U.S. patent application number 15/772330 was filed with the patent office on 2018-11-01 for suitcases.
This patent application is currently assigned to MAGMATIC LIMITED. The applicant listed for this patent is MAGMATIC LIMITED. Invention is credited to Joe ALLUM, Robert LAW.
Application Number | 20180310682 15/772330 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 55130445 |
Filed Date | 2018-11-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180310682 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
LAW; Robert ; et
al. |
November 1, 2018 |
SUITCASES
Abstract
A suitcase is described which has a novel construction that
allows for a light, yet spacious piece of luggage that is
sufficiently strong to act as an occasional seat. In one aspect, a
removable storage box is provided in an upper portion of the
suitcase, and in another aspect two pairs of wheels are provided in
a lower portion of the suitcase. An example of the suitcase
combines the storage box with the wheels arrangement.
Inventors: |
LAW; Robert; (BRISTOL,
GB) ; ALLUM; Joe; (BRISTOL, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
MAGMATIC LIMITED |
Bristol |
|
GB |
|
|
Assignee: |
MAGMATIC LIMITED
Bristol
GB
|
Family ID: |
55130445 |
Appl. No.: |
15/772330 |
Filed: |
October 19, 2016 |
PCT Filed: |
October 19, 2016 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/GB2016/053256 |
371 Date: |
April 30, 2018 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45C 5/03 20130101; A45C
13/02 20130101; A45C 2013/267 20130101; A45C 7/0045 20130101; A45C
2005/037 20130101; A45C 5/14 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45C 13/02 20060101
A45C013/02; A45C 5/03 20060101 A45C005/03; A45C 5/14 20060101
A45C005/14; A45C 7/00 20060101 A45C007/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 30, 2015 |
GB |
1519193.5 |
Claims
1. A suitcase comprising: a case body having: a lower portion
defining a lower face of the suitcase; an upper portion spaced
apart from the lower portion and defining an upper face of the
suitcase; first and second side portions which extend from
respective ends of the lower portion to respective ends of the
upper portion; a rear portion which extends from a rear edge of the
lower portion to a rear edge of the upper portion, and from a rear
edge of the first side to a rear edge of the second side, and which
provides a rear face of the suitcase; front portion which extends
from a front edge of the lower portion to a front edge of the upper
portion, and from a front edge of the first side to a front edge of
the second side, such that the lower and upper portions, the first
and second sides, and the front and rear portions define an inner
volume therein, the front portion defining an access aperture
therethrough, thereby providing access to the inner volume; and a
closure member mounted on the case body and having a first position
in which the closure member closes the access aperture, and a
second position in which the access aperture is open; and a storage
box that defines a storage volume therein, the storage box being
releasably located in the upper portion of the suitcase, and being
removable from the upper portion of the suitcase when the closure
member is in the first position, and retaining means for retaining
the storage box in the upper portion of the case body, the
retaining means including a resiliently biased member.
2. A suitcase as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage box
includes a storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid
portion having a closed configuration in which the storage volume
is closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open.
3. A suitcase as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage box
includes a storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid
portion having a closed configuration in which the storage volume
is closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open, and wherein the lid is rotatably attached to the storage box
body.
4. A suitcase as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage box
includes a storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid
portion having a closed configuration in which the storage volume
is closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open, and wherein the lid is adapted to seal against the storage
box body in the closed configuration, thereby substantially to
prevent ingress of water into the storage volume of the storage
box.
5. A suitcase as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage box
includes a storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid
portion having a closed configuration in which the storage volume
is closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open, and wherein the lid is adapted to seal against the storage
box body in the closed configuration, thereby substantially to
prevent ingress of water into the storage volume of the storage
box, and wherein the lid and storage box body provide releasable
engagement means operable to retain the lid in the closed
configuration.
6. A suitcase as claimed in claim 1, wherein the storage box
includes a storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid
portion having a closed configuration in which the storage volume
is closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open, and wherein the lid is adapted to seal against the storage
box body in the closed configuration, thereby substantially to
prevent ingress of water into the storage volume of the storage
box, and wherein the lid and storage box body provide releasable
engagement means operable to retain the lid in the closed
configuration, and wherein the engagement means are provided on an
outer surface of the storage box body and on the lid.
7. A suitcase as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lid of the storage
box is adapted to provide a seat surface for a user.
8. A suitcase as claimed in claim 7, wherein the lid of the storage
box is adapted to provide a seat surface for a user, and wherein
the lid includes strengthening features.
9. A suitcase as claimed in claim 8, wherein the lid of the storage
box is adapted to provide a seat surface for a user, and wherein
the lid includes strengthening features provided by a plurality of
spaced apart rib features that extend from an underside surface of
the lid into the storage volume when the lid is in the closed
configuration.
10. A suitcase as claimed in claim 1, further comprising locking
means for locking the storage box in the upper portion of the case
body.
11. A suitcase as claimed in claim 1, further comprising locking
means for locking the storage box in the upper portion of the case
body, wherein locking means includes a resiliently biased
member.
12. A suitcase comprising: a case body having: a lower portion
defining a lower face of the suitcase; an upper portion spaced
apart from the lower portion and defining an upper face of the
suitcase; first and second side portions which extend from
respective ends of the lower portion to respective ends of the
upper portion; a rear portion which extends from a rear edge of the
lower portion to a rear edge of the upper portion, and from a rear
edge of the first side to a rear edge of the second side, and which
provides a rear face of the suitcase; front portion which extends
from a front edge of the lower portion to a front edge of the upper
portion, and from a front edge of the first side to a front edge of
the second side, such that the lower and upper portions, the first
and second sides, and the front and rear portions define an inner
volume therein, the front portion defining an access aperture
therethrough, thereby providing access to the inner volume; and a
closure member mounted on the case body and having a first position
in which the closure member closes the access aperture, and a
second position in which the access aperture is open; and a pair of
trolley wheels attached to the lower portion of the case body for
rotation about a first axis which extends substantially parallel to
the rear face of the suitcase; and a pair of inline wheels attached
to the lower portion of the case body for rotation about respective
second and third axes which are substantially parallel to one
another, and each of which extends substantially perpendicular to
the first axis, wherein the trolley wheels extend outwardly from
the rear face of the suitcase, and the in line wheels extends
outwardly from the lower face of the suitcase, wherein the second
and third axes are spaced apart along the lower portion in a
direction parallel to the first axis, and wherein the inline wheels
are located substantially centrally on the lower portion.
13. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, wherein the suitcase has a
first position in which the trolley wheels engage a surface, and in
which the inline wheels are spaced from that surface, a second
position in which the inline wheels engage a surface, and in which
the trolley wheels are spaced apart from that surface.
14. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, wherein the suitcase has a
first position in which the trolley wheels engage a surface, and in
which the inline wheels are spaced from that surface, a second
position in which the inline wheels engage a surface, and in which
the trolley wheels are spaced apart from that surface, and wherein
the suitcase has an intermediate position in which neither the
trolley wheels nor the inline wheels engage a surface.
15. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, wherein the suitcase has a
first position in which the trolley wheels engage a surface, and in
which the inline wheels are spaced from that surface, a second
position in which the inline wheels engage a surface, and in which
the trolley wheels are spaced apart from that surface, and wherein
the suitcase has an intermediate position in which the trolley
wheels and the inline wheels engage a surface.
16. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, further comprising: a
storage box that defines a storage volume therein, the storage box
being releasably located in the upper portion of the suitcase, and
being removable from the upper portion of the suitcase when the
closure member is in the first position.
17. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, further comprising a storage
box that defines a storage volume therein, the storage box being
releasably located in the upper portion of the suitcase, and being
removable from the upper portion of the suitcase when the closure
member is in the first position, wherein the storage box includes a
storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid portion
having a closed configuration in which the storage volume is
closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open.
18. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, further comprising a storage
box that defines a storage volume therein, the storage box being
releasably located in the upper portion of the suitcase, and being
removable from the upper portion of the suitcase when the closure
member is in the first position, wherein the storage box includes a
storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid portion
having a closed configuration in which the storage volume is
closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open, wherein the lid is rotatably attached to the storage box
body.
19. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, further comprising a storage
box that defines a storage volume therein, the storage box being
releasably located in the upper portion of the suitcase, and being
removable from the upper portion of the suitcase when the closure
member is in the first position, wherein the storage box includes a
storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid portion
having a closed configuration in which the storage volume is
closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open, wherein the lid is rotatably attached to the storage box
body, wherein the lid is adapted to seal against the storage box
body in the closed configuration, thereby substantially to prevent
ingress of water into the storage volume of the storage box.
20. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, further comprising a storage
box that defines a storage volume therein, the storage box being
releasably located in the upper portion of the suitcase, and being
removable from the upper portion of the suitcase when the closure
member is in the first position, wherein the storage box includes a
storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid portion
having a closed configuration in which the storage volume is
closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open, wherein the lid of the storage box is adapted to provide a
seat surface for a user.
21. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, further comprising a storage
box that defines a storage volume therein, the storage box being
releasably located in the upper portion of the suitcase, and being
removable from the upper portion of the suitcase when the closure
member is in the first position, wherein the storage box includes a
storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid portion
having a closed configuration in which the storage volume is
closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open, the suitcase further comprising retaining means for retaining
the storage box in the upper portion of the case body.
22. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, further comprising a storage
box that defines a storage volume therein, the storage box being
releasably located in the upper portion of the suitcase, and being
removable from the upper portion of the suitcase when the closure
member is in the first position, wherein the storage box includes a
storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid portion
having a closed configuration in which the storage volume is
closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open, the suitcase further comprising retaining means for retaining
the storage box in the upper portion of the case body, wherein
retaining means includes a resiliently biased member.
23. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, further comprising a storage
box that defines a storage volume therein, the storage box being
releasably located in the upper portion of the suitcase, and being
removable from the upper portion of the suitcase when the closure
member is in the first position, wherein the storage box includes a
storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid portion
having a closed configuration in which the storage volume is
closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open, the suitcase further comprising locking means for locking the
storage box in the upper portion of the case body.
24. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, further comprising a storage
box that defines a storage volume therein, the storage box being
releasably located in the upper portion of the suitcase, and being
removable from the upper portion of the suitcase when the closure
member is in the first position, wherein the storage box includes a
storage box body defining the storage volume, and a lid portion
having a closed configuration in which the storage volume is
closed, and an open configuration in which the storage volume is
open, the suitcase further comprising locking means for locking the
storage box in the upper portion of the case body, wherein locking
means includes a resiliently biased member.
25. A suitcase as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lower portion is
integrated with the side portions and/or front and/or rear
portions.
26. A suitcase as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lower portion is
removable from the side portions, and/or front and/or rear
portions.
27. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, wherein the lower portion is
integrated with the side portions and/or front and/or rear
portions.
28. A suitcase as claimed in claim 12, wherein the lower portion is
removable from the side portions, and/or front and/or rear
portions.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to suitcases.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Suitcases are well known and well used. Existing suitcases,
such as that shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 of the accompanying drawings,
typically comprise two thin shell body portions 2, 3 that are held
together by a releasable closure device, such as a zip, located
along respective edge regions 5, 7 of the body portions 2, 3. The
two shell body portions 2, 3 are also attached to one another by a
hinge 6, which allows the portions to be opened. The body portions
2, 3 each define a hollow volume, which forms part of the inner
volume of the suitcase 1. Such suitcases may include additional
inner components that divide up the inner volume. In order to
access the inner volume of the suitcase 1, the closure device is
opened, and the body portions 2, 3 moved apart from one another by
rotation about the hinge 6. When the suitcase 1 is in the open
position, the thin shell nature of the body portions 2 and 3 means
that the structural integrity of the suitcase is lost.
[0003] Other existing designs of suitcase have a single body
portion that defines a hollow inner volume. A planar door portion
is then provided to allow access to the inner volume of the
suitcase. However, such designs have similar drawback to the ones
mentioned above.
[0004] Many suitcases are provided with a pair of wheels that
extends from a lower edge region of the body of the suitcase, in
order to allow a user to cant over the suitcase and pull the
suitcase along a ground surface on the wheels. Some suitcases are
provided with four wheels which project from a lower surface of the
suitcase, and which allow the suitcase to be moved around in an
upright position. These wheels are mounted in units for rotation
about the lower surface, such that the wheels themselves are able
to roll in any direction for the assistance of the user.
[0005] As discussed, such existing suitcases do have drawbacks. For
example, the thin shell construction renders the suitcase lacking
in structural integrity. In order to overcome this problem, known
suitcases make use of thicker and, therefore, heavier material. The
wheels mounted on the lower surface of the suitcase are unwieldy,
do not integrate well into the suitcase, and contribute to an
increased overall size of the suitcase, without increasing the
available storage space. Furthermore, existing designs of suitcase
do not enable access to the inner volume without the need to open
the suitcase fully. Some existing suitcases provide outer pockets,
and some provide the ability to attach an additional pouch to the
outside of the suitcase. However, such designs are not ideal, since
the external pockets are not removable, and an additional storage
pouch adds to the outer shape of the suitcase.
[0006] It is, therefore, desirable to provide a suitcase that
improves on the existing designs and constructions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention there is
provided a suitcase comprising a case body having a lower portion
defining a lower face of the suitcase; an upper portion spaced
apart from the lower portion and defining an upper face of the
suitcase; first and second side portions which extend from
respective ends of the lower portion to respective ends of the
upper portion; a rear portion which extends from a rear edge of the
lower portion to a rear edge of the upper portion, and from a rear
edge of the first side to a rear edge of the second side, and which
provides a rear face of the suitcase; front portion which extends
from a front edge of the lower portion to a front edge of the upper
portion, and from a front edge of the first side to a front edge of
the second side, such that the lower and upper portions, the first
and second sides, and the front and rear portions define an inner
volume therein, the front portion defining an access aperture
therethrough, thereby providing access to the inner volume; and a
closure member mounted on the case body and having a first position
in which the closure member closes the access aperture, and a
second position in which the access aperture is open; and a storage
box that defines a storage volume therein, the storage box being
releasably located in the upper portion of the suitcase, and being
removable from the upper portion of the suitcase when the closure
member is in the first position.
[0008] In one example, the storage box includes a storage box body
defining the storage volume, and a lid portion having a closed
configuration in which the storage volume is closed, and an open
configuration in which the storage volume is open. The lid may be
rotatably attached to the storage box body.
[0009] The lid may be adapted to seal against the storage box body
in the closed configuration, thereby substantially to prevent
ingress of water into the storage volume of the storage box. In one
example, the lid and storage box body provide releasable engagement
means operable to retain the lid in the closed configuration. The
engagement means are preferably provided on an outer surface of the
storage box body and on the lid.
[0010] The lid of the storage box may be adapted to provide a seat
surface for a user. In one example, the lid includes strengthening
features, which may be provided by a plurality of spaced apart rib
features that extend from an underside surface of the lid into the
storage volume when the lid is in the closed configuration.
[0011] Retaining means for retaining the storage box in the upper
portion of the case body may be provided. Such retaining means may
include a resiliently biased member.
[0012] Locking means for locking the storage box in the upper
portion of the case body may be provided. Such locking means may
include a resiliently biased member.
[0013] According to another aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a suitcase comprising a case body having a lower
portion defining a lower face of the suitcase; an upper portion
spaced apart from the lower portion and defining an upper face of
the suitcase; first and second side portions which extend from
respective ends of the lower portion to respective ends of the
upper portion; a rear portion which extends from a rear edge of the
lower portion to a rear edge of the upper portion, and from a rear
edge of the first side to a rear edge of the second side, and which
provides a rear face of the suitcase; front portion which extends
from a front edge of the lower portion to a front edge of the upper
portion, and from a front edge of the first side to a front edge of
the second side, such that the lower and upper portions, the first
and second sides, and the front and rear portions define an inner
volume therein, the front portion defining an access aperture
therethrough, thereby providing access to the inner volume; and a
closure member mounted on the case body and having a first position
in which the closure member closes the access aperture, and a
second position in which the access aperture is open; and a pair of
trolley wheels attached to the lower portion of the case body for
rotation about a first axis which extends substantially parallel to
the rear face of the suitcase; and a pair of inline wheels attached
to the lower portion of the case body for rotation about respective
second and third axes each of which extends substantially
perpendicular to the first axis, wherein the trolley wheels extend
outwardly from the rear face of the suitcase, and the in line
wheels extends outwardly from the lower face of the suitcase.
[0014] In one example, the inline wheels are located substantially
centrally on the lower portion.
[0015] Such a suitcase preferably has a first position in which the
trolley wheels engage a surface, and in which the inline wheels are
spaced from that surface, and a second position in which the inline
wheels engage a surface, and in which the trolley wheels are spaced
apart from that surface. Such a suitcase may have an intermediate
position in which neither the trolley wheels nor the inline wheels
engage a surface, or may have an intermediate position in which the
trolley wheels and the inline wheels engage a surface.
[0016] The lower portion may be integrated with the side portions
and/or front and/or rear portions. Alternatively, the lower portion
may be removable from the side portions, and/or front and/or rear
portions.
[0017] According to another aspect of the present invention, there
is provided a suitcase that includes the storage box of the first
aspect, and the wheel arrangement of the second aspect.
[0018] A suitcase according to any of the above aspects of the
present invention may include first and second side portions that
include a side portion component comprising an elongate planar side
member which extends from the lower portion to the upper portion
and from the rear portion to the front portion; an elongate planar
surface member which extends substantially parallel to the side
member from the lower portion to the upper portion, and at least
partially between the rear and front portions; an elongate web
which extends between the side member and the surface member, at
least partially between the lower and upper portions.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a previously
considered suitcase;
[0020] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the suitcase
of FIG. 1;
[0021] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of a first version of
an embodiment of a first aspect of the present invention in a first
configuration;
[0022] FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of the embodiment of
FIG. 3 in a second configuration;
[0023] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view of the embodiment of
FIG. 3 in a third configuration;
[0024] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view of second version of
the embodiment of FIG. 3 in the first configuration;
[0025] FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of the embodiment of
FIG. 6 in a second configuration;
[0026] FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view of the embodiment of
FIG. 6 in a third configuration;
[0027] FIG. 9 is a schematic side view of an embodiment of a second
aspect of the present invention in a first configuration;
[0028] FIG. 10 is a schematic side view of the embodiment of FIG. 9
in a second configuration;
[0029] FIG. 11 is a schematic underside plan view of the embodiment
of FIG. 9;
[0030] FIG. 12 is a schematic rear perspective view of a lower part
of the embodiment of FIGS. 9 and 10;
[0031] FIG. 13 is a schematic front perspective view of a first
version of the embodiment of FIG. 9;
[0032] FIG. 14 is a schematic rear perspective view of the first
version of the embodiment of FIG. 9;
[0033] FIG. 15 is a schematic front perspective view of a second
version of the embodiment of FIG. 9;
[0034] FIG. 16 is a schematic rear perspective view of the second
version of the embodiment of FIG. 9; and
[0035] FIG. 17 illustrates an example construction of the
embodiments of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0036] FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 illustrate a first version of a suitcase 10
embodying a first aspect of the present invention in respective
configurations. The suitcase 10 comprises a case body 12 which
encloses an inner volume 13. The case body 12 has a lower portion
17, and an upper portion 19 which is spaced apart from the lower
portion 17. Substantially planar front, rear and first and second
side portions 30, 31, 32 and 33 extend from the lower portion 17 to
the upper portion 19 and define therein the inner volume 13 of the
suitcase 10. The front portion 30 defines an access aperture,
through which access to the inner volume 13 is possible.
[0037] The case body 12 is provided with a closure member 14 to a
front side of the case body. The closure member is rotatably
attached to one of the first and second side portions 32 and 33 and
is releasably engageable, via an engagement portion 15, with the
other of the side portions 33 and 32. The closure member 14 is
shown in a closed configuration in FIGS. 3 and 4, and in an open
configuration in FIG. 5. The arrangement of the closure member 14
allows the suitcase 10 to be opened whilst in an upright
position.
[0038] An extendable handle 16 is provided, and is extendable from
the rear portion 31 of the case body 12. In FIG. 3, the extendable
handle 6 is shown in a partially extended, deployed configuration.
In FIGS. 4 and 5, the handle 16 is shown in a stowed position.
[0039] A pair of trolley wheels 18 are mounted on the lower portion
17. The trolley wheels 18 are arranged for rotation about an axis
substantially parallel to the plane of the rear portion 31. The
wheels 18 enable the suitcase to be pulled along the ground by the
user, preferably using the handle 16.
[0040] A removable storage box 20 is provided in the upper portion
19 of the case body 12. The upper storage box 20 has a storage box
body 24 which defines a storage volume 21. The storage volume 21 is
closed by a lid 22, which is hinged to the storage box 20 using a
hinge member 23. The lid 22 is shown in a closed configuration in
FIGS. 3 and 4, and in an open configuration in FIG. 5.
[0041] Preferably, the lid 22 forms a substantially watertight seal
with the storage box body 24, so as to resist water ingress into
the storage volume 21 of the storage box body 24. In a preferred
example, the lid 22 and storage box body 24 are provided with
releasable engagement means for holding the lid in the closed
configuration. Preferably, the engagement means are provided on an
outer surface of the storage box body and a corresponding surface
of the lid 22, so that the substantially watertight seal is not
compromised by the engagement means.
[0042] In one example, the lid includes strengthening features,
which may be provided by a plurality of spaced apart rib features
that extend from an underside surface of the lid into the storage
volume when the lid is in the closed configuration.
[0043] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the storage box 20 is removable
from the upper portion 19 of the case body 12. The storage box body
24 is locatable in a corresponding receiving zone 25 define in the
upper portion 19 of the case body 12. FIG. 3 shows the storage box
in place in the receiving zone 25, in a closed configuration with
the lid 22 closed. FIG. 4 shows the storage box 20 removed from the
receiving zone 25, also in a closed configuration with the lid 22
closed. FIG. 5 shows the storage box 20 in place in the receiving
zone 25 in an open configuration with the lid 22 open. It will be
appreciated that the lid 22 may be opened when the storage box is
located in the receiving zone 25, or when removed from the
receiving zone 25.
[0044] The storage box 20 and upper portion 19 include a lock
mechanism 26, 27 and a retaining means 28, 29 which serve to lock
and retain the storage box 20 in the upper portion 19 of the case
body 12. The lock mechanism comprises a locking protrusion 27, and
a locking aperture 26 in the upper portion 19, through which the
locking protrusion extends when the storage box is in place in the
receiving zone 25. The locking protrusion 27 has a locked position
in which the protrusion extends out of the storage box body 24,
such that it is able to engage with a side of the locking aperture
26 to prevent the removal of the storage box 20 from the receiving
zone 25. The locking protrusion can be locked in the locked
position, and can be unlocked to allow the protrusion 27 to be
moved to a second position in which the protrusion does not engage
with the side of the locking aperture 26. The locking protrusion 27
is preferably resiliently biased with respect to the storage box
body 24, such that the locking protrusion 27 returns to the locking
position when released by the user.
[0045] The retaining means comprises a retaining protrusion 29
located on the storage box body 24, and a retaining aperture 28 in
the upper portion 19, through which the retaining protrusion 29
extends when the storage box is in place in the receiving zone 25.
The retaining protrusion 27 has a retaining position in which the
protrusion extends out of the storage box body 24, such that it is
able to engage with a side of the retaining aperture 28 to prevent
the removal of the storage box 20 from the receiving zone 25. The
retaining protrusion is movable by the user into the storage box
body 24 to a position in which the retaining protrusion 29 does not
engage with the side of the retaining aperture 28. The retaining
protrusion is preferably resiliently biased with respect to the
storage box body 24, such that the retaining protrusion 29 returns
to the retaining position when released by the user.
[0046] In order to remove the storage box 20 from the upper portion
19 of the case body 12, the user unlocks the locking protrusion 27,
and depresses the protrusion 27 into the storage box body 24. The
retaining protrusion 29 is also disengaged from the upper portion
19 of the case body. The storage box can then be removed from the
upper portion of the case body 12, as shown in FIG. 4.
[0047] The storage box 20 is integrated within the overall outline
of the suitcase 10. The storage box 20 is removable from the
suitcase 10 without the need to the open the suitcase 10, thereby
providing the user with increased utility. In addition, the upper
surface of the storage box 20 can provide a seating surface for the
user.
[0048] FIGS. 6 to 8 illustrate a second version of a suitcase 10
embodying a first aspect of the present invention in respective
configurations. As in FIGS. 3 to 5, the suitcase 10 comprises a
case body 12 which encloses an inner volume 13. The case body 12
has a lower portion 17, and an upper portion 19 which is spaced
apart from the lower portion 17. Substantially planar front, rear
and first and second side portions 30, 31, 32 and 33 extend from
the lower portion 17 to the upper portion 19 and define therein the
inner volume 13 of the suitcase 10. The front portion 30 defines an
access aperture, through which access to the inner volume 13 is
possible.
[0049] The case body 12 is provided with a closure member 14 to a
front side of the case body. The closure member is rotatably
attached to one of the first and second side portions 32 and 33 and
is releasably engageable, via an engagement portion 15, with the
other of the side portions 33 and 32. The closure member 14 is
shown in a closed configuration in FIGS. 3 and 4, and in an open
configuration in FIG. 5. The arrangement of the closure member 14
allows the suitcase 10 to be opened whilst in an upright
position.
[0050] An extendable handle 16 is provided, and is extendable from
the rear portion 31 of the case body 12. In FIG. 3, the extendable
handle 6 is shown in a partially extended, deployed configuration.
In FIGS. 4 and 5, the handle 16 is shown in a stowed position.
[0051] A pair of trolley wheels 18 are mounted on the lower portion
17. The trolley wheels 18 are arranged for rotation about an axis
substantially parallel to the plane of the rear portion 31. The
wheels 18 enable the suitcase to be pulled along the ground by the
user, preferably using the handle 16.
[0052] A removable storage box 20 is provided in the upper portion
19 of the case body 12. The upper storage box 20 has a storage box
body 24 which defines a storage volume 21. The storage volume 21 is
closed by a lid 22, which is hinged to the storage box 20 using a
hinge member 23. The lid 22 is shown in a closed configuration in
FIGS. 3 and 4, and in an open configuration in FIG. 5.
[0053] Preferably, the lid 22 forms a substantially watertight seal
with the storage box body 24, so as to resist water ingress into
the storage volume 21 of the storage box body 24.
[0054] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the storage box 20 is removable
from the upper portion 19 of the case body 12. The storage box body
24 is locatable in a corresponding receiving zone 25 define in the
upper portion 19 of the case body 12. FIG. 3 shows the storage box
in place in the receiving zone 25, in a closed configuration with
the lid 22 closed. FIG. 4 shows the storage box 20 removed from the
receiving zone 25, also in a closed configuration with the lid 22
closed. FIG. 5 shows the storage box 20 in place in the receiving
zone 25 in an open configuration with the lid 22 open. It will be
appreciated that the lid 22 may be opened when the storage box is
located in the receiving zone 25, or when removed from the
receiving zone 25.
[0055] In contrast with the first version, the second version of
the suitcase embodying the first aspect of the present invention
does not include locking or retaining means. In the second version,
the storage box 20 is simply removable from the upper portion 19,
and is retained in the upper portion 19 by a friction fit of the
storage box body 24 in the upper portion 19 of the case body
12.
[0056] As in the first version, the storage box 20 is integrated
within the overall outline of the suitcase. The storage box 20 is
removable from the suitcase 10 without the need to the open the
suitcase 10, thereby providing the user with increased utility. In
addition, the upper surface of the storage box 20 can provide a
seating surface for the user.
[0057] FIGS. 9 to 16 illustrate schematically a second suitcase 40
embodying another aspect of the present invention. FIG. 9 shows a
side view in a first configuration, FIG. 10 shows a side view in a
second configuration, and FIG. 11 shows an underside plan view of
the third suitcase 40. FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of a lower
portion 47 of the second suitcase 40. FIGS. 13 and 14 show front
and rear perspective view of a first version of the second suitcase
40 respectively, and FIGS. 15 and 16 show front and rear
perspective view of a second version of the second suitcase 40
respectively.
[0058] The second suitcase 40 comprises a case body 42, a closure
member 44, and an extendable handle 46. The case body 42 defines an
inner volume, accessible by way of an access aperture on a front
face of the case body 42. The closure member 44 serves to close the
aperture, and can be opened in which the aperture is open to allow
access to the inner volume of the suitcase. The extendable handle
46 is located in the case body 42 and is movable between a stowed
position (FIG. 9) and a deployed position (FIG. 10).
[0059] The case body 42 has a lower portion 47, and an upper
portion 49 which is spaced apart from the lower portion 47.
Substantially planar front, rear and first and second side portions
extend from the lower portion 47 to the upper portion 49 and define
therein the inner volume of the second suitcase 40.
[0060] A pair of trolley wheels 48 is mounted on a rear region of
the lower portion 47. The trolley wheels are arranged to rotate
about an axis which is substantially parallel to the plane of the
rear portion of the case body 42. The axis of rotation of the
trolley wheels 48 is substantially parallel to the centre line of
the second suitcase 40, the centre line 43 running from one side
portion to the other side portion of the case body 42.
[0061] A pair of inline wheels 49 is mounted on the lower portion
47. Each of the inline wheels 49 is mounted for rotation about an
axis which is substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation
of the trolley wheels 48. The inline wheels 49 are located
substantially centrally on the lower portion 47, substantially
along the centre line 43 that extends from the first side portion
to the second side portion.
[0062] In a first, upright, position (as shown in FIG. 9), the
inline wheels 49 engage the ground 41, and the trolley wheels 48
are clear of the ground 41. In this upright position, the user is
able to roll the suitcase 40 along the ground in a direction
parallel to the centre line 43 of the suitcase body. The trolley
wheels 38 do not interfere with this movement. The user may sit on
the upper surface 50 of the suitcase 40, and propel themselves
along the ground 41 on the inline wheels 49.
[0063] In a second, inclined, position (as shown in FIG. 10), the
trolley wheels 48 engage the ground 41, and the inline wheels 49
are clear of the ground 41. In this position, the user is able to
move the suitcase 40 along the ground 41, preferably using the
handle 46, in a conventional trolley manner.
[0064] In one example suitcase, there is an intermediate position
in which neither the trolley wheels 48 nor the inline wheels 49
engage the ground 41. In this intermediate position, all or part of
a lower rear edge region of the suitcase 40 engages the ground
41
[0065] In another example suitcase, there is an intermediate
position between the first and second positions in which both the
trolley wheels 48 and the inline wheels 49 engage the ground. In
this intermediate position, the suitcase 40 is prevented from
rolling across the ground 41, since the wheels 48 and 49 are
arranged to rotate in mutually exclusive substantially
perpendicular directions.
[0066] The lower portion 47 may be integral with the case body 42,
as shown in the example of FIGS. 9, 10, 13 and 14, or may be a
separate removable component 47' as shown in FIG. 12. A second
version of the second suitcase 40 using this separate lower portion
47' is shown in FIGS. 15 and 16. The lower portion 47' may be
removed to facilitate the removal, repair and/or replacement of the
wheels 48 and 49.
[0067] A preferred construction of the first and second suitcase 10
and 40 is illustrated in FIG. 17.
[0068] FIG. 17 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a suitcase,
and shows a preferred construction of the suitcase. The suitcase
comprises first and second body portions 60 and 62 that provide the
suitcase with the necessary strength and rigidity. As will be
described in more detail below, the first and second body portions
60 and 62 provide first and second side portions 64a and 64b each
of which has an I-beam construction, having a double wall structure
interconnected by one or more strengthening webs and ribs. The
first and second body portions 60 and 62 also provide lower and
upper portions which extend between respective lower end regions
and upper end regions of the first and second side portions 60 and
62. This construction also provides suitable locations for the
extendable handle 46 and for a hinge 61 of the closure member
44.
[0069] The first side portion 64a of the first body portion 60
comprises an elongate planar inner member 70. The inner member 70
extends from the upper portion to the lower portion of the first
body portion 60. An elongate planar outer member 73 extends
substantially parallel to the inner member 70, and is spaced apart
from that inner member 70. The outer member 73 extends from the
upper portion to the lower portion of the first body portion 60,
and forms the outer side surface of the case body 11.
[0070] In order to provide the required strength and rigidity for
the suitcase 10, the outer member 73 is attached to the inner
member 70 by a substantially planar elongate web 72 that extends
substantially perpendicularly to each of the inner member 70 and
outer surface member 73.
[0071] In one example, the web 72 extends along the complete length
of the side member 70 from the upper portion to the lower portion
of the first body portion 60. In other examples, the web 72 extends
partially along the inner member 70.
[0072] As shown, in a preferred example, a plurality of ribs 74 and
75 also join the inner member 70 to the outer member 73. Respective
pluralities of such ribs 74 and 75 extend to first and second sides
of the web 72, substantially perpendicularly to the web 72, and to
the inner and outer members 70 and 73. The ribs 74 and 75 are
spaced apart from one another along the length of the web 72. Any
appropriate number of ribs can be provided.
[0073] Similarly, to the first side portion 64a, the second side
portion 64b comprises an elongate planar inner member 76. The inner
member 76 extends from the upper portion to the lower portion of
the first body portion 60. An elongate planar outer member 79
extends substantially parallel to the inner member 76, and is
spaced apart from that inner member 76. The outer member 79 extends
from the upper portion to the lower portion of the first body
portion 60, and forms the outer side surface of the case body
11.
[0074] In order to provide the required strength and rigidity for
the suitcase 10, the outer member 79 is attached to the inner
member 76 by a substantially planar elongate web 78 that extends
substantially perpendicularly to each of the inner member 76 and
outer surface member 79. In one example, the web 78 extends along
the complete length of the side member 76 from the upper portion to
the lower portion of the first body portion 60. In other examples,
the web 78 extends partially along the inner member 76.
[0075] As shown, in a preferred example, a plurality of ribs 80 and
81 also join the inner member 76 to the outer member 79. Respective
pluralities of such ribs 80 and 81 extend to first and second sides
of the web 78, substantially perpendicularly to the web 78, and to
the inner and outer members 76 and 79. The ribs 80 and 81 are
spaced apart from one another along the length of the web 78. Any
appropriate number of ribs can be provided.
[0076] The first body portion 60 is preferably moulded as a single
component using a plastics material and an injection moulding
technique. The construction of the first body portion 60 is able to
provide a strong and rigid component for the suitcase.
[0077] The hinge 61 for the closure member 44 is provided adjacent
the inner and outer members 70 and 73 of the first side portion 64a
of the first body portion 60. The hinge 61 is an elongate member
which extends at least partially along the front edge corner region
of the first side member 64a. The hinge 61 thereby serves to close
at least partially an open front edge region of the second side
portion 64a of the first body portion 60.
[0078] The second side portion 64b of the first body portion 60
provides a location for the engagement portion 45 of the closure
member 44 to engage when the closure member 19a is in the closed
configuration. An appropriate catch or receiving/engagement means
may be provided to hold the engagement portion 45 in place, and
hence hold the closure member 19a in the closed configuration. The
engagement portion 45 of the closure member 44 also serves to close
at least partially an open front edge region of the second side
portion 64b of the first body portion 61.
[0079] The second body portion 62 is constructed in a similar
manner to the first body portion 60. The first side portion 64a of
the second body portion 62 comprises an elongate planar inner
member 90. The inner member 90 extends from the upper portion to
the lower portion of the first body portion 62. An elongate planar
outer member 97 extends substantially parallel to the inner member
90, and is spaced apart from that inner member 90. The outer member
97 extends from the upper portion to the lower portion of the
second body portion 62, and forms part of the outer side surface of
the case body 11.
[0080] In order to provide the required strength and rigidity for
the suitcase 10, the outer member 97 is attached to the inner
member 90 by a substantially planar elongate web 92 that extends
substantially perpendicularly to each of the inner member 90 and
outer member 93. In one example, the web 92 extends along the
complete length of the side member 90 from the upper portion to the
lower portion of the second body portion 62. In other examples, the
web 92 extends partially along the inner member 90.
[0081] As shown, in a preferred example, a plurality of ribs 94 and
95 also join the inner member 90 to the outer member 93. Respective
pluralities of such ribs 94 and 95 extend to first and second sides
of the web 92, substantially perpendicularly to the web 92, and to
the inner and outer members 90 and 93. The ribs 94 and 95 are
spaced apart from one another along the length of the web 92. Any
appropriate number of ribs can be provided.
[0082] Similarly, to the first side portion 64a, the second side
portion 64b comprises an elongate planar inner member 96. The inner
member 96 extends from the upper portion to the lower portion of
the second body portion 62. An elongate planar outer member 99
extends substantially parallel to the inner member 96, and is
spaced apart from that inner member 96. The outer member 99 extends
from the upper portion to the lower portion of the second body
portion 62, and forms part of the outer side surface of the case
body 11.
[0083] In order to provide the required strength and rigidity for
the suitcase 10, the outer member 99 is attached to the inner
member 96 by a substantially planar elongate web 98 that extends
substantially perpendicularly to each of the inner member 96 and
outer surface member 99. In one example, the web 98 extends along
the complete length of the side member 96 from the upper portion to
the lower portion of the second body portion 62. In other examples,
the web 98 extends partially along the inner member 96.
[0084] As shown, in a preferred example, a plurality of ribs 100
and 101 also join the inner member 96 to the outer member 99.
Respective pluralities of such ribs 100 and 101 extend to first and
second sides of the web 98, substantially perpendicularly to the
web 98, and to the inner and outer members 96 and 99. The ribs 100
and 101 are spaced apart from one another along the length of the
web 98. Any appropriate number of ribs can be provided.
[0085] The second body portion 62 is preferably moulded as a single
component using a plastics material and an injection moulding
technique. The construction of the second body portion 62 is able
to provide a strong and rigid component for the suitcase 10. The
second body portion 62 also includes the rear closure face 91.
[0086] The first and second side portions 64a and 64b of the second
body portion provide a fitting location for the extendable handle
46. A pair of cover portions 104 and 105 may be provided in order
to enclose the shafts of the extendable handle. Each cover portion
may be welded or bonded to the inner member and to the outer
member, so as to completely enclose an associated shaft of the
extendable handle 46. The shafts of the extendable handle 46 also
serve to cover open end regions of the first and second side
portions 64a and 64b to the rear of the suitcase.
[0087] In order to complete suitcase 10, the first and second body
portions 60 and 62 are bonded together, such that respective edges
of the inner members 70 and 76, outer members 73 and 79, and ribs
75 and 81 of the first body portion 60 are connected to
corresponding respective edges of the inner members 90 and 96,
outer members 93 and 99 and ribs 95 and 101 of the second body
portion 62 in bonding regions 107 and 108. The components may be
bonded using adhesive, an ultrasonic bonding method, or any other
suitable technique. The bonding regions 107 and 108 preferably
extend along the complete length of the first and second side
portions 64a and 64b, and along the length of the upper and lower
portions 18c and 18d.
[0088] In an alternative embodiment, the first body portion 60
provides the complete side portions 64a and 64b, and upper and
lower portions, with the second body portion providing only the
rear closure face 51. In another alternative embodiment, the first
body portion 60 provides the complete side portions 64a and 64b,
and upper and lower portions, and includes the rear closure face
19b. In another alternative embodiment, the second body portion
provides the complete side portions 64a and 64b, and upper and
lower portions.
* * * * *