is adjacent to the top edge 126 of the front panel 106, along
the top edge 120 of the next side panel 104, and back down the
second side edge 116 of the rear panel 102. As a result, the zipper
407 may function both to secure the lid 406 in a closed position
and to secure the second perimeter edge 404 and third perimeter
edge 405 of the second portion 400b to the second perimeter edge
402 of the first portion 400a. In some embodiments, the zipper 407
adds additional strength to the suitcase 100 when the zipper 407 is
closed. In some embodiments, the zipper 407 has two sliders 408a-b;
as a result, the lid 406 may be disengaged from the opening of the
suitcase 100 and opened, while the portions of the zipper 407
holding together the second 404 and third 405 perimeter edges of
the second portion 400b to the second perimeter edge 402 of the
first portion 400a remain fastened. The zipper 407 may be any form
of slide fastener. In other embodiments, at least one alternative
fastener is used to hold the second 404 and third 405 perimeter
edges of the second portion 400b to the second perimeter edge 402
of the first portion. The at least one alternative fastener may be
any set of fasteners that fastens the second 404 and third 405
perimeter edges of the second portion 400b to the second perimeter
edge 402 of the first portion 400a, including without limitation
hook-and-loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, buckles, and ties.
[0071] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 2E, the lid 406
includes at least one rigid panel 200a-c. The at least one rigid
panel 200a-c may cause the lid 406 to present a substantially rigid
surface when closed, according to the definition of rigidity
described above for the bottom panel 101 in reference to FIGS.
1A-1E. In some embodiments, the at least one rigid panel further
includes a first panel 200a and a second panel 200b separated by a
flexible portion 201, so that the lid 406 may be wrapped around the
suitcase 100 when the front panel 106, side panels 104, and rear
panels 102 are in folded position, as shown in FIG. 2F. In some
embodiments, the lid 406 includes at least one fastener 202 that
fastens the lid 406 to the second portion 400b at the exterior
surface 109 of the bottom panel 101 of the suitcase 100 when the
lid 406 is wrapped around the suitcase 100. The at least one
fastener 202 may be any fastener suitable for fastening one surface
to another, including but not limited to a hook-and-loop fastener,
a buckle such as a slide-release buckle, tension lock, or frame
buckle, a snap, a button, or a tie. In some embodiments, the at
least one fastener 202 also fastens the lid 406 to the first
portion 400a at the exterior surface 125 of the front panel 106
when the lid 406 is in the closed position and the front panel 106,
is in deployed position.
[0072] In some embodiments, as is shown in FIGS. 1A-1B, each of the
distance from the top edge 115 of the rear panel 102 to the to the
interior surface 108 of the bottom panel 101 and the distance from
the top edge 126 of the front panel 106 to the interior surface 108
of the bottom panel 101 is less than the distance from the top edge
120 of each side panel 104 to the interior surface 108 of the
bottom panel 101, and the at least one rigid panel 200a-c of the
lid 406 includes a central panel 200b that has a front edge 203 and
a rear edge 204, occupying a position at the height of the top
edges 120 of the two side panels 104 and substantially parallel to
the interior surface 108 of the bottom panel 101 when the lid 406
is in its closed position, a forward panel 200c that slants down
from the front edge 203 of the central panel 200b to the top edge
126 of the front panel 106 when the lid is in the closed position,
and a back panel 200a that slants down from the back edge 204 of
the central panel to the top edge 115 of the rear panel 102 when
the lid is in the closed position. The suitcase may include one or
more slanting top edges 136 that connect the higher top edges 120
of the side panels 104 to the lower top edges 115, 126 of the front
panel 106 and the rear panel 102. The forward 200c and back 200b
panels of the lid 406 may rest on the slanting top edges 136 when
the lid 406 is closed. In some embodiments, the joint between the
back panel 200c and the central panel 200a is in a state of elastic
equilibrium when the lid 406 is in a closed position; as a result
the joint is 201 is biased to allow the lid 406 to fold over the
suitcase 100 with less resistance when the suitcase 100 is in its
collapsed position. As an example, where the lid 406 is made up of
two flexible layers with the central panel 200b, back panel 200a,
and front panel 200c sandwiched between the two flexible layers,
the flexible layer that faces the interior surface of the bottom
panel when the lid 406 is in its closed position may have a
slightly smaller surface area than the flexible layer that is on
top of the suitcase 100 when the lid 406 is in its closed
position.
[0073] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 4E and 1B, the lid
406 includes at least one projection 409 that rests against at
least one of the interior surface 113 of the rear panel 102, the
interior surface 118 of at least one side panel 104, or the
interior surface 124 of the front panel 106 when the lid 406 is in
the closed position. In some embodiments, the at least one
projection 409 is a lip or ledge extending downward from the
underside of the lid 406. The lip or ledge may be parallel to the
edge of the lid 406. In some embodiments, the lip or ledge extends
for the length of each of the interior surface 113 of the rear
panel 102, the interior surface 118 of each of the side panels 104,
and the interior surface 124 of the front panel 106. In other
embodiments, the lip or ledge extends for the length of each of the
interior surface 118 of each of the side panels 104, and the
interior surface 124 of the front panel 106. In additional
embodiments, the lip or ledge extends for the length of the
interior surface 124 of the front panel 106. In additional
embodiments, the lip or ledge extends for the length of the
interior surface 118 of at least one of the side panels 104. In
other embodiments, the lip or ledge extends for the length of the
interior surface 113 of the rear panel 102. The lip or ledge may
cover only part of the length of the interior surface of one or
more panels; as a non-limiting example, the at least one projection
409 may include one lip or ledge that rests against a part of the
interior surface 118 of one side panel 104 and a second lip or
ledge that rests against a part of the interior surface 118 of the
other side panel. In some embodiments, the at least one projection
409 adds strength and stability to the suitcase 100 when the lid
406 is closed, by bracing against the interior surface of one or
more panels. The at least one projection 406 may have any shape
that accomplishes that purpose, including one or more dowels,
wedges, or tabs.
[0074] FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate one embodiment of an extension handle
500 to be used with an item of luggage. Although FIGS. 5A-5B
illustrate an embodiment of an extension handle with a piece of
luggage, the disclosed embodiments may be used with any other item
that would benefit from having an extension handle. Examples of
such other items include, but are not limited to, items that have
wheels and that are used for moving objects, such as carts (e.g.,
luggage carts), platforms, pallets, and hand trucks. The disclosed
embodiments may also be used with items that do not have wheels,
such as, for example, step-ladders. In the embodiment illustrated
in FIGS. 5A-5B, the extension handle 500 includes a handle portion
500a, which includes at least one handle rod, a first handle rod
501, having a proximal end 502 and a distal end 503. When the
extension handle 500 is in an extended position, the proximal end
502 of the first handle rod 501 is closer to the item of luggage
than is the distal end 503. In some embodiments, the handle portion
500a includes a second handle rod 504 having a proximal end 505 and
a distal end 506. In some embodiments, the extension handle 500
includes a grip 507 coupled to the distal end 503 of the first
handle rod 501. It is to be understood that the word "coupled"
means that the elements may be directly connected together, or they
may be coupled through one or more intervening elements. In some
embodiments, the grip 507 is directly connected to the distal end
503 of the first handle rod 501. In some embodiments, the extension
handle 500 includes a grip 507 coupled to both the distal end 503
of the first handle rod 501 and the distal end 506 of the second
handle rod 504. The extension handle 500 may be attached to an item
of luggage 508. The extension handle 500 may include additional
handle rods (not shown).
[0075] The first handle rod 501, and, if present, additional handle
rods, such as the second handle rod 504, may be constructed from
any material or combination of materials that render the at least
one handle rod rigid and strong enough not to flex or break when
used to haul a typical quantity of luggage or other item to which
the extension handle 500 may be attached. The materials making up
the at least one handle rod, including the first handle rod 501,
and, if present, additional handle rods, such as the second handle
rod 504, may include metal, synthetic polymers (e.g., plastic),
natural polymers, wood, or any combination of these or other
materials.
[0076] The at least one handle rod, including the first handle rod
501, and, if present, additional handle rods, such as the second
handle rod 504, may be linear or curved, or it may have one or more
portions that are linear and one or more portions that are curved.
For example, the exemplary first handle rod 501 illustrated in
FIGS. 5A-5B includes a linear portion between the proximal end 502
and the distal end 503. As described below, the distal end 503 may
be attached to a bar 602, but alternatively the bar 602 can simply
be a curved portion of the first handle rod 501 that extends from
the distal end 503.
[0077] The at least one handle rod, including the first handle rod
501, and, if present, additional handle rods, may be solid or
hollow; for instance, the at least one handle rod may be a tube.
Where the at least one handle rod is hollow, the interior space of
the at least one handle rod may be formed to accommodate a latch
actuator 803 as described below in connection with FIGS. 8C-8E. The
at least one handle rod may be a single, monolithic piece, or it
may be constructed of multiple components connected together. In
other embodiments, the at least one handle rod includes one or more
mutually movable components (not shown). In some such embodiments,
the one or more mutually movable components may be able to slide or
pivot with respect to one another. For instance, the at least one
handle rod may be incorporated in a telescoping handle, in which
the at least one handle rod is slidably engaged in at least one
chamber, where the at least one chamber is the interior of at least
one additional handle rod (not shown). The at least one additional
handle rod may be a stage in a telescoping handle; for instance,
the at least one additional handle rod may slide into another
hollow rod, or into a chamber in the luggage item or the item to
which the extension handle 500 is attached. The at least one
additional handle rod may be a plurality of nested telescoping
sections. Persons skilled in the art will be aware that any number
of such telescoping sections may be added to the at least one
handle rod. The telescoping handle may include one or more latches
(not shown) that can fix the one or more components relative to
each other; for instance, where the handle is telescoping, the
latches may fix each telescoping section with respect to the
section in which it is inserted, so that when a given section is
pulled out into an extended position, that section is fixed with
respect to the section from which it is pulled out, making the
telescoping handle substantially rigid until the latch is
disengaged. The at least one handle rod may have any
cross-sectional shape or combination of shapes, including polygons,
circles, ellipses, and combined polygonal and curved shape; the
cross-sectional shape may vary over the length of the at least one
handle rod. Where the at least one handle rod includes a first
handle rod 501 and a second handle rod 504, the second handle rod
504 may be constructed from any material or combination of
materials suitable for making the first handle rod 501. The second
handle rod 504 may have any form suitable for the construction of
the first handle rod 501. In some embodiments, the first handle rod
501 is substantially identical to the second handle rod 504. In
some embodiments, the second handle rod 504 is substantially a
mirror image of the first handle rod 501.
[0078] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 5B and 6A, the grip
507 is connected to the distal end 503 of the first handle rod 501
by a swivel 600 that allows the grip 507 to rotate freely about a
first axis; for instance, the swivel 600 may allow the grip 507 to
rotate about an axis parallel to the first handle rod 501, in the
direction indicated by the arrow 201 in FIG. 5B, or in the opposite
direction. In some embodiments having a first handle rod 501 and a
second handle rod 504, the swivel 600 is attached to a bar 602
joining the two handle rods 501, 504; the swivel 600 may be fixed
to a point on that bar 602 that is equidistant from both handle
rods 501, 504.
[0079] In some embodiments, the swivel 600 is omitted, and the grip
507 is directly connected to the first handle rod 501. For example,
the grip 507 may include a protrusion, such as a rod or a screw,
that may be inserted through a hole (not shown) in the first handle
rod 501 and joined to a cap or nut that prevents the grip 507 from
disengaging from the first handle rod 501 when a user pulls on the
grip 507. As another example, the grip 507 may include a
grip-securing ridge (not shown) that allows the grip 507 to be
rotatably mounted about a retaining lip (not shown) located on the
end of the first handle rod 501. In some embodiments having a first
handle rod 501 and a second handle rod 504 joined by a bar 602, the
grip 507 can be directly connected to the bar 602 in similar ways.
As would be appreciated by a person having ordinary skill in the
art, there are many ways of directly attaching the grip 507 to the
first handle rod 501 or to a bar 602 joining the first handle rod
501 to a second handle rod 504, and the examples provided herein
are not intended to be limiting.
[0080] In other embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C, the grip
507 is attached to the distal end of the at least one handle rod by
a neck portion 605. The neck portion 605 may have a first end 605a
affixed to the handle portion 500a and a second end 605b affixed to
the grip 507. In some embodiments, the neck portion 605 deforms
elastically about a rotational axis intersecting the handle portion
500a and the grip 507 when the grip 507 is rotated relative to the
handle portion 500a by a user. The axis may bisect the grip 507;
rotation about the axis may occur in substantially the direction of
rotation 606 shown in FIG. 6B, or in the opposite direction. The
neck portion 605 may have a range of motion in two directions of
rotation about the axis, such as the direction of rotation 606 and
the opposite direction of rotation. In some embodiments, the neck
portion 605 includes an elastic component that elastically deforms
upon rotation; the elastic component may exert a recoil force
tending to move the grip back to an elastically neutral position.
The elastically neutral position may be a position in which the
grip 507 is in substantially the same plane as the handle portion
500a. The elastic portion may be a spring, such as a coiled spring.
The elastic portion may be a sleeve of elastic material, such as
rubber. The elastic portion may be a strip of elastic material. The
neck portion 605 may include a structural portion preventing the
neck 605 from elongating or shearing. The structural portion may be
a swivel joining the grip 507 to the handle portion 500a; as a
non-limiting example, the swivel may have a first half fixed to the
grip 507 and a second half fixed to the handle portion 500a, with
the first half and second half connected together so that they
rotate with respect to one another. The neck portion 605 may have a
limited range of motion. The elastic portion may limit the range of
motion; for instance, the recoil force of the elastic portion may
be sufficiently strong at the limit of the range of motion to
prevent further rotation impelled by a typical amount of force
exerted by a user holding the grip. The elastic portion may reach
the limits of its elastically deformable range and resist further
deformation at the limit of the range of motion. In other
embodiments, the neck portion 605 includes one or more structural
elements that limit the range of rotation of the neck portion 605.
For instance, at least one first structural element fixed to the
grip 507 may engage at least one second structural element fixed to
the handle portion 500a at each extreme of the range of motion. In
some embodiments, the range of motion permits the grip 507 to
rotate at most ninety degrees (.pi./2 radians) in either direction
of rotation; in other words, the range of motion may permit the
grip 507 to rotate a total of 180 degrees (n radians), between a
first point 90 degrees (.pi./2 radians) in one direction of
rotation from the elastically neutral point, and a second point 90
degrees (.pi./2 radians) in the other direction of rotation from
the elastically neutral point.
[0081] As illustrated in FIGS. 5B and 6, the grip 507 may have any
shape conducive to being held easily in the hand of a user. In some
embodiments, the grip 507 has a top 507a, a bottom 507b coupled to
the at least one handle rod (e.g., the first handle rod 501 and, if
present, the second handle rod 504 and any other additional handle
rods), a front 507c, a back 507d, and two sides 507e. The grip 507
may take any shape conducive to use as a grip. In some embodiments,
the grip 507 takes the form of a ring; in other words, the grip 507
has a transverse opening 507f, which is defined as an opening
passing from the front 507c of the grip to the back 507d of the
grip 507, so that a user's hand may be inserted through the
transverse opening between the sides 507e of the grip 507 to take
hold of the grip 507. For instance, where the grip 507 is a toroid,
the transverse opening may be the hole through the toroid. Where
the grip 507 is a ring, the grip 507 may take the form of any ring
having a transverse opening as described above. The grip 507 may
be, for example, a toroidal ring, a square ring, a triangular ring,
or a D-ring. The exterior perimeter of a cross-section of the grip
507 taken halfway between the front and the back and parallel to
the plane of the front may be a regular or irregular polygon. The
exterior perimeter may contain one or more curved portions; for
instance, the grip 507 may have the form of a polygon with rounded
corners, or may have a semicircular portion combined with a linear
or polygonal portion. Where the grip 507 has a transverse opening
507f through the grip 507, the cross-section may have an internal
perimeter bordering the opening 507f. The internal perimeter may be
any shape useable for the exterior perimeter; for instance, the
cross-section may have a substantially square external perimeter,
and a substantially square internal perimeter. The cross-section
may have a substantially triangular external perimeter and a
substantially triangular internal perimeter. The internal perimeter
may be a different shape from the external perimeter.
[0082] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 5C, the grip 507
has an interior hollow portion 507g; for instance, where the grip
507 is a toroid, the grip 507 may be a tubular toroid similar to
the inner tube of an automobile tire with an interior or lumen 507g
that describes a toroid of air. In some embodiments, an object is
inside the grip when it is within the interior hollow portion 507g
of the grip 507, rather than in the hole 507f through the grip. An
object inside the grip 507 is thus enclosed by the outer surface of
the grip 507, while objects in the hole 507f are outside of the
grip. Thus, for instance, a motion transfer ring 808 as described
below in reference to FIGS. 8C-8E is inside the grip 507 if the
motion transfer ring 808 is within the interior hollow portion 507g
of the grip. In other words, the grip 507 may have an exterior
surface 507h, and the interior space 507g of the grip may be a
space substantially all of which is enclosed by the exterior
surface 507h; an object may be inside the grip if it is in a space
substantially all of which is enclosed by the exterior surface
507h.
[0083] In some embodiments, the grip 507 is substantially toroidal.
The substantially toroidal grip 507 may be circular or elliptical.
In embodiments in which the grip 507 is substantially toroidal, the
bar 602 may be in the form of an arc, allowing it to conform to the
shape of the toroidal grip 507.
[0084] In some embodiments using a swivel 600 or neck portion 605,
the grip 507 may have a track 603 on its exterior surface, in which
the swivel 600 or neck portion 605 is slidably engaged; the swivel
600 or neck portion 605 may be slidably attached to the track 603,
permitting the grip 507 to be rotated about a second axis, such as
an axis orthogonal to the annular cross-section of the handle,
about which the handle rotates in the direction indicated by the
directional arrow 604 presented in FIG. 6. For instance, in some
embodiments in which the grip 507 is substantially toroidal, the
grip 507 contains a track 603 describing a substantial circle on
the grip 507. In some embodiments, having one or two axes of
rotation about which the grip 507 can freely rotate allows the user
to hold the grip 507 more naturally, with an ergonomic wrist
angle.
[0085] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 7A-7F, where the at
least one handle rod includes a first handle rod 501 and a second
handle rod 504, the extension handle 500 includes at least one
pocket 700 between the first handle rod 501 and the second handle
rod 504. The at least one pocket 700 may have one or more flaps 701
that may be closed to secure the contents of the pocket 700 or
opened to access the contents of the pocket 700. The one or more
flaps 701 may be secured in their closed position by one or more
fasteners (not shown), such as a hook-and-loop fastener, a zipper,
a button, a snap, Velcro.RTM., or any other type of fastener or
combination of fasteners suitable to secure the contents of the
pocket 700 when the one or more flaps 701 are closed.
[0086] In some embodiments, the extension handle 500 includes
fold-out tray 702. The fold-out tray 702 may include at least one
rigid panel, main panel 703 having a distal end 704, a proximal end
705, and a work surface 702a. In some embodiments, the fold-out
tray 702 includes a connector 706 that enables the fold-out tray
702 to be slidably attached to the handle portion 500a. In other
embodiments, the connector 706 is separate from the fold-out tray
702. The connector may be any connector that allows the fold-out
tray 702 to be slidably attached to the handle portion 500a.
Suitable connectors include, but are not limited to, hinges and
ball joints. In some embodiments, the connector 706 attaches the
proximal end 705 of the main panel 703 to the handle portion 500a
(e.g., to the first handle rod 501 or, in embodiments having a
first handle rod 501 and a second handle rod 504, to a rod or other
rigid member (not shown) connected to one or both of the first
handle rod 501 to a second handle rod 504). The connector 706 may
permit the fold-out tray 702 to be rotated between a first position
in which the work surface 702a of the fold-out tray 702 is
substantially parallel to the first handle rod 501 and a second
position in which the work surface 702a of the fold-out tray 702 is
substantially perpendicular to the first handle rod 501, with the
distal end 704 projecting away from the first handle rod 501.
[0087] In some embodiments, such as the exemplary embodiment
illustrated in FIGS. 7G and 7H, the connector 706 is attached to at
least one mounting rod 710 of the handle portion 500a. Where the at
least one handle rod includes a first handle rod 501 and a second
handle rod 504, the at least one mounting rod 710 may be set
between the first handle rod 501 and the second handle rod 504. The
at least one mounting rod 710 may be oriented horizontally,
vertically, or in any other orientation convenient for attaching
the fold-out tray 702. The at least one mounting rod 710 may be the
at least one handle rod; for instance, the at least one rod may be
the first handle rod 501, the second handle rod 504, or both the
first and second handle rods 501 and 504, as described above in
reference to FIGS. 5A-5B. Alternatively, the at least one mounting
rod 710 may be entirely separate from the first and second handle
rods 501 and 504. In some embodiments, the at least one mounting
rod 710 is coupled to the first and second handle rods 501 and 504.
In other embodiments, the at least one mounting rod 710 is coupled
to an item of luggage but not to the first or second handle rods
501, 504. The connector 706 may be slidably mounted on the at least
one mounting rod 710; for instance, a hole through a part of the
connector 706 may fit snugly but slidably on the at least one
mounting rod 710. In some embodiments, the connector 706 is mounted
on the at least one mounting rod 710 using a sleeve fixed to the
connector 706, the sleeve fitting snugly around the at least one
mounting rod 710. In some embodiments, the weight of the fold-out
tray 702 itself, or the weight of an item placed on the fold-out
tray 702 in combination with the weight of the fold-out tray 702
itself, fixes the position of the connector 706 with respect to the
at least one mounting rod 710 through static friction. In some
embodiments, the connector 706 has a latch (not shown) causing the
connector 706 to remain in a fixed position along the length of the
at least one mounting rod 710; the latch may be any suitable latch
to engage a connector to a rod. In some embodiments, the latch may
be a spring-loaded bolt or pin mounted in the connector 706 that
engages a hole or slot in the at least one mounting rod 710, and
which the user must push or pull out of the hole or slot to enable
the connector 706 to slide again; the connector 706 may have an
object on its outer surface that the user may push or pull to
disengage the bolt or pin. In other embodiments, the at least one
mounting rod 710 has an obstruction, such as a flange, that arrests
the connector's movement when it has been slid to the proper height
for deploying the fold-out tray 702. The latch may engage
automatically and disengage automatically given sufficient force by
the user, as described below for a latch fixing the first handle
rod 501 in reference to FIGS. 8A-8E. The connector 706 may
similarly be attached to the at least one handle rod 501, first
handle rod 501, the second handle rod 504, or to both handle rods;
the connector 706 may be fixed to each or both of the handle rods,
or slidably attached to each or both of the handle rods.
[0088] In some embodiments, the position of the at least one rod
may be adjusted. In some such embodiments, the connector 706 is
affixed (e.g., permanently affixed) to the at least one mounting
rod 710, and the position of the at least one mounting rod 710 can
be adjusted to adjust the height of the fold-out tray 702 when it
is deployed (i.e., when the work surface 702a of the fold-out tray
is substantially perpendicular to the first handle rod 701). For
example, in some embodiments, the at least one mounting rod 710 is
oriented substantially horizontally (i.e., perpendicular to the
first handle rod 501 and the second handle rod 504) within the
extension handle 500a, with a first end coupled to the first handle
rod 501 and a second end coupled to the second handle rod 504, and
the positions of the first and second ends of the mounting rod 710
are adjustable along the lengths of the first handle rod 501 and
the second handle rod 504. It is to be understood that a plate or
other component suitable for attachment to the fold-out tray 702
may be included in the extension handle 500a in lieu of the
described at least one mounting rod 710.
[0089] In some embodiments, the rotation of the fold-out tray 702
into its deployed position causes the position of the fold-out tray
702 to become fixed with respect to the at least one mounting rod
710 on which the connector 706 is slidably engaged. In some
embodiments, the at least one mounting rod 710 has at least one
support feature 711 including an upward-facing surface. The
upward-facing surface of the at least one support feature 711 may
be a surface substantially perpendicular to the direction in which
the connector 706 travels on the at least one mounting rod 710; the
upward-facing surface may be curved or slanted, as well. The at
least one support feature 711 may be one or more notches, as
depicted in FIG. 7G, with the upward facing surface forming a floor
of each notch; the one or more notches may be a plurality of
notches arranged in a saw-tooth pattern. The at least one support
feature 711 may be one or more grooves, as illustrated in FIG. 7H;
the grooves may be substantially horizontal in orientation, such
that an object traveling down one of the grooves will travel in a
mostly horizontal direction. Each groove may be shaped to admit a
member that rotates into the groove upon the rotation of the
fold-out tray 702 about the connector for instance, each groove may
be substantially arcuate. The fold-out tray 702 may include a
member 712 that engages the at least one support feature 711 when
the fold-out tray 702 is rotated about its connector 706 into
deployed position; when the member 712 engages the at least one
support feature 711, the fold-out tray may become fixed with
respect to the at least one mounting rod 710. For example, the
member 712 may be a protrusion that rests on the upward-facing
surface when the pullout tray 702 is rotated into its deployed
position. As a non-limiting example, as shown in FIGS. 7G and 7H,
the member 712 may be included in or attached to the connector 706
so that when the fold-out tray 702 is rotated into the deployed
position, the member 712 engages the at least one support feature
711. The member 712 may be constructed of any materials or
combination of materials suitable for the construction of the at
least one handle rod 501. In some embodiments, when the member 712
is engaged with the at least one support feature 711, by resting on
the upward-facing surface, the connector 706 cannot slide with
respect to the at least one mounting rod 710; as a result, while
the fold-out tray 702 is deployed, it will not slide with respect
to the at least one mounting rod 710. In some embodiments, where
the at least one support feature 711 is a plurality of notches
arranged in a saw-tooth array, the member 712 and notches may be
formed so that, if the fold-out tray 702 is in its deployed
position, the user can move the connector 706 upward along the at
least one mounting rod 710, and the member 712 will travel up the
plurality of notches, consecutively engaging each notch so that the
fold-out tray 702 cannot travel down the at least one mounting rod
710 without being rotated out of the deployed position (e.g., by
the user lifting the distal end 704 of the main panel 703 to
disengage the member from the notches and then sliding the fold-out
tray 702 down the at least one mounting rod 710).
[0090] The connector 706 may be constructed to have a range of
motion substantially limited to 90 degrees; as a result, the
fold-out tray 702 may be held in its extended, horizontal (i.e.,
deployed) position by the lower limit of the range of motion of the
connector 706. In other embodiments, the fold-out tray 702 has a
brace or reinforcing rod (not shown) that further limits its
downward motion and helps to support the weight of objects set on
the tray.
[0091] In some embodiments, when the extension handle 500 includes
a pocket 700, the fold-out tray 702 may stow in the pocket when
rotated into the position substantially parallel to the at least
one handle rod. The stowing process may involve rotating or sliding
the fold-out tray 702 down to stow it completely within the pocket
700, and securing it in place by closing the pocket 700. In some
embodiments in which the fold-out tray 702 does not stow within a
pocket 700, the fold-out tray 702 may be maintained in its position
substantially parallel to the at least one handle rod by a latch or
strap, by one or more magnets, or by friction. For instance, in
embodiments including the first handle rod 501 and the second
handle rod 704, the fold-out tray 702 may be sized to fit snugly
between the first 501 and second 504 handle rods. In some
embodiments, the fold-out tray 702 is detachable from the handle
portion 500a. For instance, a portion of the connector 706 that is
slidably engaged with the at least one mounting rod 710 may be
removable from the at least one mounting rod 710. In some
embodiments, the fold-out tray 702 is detachable from the connector
706, and the connector 706 may or may not be detachable from the at
least one mounting rod 710.
[0092] Referring now to FIGS. 7C-7E, in some embodiments, the
fold-out tray 702 has one or more leaves 707, each of which has a
work surface. In some embodiments, the one or more leaves 707 are
joined to the main panel 703 by at least one connector 708 that
permits the leaves 707 to be deployed from a folded position
resting on the main panel 703 to deployed position adjacent to the
main panel 703 so that the work surface of each of the one or more
leaves 707 acts as an extension to the work surface 702a of the
main panel 703. In some embodiments, where there are two leaves 707
a first leaf may have a connector 708 having a larger offset than
the connector 708 of a second leaf, so that the first leaf can rest
on top of the second leaf when the second leaf and first leaf are
in the folded positions. The one or more leaves 707 may be rigid,
as defined above in reference to FIGS. 1A-1E. The at least one
connector 708 may support the one or more leaves 707 in their
deployed positions. In some embodiments, the fold-out tray 702
includes a lip 709 at the distal end 704 of the main panel 703. The
lip 709 may fold against the main panel 703, for instance, using a
connector (not shown), and may deploy to a substantially vertical
position to help secure an object 718 placed on the fold-out tray
702.
[0093] Some embodiments include features to make the tray
extendible. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 7I-7K, the
extension handle 500 includes a slide member 713 fixed to the
connector 706. The connector 706 may be attached to the proximal
end 705 of the main panel 703 by slidably engaging the main panel
703 with the slide member 713. The slide member 713 may have a
distal end 713a (shown in FIGS. 7J and 7K) and a proximal end 713b
coupled to the connector 706. In some embodiments, the slide member
713 is a panel. The slide member 713 may be inserted in the main
panel 703. The slide member 713 may be placed in contact with the
underside of the main panel 703. For instance, as illustrated in
FIGS. 7J-7K, the main panel 703 may have one or more downward
projections 714 having grooves 715 that slidably engage the slide
member 713; as a non-limiting example, there may be two downward
projections 714 having grooves 715 that face each other and are
spaced to slidably admit two opposite edges of a panel-shaped slide
member 713, holding the slide member 713 against the underside of
the main panel 703 and constraining the main panel 703 to slide
along only one axis. The slide member 713 may additionally include
a stopper 716 that prevents the main panel 703 from detaching from
the slide member 713. The main panel 703 may have a stopper
contacting member 717 that contacts the stopper 716 to prevent the
main panel 703 from detaching from the slide member 713; as a
non-limiting example, the stopper 716 may be located at the distal
end 713a of the slide member 713, and the stopper contacting member
717 may be located at the proximal end 705 of the main panel 703.
The stopper 716 may be on the underside 713c of the slide member
713. The stopper-contacting member 717 may be attached to the
underside of the main panel 703. In some embodiments, the slide
member 713 enables the length of the fold-out tray 702 to be
extended by sliding the main panel 703 away from the connector 706
on the slide member 713.
[0094] As illustrated in FIG. 5A, the extension handle 500 may be
attached to an item of luggage 508. The item of luggage 508 may be
a receptacle used to transport articles during travel. For example,
the luggage 508 may be a suitcase, a wheeled suitcase, an attache
case, a duffel bag, a backpack, a bag (e.g., a canvas or laundry
bag), a briefcase, an item of wheeled luggage, or any other
receptacle or platform for moving items about. Any material or
combination or materials used to make an item of luggage may be
used to make the item of luggage 508, including natural and
synthetic textiles, any rigid materials such as metals, rigid
polymers such as plastic, wood, ceramic, fiberglass, or other rigid
composite materials, and any flexible or semi-flexible sheets of
natural or synthetic polymers. In some embodiments, the luggage
item 508 is a collapsible suitcase 100 as described above in
reference to FIGS. 1A-4D. As another example, the suitcase 100 may
incorporate the extensible handle system 500, and be wholly or
partially collapsible or extensible using a different structure
than the collapsible structure described above in reference to
FIGS. 1A-4D.
[0095] In some embodiments, the extension handle 500 is
retractable. Where the at least one handle rod is part of a set of
mutually sliding components as described above in reference to
FIGS. 5A-5B, the extension handle 500 may be retractable by sliding
the components relative to each other so that the at least one
handle rod reduces in length. For instance, where the first handle
rod 501 and second handle rod 504 are made of telescoping sections,
the extension handle 500 may be retracted by sliding the
telescoping sections so that they nest within one another. In some
embodiments, the extension handle 500 is retracted by sliding the
handle with respect to the luggage 508; for instance, the at least
one handle rod may each be slidably engaged on a track on the
outside of the luggage 508. In some embodiments, the extension
handle 500 is slidably engaged inside of the luggage 508, for
example, in a chamber of the luggage 508. The at least one handle
rod 501 may be slidably engaged (e.g., on a track) in at least one
chamber of the luggage 508, so that a user can slide the at least
one handle rod between a retracted position in which substantially
all of the at least one handle rod is within the at least one
chamber, and an extended position in which substantially all of the
at least one handle rod except for the distal end of the at least
one handle rod is outside of the at least one chamber. The at least
one chamber may be incorporated in the luggage 508. For example,
the at least one chamber may be formed within the luggage 508. The
at least one chamber may be separately formed and attached to the
luggage 508 using fasteners or other means. In some embodiments,
the extension handle 500 is slidably engaged in a single chamber as
described in further detail below in connection with FIGS.
9A-9D.
[0096] Referring now to FIGS. 8A-8E, in embodiments in which the
extension handle is retractable by slidable engagement with the
luggage 508, at least one engagement latch may fix the at least one
handle rod in its extended position. For instance, the at least one
engagement latch may include a first engagement latch 801 that
fixes the proximal end 502 of the first handle rod 501 relative to
the luggage 508 when the first handle rod 501 is in the extended
position. Where the at least one handle rod includes a first handle
rod 501 and a second handle rod 504, the at least one engagement
latch may include a first engagement latch 801 that fixes the
proximal end 502 of the first handle rod 501 relative to the
luggage 508 when the first handle rod 501 is in the extended
position and a second engagement latch 801 (not shown) that fixes
the proximal end 505 of the second handle rod 504 relative to the
luggage 508 when the second handle rod 504 is in the extended
position. As illustrated in FIGS. 8A-8B, the engagement latch 801
may include a pin 801a in a chamber 801b in the first handle rod
501, or in a surface past which the first handle rod 501 slides,
which is urged out of its chamber 801b by a spring 801c or similar
biasing means, so that when a corresponding chamber 801d in a
structure 802 past which the first handle rod 501 slides moves
opposite the chamber 801b containing the pin 801a, the pin 801a
will enter the corresponding chamber 801d. The pin 801a may be
rounded at the end that enters the corresponding chamber 801d, so
that a user can push the pin 801a back into its chamber 801b
against the bias of the biasing means 801c using the corresponding
chamber 801d, for instance by pushing the at least one handle rod
back into a retracted position. There may be several corresponding
chambers 801d, or alternatively, several pins 801a at various
positions along the at least one handle rod or along a surface past
which the at least one handle rod slides, so that the at least one
handle rod can be secured at various degrees of extension or
retraction. Where the at least one handle rod includes first handle
rod 501 and a second handle rod 504, the same engagement latch 801
may secure both the first handle rod 501 and the second handle rod
504 relative to the luggage item 508, or multiple engagement
latches 801 may be used to secure the first handle rod 501 and the
second handle rod 504. Likewise, one or more engagement latches may
engage one component of the at least one handle rod with another
component of the at least one handle rod; for example, where the at
least one handle rod is made up of telescoping sections, the one or
more engagement latches may fix two sections together so they are
not mutually slidable until the one or more engagement latches have
been disengaged.
[0097] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 8C-8E, the one
or more engagement latches 801 are disengaged by the action of at
least one actuator 803. The at least one actuator 803 may be in the
handle portion 500a of the extension handle 500. The at least one
actuator 803 may move in a direction 803a that is substantially
orthogonal to the direction of motion 801a of the one ore more
engagement latches 801. The at least one actuator 803 may be
physically coupled to the one or more engagement latches 801 so
that when the at least one actuator moves, it causes the one or
more engagement latches 801 to retract, disengaging the one or more
engagement latches 801. Persons skilled in the art will be aware of
many ways to physically couple two members whereby a substantially
linear motion in a first direction 803a by at least one actuator
803 may be converted to a substantially linear motion in a
substantially orthogonal second direction 801e by a second member
801. As a non-limiting example, illustrated in FIG. 8E, a face 804
of an actuator 803 that forms an acute angle with the direction of
motion 803a of the actuator 803 may be forced past a surface 805 of
an engagement latch 801 that is substantially orthogonal to the
direction of motion 801e of the engagement latch 801, forcing the
engagement latch 801 to move in the direction of motion 801a. A
biasing means 801c, such as a spring, may urge the engagement latch
801 in the opposite direction and into its engaged position when
the actuator 803 is not being forced in the direction of motion
803a.
[0098] The at least one actuator 803 may be constructed of any
material or combination of materials suitable for the construction
of the at least one handle rod 501; for instance, the at least one
actuator 803 may be constructed of metal. The at least one actuator
803 may be constructed in any shape conducive for its use in
transferring linear motion to a latch 801. For instance, part of
the at least one actuator 803 may be a rod that runs in the
direction of motion 803a of the actuator from near the grip 507 to
the at least one latch 801. An actuator 803 may include a rod 803b
slidably contained inside of the first handle rod, so that the rod
803b can slide down within the first handle rod 501 when the
actuator 803 moves in its direction of motion 803a; as the at least
one latch 801 may be set partially inside of the first handle rod
501, the physical coupling between the rod 803b set within the
first handle rod 501 and the at least one latch 801 may also be
inside of the first rod 501. Similarly, where the handle portion
500a includes a first handle rod 501 and a second handle rod 504,
the at least one actuator 803 may include a rod 803b set inside the
first handle rod 501 as described above, and the at least one
actuator 803 may include a rod 803c that is set inside of the
second handle rod 504; the rod 803c may couple with a latch 801
that is partially set inside of the second handle rod 504. In some
embodiments, the at least one actuator 803 includes a cross-bar
803d joining the first rod 803b to the second rod 803c; the
cross-bar 803d may be located at the end of the handle portion 500a
near to the grip 507.
[0099] In some embodiments, the at least one actuator 803 is pushed
in its direction of motion 803a when a button 806 physically
coupled to the at least one actuator 803 is depressed by a user.
The button 806 may have one or more biasing means 807 urging it
into a non-depressed state when it is not being depressed by a
user; as a non-limiting example, the one or more biasing means 807
may be one or more springs.
[0100] The button 806 may be coupled to the at least one actuator
803 by a motion transfer ring 808 that contacts the at least one
actuator 803. The motion transfer ring 808 may contact the at least
one actuator 803 by way of a motion transfer rod 809 that passes
through an opening that connects the interior space inside the grip
507 to an interior space inside the handle portion 500a. The motion
transfer rod may contact the at least one actuator 803. In some
embodiments, the motion transfer rod is connected to the at least
one actuator 803 by a swivel. In other embodiments, the end of the
motion transfer rod 809 rests against the at least one actuator
803. As a non-limiting example, the at least one actuator 803 may
have a depression in which the end of the motion transfer rod 809
rests, so that the motion transfer rod 809 may be rotated with
respect to the at least one actuator 803 but does not easily slip
off of the at least one actuator 803. The motion transfer rod may
be connected to the motion transfer ring 808 by a swivel. The
motion transfer rod may rest against the motion transfer ring 808.
In some embodiments, the motion transfer rod can swivel with
respect to the motion transfer ring 808 and is fixed to the at
least one actuator 803. In other embodiments, the motion transfer
rod 809 can swivel with respect to the at least one actuator 803
and is fixed to the motion transfer ring 808. Where the grip 507 is
joined to the distal end of the at least one handle rod by a swivel
600, the opening may pass through the swivel 600; as a result, the
grip 507 may be able to swivel together with the motion transfer
ring 808 with respect to the handle portion 500a and the at least
one actuator 803. Where the grip 507 is joined to the distal end of
the at least one handle rod by a neck portion 605, the opening may
pass through the neck portion 605. As a result, the grip 507 and
motion transfer ring 808 may be able to rotate as far as permitted
by the range of motion of the neck portion 605.
[0101] The motion transfer ring 808 may be set inside the grip 507;
in other words, the motion transfer ring 808 may be inside the
interior space 507g of the grip 507. The motion transfer ring 808
may have a shape that complements the shape of the grip 507. For
instance, where the grip 507 is ring-shaped, the motion transfer
ring 808 may form a ring corresponding to the shape of the grip
507, and set inside an interior hollow portion of the grip 507. As
a non-limiting example, where the grip 507 forms a toroidal ring,
the motion transfer ring 808 may have a substantially circular
form, and be inside of the grip 507. Likewise, where the grip 507
is a D-ring, the motion transfer ring 808 may be a D-ring inside of
the grip 507, and where the grip 507 is a square ring, the motion
transfer ring 808 may be a square ring inside of the grip 507. As a
result, the motion transfer ring 808 may be free to move in the
direction of motion 803a of the at least one actuator 803 when the
button 806 is depressed, while remaining inside of the grip 507,
causing the actuator 803 to move in its direction of motion 803a.
As a result, the user may not see the motion transfer ring,
actuator, or latches at all, and the resulting user experience may
be that the handle 500 locks in place in one or more extended
positions, and becomes retractable when the button 806 is
depressed. The motion transfer ring 808 may be constructed of any
material or combination of materials suitable for the construction
of the at least one actuator 803; for instance, the motion transfer
ring may be constructed of metal. In some embodiments, the
extension handle 500 includes a rotation lock (not shown) that
prevents the grip 507 from rotating relative to the handle portion
500a when the rotation lock is engaged, and permits the grip 507 to
rotate relative to the handle portion when the rotation lock is
disengaged.
[0102] As illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9D, the extension handle 500 may
include a chamber 901 from which the extension handle 500 extends
and into which the extension handle 500 retracts. The chamber 901
may be incorporated in the luggage 508 (i.e., within the luggage
508), or it may be part of or formed by an external component
attached to the exterior of the luggage 508 using fasteners such as
screws, rivets, hook and loop fasteners, straps with buckles, or
any other appropriate fastener, as would be appreciated by a person
having ordinary skill in the art. The chamber 901 may have a first
end 902. The first end 902 may be at any of the side, front, or
rear edges of the luggage. The chamber 901 may have a second end
903. The second end 903 may be opposite the first end 902; for
instance, if the first end 902 is located at one side of the
luggage 508, the second end 903 may be located at the opposite side
of the luggage 508. The chamber 901 may include a first side 904;
the first side 904 may be parallel to an edge of the luggage 508.
The chamber 901 may have a second side 905 parallel to and opposite
to the first side 904. The chamber 901 may have an opening 906 at
the first end 902. The chamber 901 may be closed at the first side
904, second side 905, and second end 903. In some embodiments,
where the at least one handle rod includes a first handle rod 501
and a second handle rod 504, the first handle rod 501 and second
handle rod 504 are inserted within the chamber 901 along the first
side 904 and the second side 905 of the chamber 901. The at least
one handle rod may be free to slide out of the opening 906 into an
extended position, as shown in FIG. 5A. When in the extended
position, the distal end 503 of the first handle rod 501 may extend
out of the chamber 901 and the proximal end 502 of the first handle
rod 501 may remain within the chamber 901.
[0103] The extension handle 500 may include at least one interior
rod; the at least one handle rod may have a slot that slidably
admits the at least one interior rod. In some embodiments, where
the at least on handle rod includes a first handle rod 501 and a
second handle rod 504, the at least one interior rod includes two
interior rods 912 inserted in the chamber 901 along the front 904
and back 905 sizes of the chamber 901. In some embodiments, each
handle rod 501, 504 has a slot 913 that slidably admits one of the
two interior rods 912. As a non-limiting example, there may be a
first interior rod inserted in the chamber 901 along the first side
904 of the chamber 901, the first handle rod 501 may contain a slot
that slidably admits the first interior rod, and a first engagement
latch may fix the first handle rod 501 to the first interior rod,
and there may be a second interior rod inserted in the chamber
along the second side 905 of the chamber, the second handle rod 504
may contain a slot that slidably admits the second interior rod,
and a second engagement latch may fix the second handle rod 504 to
the second interior rod. The at least one handle rod may be
restricted by the interior rods 912 so that the at least one handle
rod can only travel linearly by sliding along the rods 912. In some
embodiments, the at least one engagement latch 801 fixes the at
least one handle rods to the interior rods 912. Where there is at
least one pocket 700, the at least one pocket 700 may be capable of
sliding into and out of the chamber 901 with the at least one
handle rod; for instance, when the extension handle 500 includes
both the first handle rod 501 and the second handle rod 504, the at
least one pocket 700 may be confined to the space between the first
handle rod 501 and the second handle rod 504 when the pocket 700 is
closed.
[0104] As a non-limiting example, the extension handle 500 may
retract into a chamber 901 in the bottom panel 101 of the
collapsible suitcase 100. The first end 902 of the chamber 901 may
be located at one side edge of the bottom panel 101; the second end
903 may be located at the other side edge of the bottom panel 101.
Likewise, the first side 904 may be parallel to, and near to, an
edge of the bottom panel 101, such as the front edge of the bottom
panel 101. The second side 905 of the chamber 901 may be parallel
to and proximal to the rear edge of the bottom panel 101.
[0105] The extension handle 500 may be attached to the item of
luggage 508 in a non-retractable fashion. For instance, as shown in
FIG. 10A, the handle 500 may be fixed to the luggage 508; for
instance, the proximal end 502 of the first handle rod 501 may be
bolted, screwed, riveted, or otherwise fastened to the luggage 508.
A brace 1000 may attach the first handle rod 501 to the luggage,
for added stability. The fixed attachment may be detachable; for
instance, the extension handle 500 may be removably clamped or
screwed to the luggage 508. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG.
10B, the proximal end 502 of the first handle rod 501 is attached
to the item of luggage 508 by a connector 1001. The connector 1001
may be any attachment that allows the first handle rod 501 to
rotate relative to the luggage 508; the connector 1001 may allow
the handle 500 to be stowed in a position in which it is
substantially flat against the luggage 508. The connector 1001 may
be any kind of connector, including, but not limited to, a hinge
(e.g., a pin hinge, a living hinge), a ball joint, or a strip of
flexible material attached to both the extension handle 500 and the
luggage 508. A fastener 1002 may allow a user to engage the
extension handle 500 with the luggage 508 so that the extension
handle 500 remains in deployed position while in use. In another
embodiment, as shown in FIG. 10C, the proximal end 502 of the first
handle rod 501 is coupled to a wheel 1003, and the item of luggage,
which has a compartment for holding items, is attached to the
extension handle 500 between the distal end 503 of the first handle
rod 501 and the proximal end 502 of the first handle rod 501. For
instance, the extension handle 500 may be a "dolly" or similar
cart-like apparatus to which luggage 508 or other receptacles or
platforms for transporting items may be attached. The luggage 508
may be attached to the extension handle 500 using straps (not
shown), fasteners (not shown), or any other means for attaching one
object to another object.
[0106] FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating one embodiment of the
disclosed method 1100 for collapsing a collapsible suitcase. The
method 1100 includes providing a collapsible suitcase as describe
above in reference to FIGS. 1A-1E (1101). The method 1100 includes
rotating the front panel into folded position (1102). In some
embodiments, this is implemented as described above in reference to
FIG. 2A. Rotating the front panel 106 may include disengaging the
latch 128 as shown in FIG. 2A. The method 1100 includes rotating
each side panel into folded position (1103); in some embodiments
this is implemented as illustrated in FIG. 2B. The method 1100 may
further include folding a portion of the exterior covering 400 up
over the side panels, as depicted in FIG. 2B. The method 1100
includes rotating the rear panel into folded position (1104); in
some embodiments, this is implemented as depicted in FIG. 2C. Some
embodiments further include wrapping the lid 406 around the
suitcase 100 after the suitcase 100 has been collapsed; in some
embodiments, the lid 406 is secured to the second portion 400b of
the exterior covering 400 using the fastener 202.
[0107] It will be understood that the invention may be embodied in
other specific forms without departing from the spirit or central
characteristics thereof. The present examples and embodiments,
therefore, are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and
not restrictive, and the invention is not to be limited to the
details given herein.
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