CN219220071U

CN219220071U - Luggage case

Info

Publication number: CN219220071U
Application number: CN201990001486.7U
Authority: CN
Inventors: 关栢廸
Original assignee: Samsonite IP Holdings SARL
Current assignee: Samsonite IP Holdings SARL
Priority date: 2019-12-27
Filing date: 2019-12-27
Publication date: 2023-06-20
Anticipated expiration: 2029-12-27
Also published as: WO2021129942A1

Abstract

A luggage case (102) comprising at least one closing mechanism (138) and a removably mounted lock body (146), the lock body (146) having an actuation mechanism (141), the actuation mechanism (141) having a locked first configuration and an unlocked second configuration. A mounting device removably mounts the lock body to the luggage case. The actuation mechanism may selectively secure the at least one closure mechanism (138) when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case. The actuation mechanism may also selectively secure other objects (178) when the lock body is disengaged from the luggage case.

Description

Luggage case

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to luggage and, more particularly, to luggage having a mount for a removable lock.

Background

Trunk locks are commonly used to prevent vandalism by others. However, where locks are integrated with luggage, these locks can often only be used in one configuration on a piece of luggage. Therefore, their use may be limited.

It is therefore desirable to provide an improved luggage locking system, and more particularly to provide a luggage with a mount for a removable lock that addresses one or all of the problems described above and/or more generally provides an improvement or replacement to existing devices.

Disclosure of Invention

The present disclosure provides a luggage case including at least one closure mechanism and a removably mounted lock body having an actuation mechanism with a locked first configuration and an unlocked second configuration. The mounting device removably mounts the lock body to the luggage case. The actuation mechanism may selectively secure the at least one closure mechanism when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case. The actuation mechanism may also selectively secure another object or objects when the lock body is separated from the luggage case. Further, when the lock body is separated from the luggage case, the actuation mechanism may selectively secure another object by selectively securing at least another closure mechanism (e.g., a second closure mechanism).

Additionally or alternatively, the mounting means may comprise a mounting seat holding a lock body, wherein the lock body is separable from the mounting seat from the interior of the luggage case.

Additionally or alternatively, the mount may include a recess formed in an outer surface of the luggage case.

Additionally or alternatively, the mount may comprise a mounting plate or housing defining an internal cavity.

Additionally or alternatively, the mount may be a housing defining an interior cavity, wherein the lock body is removable from the interior cavity through an access door formed in the housing.

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

Additionally or alternatively, the cavity may be shaped such that the release member of the lock body is aligned to interact with the primary locking mechanism when the lock body is retained in the cavity.

A luggage case pertaining to any previous luggage case is provided, wherein a securing member is selectively retained by the actuation mechanism when the lock body is disengaged from the luggage case.

There is provided a luggage case pertaining to any of the preceding luggage cases, wherein the lock body further comprises a release member which interacts with the second locking mechanism to secure the securing member when the actuation mechanism is in the locked second configuration and the lock body is disengaged from the luggage case.

There is provided a luggage case pertaining to any of the previous luggage cases, wherein the securing member is an elongated flexible member.

A luggage case pertaining to any previous luggage case is provided, wherein at least one attachment mechanism secures the lock body to the mount.

There is provided a luggage case pertaining to any previous luggage case, wherein the lock body includes at least one aperture, the at least one attachment mechanism engaging with the at least one aperture of the lock body to secure the lock body to the luggage case.

A luggage case pertaining to any previous luggage case is provided, wherein the securing member is retained along the lock body when the lock body is attached to the mount.

There is provided a luggage case pertaining to any of the previous luggage cases, wherein the attachment mechanism comprises a sliding mechanism accessible from an interior of the luggage case to disengage from the at least one aperture of the lock body and release the lock body from the mounting seat.

A luggage case pertaining to any previous luggage case is provided, wherein the mounting means is at least partially disposed in a recess on a surface of the luggage case.

Additionally or alternatively, the mounting means may comprise a release member which selectively secures the at least one closure mechanism when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case.

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

Additionally or alternatively, the actuation mechanism may include a combination lock that cooperates with the release member when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case and cooperates with the second release member when the lock body is separated from the luggage case. The mounting means may comprise a key lock which cooperates with the release member to secure the at least one closure mechanism when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case.

Additionally or alternatively, the combination lock may be formed as part of the lock body.

Additionally or alternatively, the mounting means may comprise a housing defining an internal cavity for receiving the lock body. The cavity may include an aperture such that when the lock body is contained within the cavity, a portion of the lock body is accessible through the aperture. The aperture may be sized such that the lock body is secured within the housing from the outside of the luggage case.

Additional embodiments and/or features will be set forth in part in the description which follows and in part will become apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the specification or may be learned from 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 the drawings which form a part of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that each of the various aspects and features of the disclosure can be used in a beneficial manner alone in some cases or in combination with other aspects and features of the disclosure in other cases.

Drawings

The description will be more fully understood with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the various components are not drawn to scale, which are provided as various embodiments of the disclosure, and which should not be construed as a complete recitation of the scope of the disclosure, in which:

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

fig. 2A-2B illustrate isometric views of the locking system of the present disclosure in a primary locking configuration. FIG. 2A shows the primary locking mechanism in an engaged position, securing the zipper pull of an article of luggage. FIG. 2B shows the lock in a disengaged position;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the locking system of the present disclosure, as viewed from the inside of an item of luggage;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2A, illustrating the mounting mechanism of the locking system on the item of luggage;

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

fig. 6A-6D illustrate an enlarged partial cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of fig. 2A showing the mounting mechanism of the locking system on the item of luggage. Fig. 6A shows the lock body secured to the mounting housing with the mounting mechanism in the engaged position. Fig. 6B shows the lock body seated in the mounting housing with the mounting mechanism in the disengaged position. Fig. 6C shows the lock body removed from the mounting housing with the mounting mechanism in the disengaged position. FIG. 6D illustrates an alternative embodiment of a mounting mechanism;

Figures 7A-7C show isometric views of the locking system in a second locked configuration. Fig. 7A shows the cord of the second locking mechanism being retained in a groove on the lock body of the locking system. Fig. 7B shows the cord of the second locking mechanism in an extended, disengaged configuration. FIG. 7C illustrates the locking system engaged in a second locked configuration;

FIG. 8 shows the second locking mechanism in an engaged position;

figures 9A-9C illustrate the attachment of the mounting mechanism in the outer surface of an article of luggage. Figure 9A is an isometric view of the locking mechanism mounted on a mounting plate attached within the outer surface of the piece of luggage. Fig. 9B is a perspective view of the mounting housing from the inside of the piece of luggage. Fig. 9C is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view taken along line 9C-9C of fig. 9A.

Fig. 10A-10D illustrate a locking system of the present disclosure. Fig. 10A is a perspective view of the locking system. Fig. 10B is a cross-sectional view of the locking system installed in an item of luggage taken along section line 10B-10B of fig. 10A. Fig. 10C shows the removable lock of the locking system securing the primary locking mechanism in the locked position. FIG. 10D is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 10D-10D of FIG. 10C, showing the removable lock of the locking system securing the primary locking mechanism in the locked position;

11A-11C illustrate a locking system of the present disclosure. Fig. 11A is a perspective view of the locking system. Fig. 11B shows the lock body of the locking system in an open position. FIG. 11C illustrates the second locking mechanism removed from the lock body of the locking system;

FIG. 12 illustrates a second locking mechanism of the locking system of the present disclosure;

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

fig. 14A-14E illustrate a locking system of the present disclosure. Fig. 14A shows the lock body of the locking system in a recess. Fig. 14B shows the lock body of the locking system. Fig. 14C shows the lock body of the locking system with the grip slide mechanism in a position to open the access door of the housing on the lock body. Fig. 14D shows the lock body of the locking system with the removable lock removed from the upper housing. Fig. 14E shows the lock body of the locking system with the removable lock removed from the upper housing.

Detailed Description

In accordance with the present disclosure, a locking system for a luggage case is provided. The locking system includes a lock body selectively removable from the luggage case and having a primary locking configuration when secured to the luggage case and a secondary locking configuration when detached from the luggage case. In the primary locking configuration, the primary locking mechanism may secure the closure mechanism, while in the secondary locking configuration (separate from the luggage case), the lock body may secure other objects. The locking system may further comprise a mounting means for removably mounting the lock body to the luggage case. The mounting means may comprise a mounting on the luggage case for removably securing the lock body to the luggage case. The mount includes an attachment mechanism that is actuatable from the interior of the luggage case to release or secure the lock body to the luggage case.

In one embodiment, an actuation mechanism on a lock body includes a lock structure, a release member, and an aperture. In one example, the lock structure may include the lock itself (e.g., a dial or key lock structure for a combination lock, for example) and the internal structure of the lock. The actuation mechanism may be engaged with the primary locking mechanism when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case, or the actuation mechanism may be engaged with the secondary locking mechanism when the lock body is disengaged from the luggage case.

Fig. 1 is an isometric view of an article of luggage in a closed configuration, the article of luggage including a locking system 104 according to some examples of the present disclosure. The article of luggage 100 includes a luggage case 102 formed of a plurality of walls or panels (hereinafter referred to as "panels" for convenience and without limitation) that define an interior storage space in which items of a user are carried. In one example, the luggage case 102 may be formed from opposing front and

rear panels

110, 112 and a plurality of side panels extending between the front and

rear panels

110, 112. For example, the article of luggage 100 may include opposing top and

bottom panels

114, 116, and opposing left and

right panels

118, 120 extending between the front and

rear panels

110, 112. Corner region 132 may be defined by the intersection of any two or three adjacent panels.

The luggage item 100 shown in fig. 1 is a standing roller soft surface case, but it may be a variety of types of luggage items including hard surface roller cases, hybrid roller cases, shipping containers, backpacks, luggage bags, and the like. For example, the luggage 102 may be molded from a hard-sided material, or formed from a combination of hard-sided and soft-sided materials (referred to as a "hybrid" configuration). In some examples, the luggage case 102 may be formed entirely of the soft face material. The hardfacing material may be a thermoplastic (self-reinforced or fiber reinforced), ABS, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, polyamide, PE or biaxially oriented polypropylene, or the like. The softside material may be nylon, canvas, polyester, leather, PVC, polypropylene, polyethylene and/or PE, and the like.

The article of luggage 100 is movable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. In the closed configuration, the cover and base may be positioned adjacent to one another to enclose the user items within the interior storage space of the row Li Wujian. To allow the cover and base to be selectively moved between the open and closed configurations, the cover and base may be pivotally attached together by a hinge 196 or similar mechanism.

The article of luggage 100 may include a closure mechanism 138 to releasably secure the cover and base together in the closed configuration. The closure mechanism 138 may be a discrete mechanism, such as a latch, or may be a continuous closure mechanism, such as a zipper closure, positioned along at least a portion of the length of the line between the lid and base. The closure mechanism may have several elements, such as one or more zipper pulls, to allow the closure mechanism to be opened and closed. The closure mechanism 138 may be secured using the locking system 104 to prevent unwanted access to the article of luggage 100. The article of luggage 100 may include an additional closure mechanism 115, for example, to close a pocket formed in the cover of the row Li Wujian.

With continued reference to fig. 1, the luggage article 100 may include one or more support members for supporting the luggage article 100 on a support surface (e.g., on a floor). The support members may be feet, fixed wheel assemblies, rotating wheel assemblies, or any combination thereof, and may be associated with any suitable panel of the luggage case 102, such as in at least one example, the support members being connected to at least the bottom panel 116. As shown, the article of luggage 100 may include four support members 124. In some examples, the article of luggage 100 may include one or more carry handles 122, 123, and/or a retractable drag handle (not shown) that can extend from a rear panel of the article of luggage.

Fig. 2A-2B illustrate isometric views of the locking system 104 of the present disclosure in a primary locked configuration, wherein the lock body 146 is positioned on and secured to the luggage case and the actuation mechanism 184 is in the primary configuration. In this main configuration, the actuation mechanism may generally include the lock lever 152, the release member 148, and the internal components of the lock body 146. When the lock 146 is secured to the luggage case, the primary locking mechanism 140 mates with the actuation mechanism in the primary configuration. The primary locking mechanism 140 may include an engaged position and a disengaged position.

Fig. 2A shows an example of the primary locking mechanism 140 in an engaged position, in which the zipper pull 106, 108 of the luggage case is secured. Fig. 2B shows the lock body 146 in the disengaged position. In the primary locking configuration, the lock 146 is positioned on and releasably secured to the luggage case. In the second locked configuration, the lock 146 is disengaged from the luggage case. In the primary locking configuration, the lock 146 is secured to a mount 149, which mount 149 (e.g., mounting plate 150 in this example) is attached to the main body of the luggage case. As shown in fig. 2A-2B, the mounting plate 150 is attached to a surface of the item of luggage. Thus, when the lock 146 is secured to the mounting plate, the lock 146 protrudes from the surface of the luggage item. In other embodiments, the mounting block 149 (e.g., mounting plate 150) may be attached to the item of luggage such that when the lock body 146 is mounted to the mounting plate, the lock body 146 protrudes to a lesser extent, or is substantially flush with or below a surface of the item of luggage surrounding the lock body 146. This configuration is discussed in more detail with reference to the examples provided below.

In the primary locking configuration, in the example of the lock body being secured to the luggage case, the actuation mechanism 184 is configured to mate with the primary locking mechanism 140. In fig. 2A-2B, in this example, the primary locking mechanism 140 may include at least a single lock slot 180 for receiving and retaining one or more closure mechanism elements, such as zipper pulls 106, 108. In other embodiments, the primary locking mechanism 140 may include another type of zipper fastener, such as a single slit zipper fastener for each zipper pull 106, 108. In other embodiments, the primary locking mechanism 140 may include another type of lock for securing a zipper, a cord, or may be a lock on the luggage case that performs a different function, such as a clamp, for securing the shell components of the clamshell suitcase together, or a closure mechanism for securing a pocket, a removable battery, or other components.

In the illustrated example of the primary locking mechanism 140 in fig. 2A-2B, a single lock slot 180 is sized and designed to receive one or more zipper pulls 106, 108. The zipper pulls 106, 108 are mated together side-by-side and received within a single lock slit 180. The locking bar 152 of the actuation mechanism extends through the aperture formed in the zipper pull 106, 108 and is maintained in position to retain the zipper pull 106, 108 within the lock slot 180, and the locking bar 152 is movable, such as when the actuation mechanism is actuated to disengage the primary locking mechanism 140, the zipper pull 106, 108 is removed from the slot 180, whereupon the locking bar 152 is deflected or retracted from the aperture formed in the zipper pull 106, 108.

As shown in fig. 2B, when the main locking mechanism 140 does not hold the zipper pulls 106, 108, the zipper pulls 106, 108 are free to move to open and close the luggage case. To lock the luggage case, as shown in FIG. 2A, the zipper pulls 106, 108 are oriented to mate together and align with the slots of the primary locking mechanism 140. In this example, the mounting plate and lock body 146 may be located anywhere on the luggage case where the primary locking mechanism 140 may be contacted by the zipper pulls 106, 108.

In the example shown in fig. 2A-2B, the primary locking mechanism 140 is actuated by a combination lock 144 and a release member 148, in this example a button, that operates in conjunction with the combination lock 144 as part of the actuation mechanism. In other embodiments, the actuation mechanism may include, for example, a key lock that operates in conjunction with the release member 148. In this example, the release member 148 is an actuator in the form of a button 188. Other structures may be used instead of buttons, such as rocker switches or sliding mechanisms. When the combination lock 144 is in the correct position (e.g., the dial is rotated such that the dial displays the correct combination), the release member 148 may be depressed to unlock the primary locking mechanism 140. When the release member 148 is depressed, the primary locking mechanism 140 is released (unlocked) to allow the

zipper sliders

106, 108 to be removed from the primary locking mechanism 140.

The lock body 146 may also include an override lock 142 as part of the actuation mechanism. Override lock 142 may allow locking system 104 to meet safety regulations. For example, in one embodiment, override lock 142 is a key lock to allow a security personnel to open the luggage case during an inspection, or by a separate key to allow for an inspection to be performed in other situations. Override lock 142 also allows release member 148 to operate to release primary locking mechanism 140 so that the luggage case may be opened.

Fig. 3 shows the bottom of the mounting seat 149 as seen from the interior surface 121 of the luggage case, and shows a slide mechanism 154 for selectively securing the lock body 146 and releasing the attachment mechanism of the lock body 146 from the mounting seat 149 and the luggage case. This structure is described in more detail below, particularly for this example, which is primarily in fig. 4, 5, and 6A-6D.

Fig. 4 shows an enlarged partial cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of fig. 2A, illustrating the mounting block 149 with the attachment mechanism securing the lock body 146 to the mounting block 149 when the attachment mechanism is in the locked first configuration, the mounting block 149 being, for this example, a mounting plate 150. Fig. 5 shows the same or a similar enlarged partial cross-sectional view showing the mounting seat 149 with the attachment mechanism releasing the lock body 146 from the mounting plate 150 when the attachment mechanism is in the unlocked second configuration. Fig. 6A-6D show in detail the structure of the attachment mechanism in a first configuration and holding the lock body 146 on the mounting plate 150, and the structure of the attachment mechanism in a second configuration and releasing the lock body 146 from the mounting plate 150.

The mounting means of the locking system 104 on the luggage case includes a mounting seat 149, such as a mounting plate 150 attached to a surface of the luggage case in this example. The mounting plate 150 includes a top 156 and a bottom 158. The bottom 158 of the mounting plate 150 is mounted on the inside of the luggage case and the top 156 of the mounting plate 150 is mounted on the outside surface of the luggage case. The top 156 of the mounting plate 150 and the bottom 158 of the mounting plate 150 are secured by fasteners 152 to sandwich the walls of the luggage case therebetween and secure the mounting plate 150 in a selected position. The top 156 of the mounting plate 150, the bottom 158 of the mounting plate 150, and the right panel 120 of the luggage case each include holes for receiving the fasteners 152. In this example, the mounting plate is positioned in a hole formed in a wall of the luggage case and defining a peripheral edge. The top 156 and bottom 158 of the mounting plate 150 grip portions of the perimeter edge of the luggage case.

As shown in fig. 4, the top 156 of the mounting plate 150 may include a bottom wall 182 and side walls 166. The bottom wall 182 may engage the right panel 120 of the luggage case 102. The side walls 166 may help position the lock body 146 within the mounting plate 150. The side walls 166 may have a uniform height or, as shown in fig. 3, a non-uniform height, such as including one or more notches to accommodate the interaction of the zipper pull with the primary locking mechanism and/or notches to accommodate the release member 148.

In some embodiments, the top 156 of the mounting plate 150 may include structure for improving retention of the lock body 146. For example, in one embodiment, the top 156 of the mounting plate 150 may include a groove 157, the groove 157 configured to retain the complementary ridge 147 on the lock body 146. In another embodiment, the ridge and groove configuration may be reversed, or other retaining features may be implemented.

The lock body 146 is retained on the mounting plate 150 by an attachment mechanism, which in this example is formed on a bottom 158 of the mounting plate 150. The attachment mechanism may include one or more protruding features that are inserted through at least one corresponding hole 160 in the lock body 146 to engage the lock body 146 and secure the lock body 146 to the mounting plate 150. Although one hole and one protruding feature may be used, two holes and two protruding features are shown in this example. The protruding structural feature may be movable, such as rotatable or slidable, as described below.

As shown in fig. 4, each protruding feature may be a post 162 that includes an upper flange 164. In the example shown in fig. 3, the upper flange 164 is generally elongated with a length dimension that is greater than a width dimension. For example, the upper flange 164 may be generally rectangular, elliptical, or rectangular in shape. The two posts 162 engage the slide mechanism 154 as described below.

When the lock body is retained in the mounting plate 150, the upper flange 164 is positioned inside the lock body, passing through a corresponding hole 160 in the lock body 146. The upper flanges are oriented relative to the apertures 160 such that they cannot pass through the corresponding apertures 160 to disengage the lock body 146 from the mounting plate 150. For example, the aperture 160 is elongated in shape with a length dimension that is greater than a width dimension. When the upper flange 164 is oriented such that the length dimension of the upper flange is generally aligned with the length dimension of the corresponding aperture (first orientation), the upper flange may be received through the corresponding aperture. In this example, the length and width dimensions of the upper flange are slightly smaller than the corresponding length and width dimensions of the aperture to fit through the aperture when the length dimensions are aligned. The length dimension of the flange is greater than the width dimension of the corresponding aperture such that the flange may not pass through the aperture when the flange is not aligned with the length of the aperture. As shown in fig. 4, when the flange 164 is misaligned with the corresponding aperture 160, the lock body 146 is secured by the mounting plate 150 via an attachment mechanism. This is the first engaged configuration of the attachment mechanism, where the attachment mechanism engages at least one of the apertures 160 of the lock body 146 to secure the lock body to the luggage case. As shown in fig. 5, when the flange 164 is aligned with the corresponding aperture 160, the flange may pass through the aperture 160 and allow the lock body 146 to be released from the attachment mechanism for removal from the luggage case. This is the disengaged second configuration of the attachment mechanism.

Referring to fig. 3 and 5, the slide mechanism 154 of the attachment mechanism is operatively connected with each of the protruding features, in this example posts 162. The actuating member, in this example a slide, moves linearly on the bottom of the mounting plate and causes each post to rotate between an engaged first configuration (in which the flange 164 is misaligned with the corresponding aperture 160) and a disengaged second configuration (in which the flange 164 is aligned with the corresponding aperture 160). In this example, the slide mechanism 154 includes opposing arms 155. Each of the opposing arms 155 engages the base of one of the posts 162. When the slide mechanism 154 is moved from left to right, the opposing arms also move and cause the two posts 162 to rotate approximately 90 degrees, thereby rotating the upper flange 164 a corresponding 90 degrees. As the upper flange 164 is rotated, the upper flange 164 moves from a first orientation aligned lengthwise with the aperture 160 to a second orientation not aligned lengthwise with the corresponding aperture. As described above, when the flange 164 is not aligned with the aperture 160, the lock 146 is secured to the mounting block 149 (in this example, the mounting plate 150) and the luggage case, and when the flange is moved to an orientation in which they are aligned with the aperture 160, the lock 146 may be removed from the luggage case.

In other embodiments, the aperture 160 may be shaped such that the aperture 160 is wider at a first end and narrower at a second end. Thus, the upper flange 164 is sized so that the upper flange 164 can be inserted into the wider first end of the aperture 160. The width of the upper flange 164 is greater than the width of the narrower second end of the aperture 160 such that the upper flange 164 cannot pass through the second end of the aperture 160 to release the lock body 146 from the mounting plate 150. In these embodiments, the slide mechanism 154 engages each post 162 in a manner that translates the post 162 corresponding to the movement of the slide mechanism 154. In this example, as the slide mechanism 154 slides (moves) from left to right (e.g., as shown in fig. 3), the upper flange 164 moves (e.g., by translation) from a first, wider end of the aperture 160 to a second, narrower end of the aperture 160, and the lock body 146 remains stationary with the mounting plate 150. Fig. 3 shows the bottom 158 of the mounting plate 150 on the interior surface of the luggage case as viewed from the interior of the luggage case. The sliding mechanism 154 is accessible from the interior of the luggage case. In some embodiments, to facilitate access, the mounting plate 150 may be provided on top of any lining inside the luggage case. In other embodiments, the mounting plate 150 may be disposed under any liner, if desired.

Fig. 5 shows the lock body 146 disengaged from the mounting plate 150 with the attachment mechanism in a disengaged configuration. To move the attachment mechanism from the position shown in fig. 2A-2B that holds the lock body 146 to the disengaged configuration of fig. 5, the slide mechanism 154 is moved to the disengaged position, for example, by sliding or moving along a path, as discussed in further detail below with respect to fig. 6A-6C. As shown in fig. 3, the slide mechanism 154 is accessible from the interior of the case and moves from left to right to move from the hold position to the disengaged position. As the slide mechanism 154 moves from left to right, the post 162 rotates until the upper flange 164 aligns with the aperture 160, which allows the upper flange 164 to be removed from the aperture 160.

Fig. 6A-6D provide additional details of the attachment mechanism. Fig. 6A shows the lock body 146 attached to the upper portion 156 of the mounting plate. To retain the lock body 146, the upper flange 164 of the post 162 is retained within each aperture 160 of the lock body 146. As discussed above, the upper flange 164 has a generally elongated shape such that when the upper flange 164 is oriented in the engaged position shown in fig. 6A, the upper flange 164 cannot fit through the aperture 160, and thus the lock 146 is secured to the luggage case. The post 162 further includes a post base 163 and a post extension 165. The connection member 155 connects the column base 163 to the slide mechanism 154.

Fig. 6B shows the upper flange 164 and post 162 rotated to an orientation that produces a disengaged configuration. As described above, when the slide mechanism 154 is slid (moved) from left to right, the post 162 rotates sufficiently to cause the elongated portion of the upper flange 164 to align with the shape of the aperture 160 in the lock body 146. When the slide mechanism 154 moves from left to right, the connecting member 155 causes the base 163 of the post 162 to rotate the entire post 162. For example, the column base 163 shown in fig. 6A may be pushed when the slide mechanism 154 moves from left to right. The connection point between the connection member 155 and the column base 163 is positioned such that pushing of the connection member 155 causes rotation of the column base 163, which in turn causes rotation of the column extension 165 and upper flange 164 with the column base 163. For another post 162 not shown in fig. 6A, the connecting member 155 pulls the post base 163, causing rotation in a similar manner.

Rotation of the upper flange 164 causes the upper flange 164 to move to the disengaged configuration of the attachment mechanism. Once the upper flange 164 is rotated to the disengaged configuration, the lock body 146 may be removed from the upper portion 156 of the mounting plate, as shown in FIG. 6C. In the disengaged configuration, the upper flange 164 is rotated such that the elongated portion is aligned with the aperture 160 to allow the upper flange 164 to move through the aperture 160. In one alternative, the slide mechanism 154 may be moved in a different manner in order to rotate the post 162. For example, the slide mechanism 154 may be rotated to correspondingly rotate the post 162.

As shown in fig. 6D, in some embodiments, the attachment mechanism may use other structures to secure the lock 146 to the luggage case. For example, the spin column 162 may be replaced with a translating L-shaped column 166 that includes a top flange 165. In the engaged position of the attachment mechanism, the top flange 165 extends such that a portion of the top flange 165 contacts the peripheral edge forming the aperture 160', preventing the L-shaped post 166 from being removed through the aperture 160'. In the disengaged position of the attachment mechanism, the top flange 165 is aligned with the opening provided by the aperture 160 'to allow the top flange 165 to be removed through the aperture 160'. The L-shaped post 166 moves linearly with the slide mechanism 154', in this case a linear sliding motion. The slide mechanism 154 'is connected to the L-shaped post 166 by a connecting member 155'. The connecting member 155 'is connected to the L-shaped post 166 such that when the slide mechanism 154' is moved linearly, the L-shaped post 166 is also moved linearly, moving the top flange 165 between the engaged and disengaged positions.

When two posts 162 are used as part of the attachment mechanism, the two posts 162 may be placed approximately equidistant from the sides of the mounting plate 150 and the center of the mounting plate 150 to provide a secure connection between the lock body 146 and the mounting plate 150. In other embodiments, the bottom of the mounting plate 150 may include one post 162 or more than two posts 162. In some embodiments, the bottom of the mounting plate 150 may include a plurality of sliding mechanisms 154 as part of the attachment mechanism to move the post 162 between the engaged and disengaged positions.

Fig. 7A is an isometric view of the locking system 104 in a second locked configuration, wherein the lock has been released from the luggage case and may be used to secure other items or objects if desired, wherein the actuation mechanism 184 cooperates with the second locking mechanism 176. As with the primary locking mechanism 140 described above, the combination lock 144 and release member 148 are part of the actuation mechanism in its second configuration and function with the secondary locking mechanism 176 to secure and release the securing member 170. For example, as shown in fig. 7B and 7C, in a second locked configuration, the second locking mechanism 176 selectively secures the securing member 170, the securing member 170 being in the form of a flexible member, such as a cord 170 in one example. When the lock 146 is mounted to the luggage case (in the locked first configuration), the securing member 170 is stored on the lock and may not be operable. When in the second locked configuration and separated from the luggage case, the securing member 170 may be altered to a configuration for securing an object or item.

Fig. 7A shows the cord 170 of this example retained in a groove 174 in the lock body 146. Fig. 7B shows the cord 170 in an extended configuration ready for use. Fig. 7C shows the cord 170 in a locked configuration, wherein the cord 170 is used to secure other objects, such as a purse, to the chain fence.

As shown in fig. 7A, when the lock body 146 is removed from the mounting plate, the cord 170 is retained in a groove 174 located on the lock body 146. The cord 170 may be retained in the groove by a friction fit or other retaining structure. The cord 170 is positioned in a groove on the lock body 146 that does not interfere with the positioning of the lock body 146 in the mount 149. The groove 174 may extend around at least a portion of the periphery of the lock body. The groove 174 may be at least as long as the cord portion and may be sized deep enough so that the cord portion is flush below the peripheral edge of the lock body. The grooves 174 may be of different sizes and also serve to retain the free ends of the cords, which may be shaped differently than the length of the cord portions. In other embodiments, a separate retaining mechanism, such as a pivoting retaining member, may retain the free end of the cord and/or cord 170 in the groove 174 of the lock body 146. In other embodiments, the cord 170 may be retained by a retaining mechanism other than a groove 174 located at the periphery of the lock body 146.

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

Fig. 7C shows the free end 168 of the cord 170 inserted into the aperture 186 of the second locking mechanism 176, the second locking mechanism 176 including in this example the aperture 186 in the lock body 146. In this example, the free end 168 first passes through the chain fence, then through the handle of the handbag, and then is received in the aperture 186.

The distal end 168 of the cord 170 is selectively secured in the aperture 186 using an actuation mechanism in a second configuration, including the combination lock 144 and the release member 148. The actuation mechanism may be used to unlock the locking system 104 and remove the free end 168 of the cord 170 from the bore 186. Although the combination lock 144 is shown in fig. 7C, other unlocking mechanisms, such as a key lock, are contemplated as part of the actuation mechanism in the second configuration. The release member 148 may be used to release the distal end 168 of the cord 170 from the aperture 186 when the combination lock 144 is in the proper unlocked configuration. In other embodiments, a slider or rocker switch may be used in place of the release member 148.

Once locked, the distal end 168 of the cord 170 may also be removed from the bore 186 using an override or second locking mechanism 142, such as a standardized keyed (TSA) lock, which in this example may be included as part of the actuation mechanism. Thus, the security personnel can unlock the locking system 104 to check the contents of the luggage case.

Fig. 8 illustrates a second locking configuration for locking other objects together, such as locking the bag 178 to an external structure such as a chain fence. The free end 168 of the cord 170 may be placed through the handle of the bag 178 and through the chain guard. With the combination lock 144 set in the correct configuration (unlocked), the free end of the cord 170 is then inserted into the aperture 186 of the second locking mechanism 176. The cord 170 may then be removed from the bore 186, as discussed above with reference to fig. 7A-7C, wherein the combination lock 144 is set to the proper configuration and then the release member 148 is actuated to allow the free end 168 to be removed from the bore 186. The locking system may be used in a second locking configuration in a variety of other scenarios. For example, the locking system may be used to lock lockers or doors designed to receive combination locks, or to lock conventional zipper pulls together on any type of bag or luggage.

Fig. 9A shows the lock body 146 mounted on a mounting plate 250 and received in a recess 284 formed on the exterior of the luggage case, the mounting plate 250 being attached to the exterior surface of the luggage case. The recess 284 includes a bottom wall and side walls forming the perimeter of the recess 284. As shown, when the lock 146 is mounted to the mounting plate 250, the top surface of the lock 146 is substantially flush with the outer surface of the luggage case so as not to extend above the outer surface surrounding the recess in one example so as not to be caught by objects when the lock is moved relative to (e.g., above the floor, on a belt, or past other luggage case). In this embodiment, the surface of the luggage case includes a recess configured to receive the lock body 146 of the mounting mechanism. In a soft-sided luggage case, the recessed portion may be formed by: a portion of the luggage case surface is removed to form a hole having a peripheral edge, and then a mounting plate is placed, which itself forms a recess and is secured along its periphery to the edge of the hole. In hard-sided luggage cases, the recess may be formed during the molding process. For example, the recess may be built into a mold for the luggage case. As shown in fig. 9A, the recess 284 in the hard-sided or soft-sided luggage case may be longer than the lock body 146 so that a user may access the release member 148 of the lock body 146 to release the primary locking mechanism 140 of the lock body 146.

Fig. 9B shows the mounting plate 250 from the interior of the luggage case 102. In the embodiment shown in fig. 9B, a recess 284 is formed in the hard-sided luggage. As shown, the actuating member 254 is accessible from the interior of the case to disengage the lock 146 from the mounting plate 250. The actuating member 254 is similar to the slide mechanism 154 described with reference to fig. 6A-6D and described in more detail below.

Fig. 9C shows additional details of the mounting configuration depicted in fig. 9A. As shown, the lock 146 is seated within a recess 284 in the surface of the luggage case 102. As in the previous examples, the mounting plate 250 includes a bottom 258 and a top 256 on either side of the surface of the luggage case 102. The bottom 258 of the mounting plate 250, the surface of the luggage case 102, and the top 256 of the mounting plate 250 may be connected using fasteners 252. The top 256 of the mounting plate 250 includes side walls 256 to retain the lock body 146 on the mounting plate 250. Further, the mounting plate 250 may include actuation members and one or more attachment mechanisms similar to those discussed above with reference to fig. 3. For example, the mounting plate 250 shown in fig. 9C includes a post 262 formed from a post base 263, the post base 263 being connected to an upper flange 264 by an extension 265. The post base 263 is connected to the actuator 254 by a connecting member 255. As the actuating member 254 moves laterally, the connecting member 255 may cause the column base 263 to rotate, thereby rotating the upper flange 264 to the disengaged configuration, as discussed with reference to fig. 6A-6C. Alternatively, the mounting plate 250 may include other attachment mechanisms, such as the L-shaped post 166 described above with reference to FIG. 6D. The L-shaped post 166 is also attached to the slide mechanism 154 by a connecting member 155 and moves laterally with the slide mechanism 154, moving the L-shaped post 166 between an engaged position and a disengaged position.

In some embodiments, the mounting seat 149 may be formed by the recess itself, eliminating the need for a mounting plate. For example, the hardsided luggage case may be formed such that the outer surface of the luggage case includes a recess for receiving the lock body 146. In this example, the lock 146 may be attached to the luggage case by an attachment device that extends into the recess. For example, the attachment means may include one or more attachment mechanisms that are exposed through holes in a recess in the luggage surface, wherein the one or more attachment mechanisms (such as the posts with flanged tops described above) may be releasably engaged with holes in the lock body 146 as discussed above. The attachment mechanism may be removable from the interior of the luggage case to allow the lock 146 to be separated from the luggage case and used in a second locked configuration.

In some embodiments of the locking system, the locking system includes a mount 350 defined by a housing 347, the housing 347 defining an interior cavity 372. In the example shown in fig. 10A and 10B, the mount 350 includes an upper housing 347 having an interior cavity 372 with the removable lock 346 positioned in the interior cavity 372. As shown in fig. 10A, upper cover 347 fits into recess housing 356. The recess housing 356 is generally rectangular in shape and sized such that the upper shroud 347 fits easily within the recess housing 356. The lower surface of recess housing 356 also includes holes and rectangular openings for receiving fasteners 352. The recess housing 356 is shown here as being received in a recess 321 formed in an outer surface of the luggage case 102. The recess housing 356 may be placed substantially flush, slightly below flush, or slightly above flush with the surrounding area of the side wall of the luggage case 102. In a softside case, the recess housing 356 may be positioned in a hole formed in an exterior surface of the case. Upper shroud 347 is seated within recess housing 356. Which may be substantially flush, slightly below flush, or slightly above flush with the upper extent of recess housing 356 and the surrounding area of the luggage side wall.

The upper shroud 347 is generally rectangular in shape. The bottom surface of the upper housing 347 includes apertures for receiving fasteners 352 and access door 364. The access door 364 may be opened and closed and rotated about a hinge 366 provided at an edge of the access door 364.

Upper shroud 347 fits within recess housing 356. The holes in the bottom surface of the upper shroud 347 align with the holes in the bottom surface of the recess 356 to receive the fasteners 352. As shown in fig. 10B, fasteners 352 extend through the surface 320 of the luggage case, the recess housing 356, and the upper cover 347 to secure the mounting cover to the luggage case. Further, when upper housing 347 is assembled within recess housing 356, access door 364 is aligned with rectangular opening 363 in the bottom surface of recess housing 356 such that access door 364 is functional when upper housing 347 and recess housing 356 are mounted to luggage 102.

When the access door 364 is in the open position, the cavity 372 in the upper housing 347 is accessible. The cavity 372 is defined by the access door 364, the side wall 373, and the upper surface 357 of the upper housing 347. The upper surface 357 of the upper housing 347 includes an upper opening 374. The upper opening 374 covers a portion of the upper surface 357 of the upper cover 347 extending between the side walls 373 of the inner chamber 372.

The upper housing 347 may also include several components that mate with the primary locking mechanism 340 of the locking system 300 when the actuation mechanism 398 is in the primary configuration. The primary locking mechanism 340 may include a pair of slots 388 in a surface of the upper housing 347. As shown in fig. 10A, the actuation mechanism may include a combination lock 344, a release member 341, and prongs 384 and 386, with the

prongs

384 and 386 extending through a slot 388 to secure the zipper pull of a luggage case in a similar or identical manner as described above with reference to fig. 2A and 2B. The actuation mechanism may also include several internal components of the lock, such as components that connect the release member 341 with the

prongs

384 and 386. With the combination lock 344 set in the unlocked configuration, portions of the zipper pull may be positioned into the corresponding slots 388 and secured therein by the corresponding

prongs

384 or 386. When the combination lock is set to the unlocked configuration, the release member 341 may be actuated to allow the zipper pull(s) to be removed from the slot 388. When the combination lock 344 is not set to the unlocked configuration, the release member 341 may be immovable, and the zipper pull is thus secured in the slot(s) 388 by the

respective prongs

384 or 386. The actuation mechanism may include an override lock 342 also disposed in the upper housing 347. The override lock 342 may be, for example, a key lock so that a security personnel may control the primary locking mechanism 340.

As shown in fig. 10B, the locking system 300 is mounted to a surface of the luggage case 320 using fasteners 352. The fastener 352 extends through the surface of the luggage case 320, the recess housing 356, and the upper cover 347. Removable lock 346 is positioned in interior cavity 372 of upper housing 347 and access door 364 is in a closed position to retain removable lock 346 in upper housing 347. The access door 364 opens into the interior of the luggage case 320.

When the removable lock 346 is engaged in the cavity 372, the dials of the combination lock 344 may be used to control the

prongs

384 and 386. Fig. 10C illustrates the mechanical connection between removable lock 346 and

prongs

384 and 386. When the removable lock 346 is placed in the cavity 372, the outer surface 381 of the spring loaded button 380 contacts the drive link 382.

Drive link 382

contacts prongs

384 and 386. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in fig. 10C, prongs 384 and 386 are nested together such that each of

prongs

384 and 386 are physically connected to drive link 382. In other embodiments, tip 386 may be physically connected to tip 384, with tip 384 being physically connected to drive link 382. In yet another embodiment, prongs 384 and 386 may be formed from a single structure. As a result of the connection between drive link 382 and

prongs

384 and 386, when removable lock 346 is in the locked configuration with spring-loaded button 380 in its outermost position (such as shown in fig. 10C) and prevented from moving inwardly into removable lock 346, drive link 382 prevents

prongs

384 and 386 from moving laterally across slots 388 to disengage and release the tabs in each slot 388. Conversely, when the dials of the combination lock 344 are in the proper combination, the spring loaded button 380 is able to move into the removable lock 346, thus allowing the drive link 382 to move laterally and allowing the

prongs

384 and 386 to move laterally within their respective slots 388 to release the zipper handles held by the

prongs

384 and 386.

In some embodiments, such as the locking system 300 shown in fig. 10B, the release member 341 may be operably connected to the

prongs

384 and 386 to move the

prongs

384 and 386 laterally. In these embodiments, the lower portion of override fixed structure 342 fits within the central portion of drive link 382. When spring-loaded button 380 is in the unlocked second position, sliding release member 341 toward spring-loaded button 380 moves drive link 382 laterally, thereby moving

prongs

384 and 386 laterally, retracting

prongs

384 and 386 from slots 388 of upper housing 347.

Fig. 10D shows a cross-sectional view of removable lock body 346 within upper housing 347. As described above, spring-loaded button 380 has a locked first position in which drive link 382 and

prongs

384 and 386 are prevented from moving laterally toward removable lock 346, thereby holding

prongs

384 and 386 in place across slot 388. The spring-loaded button 380 is shown in a locked first position in fig. 10D. Spring-loaded button 380 extends inwardly into removable lock 346. The interior of the spring-loaded button 380 includes a blocker ring 390. The blocker ring 390 fits around the generally cylindrical interior of the spring-loaded button 380. The blocker ring 390 is shaped to engage a flip ring 392 on the underside of the dial 344 of the actuation mechanism. The flip ring 392 extends around the underside of the dial 344 but is not located on the underside of the dial 344 depicting the number portions representing the combination used to unlock the combination lock 344.

When the dial 344 is not rotated to the unlocked combination, as shown in fig. 10D, the flip ring 392 engages the stop ring 390 to prevent the spring-loaded buttons 380 from moving inwardly out of the

prongs

384 and 386. When the dial 344 is rotated to the unlocked combination, the blocking ring 390 is unobstructed by the flip ring 392 and the spring loaded button 380 can be moved to the unlocked second position. Further, drive link 382 and

prongs

384 and 386 may be laterally displaced. Further, when the spring-loaded button 380 is moved to the unlocked second position, the notch 394 on the interior of the spring-loaded button 380 disengages from the distal end 386 of the stationary structure 370 due to movement of the spring-loaded button 380. Thus, the shape of the spring-loaded button 380 allows the combination lock 344 to engage the primary and

secondary locking mechanisms

340, 397.

As shown in fig. 11B, removable lock body 346 fits within interior cavity 372 of upper housing 358. When the removable lock 346 is placed within the inner cavity 372, the dial of the actuation mechanism is accessible via the upper opening 374 in the upper housing 347, as shown in fig. 10A. In some embodiments, the sidewalls of the cavity 372 may be shaped such that the removable lock 346 is locked to fit within the cavity 372 in only one orientation. Thus, the removable lock 346 may be easily replaced into the cavity 372 and is less likely to be placed in the cavity 372 in the wrong orientation.

In some embodiments, when the removable lock 346 is placed within the inner cavity 372 of the upper housing 347, the cord 370 deforms to fit within the inner cavity 372. Thus, when access door 364 is closed, cord 370 of removable lock 346 is contained within upper housing 347, as shown in fig. 11A. In other embodiments, the opening 365 in the access door 364 may allow the cord 370 to protrude outside of the upper housing 347, as shown in fig. 10B-10D.

The removable lock 346 is removable from the upper housing 347 and is used in a second locked configuration, wherein the actuation mechanism in the second configuration includes the combination lock 344, the spring loaded button 380, and the securing member 370 in one example. Several components of the actuation mechanism may mate with the aperture 386 of the second locking mechanism. Referring to fig. 11A-11C, latch 368 on access door 364 of upper housing 347 may be movable to allow door 364 to open and swing about hinge 366. Once access door 364 is opened, removable lock 346 may be removed from upper housing 347 and luggage case 320 for use independent of upper housing 347.

The removable lock body 346 broadly includes a securing member 370 in the form of a flexible member, such as a cord 370 in one example. As shown in fig. 12, a second locking mechanism 397 secures the free end of the fixation member 370 in the aperture 386. The removable lock body 346 includes a combination lock 344, shown as a dial in fig. 12. A spring-loaded button 380 is also included on the removable lock body 346. When the dials of the combination lock 344 are rotated to the correct combination, the spring loaded members 393 in the removable lock body 346 are free to move laterally. As the spring-loaded member 393 is free to move laterally, the spring-loaded button 380 may be moved from the locked first position to the unlocked second position (i.e., by pushing the spring-loaded button 380) to release the latch securing the distal end 386 of the cord 370 in the aperture 382, thereby releasing the distal end 386 of the cord 370.

As shown in fig. 13, the locking system 400 includes a mount 450 having a housing 447 that defines an interior cavity 472 for receiving a lock body including a removable lock 445 disposed within an upper housing 447. Recess housing 456 is substantially similar to recess housing 356, but is shaped to retain upper cap 447. Thus, recess housing 456 has a greater width than recess housing 356.

The upper cap 447 has a similar structure to the upper cap 347. As shown in fig. 14A, 14B, and 14C, the upper cap 447 is generally rectangular in shape. The bottom surface of the upper cap 447 includes holes for receiving fasteners. The bottom surface of the upper cap 447 also includes an access door 464. The access door 464 may be opened using a release mechanism 468 disposed near a first edge of the access door 464. In this example, the release mechanism 468 includes two sliding mechanisms that move relative to each other. As the slide mechanisms move inwardly toward each other, the protrusions 476 controlled by each slide mechanism move from a position where the protrusions 476 engage with the recesses 478 in the side walls 473 of the upper cap 447. When the protrusion 476 is disengaged from the recess 478, the access door 464 may be opened by rotating the access door 464 about a hinge 466 disposed at a second edge of the access door 464.

When the access door 464 is opened, the interior cavity 472 of the upper housing 447 is accessible. The interior cavity 472 is defined by an access door 464, a sidewall 473, and an upper surface 457 of the upper cap 447. An upper opening 474 in the upper surface of the upper cap 447 is located above the interior cavity 472. The upper opening 474 covers a portion of the upper surface 457 of the upper cap 447 that extends between the side walls 473 of the interior chamber 472.

The upper housing 447 also includes a main locking mechanism 440 for the locking system 400. As shown in fig. 13, the primary locking mechanism 440 may include a pair of slots that secure the zipper pull of the luggage case. The actuation mechanism in the primary configuration may include an override lock 442, with the override lock 442 also disposed in the upper housing 458 for travel safety purposes as described above.

Referring to fig. 14B-14D, when the release mechanism 468 is actuated to allow the access door 464 to open, the lock body 445 may be removed from the inner cavity 472 of the upper cap 447 and in a second locked configuration. The lock body 445 utilizes a second locking mechanism 497, the second locking mechanism 497 in one example comprising an aperture 486 and an actuation mechanism in a second configuration comprising the combination lock 444, the securing member 470, and the spring-loaded button 480 in one example. As with lock body 346, removable lock 445 broadly includes a securing member 470 in the form of a flexible member, such as a cord 470 in one example. As shown in fig. 14D and 14E, a second locking mechanism 497 secures the free end of the securing member 470 in the aperture 486. The lock body 445 includes a combination lock 444, shown as a dial in fig. 14D. A spring-loaded button 480 is also included on the removable lock 445. When the dials of the combination lock 444 are turned to the correct combination, the spring-loaded buttons 480 in the removable lock 445 may be free to move laterally, allowing the spring-loaded buttons 480 to move from the protruding position to the retracted position (i.e., by pushing the spring-loaded buttons 480). When the spring-loaded button 480 is in the retracted position, the latch securing the distal end of the cord 470 in the aperture 486 in the lock body 445 is released, thereby releasing the distal end of the cord 470.

The locking system 400 is shown in fig. 14A. As shown, the upper cap 447 fits within the recess housing 450. The fastener 452 extends through the luggage surface 420, the recess housing 450, and the upper shroud 447. The removable lock body 445 is disposed within the interior cavity 472 of the upper cap 447 and the access door 464 is in a closed position to retain the removable lock 445 in the interior cavity 472.

The combination lock 444 is included in an actuation mechanism in both the primary configuration and the secondary configuration in a manner similar to the combination lock 344 described above. The combination lock 444 interacts with internal structure on the spring-loaded button 480 to allow the button 480 to move from the protruding position to the retracted position. The drive link can also slide to move laterally as the button 480 (typically the release member) is free to move laterally. The combination lock 444 interacts with a drive link physically connected to the prongs of the main locking mechanism 440. Thus, movement of the button 480 causes the drive link and prongs to also move laterally, which unlocks the primary locking mechanism. In contrast, when the combination lock 444 is in the locked position, the spring-loaded button 480 is prevented from moving laterally, which in turn prevents the release member (spring-loaded button 480) and the drive link from sliding, preventing the tip of the main locking mechanism 440 from moving laterally, so that the zipper pull located in the main locking mechanism 440 is not released.

The above disclosure includes an attachment mechanism for releasably securing a mount from the interior of the luggage case in order to release the lock body from its engagement with the luggage case. This configuration helps to prevent the lock from being removed accidentally or when the luggage is locked in the closed configuration. In general, it is contemplated that the attachment mechanism of the releasably securing mount may be positioned for access from the exterior of the luggage case, in which case the lock body may be separated from the luggage case without accessing the interior of the luggage case.

All relative and directional references (including upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, sides, above, below, front, middle, back, vertical, horizontal, etc.) are provided by way of example to aid the reader's understanding of the specific examples described herein. These terms should not be construed as requirements or limitations, particularly as to location, orientation or use, unless explicitly set forth in the claims. Joinder references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, coupled, and the like) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between elements connected and relative movement between elements. Thus, unless explicitly recited in the claims, the term "connected" does not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the presently disclosed examples provide teachings by way of example and not by way of limitation. Accordingly, the matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features described herein, as well as all statements of the scope of the methods and systems herein, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.

Claims

1. A luggage case, comprising:

at least one closure mechanism; and

a lock body including an actuation mechanism having a locked first configuration and an unlocked second configuration;

wherein the lock body and actuation mechanism are joined together to form an assembly that is removably mounted to the luggage case;

the luggage case further includes a mounting device that removably mounts the lock body to the luggage case; wherein:

an actuating mechanism selectively secures the at least one closure mechanism when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case; and

the actuation mechanism is capable of selectively securing other objects when the lock body is disengaged from the luggage case.

2. The luggage case of claim 1, wherein the mounting means comprises:

a mount configured to retain the lock body; and is also provided with

The lock body can be separated from the mounting base from the interior of the luggage case.

3. The luggage case of claim 2, wherein the mount comprises a recess formed in an outer surface of the luggage case.

4. The luggage case of claim 2, wherein the mount comprises a mounting plate or housing defining an interior cavity.

5. The luggage of claim 4, wherein the mount is a housing defining an interior cavity, and the lock body is removable from the interior cavity through an access door formed in the housing.

6. The luggage case of claim 5, wherein a release member interacts with a primary locking mechanism to secure the at least one closure mechanism when the actuation mechanism is in the locked first configuration and the lock body is mounted to the luggage case.

7. The luggage of claim 6, wherein the cavity is shaped such that the release member is aligned to interact with the primary locking mechanism when the lock body is retained in the cavity.

8. The luggage case of claim 2, wherein the luggage case further comprises:

A securing member selectively retained by the actuation mechanism when the lock body is disengaged from the luggage case.

9. The luggage of claim 8, wherein the lock body includes a release member that interacts with a second locking mechanism to secure the securing member when the actuating mechanism is in the locked second configuration and the lock body is disengaged from the luggage.

10. The luggage of claim 9, wherein the securing member is an elongated flexible member.

11. The luggage case of any of claims 2-10, wherein at least one attachment mechanism secures the lock body to a mount.

12. The luggage case of claim 11, wherein:

the lock body further includes at least one aperture; and

the at least one attachment mechanism engages the at least one aperture of the lock body to secure the lock body to the luggage case.

13. The luggage case of claim 8, wherein the securing member is retained along the lock body when the lock body is attached to the mount.

14. The luggage case of claim 12, wherein the attachment mechanism comprises a sliding mechanism accessible from an interior of the luggage case to disengage from the at least one aperture of the lock body and release the lock body from the mount.

15. A luggage case according to claim 3, wherein the mounting means is located at least partially in the recess.

16. The luggage case of claim 1, wherein the mounting device includes a release member that selectively secures the at least one closure mechanism when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case.

17. The luggage case of claim 16, wherein the lock body includes a second release member that selectively secures other objects when the lock body is separated from the luggage case.

18. The luggage of claim 17, wherein the actuation mechanism comprises a combination lock that cooperates with the release member when the lock body is mounted to the luggage and cooperates with the second release member when the lock body is separated from the luggage.

19. The luggage case of claim 16 or 18, wherein the mounting means comprises a key lock which cooperates with a release member to secure the at least one closure mechanism when the lock body is mounted to the luggage case.

20. The luggage of claim 18, wherein the combination lock is formed as part of a lock body.

21. The luggage of claim 20, wherein the mounting device comprises a housing defining an interior cavity for receiving a lock body.

22. The luggage case of claim 4 or 21, wherein the inner cavity comprises an aperture such that when the lock body is received in the inner cavity, a portion of the lock body is accessible through the aperture.

23. The luggage of claim 22, wherein the aperture is sized to secure the lock in the housing from an exterior of the luggage.