CN211559021U - Bottom structure for luggage items - Google Patents

Abstract

A bottom structure for an item of luggage (100) is provided. The article of luggage may include: the system includes first and second half-cases (150, 152) hinged together at a separation line (160), a latch mechanism (210) releasably securing the first and second half-cases together, and a split bottom tray assembly (270) including first and second tray members (280, 282) supporting respective bottom panel portions (330, 332) of the first and second half-cases. A latch mechanism releasably secures the first and second case halves together in the closed configuration along at least a portion of the separation line. Each of the first and second basin members may include a connecting edge (340, 341). The connecting edges of the first and second basin members may be joined and locked together at a separation line when the item of luggage is in the closed configuration, forming a secure bottom structure.

Description

Bottom structure for luggage items

technical field

The present application relates generally to an item of luggage, and more particularly, to a bottom frame structure for an item of luggage.

Background technique

Some soft-sided luggage includes a frame structure or arrangement for supporting the luggage. However, conventional frame constructions often include a one-piece bottom tray assembly that may add unnecessary weight to the luggage case and may limit design options. Conventional frame constructions may also include frame structures that do not provide sufficient stiffness for the luggage. For example, certain frame structures may allow for undesired deformation of the luggage when a user is towing the luggage with the drag handle.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide an improved luggage case, and more particularly, an improved frame structure that addresses one or all of the above-mentioned problems and/or more generally provides an improvement over existing Improvement or replacement of arrangement.

Documents that may be relevant to the present disclosure include: EP2787857B1, US3447648A, US5197580A, US5522487A, US6550592B1, US7063212B2, US20140311844A1, US20150327640A1, US20160345694A1, US2017002A1 and US20170000.

Utility model content

The present application provides a bottom frame structure for an item of luggage. The frame structure may include a split bottom deck assembly having a first deck member and a second deck member selectively connected together. The edges of the first and second deck members may be interlocked together at or near the line of separation of the luggage case, such as in a tongue and groove fashion, to provide a generally vertical rigidity or firmness. Bottom tray. The interlocking edges of the first and second tray members may be held together using a locking mechanism. The closure mechanism may be a zipper closure mechanism and may be opened to allow access to the interior of the luggage case. The frame structure may further include one or more support assemblies spanning the trunk separation line. Each support assembly may include a first portion and a second portion that are selectively engageable at the separation line. The support assembly can be disengaged along the separation line to allow selective opening of the luggage case.

Embodiments of the present disclosure may include an item of luggage. The item of luggage may include a first and second box halves hingedly connected together at a separation line, a lock releasably securing the first and second box halves together A mechanism, and a split bottom deck assembly including first and second deck members supporting respective bottom panel portions of the first and second case halves. The first half box and the second half box may be defined by a front panel, a rear panel, a top panel, a bottom panel, a left panel and a right panel. The first and second case halves are movable between a closed configuration and an open configuration, wherein in the closed configuration the first and second case halves abut each other to define a substantially an enclosed space, and in the open configuration, the first half box pivots away from the second half box to allow a user to access the enclosed space. The locking mechanism may releasably secure the first and second half-cases in the closed configuration along at least a portion of the separation line. Each of the first and second land members may include a connecting edge. When the luggage item is in the closed configuration, the connecting edges of the first and second tray members may engage and lock together at the line of separation to form a strong bottom structure.

In some examples, each of the first and second landing members may include one or more sidewalls extending from the periphery of the substrate. The connecting edge of each carrier member may extend along at least a portion of the front edge of the base plate. The sidewalls of the first and second deck members may extend partially along the sides of the first and second box halves, respectively, such that the deck members comprise a generally U-shaped Cross section. The first and second land members may be interlocked together at the separation line along a first plane and a second plane, the second plane dividing at an angle from the first plane. separated. The one or more side walls of the first deck member may interlock with the one or more side walls of the second deck member. Each of the first and second landing members may include first and second side walls on opposite side edges of the base plate. The side walls of the first and second tray members may be interlocked together in a direction perpendicular to an interlocking direction of the base plate.

In some examples, the item of luggage may include a support assembly that limits deflection of the rear panel toward the front panel. When in the closed configuration, a support assembly can span the separation line and can allow the first and second half-case halves to move to an open configuration. The support assembly may include a first post extending from the first tray member adjacent the separation line. The support assembly may include a second post extending from the second tray member adjacent the separation line. The first and second posts abut each other along the separation line on the left or right panel when the luggage item is in the closed configuration. The support assembly may include a third post extending from the second tray member adjacent the rear panel. The support assembly may include a first bracket connected to and extending between a distal end portion of the first post and a portion of the first tray member adjacent the front panel. The support assembly may include a second bracket connected to and extending between the distal portion of the second post and the distal portion of the third post. The support assembly may include a third bracket connected to and extending between the distal end portion of the second post and the portion of the second tray member adjacent the rear panel. The item of luggage may include a first support assembly and a second support assembly. The first support assembly spans the separation line along the left panel. The second support assembly spans the separation line along the right panel.

In some instances, the first case half can be folded into the second case half when the locking mechanism is disengaged. The first tray member is foldable into and overlying the second tray member for folding the luggage item.

In some examples, the connecting edges of the first and second tray members may be interlocked together between the left and right panels along the entire width of the bottom of the item of luggage. In some examples, the connecting edges of the first and second land members may extend parallel to the line of separation. In some examples, the connecting edges of the first and second land members are interlocked by a tongue and groove structure. In some examples, the connecting edges of the first and second deck members may interlock along a centerline of the bottom deck assembly.

In some examples, the item of luggage may include a drag handle along the rear panel. The pull handle may include one or more tubes attached to the second tray member.

In some examples, the item of luggage may include side panel frames supporting the rear panel. The side panel frame may be attached to and extend from the bottom tray assembly. In another example, the side panel frame may comprise a plurality of pultrusions joined together.

In some examples, the item of luggage may include a fabric cover covering the first tray member and the second tray member. The fabric cover may cover the side panel frame.

In some examples, the item of luggage may include a pair of rotating wheel assemblies connected to the second tray member. The item of luggage may include a pair of rotating wheel assemblies connected to the first tray member. The item of luggage may include four rotating wheel assemblies connected to the bottom tray assembly, wherein two rotating wheel assemblies are attached to the first tray member and two rotating wheel assemblies are attached to the second tray. disc member. The rotating wheel assembly may be mounted on an outer corner of the bottom deck assembly remote from the interlocking junction between the first deck member and the second deck member.

Additional embodiments and features are set forth in part in the following description. These embodiments and features will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art after reviewing the specification, or may be learned by practice of the disclosure. A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and drawings which form a part of this disclosure. Those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that, in some instances, each of the various aspects and features of the present disclosure may be advantageously applied alone, or in other instances, each of the various aspects and features of the present disclosure Can be applied in combination with other aspects and features.

Description of drawings

The description will be more fully understood with reference to the following drawings. In these drawings, where the various components are not drawn to scale, the drawings are presented as various examples of the present disclosure and should not be construed as a full description of the scope of protection of the present disclosure, which is characterized by:

1 is an isometric view of an item of luggage in a closed configuration according to some examples of the present disclosure;

2 is an isometric view of the luggage item of FIG. 1 in an open configuration, according to some disclosed examples;

3 is a top front isometric view of the frame structure of the luggage item of FIG. 1 according to some examples of the present disclosure;

Figure 4 is a bottom rear isometric view of the frame structure of Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a top isometric view of the frame structure showing the first and second bearing plate members separated along the connection line;

Figure 6 is a partial side view of the frame structure of Figure 3;

7 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 in FIG. 3 showing the interlocking engagement between the first and second tray members of the frame structure according to some examples of the present disclosure;

8 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view taken along line 8-8 in FIG. 3 showing interlocking engagement along sidewall portions of the first and second tray members according to some examples of the present disclosure;

Fig. 9 is an isometric view of the luggage item of Fig. 1 in a collapsed configuration; and

10 is an isometric view of the luggage item of FIG. 1 in an additional folded configuration.

Detailed ways

According to the present disclosure, a frame structure is provided that is configured to support an outer fabric cover of an item of luggage. The frame structure includes a bottom deck assembly and at least one side panel extending from the bottom deck assembly. The bottom tray assembly may be a split bottom tray assembly including a first tray member and a second tray member selectively connected at a separation line of the luggage item. The edges of the first and second deck members may be interlocked together at or near the line of separation to provide a substantially vertical rigid bottom deck. The interlocking edges may be held together using a closure mechanism such as a zipper closure mechanism.

1 and 2 illustrate an exemplary item of luggage 100 according to some examples of the present disclosure. The item of luggage 100 includes a split luggage case 102 formed from a plurality of walls or panels (hereinafter referred to as "panels" for convenience, but not in a limiting sense) that define an interior for carrying user items therein Storage space 104. In one example, luggage case 102 may be formed from opposing front panel 110 , rear panel 112 , and a plurality of side panels extending between front panel 110 , rear panel 112 . For example, item of luggage 100 may include opposing top and bottom panels 120 and 122 and opposing left and right panels 124 and 126 extending between front panel 110 and rear panel 112 . Corner regions 132 may be defined by the intersection of any two or three adjacent panels. For example, a corner formed by the intersection of any three adjacent panels may be considered a "corner area". An edge formed by the intersection of any two adjacent panels may also be considered a "corner area".

The various panels may be constructed or arranged to provide the desired size and shape of the luggage case 102 . As shown in FIG. 1 , the various panels may be sized and shaped to provide a height H, width W, and depth D of the luggage case 102 . The height H of the luggage case 102 may be defined as the distance between the top panel 120 and the bottom panel 122 . The width W of the luggage case 102 may be defined as the distance between the left panel 124 and the right panel 126 . Similarly, the depth D of the luggage case 102 may be defined as the distance between the front panel 110 and the rear panel 112 . These panels may be sized and shaped such that the height of the luggage item 100 is greater than its width, and the width is greater than its depth, such as shown in at least FIG. 1 . Other sizes and shapes of luggage case 102 are envisioned, and the examples shown and described are for illustration purposes only.

Although the item of luggage 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is an upright swivel soft-sided case, it can also be a variety of types of luggage, including hard-sided swivel cases, hybrid swivel cases, bins, backpacks , duffel bags, etc. As shown, luggage item 100 includes a first half box 150 and a second half box 152 defined by separation line 160 . The dimensions of the first half box 150 and the second half box 152 may be similar to each other, or one of the two half boxes may be sized to include a larger or smaller interior space. For example, the first case half 150 may be sized to be smaller than the second case half 152, eg, to allow the first case half 150 to be selectively positioned within the second case half 152 for storage. The first box half 150 and the second box half 152 may be complementary parts of the luggage item 100 . For example, the first box half 150 may be the front box half, the left box half, the first luggage portion or section, or the lid of the luggage item 100 . In these examples, the second box half 152 may be the rear box half, the right box half, the second luggage portion or section, or the base of the luggage item 100 . As explained below, each half-box includes bottom frame structures that interlock together to form the bottom of the luggage case 102. Although the first half 150 and the second half 152 may be referred to as a cover and a base, respectively, in some examples, the first half 150 and the second half 152 do not form a belt box and Luggage with front flat cover.

The first box half 150 may be defined by one or more panels of the luggage case 102 . For example, the entire or part of the first half box may be defined by the front panel 110 . In some examples, first half 150 may be defined by front panel 110, and at least a portion of top panel 120, bottom panel 122, left panel 124, and/or right panel 126, such that first box half 150 includes side walls Section 170. Like the first box half 150 , the second box half 152 may be defined by one or more panels of the luggage case 102 . For example, the second half box 152 may be defined in whole or in part by the rear panel 112 . In some examples, the second half 152 may be defined by the rear panel 112, and at least a portion of the top panel 120, bottom panel 122, left panel 124, and/or right panel 126, such that the second half box 152 includes side walls Section 172. In these examples, sidewall portion 170 of first box half 150 may combine with sidewall portion 172 of second box half 152 to define the top panel 120 , bottom panel 122 , left panel 124 , and right panel of luggage case 102 126. Depending on the particular application, the depth of the first half box 150 may be greater than the depth of the second half box 152, and vice versa. In these examples, sidewall portion 170 of first box half 150 may define more or more of top panel 120 , bottom panel 122 , left panel 124 , and right panel 126 of luggage case 102 than second box half 152 less part. In some examples, the first half 150 and the second half 152 may be sized to be similar to each other such that the separation line 160 extends along a centerline between the front panel 110 and the rear panel 112 of the luggage case 102 . In alternative examples, the separation line 160 may extend closer to the front panel 110 or the rear panel 112 .

As shown, the first half-case 150 and the second half-case 152 may each include peripheral edges 180, 181 at the separation line 160, respectively. When the luggage item 100 is closed, the peripheral edges 180, 181 may abut each other or extend in close proximity to each other. In some examples, each of the first half box 150 and the second half box 152 may include trim along its respective peripheral edge 180 or 181 . These trim pieces may provide desired aesthetic and/or functional characteristics of luggage item 100 . For example, the trim may hide sewing lines and/or any imperfections and provide a clean appearance to the first half 150 and the second half 152 and/or to the first half 150 and the second half 152 A neat joint is provided between the half-boxes 152 . In some examples, these trim pieces may be shaped to fit together and form a corresponding overlapping or interlocking structure when the luggage item 100 is closed. These respective shapes or trims may extend along the entire length of the peripheral edges 180, 181, or along part of the length of the peripheral edges 180, 181, or along a single portion of each peripheral edge 180, 181, or along Extends along more than one portion of each peripheral edge 180 , 181 .

Luggage item 100 is shown as a soft-sided luggage case, but may also be formed from various combinations of hard- and soft-sided materials. For example, the luggage case 102 may be molded from a hard-facing material, or formed from a combination of hard-facing and soft-facing materials (referred to as a "hybrid" construction). In some examples, the luggage case 102 may be formed entirely of a soft facing material. The hard facing material can be in particular thermoplastic (self- or fiber-reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, PE or biaxially oriented polypropylene, among others. The soft facing material may be nylon, canvas, polyester, leather, PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene and/or PE, among others.

The luggage item 100 can be moved between a closed configuration (see FIG. 1 ) and an open configuration (see FIG. 2 ). In the closed configuration, the first case half 150 and the second case half 152 may be positioned adjacent to each other, and in one example, at least a portion of each peripheral edge 180, 181 is engaged to enclose the user's item Within the interior storage space 104 of the luggage item 100 . In one example, each of the peripheral edges 180, 181 may have a shape along at least a portion of the periphery to fit together and form a corresponding overlapping or interlocking structure, such as a tongue and groove structure, to enhance the engagement edge when closed structural properties.

In the open configuration, the first box half 150 and the second box half 152 may be reoriented relative to each other, such as toward and away from each other in one example, to allow a user to access the interior of the luggage item 100 . In one example, the reorientation of the first half 150 and the second half 152 is such that the respective opening formed by each peripheral edge 180, 181 is positioned to face upward (FIG. 2), thereby allowing easy access by the user to each Internal storage space 104 of the half box. To allow selective movement of the first half 150 and the second half 152 between the open configuration and the closed configuration, the first half 150 and the second half 152 may be pivoted by a hinge 190 or similar mechanism. Attached together.

The hinge 190 may include a variety of configurations arranged to allow selective positioning of the first case half 150 relative to the second case half 152 from a fully closed configuration to a fully open configuration, such as in one example by an axis about the hinge 190 rotate. For example, hinges 190 may include any number or combination of fabric straps, rubber strips, piano hinges, living hinges, spaced discrete hinges, zipper structures, hinged joints made of elastomeric material, or allow first half box 150 and other suitable structures for relative movement between the second half box 152 .

With continued reference to Figures 1 and 2, the item of luggage 100 may include one or more support members 200 to support the item of luggage 100 on a support surface (eg, on the ground). Support members 200, which may be feet, fixed wheel assemblies, rotating wheel assemblies, or any combination thereof, may be associated with any suitable panel of luggage case 102, such as, in at least one example, may be attached to at least bottom panel 122. As shown, the item of luggage 100 may include four support members 200 . In these examples, item of luggage 100 may include two support members 200 connected to each of first box half 150 and second box half 152 . The support members 200 may be attached to any suitable portion of the luggage case 102 at or near the corner regions 132 , for example, along the bottom panel 122 .

The item of luggage 100 may include a locking mechanism 210 for releasably securing the first half 150 and the second half 152 together in the closed configuration. The latching mechanism 210 may be positioned along or adjacent to the separation line 160 between the first half 150 and the second half 152 to engage each of the first half 150 and the second half 152, And allows selective actuation to open and close the luggage item 100 . The closure mechanism 210 may be a discrete type mechanism such as a latch, or may be a continuous type closure mechanism (such as a zipper closure mechanism) positioned along at least a portion of the length of the separation line 160 .

In some examples, item of luggage 100 may include one or more carry handles and/or telescoping drag handles 224 . For example, as shown in FIG. 1 , item of luggage 100 may include a top carry handle 230 coupled to top panel 120 and/or a side carry handle coupled to one of left and right panels 124 and 126 (eg, to left panel 124 ) 232. The telescoping pull handle 224 may be extendable from the top panel 120 and/or the rear panel 112 of the item of luggage 100 . For example, the telescoping pull handle 224 may be extendable from near the intersection between the top panel 120 and the rear panel 112 . The drag handle 224 may include a variety of configurations, allowing the drag handle 224 to be selectively positioned to pull the item of luggage 100 across the support surface. For example, the pull handle 224 may include one or more tubes 240 and a grip 242 on the distal portion of the tube(s) 240 . Depending on the particular application, the drag handle 224 may comprise a dual tube configuration, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, or may comprise a single lever configuration. As shown in FIG. 3 , each tube 240 of the drag handle 224 may include a plurality of rods 246 that retractably engage each other to allow the grip 242 of the drag handle to selectively extend away from the luggage case 102 .

3-5 are isometric views of luggage item 100 with luggage case 102 removed for clarity. Referring to FIGS. 2-5 , item of luggage 100 includes a frame structure 260 that supports luggage case 102 and/or provides shape to item of luggage 100 . For example, the frame structure 260 may be operable to maintain, in use, the degree of rigidity of one or more panels of the luggage case 102 to a degree necessary to maintain the shape of the luggage case 102 and support the load therein. The frame structure 260 may be positioned at least partially inside the luggage case 102, and the frame structure 260 may include various elements that are either connected to each other, positioned separately from each other, or a combination of both. For example, frame structure 260 may include one or more pallet assemblies and/or one or more frame assemblies that are connected together to define the skeletal framework of luggage item 100, as explained below.

The frame structure 260 may be associated with only selected portions of the luggage case 102 . For example, frame structure 260 may be associated with rear panel 112 and bottom panel 122 only. The frame structure 260 may be operable to maintain, in use, at least the degree of rigidity of the rear panel 112 and the bottom panel 122 as necessary to maintain the shape of the luggage case 102 and support the load therein. In some examples, frame structure 260 may be associated with rear panel 112, bottom panel 122, and select portions of left and right panels 124 and 126, as described below. In these examples, frame structure 260 may not be associated with front panel 110 , top panel 120 , and the remainder of left and right panels 124 and 126 .

In this manner, frame structure 260 may provide luggage 102 with sufficient strength and/or rigidity to allow luggage item 100 to be rolled, carried, lifted, etc., while also allowing portions of luggage 102 to be folded, bent, Compression, etc., such as for storing luggage items 100 . For example, frame structure 260 may be arranged such that at least one or several portions of front panel 110, top panel 120, left panel 124, and right panel 126 can be moved and/or deformed relative to frame structure 260 to open according to a particular application , closing, expanding or collapsing the luggage case 102 . The above configuration may also reduce the weight of luggage item 100 as compared to conventional luggage constructions with a complete skeletal framework along each panel of the luggage. The examples shown and described herein are for illustration purposes only, and the frame structure 260 may include additional framing and/or structural members. For example, depending on the particular application, the frame structure 260 may include a top frame or deck assembly, a front frame, and/or additional rods or wire loops to construct the first half 150 and the second half 152 .

Referring to FIGS. 3-5 , the frame structure 260 includes a bottom deck assembly 270 and at least one side panel frame 272 connected to the bottom deck assembly 270 . As described herein, the bottom tray assembly 270 includes a split tray configuration. In particular, as shown in FIGS. 3-5 , the bottom deck assembly 270 includes a first deck member 280 and a second deck member 282 . The first deck member 280 and the second deck member 282 can selectively engage with each other to provide a degree of stiffness to the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102. For example, the first deck member 280 and the second deck member 282, once connected together, may provide vertical stiffness to the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102. This vertical stiffness may help limit the vertical deflection of the first socket member 280 relative to the second socket member 282 along the separation line 160, or may also collectively or individually help limit the combination when secured together The vertical deflection of the bottom plate. As also described below, the side panel frame 272 may include a plurality of structural elements joined together, such as elongated rods, pultrusions, or pallet structures joined together. As shown in FIG. 3 , one or more tubes 240 of the pull handle 224 may be attached to the bottom tray assembly 270 , such as to the second tray member 282 .

Referring to FIG. 2 , luggage case 102 may cover at least a portion of frame structure 260 . For example, at least portions of bottom tray assembly 270 and/or side panel frame 272 may be positioned within luggage case 102 of luggage item 100. In this manner, the frame structure 260 may be covered by a material of the luggage case 102, such as a soft facing material. In one example, luggage case 102 may be defined by a fabric cover covering at least portions of frame structure 260 . The frame structure 260 may be secured to the luggage case 102, such as by one or more panels, beads, pockets, loops, sleeves, etc. secured (e.g., sewn) to the luggage case 102. In examples with a hybrid box configuration, the frame structure 260 may be bonded to a hard facing material and/or a soft facing material. For example, portions of the bottom tray assembly 270 and/or the side panel frame 272 may be integrally formed with the hardfacing material that defines a portion of at least one panel of the luggage case 102 . In some examples, the frame structure 260 may be bonded to the hardfacing material via fasteners, corresponding snap structures, adhesives, or the like.

As shown in FIGS. 3-5 , the first tray member 280 may include a base plate 290 having opposing front and rear edges 292 and 294 and opposing side edges 296 . Front edge 292 and rear edge 294 may extend between left panel 124 and right panel 126 of luggage case 102 . The front edge 292 may extend along or adjacent to at least a portion of the separation line 160 between the first half 150 and the second half 152 . The rear edge 294 may extend along or adjacent to the intersection between the front panel 110 and the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102 . In these examples, the side edges 296 may each extend between the separation line 160 and the front panel 110 of the luggage case 102 . In some examples, the side edges 296 may each extend along or adjacent to the intersection between the bottom panel 122 and the left panel 124 or the right panel 126 of the luggage case 102 .

In one example, the first landing member 280 may include one or more sidewalls extending from the perimeter of the base plate 290 . For example, the first landing member 280 may include a first side wall 300 extending generally upward from one side edge 296 of the base plate 290 . The first deck member 280 may also include a second side wall 302 extending generally upward from the other side edge 296 of the base plate 290 . In these examples, the first sidewall 300 and the second sidewall 302 of the first deck member 280 may extend partially along the sides of the first half-box 150 such that the first deck member 280 includes a generally U-shaped Cross section.

The base plate 290 of the first deck member 280 may include various configurations. For example, the front edge 292, rear edge 294, and opposing side edges 296 of the base plate 290 may be linear or curvilinear along their respective lengths. In some examples, the front edge 292 and the rear edge 294 may extend parallel to the separation line 160 of the luggage case 102 . Additionally or alternatively, the side edges 296 may extend perpendicular to the separation line 160 . In some examples, the side edges 296 may extend parallel to the intersection between the bottom panel 122 and the left panel 124 or the right panel 126 of the luggage case 102 . The side edges 296 may extend perpendicular to at least one of the front edge 292 and the rear edge 294 of the substrate 290 . In some examples, the first landing member 280 may include smooth transitions between the base plate 290 and the first sidewall 300 and the second sidewall 302 . For example, the transition between the base plate 290 and the first and second side walls 300 , 302 may provide an arcuate intersection between the bottom panel 122 and the left and right panels 124 , 126 of the luggage case 102 . As shown, the base plate 290 includes a structural framework to provide the first landing member 280 with a lightweight and relatively rigid structural feature. Although shown as a honeycomb structure, the structural framework of substrate 290 may also include other interconnected closed cell shapes and configurations, such as multiple interconnected elements, PP panels, and the like. The first and second side walls 300, 302 may comprise various combinations of solid structures, web structures or framing, and the like.

The second deck member 282 may be constructed in a similar manner to the first deck member 280 . For example, the second deck member 282 may include a base plate 310 having opposing front and rear edges 312 , 314 and opposing side edges 316 . The front and rear edges 312 , 314 may extend between the left and right panels 124 , 126 of the luggage case 102 . The front edge 312 may extend along or adjacent to at least a portion of the separation line 160 between the first half 150 and the second half 152 , eg, across the separation line 160 from the front edge 292 of the first tray member 280 . The rear edge 314 may extend along or adjacent to the intersection between the rear panel 112 and the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102 . In these examples, the side edges 316 may extend between the separation line 160 of the luggage case 102 and the rear panel 112 . In some examples, the side edges 316 may extend along or adjacent to the intersection between the bottom panel 122 and the left panel 124 or the right panel 126 of the luggage case 102 .

Like the first landing member 280 , the second landing member 282 may include one or more sidewalls extending from the periphery of the base plate 310 . For example, the second landing member 282 may include a first side wall 320 extending generally upward from one side edge 316 of the base plate 310 . The second deck member 282 may also include a second side wall 322 extending generally upward from the other side edge 316 of the base plate 310 . In these examples, the first and second side walls 320 , 322 of the second deck member 282 may extend partially along the sides of the second half-case 152 such that the second deck member 282 includes a generally U-shaped transverse section.

The base plate 310 of the second deck member 282 may include a variety of configurations. For example, the front edge 312, rear edge 314, and opposing side edges 316 of the substrate 310 may be linear or curvilinear along their respective lengths. In some examples, the front and rear edges 312 , 314 may extend parallel to the separation line 160 of the luggage case 102 . Additionally or alternatively, the side edges 316 may extend perpendicular to the separation line 160 . In some examples, the side edges 316 may extend parallel to the intersection between the bottom panel 122 and the left panel 124 or the right panel 126 of the luggage case 102 . The side edges 316 may extend perpendicular to at least one of the front and rear edges 312 , 314 of the substrate 310 . In some examples, the second landing member 282 may include a smooth transition between the base plate 310 and the first and second sidewalls 320, 322. For example, the transition between the base plate 310 and the first and second side walls 320 , 322 may provide an arcuate intersection between the bottom panel 122 and the left and right panels 124 , 126 of the luggage case 102 . The base plate 310 of the second deck member 282 may also include a structural framework to provide the second deck member 282 with lightweight and relatively rigid structural features, such as interconnected closed cell shapes, multiple interconnected elements, PP panels ,and many more.

Referring to FIG. 2 , the first and second tray members 280 , 282 may support corresponding portions of the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102 . For example, the first tray member 280 may support the bottom panel portion 330 of the first half 150 of the luggage case 102 . Similarly, the second deck member 282 may support the bottom panel portion 332 of the second half 152 of the luggage case 102 . In these examples, the first and second deck members 280, 282 may be interlocked together to provide a degree of rigidity to the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102. For example, the first and second tray members 280 , 282 may be interlocked together at the separation line 160 to restrain the bottom panel portion 330 of the first half 150 and the bottom of the second half 152 of the luggage case 102 The relative movement between the panel sections 332 is detailed below.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view showing the interlocking engagement between the first and second tray members 280 , 282 of the frame structure 260 . Referring to Figure 7, each of the first and second tray members 280, 282 may include connecting edges 340, 341 that abut each other when the luggage item 100 is in the closed configuration. In one example, the connecting edge 340, 341 of each of the first and second catch members 280, 282 may extend along the front edge of the base plate 290 or 310 of the catch member. For example, the connecting edge 340 of the first tray member 280 may extend along or define the front edge 292 of the base plate 290 of the first tray member. The connecting edge 340 of the first landing member 280 may extend along the entire length of the front edge 292 , or along a single portion of the front edge 292 , or along more than one portion of the front edge 292 of the base plate 290 . In one example, the connecting edge 340 of the first catch member 280 may extend parallel to the separation line 160 . In some examples, the connecting edge 340 of the first catch member 280 may extend at least partially along the front edge of each of the first and second side walls 300 , 302 of the first catch member 280 .

The connecting edge 341 of the second socket member 282 may be constructed in a similar manner to the connecting edge 340 of the first socket member 280 . For example, the connecting edge 341 of the second deck member 282 may extend along the front edge 312 of the base plate 310 of the second deck member, or define the front edge 312 of the base plate 310 of the second deck member, such as along the front edge The entire length of 312, either along a single portion of leading edge 312, or along more than one portion of leading edge 312. In some examples, the connecting edge 340 of the first socket member 280 may extend along the front edges of the first and second side walls 300 , 302 of the first socket member 280 . In a similar manner, the connecting edge 341 of the second catch member 282 may extend along the front edges of the first and second side walls 320 , 322 of the second catch member 282 . In one example, the connecting edge 341 of the second catch member 282 may extend parallel to the separation line 160 . In some examples, the connecting edge 341 of the second deck member 282 may extend at least partially along the front edge of each of the first and second side walls 320 , 322 of the second deck member 282 .

Continuing to refer to FIG. 7 , the connecting edge 340 of the first socket member 280 may abut or interlock with the connecting edge 341 of the second socket member 282. Depending on the particular application, the connecting edges 340, 341 may be along the entire length of the leading edges 292, 312 of the first and second tray members 280, 282, along a single portion of the leading edges 292, 312, or along More than one portion of the front edges 292, 312 abut and interlock. For example, the connecting edges 340 , 341 of the first and second tray members 280 , 282 may be interlocked together along the entire distance between the left and right panels 124 , 126 of the luggage case 102 .

In some examples, the connecting edges 340 , 341 may also abut and interlock along the first and second side walls 300 , 302 , 320 , 322 of the first and second tray members 280 , 282 . For example, one or more sidewalls of the first deck member 280 may interlock with one or more sidewalls of the second deck member 282, such as the first sidewall 300 of the first deck member 280 abutting with the first deck member 280. The first side walls 320 of the two deck members 282 are interlocked, and/or the second side walls 302 of the first deck members 280 abut and interlock with the second side walls 322 of the second deck members 282 . In these examples, the first and second catch members 280, 282 may be interlocked together along first and second planes that are angularly spaced apart from each other. More specifically, the base plates 290, 310 of the first and second deck members 280, 282 may define a first plane. The interlocking sidewall portions of the first and second catch members 280, 282 may define a second plane. In these examples, the second plane may be angularly spaced from the first plane, eg, generally at 90°, greater than 90°, or less than 90° from each other. In one example, the sidewall portions of the first and second catch members 280, 282 may be interlocked together in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the base plates 290, 310 are interlocked. The examples given above are for illustration purposes only and other configurations are contemplated, including those in which the first and second tray members 280 , 282 are interlocked at least partially along the left and right panels 124 , 126 of the luggage case 102 Examples, as explained below.

As shown, the connecting edges 340 , 341 of the first and second tray members 280 , 282 may interlock together at the separation line 160 when the luggage item 100 is in the closed configuration. In some examples, the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second tray members 280, 282 may interlock along the centerline of the bottom tray assembly 270. The interlocking engagement between the connecting edges 340, 341 may provide the item of luggage 100 with a generally vertical rigid bottom structure when the item of luggage 100 is closed. For example, the interlocking engagement between the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second catch members 280, 282 may constrain the first catch member 280 along a plane parallel to the separation line 160 and relative to the second catch member 282 for lateral movement. More specifically, the interlocking engagement between the connecting edges 340, 341 may limit movement of the first deck member 280 relative to the second deck member 282 toward or away from the top panel 120 of the luggage case 102, and vice versa, as follows explained above. Additionally or alternatively, the interlocking engagement between the connecting edges 340, 341 may limit movement of the first deck member 280 relative to the second deck member 282 toward or away from the side panels of the luggage case 102, and vice versa. The interlocking structure between the connecting edges 340, 341 may structurally support the separation line in the vertical direction, so that the tray members may (when the luggage item 100 is closed) behave like a one-piece bottom tray, as opposed to On the current separate plate member.

Continuing to refer to Figure 7, the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second tray members 280, 282 can be shaped to fit together when the luggage item 100 is closed and form a corresponding overlapping or interlocking structure. In one example, the connecting edges 340, 341 interlock in a tongue and groove configuration. In these examples, the connecting edge 340 of the first socket member 280 may define a tongue 350 having a pointed end 352 . The connecting edge 341 of the second socket member 282 may define a slot 360 in which the tongue 350 of the first socket member 280 is at least partially received. For example, at least a portion of the tip 352 may be received in the slot 360 to interlock the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second catch members 280, 282 together.

As shown, the slot 360 may be defined between a pair of side walls 362 extending from or forming the front edge 312 of the base plate 310 of the second deck member. In these examples, tongue 350 can be moved in the direction of engagement to position tip 352 within slot 360 and at least partially between sidewalls 362 . As shown in FIG. 7 , when the connecting edges 340 , 341 are fully engaged, the tip 352 (specifically the opposing sidewall) may engage the sidewall 362 . In one example, the depth dimension of the slot 360 is longer than the length of the tongue 350 such that the tip 352 of the tongue 350 does not engage the bottom of the slot 360 when engaged. In one example, the ends of the side walls 362 may abut the corresponding end faces of the tongues 350. In some examples, the tongue 350 can interlock with at least one of the side walls 362 to releasably secure the connecting edges 340, 341 together. For example, at least one side wall 362 may define a latch in which a portion of tip 352 is received to releasably interlock connecting edges 340, 341 together. In some examples, the latch may be defined by the combination of the two side walls 362 .

In some examples, the engagement structure between the connecting edges 340, 341 may include other structural features for convenience. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 , 5 and 7 , the engagement structure may include a pair of flanges 370 extending from the connecting edge 340 of the first carrier member 280 . The flanges 370 may be positioned at the corners of the base plate 290 and the first and second side walls 300 , 302 . In one example, the flange 370 may overlap the connecting edge 341 of the second cradle member 282 when the first and second cradle members 280, 282 are connected together. For example, the flange 370 may extend past a portion of the connecting edge 341 on the interior of the luggage item 100. The flange 370 may limit movement of the first socket member 280 relative to the second socket member 282 . In some instances, the flange 370 may function as an alignment feature to properly align the first and second carrier members 280, 282 so that the first carrier member 280 may be directed toward the second carrier in the direction of engagement The members 282 move to abut and interlock the connecting edges 340, 341 together.

The engagement between the tongue 350 and the sidewall 362 may limit movement of the first cradle member 280 relative to the second cradle member 282 along a direction perpendicular to the engagement. For example, the engagement of the tongues 350 within the slots 360 along the base plates 290 , 310 may limit movement of the first tray member 280 relative to the second tray member toward or away from the top panel 120 of the luggage case 102 . Additionally or alternatively, the engagement of the tongues 350 within the grooves 360 along portions of the first sidewalls 300, 320 and/or the second sidewalls 302, 322 may constrain the first carrier member 280 relative to the second carrier member 282 moves toward or away from the side panels of the luggage case 102 .

Depending on the particular application, the direction of engagement may be generally parallel to the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102. In these examples, the engagement between the connecting edges 340 , 341 of the first and second deck members 280 , 282 may limit the first deck member 280 relative to the second deck member 282 in a direction perpendicular to the bottom of the luggage case 102 . Directional movement of the panel 122 . The tongue and groove structure shown in Figure 7 is shown diagrammatically only, and the connecting edges 340, 341 may include other complementary shapes and structures that form a corresponding overlapping or interlocking structure when the luggage item 100 is closed. The connecting edges 340 , 341 may abut and interlock in a variety of configurations that limit vertical and lateral movement of the first carrier member 280 relative to the second carrier member 282 . For example, the connecting edges 340, 341 may abut and interlock along the substrates 290, 310, along the first and second sidewalls 300, 302, 320, 322, and along the corners between the substrates and the sidewalls. In some examples, the connecting edges 340 , 341 may only abut and interlock along the substrates 290 , 310 and the first and second sidewalls 300 , 302 , 320 , 322 . Alternatively, the connecting edges 340, 341 may abut and interlock along at least a portion of the substrates 290, 310 only.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 7 , the connecting edges 340 , 341 of the first and second tray members 280 , 282 may be held together in an engaged state using the locking mechanism 210 . For example, engagement of the locking mechanism 210 may limit disengagement of the connecting edges 340, 341, such as limiting movement of the connecting edges 340, 341 away from each other. In some examples, engagement of the locking mechanism 210 may draw and/or place the connecting edges 340, 341 together, eg, by applying a compressive force across the engagement structure. For example, the locking mechanism 210 may be arranged, eg sized and shaped, such that engagement of the locking mechanism 210 squeezes or otherwise moves the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second carrier members 280, 282 , so as to be in a tightly connected state. The connecting edges 340, 341 may remain engaged and interlocked until the locking mechanism 210 is released or disengaged. For example, once the latching mechanism 210 is released, the connecting edges 340 , 341 may be disengaged by selective movement of the first catch member 280 away from the second catch member 282 .

FIG. 6 is a partial side view of frame structure 260 showing the support assembly. 8 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view showing the interlocking engagement between opposing members of the support assembly. 6 and 8, the frame structure 260 may include a support assembly 380 that limits deflection of the rear panel 112 of the luggage case 102 toward or away from the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102. As shown in FIG. 3 , the frame structure 260 may include a pair of support assemblies, such as a first support assembly 382 adjacent the left panel 124 of the luggage case 102 and a second support assembly 384 adjacent the right panel 126 of the luggage case 102 . In these embodiments, the first support assembly 382 may span the separation line 160 along the left panel 124 . The second support assembly 384 may span the separation line 160 along the right panel 126 . Although illustrated as including a pair of support assemblies, item of luggage 100 may include more or less than two support assemblies depending on the particular application. For ease of reference, the following description refers to a single support assembly. Each support assembly 382, 384 may be constructed in a similar manner or in a different manner.

6 and 8, the support assembly 380 can span the separation line 160 when the luggage item is in the closed configuration and allow the first and second half-cases 150, 152 of the luggage case 102 to move to the open configuration. For example, the support assembly 380 may include a first portion 390 having one or more elements positioned on one side of the separation line 160 and a second portion 392 having one or more elements positioned on the other side of the separation line 160 . As explained more fully below, the first and second portions 390 , 392 on opposite sides of the separation line 160 may engage each other at or across the separation line 160 when the luggage item 100 is closed. When the item of luggage 100 is opened, the first and second portions 390 , 392 can be disengaged to allow selective movement of the first half 150 away from the second half 152 . As shown, the first portion 390 of the support assembly 380 may be connected to the first tray member 280 , such as to one of the side walls of the base plate 290 . In a similar manner, the second portion 392 of the support assembly 380 may be connected to the second tray member 282 , such as to one of the side walls of the base plate 310 . In some examples, the support assembly 380 may define the first and second side walls 300 , 302 , 320 , 322 of the first and second tray members 280 , 282 . For example, the sidewalls of the first and second tray members 280, 282 may provide the support features of the support assembly 380 described herein.

As shown in FIG. 6 , the support assembly 380 may include a first post 400 extending from the first carrier member 280 adjacent the separation line 160 and a second post 402 extending from the second carrier member 282 adjacent the separation line 160 . For example, the first and second posts 400, 402 may extend upwardly and toward the top panel 120 of the luggage case 102 from the first and second deck members 280, 282, respectively. The first and second posts 400 , 402 may abut each other along the separation line 160 when the luggage item 100 is in the closed configuration. Depending on the particular application, the first and second posts 400 , 402 may abut each other along the separation line 160 along the left panel 124 and/or the right panel 126 of the luggage case 102 . In some examples, the first and second posts 400, 402 may abut each other across the separation line 160 along other panels of the luggage case 102, such as along at least a portion of the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102.

The first and second posts 400, 402 may abut each other in a variety of arrangements. For example, as shown in FIG. 8 , the first and second posts 400 , 402 may be interlocked together in a manner similar to the connecting edges 340 , 341 of the first and second tray members 280 , 282 . For example, the first and second posts 400, 402 may include abutting edges 410, 411 that are shaped to fit together and form corresponding overlapping or interlocking structures, such as tongue and groove structures. Depending on the particular application, the adjoining edges 410, 411 of the first and second posts 400, 402 may be along the entire length of the first and second posts 400, 402, along the individual Parts, or more than one part along the adjoining edges 410 , 411 of the first and second posts 400 , 402 are interlocked. In this manner, the connecting edges 340 , 341 of the first and second tray members 280 , 282 may be considered to extend along the adjoining edges 410 , 411 of the first and second posts 400 , 402 .

Referring to FIG. 6 , the support assembly 380 may include other elements that provide stiffness to the first and second posts 400 , 402 . For example, the support assembly 380 may include a first bracket 418 connected to and extending between the first post 400 and the first tray member 280 . As shown, the first bracket 418 may be connected to and extend between the distal end portion of the first post 400 and the portion of the first catch member 280 adjacent the front panel 110 . Depending on the particular application, the first bracket 418 may be integrally formed with the first carrier member 280 and/or the first post 400 or coupled to the first carrier member 280 and/or the first post 400 .

In some examples, the support assembly 380 may include a third post 424 extending from the second deck member 282 adjacent the rear panel 112 . As shown, the third post 424 may be defined as a portion of the mount 430 disposed at the rear corner of the bottom deck assembly 270 for mounting the swivel wheel assembly. Like the second post 402 , the third post 424 may extend upwardly from the second tray member 282 and toward the top panel 120 of the luggage case 102 . The support assembly 380 may also include a second bracket 434 connected to the second and third posts 402 , 424 and extending between the second and third posts 420 , 424 . For example, the second stent 434 can be attached to the distal portion of the second post 402 and the distal portion of the third post 424 and extend between the distal portion of the second post 402 and the distal portion of the third post 424, However, other configurations are also conceivable. The second bracket 434 may be a separate element coupled to the second and third posts 402 , 424 or may be integrally formed with at least one of the second and third posts 402 , 424 .

The support assembly 380 may include any number of brackets to provide the desired stiffness to the support assembly 380 . For example, in addition to, or in place of, first bracket 418 and/or second bracket 434, support assembly 380 may include third bracket 440 that connects to the second post 402 and the second catch member 282 and extend between the second post 402 and the second catch member 282 . As shown, the third bracket 440 may be connected to, and extend between, the distal end portion of the second post 402 and a portion of the second tray member 282 adjacent the rear panel 112 . In some examples, the third bracket 440 may be connected to the pedestal 430 of the swivel wheel assembly disposed at the rear corner of the bottom deck assembly 270 . The third bracket 440 may be a separate element relative to at least one of the second post 402, the second deck member 282, and/or the mount 430 of the rotating wheel assembly, or may be combined with the second post 402, the second deck At least one of the member 282 and/or the support 430 of the rotating wheel assembly is integrally formed.

With continued reference to FIG. 6 , the support assembly 380 may provide a rigid structure between the first tray member 280 and the rear panel 112 of the luggage case 102 . For example, the first and second brackets 418 , 434 may collectively define a rigid strut structure 450 between the first tray member 280 and the rear panel 112 of the luggage case 102 when the luggage item 100 is closed. In this manner, the support assembly 380 may limit movement of the rear panel 112 toward or away from the first tray member 280 , such as folding of the rear panel 112 toward or away from the bottom panel 122 , and thereby along the rear of the luggage case 102 . The axis along which the intersection between panel 112 and bottom panel 122 extends provides luggage item 100 with torsional stiffness. The strut structure 450 may be linear or curvilinear along its length. In one example, such as shown in FIG. 6 , the strut structure 450 may extend at an angle to the bottom panel 122 of the luggage case 102 . For example, the strut structure 450 may slope toward the bottom panel 122 from adjacent the rear panel 112 to adjacent the front panel 110 . More specifically, the support assembly 380 may taper from the rear panel 112 to the front panel 110 across the separation line 160 .

Referring to FIGS. 3-5 , the frame structure 260 may include a rear frame 500 attached to and extending from the bottom tray assembly 270 . In one example, a rear frame 500, which may be viewed as a side panel frame 272, extends vertically from the bottom deck assembly 270, although other positional configurations are contemplated as described below. The rear frame 500 may extend from the rear portion of the bottom tray assembly 500. For example, the rear frame 500 may extend from a location adjacent one or more rear corners of the bottom tray assembly 270 . In one example, the rear frame 500 may be attached to the second deck member 282 and extend away from the second deck member 282 . In these examples, the rear frame 500 may be positioned along at least a portion of the perimeter of the rear panel 112, such as including one or more elements extending along at least a portion of the perimeter of the rear panel 112. In some examples, the rear frame 500 may be positioned adjacent the periphery of the rear panel 112 , such as at the edge of the rear panel 112 , or at a location spaced (eg, inwardly) from the edge of the rear panel 112 . In these examples, the rear frame 500 can bias the top panel 120 away from the bottom panel 122 by tensioning the rear panel 112 outward and creating tension in the rear panel 112 .

In one example, the rear frame 500 may include a pair of spaced apart elongated elements (eg, a first elongated element 510 and a second elongated element 512 ) that are connected to the bottom tray assembly 270 and extend from the bottom The tray assembly 270 extends out. The first and second elongated elements 510 , 512 may be linear or curvilinear along their respective lengths, such as to provide a desired shape for the luggage case 102 . As shown, the first and second elongated members 510 , 512 may extend away from the bottom tray assembly 270 so as to define an angle between the elongated members and the bottom tray assembly 270 . For example, the first and second elongated members 510, 512 may extend from the bottom tray assembly 270 (eg, vertically) to define the bottom tray assembly 270 and the first and second elongated members 510, 512 90°, but other angular arrangements between the bottom tray assembly 270 and the first and second elongated elements 510, 512 are also contemplated, including less than 90° or greater than 90°, depending on the particular application .

To couple the rear frame 500 to the bottom deck assembly 270 , the proximal ends 520 of the first and second elongated elements 510 , 512 may be coupled to the bottom deck assembly 270 and/or the corresponding support member 200 . The proximal ends 520 of the first and second elongated elements 510, 512 may be secured to the bottom tray assembly 270 in a variety of configurations. For example, proximal end 520 may be secured to bottom tray assembly 270 by adhesives, fasteners, thermal or ultrasonic welding, corresponding snap features, and the like. In one example, the proximal ends 520 of the first and second elongated elements 510 , 512 may be an interference fit within portions of the bottom tray assembly 270 . Specifically, the proximal ends 520 of the first and second elongated elements 510 , 512 may be received in corresponding slots or cavities defined in the bottom tray assembly 270 . In these examples, the proximal ends 520 of the first and second elongated elements 510, 512 may be circumferentially dimensioned to be larger than the slit in which the elongated elements are received, thereby separating the first and second elongated elements The elements 510 , 512 are frictionally engaged within the bottom plate assembly 270 . In some examples, the first and second elongated elements 510 , 512 may be integrally formed with at least a portion of the bottom deck assembly 270 , such as at least a portion of the second deck member 282 .

In some examples, the first and second elongated elements 510, 512 may be coupled to respective rotating wheel assemblies, such as in the same manner as described above. For example, the first and second elongated elements 510, 512 may be coupled to one or more abutment portions 530 of the respective rotating wheel assemblies. The first and second elongated elements 510, 512 may be separate elements secured to the standoff portion 530, such as by adhesives, fasteners, thermal or ultrasonic welding, corresponding snap features, or the like. In some examples, the first and second elongated elements 510 , 512 may be integrally formed with the standoff portion 530 . The standoff portion 530 may be coupled to the bottom deck assembly 270 in a similar manner, such as by adhesives, fasteners, thermal or ultrasonic welding, corresponding snap features, and the like. The standoff portion 530 may also be integrally formed with at least a portion of the bottom tray assembly 270.

With continued reference to FIGS. 3-5 , the rear frame 500 may include a cross frame member 540 joining the distal ends of the first and second elongated elements 510 , 512 together. The cross frame member 540 may be defined as one element or more than one element. In some embodiments, the cross frame member 540 may be defined as one or more elements with other structures of the item of luggage 100, such as with at least a portion of the drag handle 224, the bezel structure, the luggage case 102, or any combination thereof. For example, the pull handle 224 may include an upper support 550 positioned distal to the bottom tray assembly 270 . The upper support 550 may form a bezel attached to the luggage case 102 and may be positioned at the distal ends of one or more tubes 240 , such as spanning between a pair of tubes 240 of the drag handle 224 . In these examples, the cross frame member 540 may include a pair of frame members 560 that connect the distal ends of the first and second elongated members 510 , 512 to the upper support 550 of the pull handle 224 . As shown, the rear panel 112 may include corner pieces 568 that connect the frame element 560 to the distal ends of the first and second elongated elements 510 , 512 . Each corner member 568 may be curvilinear and may be integrally formed with the elongated member and/or frame member 560 .

The rear frame 500 may be formed using various materials and means. For example, the frame elements 560 of the first elongated element 510 , the second elongated element 512 and the cross-frame member 540 may be pultruded to provide the frame structure 260 with lightweight features. Additionally, the pultrusion molding process can provide a composite structure of the rear frame 500 that is relatively strong for its weight. The frame elements 560 of the first elongated element 510, the second elongated element 512, and the cross-frame member 540 may include diameters ranging between about 5 mm and about 10 mm (preferably between about 6 mm and about 8 mm), but Other sizes are contemplated depending on the size, weight, and/or strength requirements of the frame structure 260 .

FIG. 9 is an isometric view showing luggage item 100 in a collapsed configuration. Figure 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing luggage item 100 in its additional folded configuration. As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the first box half 150 may be at least partially received in the second box half 152 to reduce the overall size of the luggage item 100 for storage. For example, once the latching mechanism 210 is sufficiently disengaged, the connecting edges 340, 341 of the first and second socket members 280, 282 can be disengaged and the first socket member 280 moved away from the second socket member 282 (see FIG. 5 ). ). Once the first tray member 280 is disengaged from the second tray member 282 , the first half 150 of the luggage case 102 may be positioned at least partially within the second half 152 . For example, the first tray member 280 may be positioned at least partially within the second half-case 152 . In one example, such as shown in FIG. 10 , the first tray member 280 may be folded into the second half box 152 and overlaid on the second tray member 282 to fold the luggage item 100 . As shown in FIG. 10 , the first tray member 280 may be folded toward the top panel 120 and positioned at least partially in the second half 152 , such as the first half 150 along or adjacent the front panel 110 and the bottom panel The intersection between 122 is folded. Depending on the particular application, the first cradle member 280 may be retracted or rolled into the second half-case 152 such that the rotating wheel assembly connected to the first cradle member 280 and the second cradle member 282 rotate The wheel assemblies extend in generally opposite directions, although other placements are also contemplated. Additionally or alternatively, the fabric material of the first box half 150, such as at least the fabric material of the front panel 110, may be folded, gathered, rolled, or otherwise compressed and positioned at least partially within the second box half in body 152. In these examples, the first tray member 280 may be stowed or rolled up under the cowl material and positioned in the second half-box 152 . Since the frame structure 260 in the first half box 150 is positioned only within the bottom portion of the first half box 150 , the compression of the fabric material of the first half box 150 may generally occur in the first half box 150 the top part.

Luggage item 100 may be formed from a variety of materials and means. For example, the frame structure 260 may be formed from thermoplastics (self-reinforced or fiber-reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, and/or PE, among others. In some examples, the first and second elongated members 510, 512, the frame member 560, and/or one or more tubes 240 of the drag handle 224, etc., may be extruded from aluminum or other similar metal. Additionally, the first and second elongated elements 510, 512 and/or the frame element 560 may be formed from fiber reinforced epoxy, resin or other similar materials. The frame structure 260 may be formed or molded in any suitable manner, such as by plug molding, blow molding, injection molding, extrusion molding, casting, and the like. As mentioned above, the item of luggage 100 may be formed from a soft facing material and/or a hard facing material. The soft facing material may be nylon, canvas, polyester, leather, PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene and/or PE, among others. The hardfacing material may be thermoplastic (self-reinforced or fiber-reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide and/or PE, among others.

All relative and directional references (including: up, down, up, down, left, right, left, right, top, bottom, side, above, below, front, center, back, vertical, horizontal, etc.) are given by way of example to assist the reader in understanding the specific examples described herein. They should not be construed as requirements or limitations, especially as to location, orientation or use, unless expressly stated in the claims. References to connections (eg, attached, coupled, connected, joined, etc.) are to be construed broadly and can include intermediate members between connected elements as well as relative movement between those elements. Thus, a connecting reference does not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship to each other, unless expressly set forth in the claims.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the presently disclosed examples provide teachings by way of illustration and not by way of limitation. Therefore, matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings is to be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The following claims are intended to cover all superordinate and subordinate features described herein, as well as all statements of the scope of the method and system of the present invention, which may be said to fall between the two for reasons of language.

Claims (15)

1. An article of luggage comprising:

first and second box halves defined by front, rear, top, bottom, left and right panels, the first and second box halves being hingedly connected together at a line of separation, the first and second box halves being movable between a closed configuration in which the first and second box halves abut one another so as to define a substantially enclosed space, and an open configuration in which the first box half is pivoted away from the second box half so as to allow a user to access the enclosed space;

a latch mechanism releasably securing the first and second half shells together in the closed configuration along at least a portion of the separation line; it is characterized in that the preparation method is characterized in that,

a split bottom tray assembly comprising a first tray member supporting the bottom panel portion of the first half shell and a second tray member supporting the bottom panel portion of the second half shell, each of the first and second tray members comprising a connecting edge;

wherein the connecting edges of the first and second basin members are joined and locked together at the separation line when the article of luggage is in the closed configuration to form a secure bottom structure; and

wherein the connecting edges of the first and second basin members remain engaged using the locking mechanism.

2. The article of luggage of claim 1, wherein,

each of the first and second tray members including one or more side walls extending from an outer periphery of a base panel, the connecting edge of each tray member extending along at least a portion of the front edge of the base panel; and

the side walls of the first and second basin members extend partially along the sides of the first and second half-shells, respectively, such that the basin members comprise a generally U-shaped cross-section.

3. The article of luggage of claim 2, wherein the first and second tray members are interlocked together at the separation line along first and second planes, the second plane being angularly spaced from the first plane.

4. The item of luggage of claim 2 or 3, wherein one or more side walls of the first tray member interlock with one or more side walls of the second tray member.

5. An item of luggage as claimed in claim 2 or 3, in which the first and second tray elements each comprise first and second side walls on opposite side edges of the base panel.

6. An item of luggage as claimed in claim 2 or 3, in which the luggage further comprises a support assembly which limits deflection of the rear panel towards the front panel, the support assembly crossing the separation line and allowing the first and second halves to move to the open configuration when in the closed configuration.

7. The article of luggage of claim 6, wherein the support assembly comprises:

a first post extending from the first basin member adjacent the separation line; and

a second leg extending from the second basin member adjacent the separation line,

wherein the first and second columns abut each other along the separation line on the left or right panel when the item of luggage is in a closed configuration.

8. The article of luggage of claim 7, wherein the article of luggage further comprises:

a third post extending from the second basin member adjacent the back panel; and

a first bracket connected to and extending between the distal end portion of the first column and the portion of the first basin member adjacent the front panel.

9. The article of luggage of claim 8, wherein the article of luggage further comprises a second brace connected to and extending between the distal end portions of the second and third pillars.

10. The article of luggage of claim 7, wherein the support assembly further includes a third bracket connected to and extending between the distal end portion of the second column and the portion of the second basin member adjacent the rear panel.

11. The article of luggage of claim 6, wherein the article of luggage further comprises:

a first support assembly spanning the separation line along the left panel; and

a second support assembly spanning the separation line along the right panel.

12. An item of luggage as claimed in any of claims 1 to 3, in which the first half-shell is foldable into the second half-shell when the locking mechanism is disengaged.

13. The article of luggage of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the connecting edges of the first and second tray members are interlocked together between the left and right panels along the entire width of the bottom of the article of luggage.

14. An item of luggage as claimed in any of claims 1 to 3, in which the connecting edges of the first and second tray members are interlocked by a tongue and groove arrangement.

15. An article of luggage according to any of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a tow handle along the rear panel, the tow handle comprising one or more tubes attached to the second basin member.

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