LUGGAGE SYSTEM

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to luggage systems, and in particular, to luggage systems arranged to couple to other containers such as luggage, bags, backpacks, handbags, briefcases, baggage, carry-ons, checked bags, rollaboards, accessory bags, lunch bags, coolers, and/or any other type of container, and more particularly to systems, devices, and methods for coupling a secondary bag to a suitcase.

BACKGROUND

People may prefer to travel with more than one bag in some circumstances. For example, many airlines limit passengers to two “carry-on” bags: one larger primary bag, which may be stowed in an overhead compartment, and one smaller secondary bag, which may be stowed under a seat. However, separately carrying more than one bag may be cumbersome, uncomfortable, or tiresome. Attempting to stack or otherwise join together multiple bags may become unsteady and unwieldy. Thus, there remains a need for effective ways to couple a secondary bag to a suitcase.

SUMMARY

Embodiments of the present disclosure include systems, devices, and methods of coupling a secondary bag to a suitcase.

In some examples, a suitcase may include a main body having an opening therein. The suitcase may further include a base disposed in the opening. The suitcase may further include a coupler configured to selectively engage with a portion of a secondary bag, the coupler configured to be received in the opening. The suitcase may further include a strap extending from the coupler. The suitcase may further include a lock-fastener supported by the main body and configured to allow the strap to be adjusted to increase or decrease a length of the strap between the coupler and the lock-fastener.

In some examples, a suitcase may include a main body having an opening therein. The suitcase may further include a luggage connector which may include a coupler configured to selectively engage with a portion of a secondary bag. The luggage connector may further include a strap extending from the coupler. The luggage connector may further include a lock-fastener supported by the main body and configured to allow the strap to be adjusted to increase or decrease a length of the strap between the coupler and the lock-fastener when the luggage connector is adjusted between a stow position and a use position. The coupler may be sized and shaped to be stowed in the opening when the luggage connector is in the stow position, and the strap and the coupler may be configured to extend from the opening when the strap is in the use position.

In some examples, a method for coupling a secondary bag to a suitcase may include removing a coupler from a stow position in an opening in a main body of the suitcase to a use position by extending a length of a strap between the coupler and a lock-fastener, the strap extending from the opening in the main body. The method may further include securing the lock-fastener and strap to prevent further extension of the length of a strap between the coupler and the lock-fastener. The method may further include introducing a portion of the secondary bag to the coupler.

Additional aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawing figures incorporated in and forming a part of this specification illustrate several aspects of the disclosure, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example suitcase, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a front view of an example suitcase, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3A illustrates a side cross-section view of a portion of an example suitcase having a luggage connector assembly in a use position, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3B illustrates a side cross-section view of a portion of an example suitcase having an example luggage connector assembly in a stow position, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 illustrates a side cross-section view of a portion of an example suitcase having an example luggage connector assembly in a stow position, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side cross-section view of a portion of an example suitcase having an example luggage connector assembly in a use position, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6A illustrates a front view of a portion of an example collapsible handle assembly, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6B illustrates a front view of an example inner rod of an example handle assembly, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6C illustrates a side view of an example rotator portion 610 of an example handle assembly, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 illustrates a back view of an example collapsible handle assembly, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7A illustrates a back view of a handle actuator for actuating an example collapsible handle assembly, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates an exploded top perspective view of an example base and a lock-fastener, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of an example luggage connector assembly in a stow position, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an example collapsible handle assembly, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates an exploded front view of an example three-piece handle assembly, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an example interchangeable-sleeve assembly, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example method of coupling a secondary bag to a suitcase, according to some aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It is nevertheless understood that no limitation to the scope of the disclosure is intended. Any alterations and further modifications to the described devices, systems, and methods, and any further application of the principles of the present disclosure are fully contemplated and included within the present disclosure as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the disclosure relates. In particular, it is fully contemplated that the features, components, and/or steps described with respect to one embodiment may be combined with the features, components, and/or steps described with respect to other embodiments of the present disclosure. For the sake of brevity, however, the numerous iterations of these combinations will not be described separately.

Described herein are systems, methods, and devices for coupling a secondary bag to a primary bag, such as a suitcase. A coupler may be provided to engage the secondary bag and couple the secondary bag to the suitcase. The coupler may transition between a use position and a stow position. In the use position, the coupler may receive and secure a portion of the secondary bag. Transitioning into the stow position, the coupler may be deftly retracted into a cavity of the suitcase giving the external appearance of the suitcase a clean and refined look without a visible external attachment. Thus, the present disclosure may allow for a securable and visually pleasing luggage coupling system, thereby improving overall travel experience.

Implementations disclosed herein, unlike conventional coupling systems, allow for the coupler to be available when desired, and effectively secured from moving when not in use. Thus, when the luggage connector assembly is in the use position, a strap may extend from the coupler allowing the coupler to reach and selectively engage with a portion of a secondary bag. For example, a relatively smaller carry-on bag may have a handle or other looped structure which may engage, couple with, and/or suspend from the coupler which may be attached to a relatively larger carry-on bag. When no longer in use, the luggage connector assembly may be transitioned to the stow position by pulling the strap through a lock-fastener, decreasing the length of the strap, and retracting the coupler into an opening in a main body of the suitcase. Thus, in some implementations, in the stow position, the coupler may be effectively secured from dangling or swinging externally to the suitcase. Transitioning to the use position, the lock-fastener may be actuated from the exterior of the suitcase allowing the strap to be released which may increase the length of the strap and deploy the coupler.

In some implementations, when transitioning from the use position to the stow position, the coupler may include a portion which may engage a portion of the main body of the suitcase, fluidly closing the opening as the coupler moves into the opening. In some implementations, at least a portion of the coupler may at least partially cover the opening in the stow position, at least partially hiding the coupler from view.

In addition to the coupler described herein, some implementations of the suitcase include a collapsible handle with an interchangeable grip portion. This may allow a user to exchange grips depending on the desires of the customer. This also allows the user to customize the handle to have a material, grip type, color, and/or any other unique feature that might add personalization to the suitcase. The grip portion may be released at one end and pivoted about another end allowing a sleeve to slide off the grip portion and be replaced. In some implementations, the collapsible handle may further include at least one adjustment tab which may be actuated to collapse the collapsible handle without the collapsible handle coming down on a user's hand.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example suitcase 100, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. Although the term suitcase is used herein, the suitcase 100 may be referred to by other terms including, for example, suitcase, luggage, bag, backpack, handbag, briefcase, baggage, carry-on, checked bag, rollaboard, accessory bag, lunch bag, cooler, and/or any other suitable term. Depending on the implementation, the user of the suitcase 100 may be any person including, for example, travelers, passengers, pilots, and/or crew. It should be understood that depending on the implementation the suitcase 100 may have any shape and/or size. In some implementations, the size is selected to correspond with standards and/or regulations, such, as for example, a height of about 26 inches, a height of about 22 inches (Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulation overhead size), 18 inches (FAA regulation under-seat size), 10 inches to 30 inches, and/or any other suitable height or range of heights. The suitcase 100 may further include a luggage connector assembly 102 and a main body 104.

In the example shown in FIG. 1, the luggage connector assembly 102 is positioned within the main body 104 near the top of the main body 104. However, in other implementations, the luggage connector assembly may be in any position including, for example, anywhere within the main body 104, anywhere on the main body 104, anywhere adjacent to the main body 104, and/or any other position suitable for coupling with the main body 104. The luggage connector assembly 102 may have a number of implementations as discussed further herein.

The main body 104 may include a large or larger pocket 106 and a small or smaller pocket 108. It should be understood that depending on the implementation the main body 104 may be made of any material or materials including, for example, plastic, carbon-fiber, rubber, nylon, canvas, cloth, and/or any other suitable material. In some implementations, the main body 104 may include an exterior made of a relatively rigid material and an interior made of a relatively less rigid material. In some implementations, the back of the main body 104 may be more rigid than the rest of the main body 104 to increase stability of the suitcase 100. In some implementations, the inner layer of the main body 104 may be interchangeable. For example, in some implementations, the inner layer of the main body 104 may be an interchangeable spongy foam layer removably coupled to the inside of the main body 104.

In some implementations, the suitcase 100 may further include one or more wheels 110 which may be coupled to the main body 104. In the example shown in FIG. 1, two wheels 110 are coupled to the main body 104. However, it should be understood that the suitcase 100 may have any number of wheels including, for example, four wheels, six wheels, and/or eight wheels. The wheels 110 may be coupled to the main body 104, for example, by one or more fasteners, hinge, pivot, swivel, and/or any other suitable mechanism. In some implementations, the wheels 110 may be removably coupled to the main body 104, allowing the wheels 110 to be removed and/or re-attached to the main body 104. In some implementations, the main body 104 may be configured to be compatible with multiple different types and/or numbers of wheels 110 such that the types and/or numbers of wheels 110 may be modified as desired.

In some implementations, the suitcase 100 may further include one or more case handles 112 which may be coupled to the main body 104. In the example shown in FIG. 1, one case handle 112 is coupled to the top of the main body 104 at two locations. However, it should be understood that the suitcase 100 may have any number of case handles 112 including, for example, two handles, three handles, four handles, or more. The case handles 112 may be coupled to the main body 104 in any way including, for example, by one or more fasteners, stitches, adhesives, glues, mechanical mating, and/or any other suitable coupling mechanism. In some implementations, the case handle 112 may be removably coupled to the main body 104 such that the case handle 112 may be removed and/or re-attached to the main body 104. In some implementations, the main body 104 may be configured to be compatible with multiple different types and/or numbers of case handles 112 such that the types and/or numbers of case handles 112 may be interchangeable.

In some implementations, the suitcase 100 may further include a collapsible handle 120. Other terms for the collapsible handle 120 may include a telescopic handle or other suitable term. The collapsible handle 120 may be coupled to the main body 104 in any way including, for example, by mechanical mating, one or more fasteners, adhesive, glue, hinge, ball and socket, and/or any other suitable coupling mechanism. In some implementations, the collapsible handle 120 may be removably coupled to the main body 104 such that the collapsible handle 120 may be removed and/or re-attached to the main body 104. In some implementations, the main body 104 may be configured to be compatible with multiple different types of collapsible handles 120 such that the types of collapsible handle 120 may be interchangeable.

The collapsible handle 120 may include one or more rails or elongated portions 122 and a grip portion 124. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the collapsible handle 120 has two elongated portions 122 each coupling with the main body 104 and the grip portion 124. However, it should be understood that the collapsible handle 120 may have any number of elongated portions including, for example, one elongated portion. Depending on the implementation, the elongated portions may be made of any material or materials including, for example, carbon fiber, plastic, rubber, metal, steel, iron, aluminum, wood and/or any other suitable material. In some implementations in which the elongated portions 122 are at least partially made of carbon fiber, the collapsible handle 120 may be configured to be stronger and more durable than conventional handles. In some implementations, the one or more elongated portions 122 may be configured to collapse and/or telescope into the main body 104 or adjacent the main body 104. In some implementations, the one or more elongated portions 122 may be configured to translate with respect to the main body 104 such that the elongated portions may be positioned at least partially more adjacent to the main body 104. In some implementations, the one or more elongated portions 122 may configured to remain in position without falling at discrete intervals or at any position with respect to the main body 104. In some implementations, the elongated portions 122 may be fully or substantially parallel. It should be understood that the one or more elongated portions 122 may be any length and/or may have a cross-section of any size and/or shape.

The grip portion 124 may be positioned on one elongated portion 122 or between or adjacent to more than one elongated portions 122. The grip portion 124 may be configured to be gripped by a user. In some implementations, the grip portion 124 may be at least partially interchangeable as discussed further herein.

FIG. 2 is a front view of an example suitcase 100, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. The example suitcase 100 shown in FIG. 2 may further illustrate the details and features of the suitcase 100. FIG. 2 includes a cross-section line 3 which will be discussed further herein at least with respect to FIGS. 3A-3B, 4 and 5.

FIG. 3A illustrates a side cross-section view 300 of a portion of the suitcase 100 showing an example luggage connector assembly 102 in a use position, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. The example illustration shown in FIG. 3A shows a partial cross-section of the suitcase 100 with respect to the cross-section line 3. The luggage connector assembly 102 may be positioned at least partially within a cavity 350 of the main body 104.

Depending on the implementation, the cavity 350 may extend throughout all or part of the inner volume of the main body 104 and/or the suitcase 100. The example illustrated in FIG. 3A depicts the luggage connector assembly 102 in a use position, which may also be referred to as an open position. In the use position, luggage connector assembly 102 may be configured to couple with and/or support a secondary bag.

The luggage connector assembly 102 may further include at least some or all of a coupler 302, a base 304, a lock-fastener 306, a strap 310, an actuator 370, and an actuator frame 368. The coupler 302 may couple with the strap 310. The strap 310 may couple with the lock-fastener 306 such that the length of the strap between the coupler 302 and the lock-fastener 306 may be adjusted. The actuator 370 may couple with at least a portion of the lock-fastener 306 such that the actuator may actuate the lock-fastener 306. The actuator frame 368 may be positioned around or adjacent to the actuator 370.

In some implementations, the coupler 302 is a J-hook or buckle usable to attach to a secondary luggage piece, such as a bag. Some embodiments of the coupler 302 may fold, and therefore may comprise at least some or all of a pivot portion 322, a pivot 324, and a main portion 326. The pivot portion 322 may be configured to pivot with respect to the pivot 324 and/or the main portion 326. In some implementations, the pivot portion 322 and/or the pivot may be capable of pivoting 360 degrees with respect to the main portion 326. In some implementations, a stopper may be positioned on the pivot portion 322, the pivot 324, and/or the main portion 326 and may be configured to prevent rotation of the pivot portion 322 and/or the pivot 324 in at least one direction. In some implementations, two stoppers may be positioned on the pivot portion 322, the pivot 324, and/or the main portion 326 and may be configured to each prevent rotation of the pivot portion 322 and/or the pivot 324 in one direction. Thus, in some implementations, the rotation of the pivot portion 322 and/or the pivot 324 will be limited to rotation to a limited arc with respect to the center of the pivot 324. For example, in some implementations, the pivot portion 322 and/or the pivot 324 may be limited to about 0 degrees to 20 degrees of rotation. In some implementations, the pivot portion 322 and/or the pivot 324 may be limited to about 0 degrees to 45 degrees of rotation. In some implementations, the pivot portion 322 and/or the pivot 324 may be limited to about 0 degrees to 90 degrees of rotation. The pivot portion 322 may have any size and/or shape including, for example, curved, fully flat, substantially flat, and/or any other suitable shape. In some implementations, the pivot portion 322 may be fully or substantially flat and/or may include one or more at least partially triangularly shaped cutouts. In some implementations, one or more support tabs on the pivot portion 322 may support the coupler 302 in the stow position, preventing the coupler 302 from fully or substantially moving and/or rattling.

In some implementations, when the luggage connector assembly 102 is in the use position, the pivot portion 322 may extend a distance away from the main portion 326 creating a groove 328 in the coupler 302. Thus, when the luggage connector assembly 102 is in the use position, the coupler 302 may be configured to receive and/or support a portion of a secondary bag within the groove 328. When the luggage connector assembly 102 is in the use position, the coupler 302 may be positioned anywhere fully or partially outside of the cavity 350. In some implementations, when the luggage connector assembly 102 is in the use position, the coupler 302 may hang from the strap 310 and/or rest on a side of the main body 104.

In some implementations, the coupler 302 may have at least one closed configuration and at least one open configuration. In the closed configuration of the coupler 302, an end of pivot portion 322 opposite the pivot 324 may be positioned adjacent to the main portion 326 or at least closer to the main portion 326 than in the open configuration of the coupler 302. In the open configuration of the coupler 302, an end of the pivot portion 322 opposite the pivot 324 may be positioned at least further from the main portion 326 than in the closed configuration of the coupler 302. In some implementations, when the luggage connector assembly 102 is in the use position, the coupler 302 may predominately be in the open configuration. The open configuration of the coupler 302 may create the groove 328 which may be used to engage a portion of a secondary bag.

The pivot 324 may couple the pivot portion 322 and the main portion 326. In some implementations, the pivot 324 may include a rod extending through the pivot portion 322 and the main portion 326. In some implementations, the pivot 324 may include at least one fastener to prevent the pivot portion 322 and/or the main portion 326 from sliding off the rod of the pivot 324. The pivot portion 322 may be configured to rotate about the pivot 324. The pivot portion 322 and the main portion 326 may interface with the pivot at two points.

The main portion 326 may couple with the pivot portion 322, the pivot 324, and/or the strap 310. The main portion 326 may have any size and/or shape including, for example, curved, fully flat, substantially flat, and/or any other suitable shape. In implementations where the main portion 326 is fully or substantially flat, the main portion 326 may rest substantially abutting the outer surface of the main body 104 in the use position. It should be understood that depending on the implementation the coupler 302 may be made of any material or materials including, for example, molded polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), plastic, rubber, aluminum, steel, iron, metal, alloy, wood, and/or any other suitable material. It should be understood that depending on the implementation the coupler 302 may have any size and/or shape including, for example, a j-shaped hook shape.

In some implementations, the strap 310 may further include at least some or all of a coupler interface 312, a first strap length 314, a second strap length 316, and a strap end 318. Depending on the implementation, the strap 310 may be made of any material or materials including, for example, nylon, polyester, plastic, silk, cotton, wool, leather, synthetic leather, and/or any other suitable material. The strap 310 may be configured to couple the coupler 302 and the lock-fastener 306. Thus, the strap 310 may be configured to adjust the strap length (i.e., the first strap length 314) between the coupler 302 and the lock-fastener 306. It should be understood that depending on the implementation the strap 310 may have any length including, for example, about 7 inches to 24 inches and may have any width including, for example, about 0.5 inches to 3 inches. Longer straps are also contemplated.

The coupler interface 312 may interface with the coupler 302 allowing the strap 310 to couple with the coupler 302. In some implementations, the coupler interface 312 may be a loop wrapped around a portion of the coupler 302. However, it should be understood that the coupler interface 312 couple the strap 310 and the coupler 302 in any way including, for example, fasteners, adhesive, glue, mechanical mating, a knot, clips, buttons, a protrusion and slot, and/or any other suitable coupling mechanism. In some implementations, the coupler 302 may be removably coupled to the coupler interface 312 so that it may be easily interchangeable.

The first strap length 314 may be the portion of the strap 310 between the coupler 302 and the lock-fastener 306. Thus, when the strap 310 is adjusted by the lock-fastener 306, the first strap length 314 may increase or decrease. In some implementations, the greatest first strap length 314 may allow the coupler 302 to extend at least partially out of an opening 340. In some implementations, the greatest first strap length 314 may allow the coupler 302 to extend fully out of the opening 340. The coupler interface 312 may be positioned at an end of the first strap length 314.

The second strap length 316 may be at least a portion of the remaining portion of the strap 310 excluding the first strap length 314. Thus, when the strap 310 is adjusted by the lock-fastener 306, the second strap length 316 may increase or decrease. The second strap length 316 may be pulled away from the lock-fastener 306 to decrease the first strap length 314. When the second strap length 316 decreases, the first strap length 314 may increase. In some implementations, the second strap length 316 may extend at least partially on a ledge 320. In some implementations, the second strap length 316 may extend fully along the ledge 320 and down the side of the main body 104. In some implementations, the second strap length 316 may further include a lockout clip (not shown) which may prevent the entire strap from moving through the lock-fastener 306. Thus, the lockout clip may limit the length to the first strap length 314 and/or the maximum extension length of the coupler 302.

The strap end 318 may be positioned at one end of the strap 310 and the second strap length 316. In some implementations, the strap end 318 may be thicker than at least a portion of the strap 310 and/or the second strap length 316. In some implementations, the strap end 318 may be configured to allow a user to pull the strap 310 more effectively. In some implementations, the strap end 318 may include a pull tab (not shown) allowing a user to pull the strap 310 more effectively.

The lock-fastener 306 may be configured to adjust the strap 310. The lock-fastener 306 may have an adjustment condition (which may also be referred to as an actuated condition), in which the strap 310 may translate in at least two directions with respect to the lock-fastener 306. Thus, in the adjustment condition, the first strap length 314 may be pulled to increase the first strap length 314 and decrease the second strap length 316 and the second strap length 316 may be pulled to increase the second strap length 316 and decrease the first strap length 314. The lock-fastener 306 may further have a secure condition (which may also be referred to as an unactuated condition), in which the strap 310 may translate in only one direction with respect to the lock-fastener 306. Thus, in the secure condition, the second strap length 316 may be pulled to increase the second strap length 316 and decrease the first strap length 314; however, the strap will remain substantially or firmly in position if the first strap length 314 is pulled under normal loading conditions. Normal loading conditions may vary depending on the implementation but may be approximately or exactly equivalent to the greatest possible force applied by the weight of any bag or the average force applied by the weight of a bag or any force in between. In some implementations, for example, normal loading conditions may be between about 10 pounds and 200 pounds. Depending on the implementation, the lock-fastener 306 may have any size, shape, and/or form. For example, the lock-fastener 306 may be a cam buckle, buckle, strap adjuster, clip, clasp, pin, wedge, stopper, and/or any other type of suitable adjustment mechanism. It should be understood that depending on the implementation the strap 310 may exert any force on the lock-fastener 306 including, for example, about 10 pounds to 50 pounds. In some implementations, the lock-fastener 306 may be rated for at least 3000 pounds of force. In some implementations, the lock-fastener 306 may further include at least some or all of a lever 360, a first pin 362, a second pin 364, and a housing 366.

The lever 360 may be configured to actuate the lock-fastener 306 between the adjustment condition and the secure condition. In some implementations, in the secure condition, an end of the lever 360 may press on a portion of the strap 310 preventing the strap 310 from moving. In some implementations, an end of the lever 360 may have a surface of relatively high coefficient of friction to allow the lever 360 to more effectively grip and hold the strap 310 in position. In some implementations, when the lever 360 is actuated, the lever may pivot about the second pin 364 releasing the strap 310 into the adjustment condition. In some implementations, a biasing mechanism, such as a spring, (not shown) may be coupled to the lever 360 to bias the lever 360 toward the locked position by causing the lever to move back into the secure condition after the lever 360 is actuated.

The first pin 362 may be positioned below the strap 310. The first pin 362 may steady the strap 310 and may cause the elevation of the strap 310 to raise or fully or substantially flatten. Thus, the first pin 362 may allow the lever 360 to more effectively hold the strap 310 in position in the secure condition. The housing 366 may be positioned to house at least a portion of the lever 360, the first pin 362, and the second pin 364.

The actuator 370 may be configured to engagebly couple with the lock-fastener 306. In some implementations, pressing down on the actuator 370 may cause the lock-fastener 306 to transition from the secure condition to the adjustment condition. In some implementations, the actuator 370 may press down on the lever 360 causing the lever to rotate about the second pin 364 and release the strap 310 allowing the coupler 302 to be moved at least partially out of the opening 340. In some implementations, after the actuator 370 actuates the lock-fastener, a biasing mechanism, such as a spring, (not shown) may press upwards on the lever 360 causing the actuator 370 to return to its original position. It should be understood that, depending on the implementation, the actuator 370 may have any size, shape, and/or form as long as the actuator 370 may actuate the lock-fastener 306. For example, in some implementations, the actuator 370 may be a button, lever, rocker, switch, toggle, stick, slider, dial, sensor, and/or any other type of actuating mechanism. In some implementations, the actuator 370 may include a lever or rocker which may pivot at an angle and actuate the lock-fastener 306. In some implementations, the actuator frame 368 may be positioned around the actuator 370. The actuator frame 368 may protect the actuator 370 from damage, prevent debris from entering the inside of the main body 104, and/or prevent the actuator 370 from damaging the material of the main body 104. In some implementations, at least a portion of the actuator 370 may be fully or substantially flush with the actuator frame 368. In some implementations, the actuator frame 368 may be a billet extending around a perimeter of the actuator 370.

In some implementations, at least a portion of the luggage connector assembly 102 may be positioned on a base 304. In the example shown in FIGS. 3A-3B the lock-fastener 306 is coupled to the base 304. In some implementations, sides may extend upwardly from the base 304 which may form a tunnel and may hold at least a portion of the luggage connector assembly 102 firmly in place. In some implementations, the base 304 may extend across the main body 104 and/or between the opening 340 and a slot 342. In some implementations, the lengthwise edges of the base 304 may extend upwardly and couple with the top of the main body 104 creating a tunnel around at least part of the luggage connector assembly 102. Thus, in some implementations, the base 304 may be an independent three-or four-sided tunnel that is imbedded within the body of the suitcase and acts as a housing for reception/and or stowing of the coupler that can be used to connect with and carry a secondary luggage piece.

Depending on the implementation, such as the example shown in FIG. 8, the base 304 may further include one or more mount holes 802, one or more stop tabs 804, and/or one or more upper surfaces 806. One or more fasteners such as screws may be positioned in the mount holes 802 to secure the base 304 to the main body 104. The stop tabs 804 may be positioned between the coupler 302 and the lock-fastener 306. The stop tabs 804 may prevent the coupler 302 from moving too close to the lock-fastener 306 such that the coupler may be more than a set distance from the opening 340. Thus, the stop tabs 804 may prevent the coupler 302 from being inaccessible by a user. In some implementations where the base is a three-sided housing, the open side (e.g., the uncovered top) of the base is covered by the exterior surface of the main body 104, thereby enclosing the base and forming a tunnel that is configured to stow the coupler. In some implementations where the base is a four-sided housing, the base is enclosed and embedded within the main body either just under the exterior surface of the main body or may even be flush with and may form a portion of the top surface of the main body. In some implementations, the upper surfaces 806 may couple with the main body 104. The base 304 may couple with the main body 104 in any way, including, for example, fasteners, screws, adhesive, glue, mechanical mating, and/or any other type of attachment mechanism. It should be understood that depending on the implementation the base may be made of any material including, for example, compression-molded plastic, plastic, metal, and/or any other suitable material. In some implementations, the base 304 may form a tunnel with the main body 104 sufficiently narrow to prevent the coupler 302 from fully or substantially moving and/or rattling in the stow position.

In some implementations, the slot 342 may be positioned between the base 304 and the ledge 320 and may be positioned adjacent to or near the lock-fastener 306. The slot 342 may be positioned to provide a hole for the strap 310 exiting the cavity 350 of the main body 104. Thus, the slot 342 may allow for a portion of the second strap length 316 to be exposed to allow the strap 310 to be accessed by a user. Depending on the implementation, the slot 342 may be smaller than, the same size as, or larger than the opening 340.

In some implementations, the ledge 320 may be positioned on the main body 104 at an end of the base 304. In some implementations, the ledge may be coupled with and/or support the one or more elongated portions 122 of the collapsible handle 120. In some implementations, the ledge 320 may have one or more holes to allow for at least a portion of the collapsible handle 120 to collapse into the main body 104. However, it should be understood that the collapsible handle 120 may be positioned on any surface of the main body 104 and that the collapsible handle 120 may collapse into any part of the cavity 350 of the main body 104.

In some implementations, the cavity 350 may include an upper cavity 352 which may be positioned in the portion of the cavity 350 above the base 304.

FIG. 3B illustrates a side cross-section view 330 of an example luggage connector assembly 102 in a stow position, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. The example illustration shown in FIG. 3B shows a partial cross-section of the suitcase 100 with respect to the cross-section line 3. The examples illustrated in FIGS. 1-2 and 3B depict the luggage connector assembly 102 in a stow position, which may also be referred to as a closed position. In the stow position, the coupler 302 may be at least partially positioned within the cavity 350 of the main body 104. The luggage connector assembly 102 may transition from the use position to the stow position by pulling the second strap length 316 and/or the strap end 318. The luggage connector assembly 102 may transition from the stow position to the use position by actuating the actuator 370 to actuate the lock-fastener 306 releasing the strap 310 and allowing the coupler 302 to move freely. In some implementations, when the luggage connector assembly 102 is in the stow position, the coupler 302 may predominately be in the closed configuration and may be positioned fully or partially within the upper cavity 352 and/or the cavity 350. In some implementations, when the lock-fastener 306 is actuated, the coupler 302 may freely fall out of the opening 340 from the within the cavity 350 of the main body 104 based on gravity. In some implementations, when the lock-fastener 306 is actuated, a user may pull the coupler 302 away from the lock-fastener 306 and/or out from within the cavity 350 of the main body 104. In some implementations, a portion of the coupler 302 may allow a hand to grip the coupler 302 to allow a hand to pull the coupler 302 out from within the cavity 350 of the main body 104 more effectively.

In some implementations, a portion of the pivot portion 322 of the coupler 302 may be sized and shaped to fully or partially cover the opening 340 in the stow position. Thus, in some implementations, the pivot portion 322 may further include a face plate positioned to at least partially cover the opening 340 in the stow position. In some implementations, a portion of the pivot portion 322 may be positioned to be actuated by a portion of the main body 104 and/or base 304 to cause the coupler 302 to transition from the open configuration to the closed configuration as the luggage connector assembly 102 transitions from the use position to the stow position.

In some implementations, the main body 104 may further include an attachment surface 344. The attachment surface 344 may couple with a portion of the second strap length 316 extending past the ledge 320, which may be referred to as the excess strap length 390. The attachment surface 344 may hold the excess strap length 390 firmly or substantially in position as the suitcase 100 is moved preventing the excess strap length 390 from swinging freely. In some implementations, the attachment surface 344 may include a mechanism for securing the excess strap length 390 including, for example, a hook-and-loop fastener, a pocket, a button, a zipper, a clip, a strap, a reusable adhesive, a fastener, and/or any other type of fastening mechanism.

FIG. 4 illustrates a side cross-section view 400 of another example luggage connector assembly 402 in a stow position, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. In the example in FIG. 4, the opening 340 may be positioned at the top of the main body 104. The coupler 302 may be positioned on the base 304 below and/or offset from the opening 340. The slot 342 may be positioned on a side of the main body 104 and/or may be positioned directly below the top of the main body 104. The base 304 may extend from a side of the main body 104 to the top or another side of the main body 104. In some implementations, a pocket 444 may be positioned on a side of the main body 104. The pocket 444 may be positioned to receive a portion of the excess strap length 390 and/or the second strap length 316 and prevent the strap 310 from swinging freely. In some implementations, the pocket 444 may extend fully or partially down a side of the main body 104. It should be understood that depending on the implementation the pocket 444 may have any length including, for example, about 4 inches to 18 inches. In some implementations, the luggage connector assembly 402 may further include a hinged door 440, which may also be referred to as a cover, to close the opening 340. The hinged door 440 may pivot about a hinge (e.g., a barrel hinge or any other type of hinge) along an arch of any angle size including, for example, about 20 to 45 degrees. It should be understood that depending on the implementation, a user may pivot the hinged door 440 in any way including, for example, moving a handle, tab, groove, protrusion, or any other suitable mechanism. In some implementations, the hinged door 440 may include a cavity (not shown) which may allow a pull tab (not shown) to couple to the coupler 302, to extend through the cavity when the hinged door 440 is closed, and/or to be accessible to a user to deploy the coupler 302.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side cross-section view 500 of an example luggage connector assembly 502 in a use position, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. In some implementations, the coupler 302 may be coupled directly to the main body 104. In some implementations, the coupler 302 may couple with a fixed coupler interface 512 which may be coupled to the main body 104. In some implementations, the coupler 302 may be a one-piece part of any size and/or shape including, for example, a j-shaped hook shape. In some implementations, the main body 104 may further include a groove in which the coupler 302 of the luggage connector assembly 502 may imbed in a closed configuration at least partially hiding the coupler 302 from view.

FIGS. 6A-6C show an example collapsible handle assembly 120, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. In some implementations, the grip portion 124 may include a grip portion assembly 642 which may include some or all of an inner rod 602, a release actuator 604, a rotator portion 610, a pivot extension 612, a pivot pin 614, and a sleeve 624.

The inner rod 602 may extend from one elongated portion 122 to another elongated portion 122. In some implementations, the inner rod may include a seat 606 and/or a threaded portion 608. The seat 606 may be configured to rest on a corresponding ledge of an elongated portion 122. The seat 606 may couple with the release actuator 604 such that actuating the release actuator may release the seat 606 and the inner rod 602 from coupling with an elongated portion 122. In some implementations, including, for example, the example shown in FIG. 6, the release actuator 604 may be a button which may be pressed to release the seat 606 and the inner rod 602. Depending on the implementation, the release actuator 604 may be any mechanism capable of actuating including, for example, a button, lever, switch, toggle, stick, slider, dial, sensor, and/or any other type of actuating mechanism. An elongated portion 122 may be shaped such that the seat 606 may rest on the elongated portion 122 but may pivot away from the elongated portion 122 after being released by the release actuator 604. The release actuator 604 may be positioned fully or partially within an elongated portion 122. In some implementations, the suitcase 100 may include two release actuators 604 each positioned within one of the elongated portions 122. Thus, in these implementations, the inner rod 602 may be released from either end. In some implementations, instead of using a release actuator 604, the inner rod 602 may be attached to an elongated portion 122 by other mechanisms including, for example, a fastener, a screw, a clip, and/or any other suitable attachment mechanism. This other attachment mechanism may be removed to allow the inner rod 602 to pivot.

In some implementations, the threaded portion 608 may couple with the rotator portion 610. Thus, the threaded portion 608 may thread into a threaded hole extending into the rotator portion 610. It should be understood that, in some implementations, the threaded portion 608 may instead be a non-threaded portion and/or may be attached to the rotator portion 610 by other mechanisms including, for example, mechanical mating, fasteners, adhesive, glue, and/or any other type of attachment mechanism. In some implementations, the inner rod 602 may include two non-threaded portions at each end which may be removably coupled to the elongated portions 122 in an inwardly facing hole. Thus, in some implementations, the elongated portions 122 may be bent outwardly to release the inner rod 602. In some implementations, a portion of each elongated portion 122 may be configured to be able to be removed from the rest of the elongated portion 122 and separated from the inner rod 602 to release the inner rod 602. For example, a portion of each elongated portion 122 may be positioned within a hole extending at least partially along the length of each elongated portion 122 and may be removed from the elongated portions 122 and separated from the inner rod 602.

The rotator portion 610 may couple with the pivot extension 612 which may extend from an elongated portion 122. Thus, the rotator portion 610 may rotate with respect to the pivot extension 612. In some implementations, a pivot pin 614 may be positioned within the rotator portion 610 and/or the pivot extension 612 to facilitate rotating between the rotator portion 610 and the pivot extension 612. Thus, the pivot pin 614 may be a rod about which the rotator portion 610 pivots and/or rotates. When the release actuator is actuated releasing the inner rod 602, the inner rod 602 may rotating along with the rotator portion 610 allowing an end of the inner rod 602 to be freed.

In some implementations, a sleeve 624 may extend along at least a portion of the surface area of the inner rod 602. The sleeve 624 may be configured to facilitate gripping of the grip portion 124 by a user. The sleeve 624 may be any size and/or shape and some implementations may provide multiple types of sleeves 624 to be interchangeable by the user. This allows the user to customize the handle to have a grip type or color or other unique feature that might add personalization to the suitcase. In some examples, a user may choose between a foam grip, a gel grip, an ergonomic grip, and a rigid molded cylindrical grip. Or the user may choose a favorite color that helps personalize the suitcase and make it identifiable among groups of other suitcases. As such, in some implementations, the suitcase may be provided with a plurality of different grips that may be selected by the user. It should be understood that depending on the implementation the sleeves 624 may be made of any material or materials including, for example, flexible plastic, plastic, rubber, foam, cork, synthetic cork, tape, grip tape, metal, alloy, wood, carbon-fiber, and/or at other suitable material. In some implementations, the sleeve 624 may have a less rigid inner portion for more effective gripping and at least one more rigid outer portion which may prevent wear on the sleeve 624.

FIG. 6B shows an example inner rod 602 including a seat 606 and/or a threaded portion 608. It should be understood that, although the example shown in FIG. 1 may illustrate the grip portion 124 as rectangular and the example shown in FIGS. 6A-6B may illustrate the grip portion 124, sleeve 624, and inner rod 602 as cylindrical, depending on the implementation, the grip portion 124, sleeve 624, and/or inner rod 602 may be any shape including, for example, rectangular, cylindrical, contoured to fit a human hand, tear-drop shaped, and/or any other suitable shape. FIG. 6C shows an example rotator portion 610. The rotator portion 610 may couple with a pivot extension 612 of an elongated portion 122.

FIG. 7 illustrates a back view of an example collapsible handle assembly 720, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. In some implementations, the suitcase 100 may include a rear-action collapsible handle 720. The rear-action collapsible handle 720 may include at least one elongated portion 122 and a grip portion 124 and may further include a horizontal member 722 and at least one adjustment tab 724.

The horizontal member 722 may extend from one elongated portion 122 to another elongated portion 122. The at least one adjustment tab 724 may be positioned on the horizontal member 722. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the horizontal member 722 includes two adjustment tabs 724 positioned substantially at the center of the horizontal member 722. The adjustment tabs 724 may be actuated by a user to cause the collapsible handle 720 to move at least partially into the main body 104 of the suitcase 100. In some implementations, the adjustment tabs 724 may be pressed together by a user along an axis fully or substantially parallel to the horizontal member 722 to cause the collapsible handle 720 to collapse at least partially into the main body 104. In some implementations, the adjustment tabs 724 may extend from the horizontal member 722 in a rearward direction, transverse to the telescoping direction of the collapsible handle 720, such that at least a portion of the adjustment tabs 724 is not positioned directly below the grip portion 124. Thus, the collapsible handle 720 may be collapsed using the adjustment tabs 724 without the grip portion 124 interfering with and/or collapsing onto the user's hand.

FIG. 9 illustrates a top view of an example luggage connector assembly 102 in a stow position, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. The luggage connector assembly 102 may include at least some or all of a coupler 302, a base 304, a lock-fastener 306, and/or a strap 310.

FIG. 10 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an example collapsible handle assembly 1000, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. In some implementations, the collapsible handle 120 may instead be a collapsible three-piece handle 1000. The collapsible three-piece handle 1000 may include one or more elongated portions 1022 and a three-piece handle assembly 1030. The three-piece handle assembly may couple with and/or rest on the one or more elongated portions 1022. The three-piece handle assembly 1030 may include one or more detachable ends 1010 and a sleeve 1024. In some implementations, one or more removable fasteners 1014, such as screws, may be inserted into one or more outer link holes 1016 and into one or more inner link holes 1012 to couple the three-piece collapsible handle assembly 1030 to the one or more elongated portions 1022. The one or more outer link holes 1016 may be positioned on the one or more elongated portions 1022 and the one or more inner link holes 1012 may be positioned on the one or more detachable ends 1010. In some implementations, one or more second seats 1050 may be a fully or substantially flat surface and/or may rest on the one or more supports 1052 supporting the three-piece handle assembly 1030. The portion of the detachable end 1010 above the second seat 1050 may be wider than the portion of the detachable end 1010 below the second seat 1050 allowing the detachable end 1010 to rest on the support 1052. In some implementations, the one or more second seats 1050 may be a ring-shaped surface. Thus, in some implementations, at least a portion of the one or more detachable ends 1010 may be positioned within the one or more rod holes 1020 of the one or more elongated portions 1022.

FIG. 11 illustrates an exploded front view 1100 of an example three-piece handle assembly 1030, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. In some implementations, the three-piece handle assembly 1030 may further include a back handle rod 1102. In some implementations, the back handle rod 1102 may include two narrow end portions 1106, one at each end, which may be removably coupled to the one or more detachable ends 1010 in an inwardly facing hole 1110. Thus, in some implementations, the elongated portions 1022 may be bent outwardly to release the back handle rod 1102. Depending on the implementation, one or both of the narrow end portions 1106 may be threaded or non-threaded. In some implementations, the one or more detachable ends 1010 may be removed from the one or more elongated portions 1022 and separated from the back handle rod 1102. For example, a portion of each detachable end 1010 may be positioned within a rod hole 1020 extending at least partially along the length of each elongated portion 1022 and may be removed from the elongated portions 1022 and separated from the back handle rod 1102. In some implementations, a portion of the one or more detachable ends 1010 may be narrower than another portion of the one or more detachable ends 1010 forming the second seat 1050.

FIG. 12 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an example interchangeable-sleeve assembly 1200, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. Some implementations, such as the example shown in FIG. 12, may include an interchangeable-sleeve assembly 1200. The interchangeable-sleeve assembly may include at least some or all of the back handle rod 1102, the sleeve 1024, a contoured sleeve 1224, and a tear-drop-shaped sleeve 1226. Depending on the implementation, the interchangeable-sleeve assembly 1200 may include any number of sleeves of any material, grip type, color, and/or any other unique feature that might customize the suitcase 100. The sleeves 1024, 1224, 1226 may be made of any material or materials including, for example, flexible plastic, plastic, rubber, foam, cork, synthetic cork, tape, grip tape, metal, alloy, wood, carbon-fiber, and/or at other suitable material. The sleeves 1024, 1224, 1226 may include an inner hole 1202 which may be approximately the same size as the outer circumference of the back handle rod 1102. Thus, the back handle rod 1102 may be positioned within any of the inner holes 1202. In some implementations, when the back handle rod 1102 is positioned within any of the inner holes 1202, the narrow end portions 1106 may extend out of the sleeve (e.g., sleeves 1024, 1224, 1226) allowing the back handle rod 1102 to couple the sleeve (e.g., sleeves 1024, 1224, 1226) to the one or more detachable ends 1010 forming the three-piece handle assembly 1030. The sleeve 1024 may have a fully or substantially cylindrical body. The contoured sleeve 1224 may have a grip contoured to substantially fit with a human hand (e.g., the contoured sleeve 1224 may include four or five grooves for four or five human fingers). The tear-drop-shaped sleeve 1226 may have a tear-drop shaped cross-section which may point downwardly. In some implementations, the lower tip of the tear-drop-shaped sleeve 1226 may have a fillet or chamfer. In some implementations, the sleeve (e.g., sleeves 1024, 1224, 1226) may have a mechanism for stopping rotation of the sleeve (e.g., sleeves 1024, 1224, 1226) about the back handle rod 1102. The mechanism for stopping rotation of the sleeve (e.g., sleeves 1024, 1224, 1226) may be any mechanism including, for example, a tab, a stop tab, a tongue and groove, adhesive, glue, tape, and/or any other suitable mechanism. In some implementations, the back handle rod 1102 has a non-circular cross-section and the handle sleeves may have a corresponding non-circular opening that prevents twisting or rotation of the handle sleeve about the back handle rod 1102. For example, the cross-section of the back handle rod 1102 and the sleeve opening may be oval or polygon-shaped, such as a triangle, square, pentagon, hexagon, or other shaped side. Other shapes are also contemplated, including grooved with a key or tongue that would limit or otherwise prevent rotation of the handle relative to the back handle rod 1102. Yet others are contemplated.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example method 1300 of coupling a secondary bag to a suitcase 100, according to some aspects of the present disclosure. At process 1302, a luggage connector assembly 102 may be provided in a stow position. The luggage connector assembly 102 may include at least some or all of a coupler 302, a lock-fastener 306, and a strap 310.

At process 1306, a user may actuate the lock-fastener 306 to release the strap 310 allowing the coupler 302 to deploy and transition the luggage connector assembly 102 into a use position. This may be done by pressing the actuator, such as the button, to release the strap for adjustment.

At process 1308, a user may engage a portion of a secondary bag with the groove 328 of the coupler 302. In some implementations, the coupler 302 may engage with a handle, arch, ring, loop, hoop, or any other engageable portion of the secondary bag. In some implementations a portion of the secondary bag may be supported by the groove 328 of the coupler 302 such that the secondary bag may hang from the suitcase 100.

When the user has finished using the hook to carry the secondary bag, at process 1312, a user may pull an end of the strap 310 such that the coupler 302 moves at least partially into the opening 340 in the main body 104 transitioning the luggage connector assembly 102 into the stow position. In some implementations, as the luggage connector assembly 102 transitions into the stow position, a tab on the coupler 302 may engage a portion of the main body 104 causing the pivot portion 322 to pivot and transition the coupler 302 from the open configuration to the closed configuration.

At optional process 1314, a user may press at least a portion of the excess strap length 390 onto an attachment surface 344 to secure the strap 310.

It should be appreciated that any of the processes of method 1300 may be completed in any order. It should also be appreciated that some or all optional processes may be completed depending on the implementation. The order of the processes in method 1300 may be changed indiscriminately as the luggage connector assembly 102 transitions between a stow position and a use position and/or between a use position and a stow position.

It should be understood that although implementations in this disclosure may be referred to with words including, for example, “upper,” lower,” “above,” “below,” “upwardly,” and “downwardly,” all implementations disclosed herein may be configured in any orientation and/or direction.

Persons skilled in the art will recognize that the apparatus, systems, and methods described above can be modified in various ways. Accordingly, persons of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the embodiments encompassed by the present disclosure are not limited to the particular exemplary embodiments described above. In that regard, although illustrative embodiments have been shown and described, a wide range of modification, change, and substitution is contemplated in the foregoing disclosure. It is understood that such variations may be made to the foregoing without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the present disclosure.