Luggage case with removable storage

Abstract

To provide a luggage case with a removable storage system that is accessible and removable from the luggage case.SOLUTION: A luggage article comprises: a rear panel (125); a grip handle (202) including a pair of spaced-apart tubes (206, 206A, 206B, 206C) mounted on the rear panel (125); a recess (102) defined between the tubes (206, 206A, 206B, 206C); and a removable pocket (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) mountable in the recess (102). The removable pocket (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) and the recess (102) include corresponding inter-engaging engagement features (210, 310) to retain the pocket (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) within the recess (102).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a removable pocket system integrated into luggage items.

Background Art

[0002] Hard-sided luggage is a growing segment in the luggage case market. Hard-sided luggage cases have certain advantages in terms of durability and the ability to protect the user's belongings inside. However, hard-sided luggage cases generally have few options for additional pockets to store the user's belongings that allow access to the pockets without opening the main storage volume of the luggage case. Furthermore, with personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, laptops, etc. being used everywhere, there is a desire to store these devices and their accessories (e.g., spare batteries, power banks (mobile batteries), chargers, cables, dongles, etc.) and have easy access to them in the luggage case. Additionally, many airlines and national aviation regulatory authorities prohibit batteries from being carried in checked-in luggage on airplanes due to the fire hazard. Thoroughly searching a hard-sided case packed at the luggage check gate to find a hidden battery can be a frustrating, embarrassing, and time-consuming experience.

[0003] European Patent No. 3021705 describes an auxiliary container attached to the front panel of a luggage case and protruding outward from the luggage case to increase the overall size.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] This disclosure seeks to mitigate, to at least some extent, the problems described above and / or to address, to at least some extent, the difficulties associated with the prior art. In particular, this disclosure seeks to provide a hard-sided baggage case with a removable storage system that utilizes unused space within the baggage case and is easily accessible and removable from the baggage case without opening the main storage compartment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] This disclosure provides a luggage accessory comprising a rear panel, a towing handle including a pair of spaced-apart tubes attached to the rear panel, a recess defined between the tubes, and a removable pocket that can be detachably attached to the recess between the tubes. The removable pocket and recess include corresponding interlocking engagement features for at least partially holding the pocket within the recess.

[0006] In some embodiments, as needed, the reciprocal engagement feature of the pocket includes a rail feature, and the reciprocal engagement feature of the recess includes a track feature, the rail feature is housed within the track feature, and the pocket is at least partially held within the recess (102).

[0007] If necessary, in some embodiments, a removable pocket configured to fit luggage may further include an interlocking engagement feature configured to engage with an interlocking engagement feature of a recess.

[0008] In some embodiments, the pocket may include a body having multiple panels that define the internal storage capacity, as needed.

[0009] If necessary, in some embodiments, the baggage item may further include at least one panel made of a flexible material from among a plurality of panels.

[0010] If necessary, in some embodiments, the baggage item may further include at least one panel made of a rigid material from among a plurality of panels.

[0011] Furthermore, the baggage accessories may include an external power interface coupled to the front panel among multiple panels, an internal power interface, a power supply located within the internal storage volume of the pocket, and a cable that electrically communicates with the internal and external power interfaces and operates to supply power from the power supply to the external power interface.

[0012] In some embodiments, as needed, the recess is defined in the rear panel and at least a portion of a towing handle tube assembly, including a pair of tubes, is housed in the recess.

[0013] In some embodiments, as needed, a pair of tubes define the recess at least partially.

[0014] If necessary, in some embodiments, the track feature can be positioned in a recess and configured to engage with the rail feature of the pocket to hold the pocket within the recess. The track feature can create a seat into which the pocket fits snugly. Such a seat may have the advantage of better securing the pocket within the recess by locking it to the narrower end of the recess. Another advantage is that the dimensions of the opposing rail feature and / or track feature do not need to be precise, which can lead to improved manufacturability, reduced costs, or higher quality inspection pass rates. Thus, the storage system can be made more resistant to variations in the lateral dimensions of the opposing rail feature caused by manufacturing variations, deformation due to use, etc.

[0015] In some embodiments, as needed, the removable pocket is slidably housed within a recess.

[0016] In some embodiments, the recess is located on the external panel of the baggage item, as needed.

[0017] In some embodiments, the pocket may include a closure mechanism that selectively exposes the opening to allow access to the internal storage volume of the pocket.

[0018] In some embodiments, the pocket includes a strap on the rear panel of the pocket, as needed.

[0019] In some embodiments, the pocket is configured to house a power supply within its internal storage volume, as needed.

[0020] In some embodiments, as needed, the baggage accessories include a hard shell, and the rear panel includes part of the hard shell.

[0021] In some embodiments, the luggage accessories include multiple wheels, as needed.

[0022] This disclosure provides a removable storage system for a baggage item, comprising a pocket including a rail feature, a recess in the outer panel of the baggage item, at least a portion of a towing handle tube assembly housed in the recess, and a track feature positioned in the recess. The rail feature is configured to be slidably housed in the track feature so as to allow the pocket to be detachably coupled to the baggage item.

[0023] In some embodiments, as needed, the pocket includes at least opposing side walls and a rear wall, and comprises a plurality of joined panels that form the internal storage volume of the pocket.

[0024] In some embodiments, the rail feature includes reinforcing material positioned within a hem along a portion of the intersection of the side and rear walls of the pocket, as needed.

[0025] The removable storage system can also include locations where the reinforcing material is wire. Other technical features will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following drawings, description, and claims.

[0026] Optionally, in some embodiments, the towing handle tube includes a retaining edge that projects laterally into the recess.

[0027] Optionally, in some embodiments, the removable storage system includes a cap disposed at an end of the towing handle tube, the cap including a curved shoulder configured to facilitate slidable engagement with the track feature of the rail.

[0028] Optionally, in some embodiments, the removable storage system includes a pair of towing handle tubes disposed on opposite lateral sides of the recess. Here, each towing handle tube of the pair of towing handle tubes includes a retaining edge that projects laterally into the recess, and a pair of track features are formed between each of the pair of retaining edges and the wall of the recess. The rail feature includes opposing sides, and each opposing side is slidably engageable with each of the pair of track features.

[0029] Optionally, in some embodiments, the rail feature is configured to be slidably received in the track feature to removably couple the pocket to the luggage item.

[0030] Optionally, in some embodiments, the pocket is removed by sliding the pocket out of the upper end of the recess.

[0031] In some embodiments, the towing handle can be selectively positioned between a retracted and extended position, and when the towing handle is in the retracted position, it is positioned above the pocket and holds the pocket in the recess. When the luggage is stored in a luggage bin or luggage conveyor system, the pocket is conveniently held in place by the restriction of its movement within the recess by the grip handle. The pocket can be easily pulled out by slightly extending the grip handle and sliding it out of the recess.

[0032] In some embodiments, as needed, the rail feature extends along at least a portion of the length of each opposing side wall of the pocket.

[0033] In some embodiments, the rail feature may include a wire loop extending around the entire circumference of the pocket, as needed.

[0034] In some embodiments, the rail feature extends along the entire length of the pocket, as needed.

[0035] In some embodiments, the rail feature portion includes discontinuous rail feature portions spaced apart along the length of the pocket, as is optional. In some embodiments, the pocket also includes a fabric with a plastic backing, which may include ethylene vinyl acetate.

[0036] In some embodiments, the external power interface may include a USB interface, as needed.

[0037] In some embodiments, a removable cover covers a portion of the external power interface, as needed.

[0038] In some embodiments, as needed, a tether is coupled to the removable cover and either an external power interface or a front panel, and functions to hold the removable cover in place when it is disconnected from the external power interface.

[0039] In some embodiments, as needed, the first and second track feature portions of a pair of track feature portions taper to one another as the pair of track feature portions extend from the second portion of the recess to the first portion.

[0040] In some embodiments, as needed, the towing handle tube includes a pair of outer towing handle tubes, and the housing system further includes a pair of inner towing handle tubes nested within each of the outer towing handle tubes, grip handles coupled to each of the inner towing handle tubes at opposing side ends of the grip handles, and each retaining edge of each outer towing handle tube positioned along the edge closest to the rear wall of the recess.

[0041] In some embodiments, where necessary, when the grip handle is in the retracted position, the grip handle restricts the sliding movement of the pocket along the track feature of the rail feature, preventing the pocket from being removed from the luggage.

[0042] In some embodiments, if necessary, when the grip handle is in the extended position, the sliding engagement of the rail feature of the pocket along the track feature is not obstructed, and the pocket can be removed from the recess.

[0043] In some embodiments, the internal storage volume of the pocket is suitable for housing a power supply, as needed.

[0044] In some embodiments, as needed, the removable storage system includes an external power interface coupled to the front panel of a plurality of panels, an internal power interface, a power supply located within the internal storage volume of the pocket, and cables that electrically communicate with the internal and external power interfaces and function to supply power from the power supply to the external power interface.

[0045] In some embodiments, as needed, the removable storage system includes a removable cover that covers a portion of the external power interface.

[0046] In some embodiments, as needed, a tether is coupled to the removable cover and either an external power interface or a front panel, and functions to hold the removable cover in place when it is disconnected from the external power interface. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0047] This description will be better understood with reference to the following drawings, in which the components may not be depicted to a consistent scale. These drawings are presented as various embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be construed as fully describing the scope of the present disclosure. These drawings feature the following: [Figure 1] This is an isometric view of baggage accessories, including a removable storage system. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is an isometric view of the luggage accessories, showing a configuration in which the pockets of the removable storage system are partially removed. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is an isometric view of the luggage accessories in a configuration with the removable storage system pockets completely removed. [Figure 4A] This is a cross-sectional view of the baggage item 100 along line 4-4 in Figure 1. [Figure 4B] This is a detailed view of Figure 4A along the line 4B-4B. [Figure 5A]Figure 1 is an isometric view of the pocket of the removable storage system in its closed configuration. [Figure 5B] This is a plan view of the pocket in its open configuration, as shown in Figure 5A. [Figure 5C] This is a partial cross-sectional view of the pocket in Figure 5A along the cross-sectional line 5C-5C in Figure 5A. [Figure 5D] This is a cross-sectional view of the pocket in Figure 5A, shown in a partially open configuration along the section line 5D-5D in Figure 5B. [Figure 5E] Figure 1 is an isometric view of the pocket of the removable storage system. [Figure 5F] This is a cross-sectional view of the pocket in Figure 5E along the section line 5F-5F in Figure 5E. [Figure 5G] This is a cross-sectional view of another example of a pocket in the removable storage system shown in Figure 1. [Figure 6] Figure 1 is a simplified isometric view showing a portion of the guide members and track features of the removable storage system. [Figure 7] Figure 1 is an isometric view of the removable pocket of the removable storage system, with a portion of the rear panel cut out to show an optional power supply 332. [Figure 8A] This is a cross-sectional view of the towing handle tube along the cutting line 8-8 in Figure 4. [Figure 8B] Figure 1 is an isometric view of the inside of the rear shell 103 of the baggage item 100. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0048] Referring to Figures 1 to 8B, a baggage item 100 with a removable storage system 300 according to one embodiment is disclosed. Conventionally, the space between the towing handle tubes of baggage is wasted or underutilized. The baggage item 100 with the removable storage system 300 of this disclosure utilizes this otherwise wasted space to provide an easily accessible and removable storage pocket. In one example, the removable storage system includes a pocket or pouch that can be selectively housed in a recess between the towing handle tubes of the baggage item. The towing handle tubes are connected to a grip handle. The grip handle includes a locking mechanism that allows the towing handle tubes to move between a retracted position and an extended position. The pocket includes a rigid rail configured to house in a track formed between a portion of the towing handle tube and the rear wall of the recess. The rail and track form engaging features that engage with each other and at least partially hold the pocket within the recess. The rail may include two or more opposing rail features that are laterally spaced along the side wall of the pocket. To insert the pocket into the recess, the locking mechanism of the grip handle is activated, moving the grip handle and the towing handle tube to the extended position. The pocket can then be slid into the track by sliding the rail into the track. The pocket can be slid along the track and into the recess. Once the pocket is housed in the recess, the locking mechanism of the grip handle is activated again, allowing the towing handle tube and grip handle to be lowered. When the grip handle is in the stowed position, the grip handle is positioned above the pocket and secures the pocket in the recess, restricting its sliding movement within the track. In one example, a removable storage system includes a pocket with a rail feature. The recess is located on the external panel of the baggage item. At least a portion of the towing handle tube assembly is housed within the recess. The track feature is located within the recess, and the rail feature is configured to slidably house within the track feature, allowing the pocket to be detachably coupled to the baggage item.

[0049] Figure 1 is an isometric view of the baggage item 100 in a closed configuration. The baggage item 100 shown in Figure 1 is an upright hard-sided case, but it can be many types of baggage, including soft-sided cases, hybrid cases, containers, etc., preferably a hard-shell type and / or including at least a hard rear shell, more specifically a molded hard rear panel to which a towing handle tube is attached. The baggage item has multiple panels that define an internal storage volume for carrying the user's belongings. The baggage item 100 includes a front shell or lid 105 and a rear shell or base 103, which are selectively separable along a separation line by fasteners such as zippers. The front shell or lid 105 and the rear shell or base 103 can be arranged adjacent to each other in a closed configuration to enclose the user's belongings within the internal storage volume. The baggage item 100 may also be configured in an open position where the lid 105 and the base 103 are located apart from each other. The lid 105 and the base 103 can be rotatably attached together by a hinge 128 or a similar mechanism. The lid 105 and the base 103 may be selectively coupled to each other by a closure 106 or the like. The closure 106 can be operated by a closure operator 108. In some examples, the closure 106 is a zipper, and the closure operator 108 is a zipper pull. In some examples, the baggage item 100 may include one or more carry handles 122, and / or a retractable towing handle assembly 200 that extends from the rear panel 125 of the baggage item 100.

[0050] The baggage item 100, in its closed configuration, includes opposing front panel 127 and rear panel 125, top panel 129 and bottom panel 131 (parts of the front shell 105 and rear shell 103, respectively), and opposing left panel 133 and right panel 135 (parts of the front shell 105 and rear shell 103, respectively). Corner areas 140 can be defined by the intersection of any two or three adjacent panels. For the purpose of clarifying the description, directions relative to the baggage case can be defined. For example, the lateral direction 130 can be defined roughly between the left panel 133 and the right panel 135. The depth direction 132 can be defined roughly between the rear panel 125 and the front panel 127. The vertical direction 134 can be defined between the bottom panel 131 and the top panel 129. These directions 130, 132, and 134 are essentially illustrative and not limiting.

[0051] The baggage item 100 includes one or more support members 107 for supporting the baggage item 100 against a support surface (e.g., the ground). The support members 107 are preferably spinner wheel assemblies, but may be fixed wheel assemblies, feet, posts, casters, or any combination thereof, and may be associated with any suitable panel of the baggage item 100, such as the bottom panel 131. As shown, the baggage item 100 may include four support members 107. In the example shown, the support members are double caster spinner assemblies 110. The wheel assemblies can assist in the movement of the baggage item on the support surface.

[0052] The baggage accessory 100 may include a towing handle assembly 200. The towing handle assembly 200 may include a grip handle 202. For example, as shown in Figure 1, the grip handle 202 can be coupled to a towing handle tube 206 at opposing ends of the grip handle 202. The towing handle assembly 200 may be at least partially positioned within a handle recess 141 leading to a recess 102. Opposing towing handle tubes 206 can be positioned along opposing side walls 144, 146 of a first portion 148 of the recess 102 and attached to these walls of the recess 102. In some examples, the towing handle tubes 206 are mirror-symmetric with respect to the centerline of the grip handle 202. The towing handle assembly 200 may include two or more towing handle tubes 206a and 206b that extend and retract in a nesting manner relative to one another. The nesting towing handle tubes may include at least an outer towing handle tube 206a and an inner towing handle tube 206b. The inner traction handle tube 206b can be nested (extendable in a nesting manner) within the outer traction handle tube 206a. In some examples, an additional traction handle tube, such as 206c, can be nested within the inner traction handle tube 206b. As shown in Figure 1, when the grip handle 202 is fully retracted and positioned in the second portion of the recess 102, the inner traction handle tube 206b can be stored within the outer traction handle tube 206a. In the extended position (see Figure 2), the grip handle 202 is positioned above the second portion of the recess 102. At the opposite side end of the grip handle 202, the grip handle 202 can be coupled to each of the inner traction handle tubes 206b and / or 206c. The locking mechanism 204 is actuated to allow the extension and retraction of the inner traction handle tubes 206b / 206c and the adjustment of the grip handle relative to the outer traction handle tube 206a. For user control, the actuator 205 of the locking mechanism 204 can be associated with the grip handle 202.

[0053] The baggage item 100 includes a towing handle assembly 200 having a pair of towing handle tubes 206 coupled to a base 103. The towing handle tubes 206 can be coupled to a rear panel 125. The baggage item 100 includes a recess 102 formed in a panel of the baggage item 100. In some embodiments, the panel containing the recess can be the outer panel of the baggage item 100. The recess may have a rear wall 104, a bottom wall 142, and opposing left and right walls 144 and 146. The recess 102 may have a lower section 148 near the bottom wall 142. The recess 102 may have an upper section 150 near the handle recess 141. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the recess 102 can be formed in the rear panel 125. The recess 102 can be formed between the towing handle tubes 206. The towing handle tubes can at least partially define the recess 102. For example, the towing handle tube 206 can form part of the opposing left wall 144 and right wall 146. In some examples, the recess 102 may be on the outside of the baggage item's shell, such as when the tube is coupled to the outer surface of the baggage item's panel to define a recess 102 between them. The towing handle tube 206 can be included in a towing handle tube assembly in which part is housed in the recess 102. In other examples, the recess 102 may be a separate component from the baggage item 100's panel that covers an opening formed in the baggage item 100's panel. For example, the recess can be formed by a component that is inserted into and covers an opening in the rear panel 125 of the baggage item. A removable pocket 302 can be housed between the towing handle tubes 260 within the recess 102. The removable pocket 302 can be at least partially held within the recess 102. In other examples, the recess may be formed in a separate panel. For example, the recess 102 may be formed in the top panel 129, the bottom panel 131, the left panel 133, and / or the right panel 135. The recess 102 may be configured to receive a portion of the towing handle assembly 200. The recess 102 includes a first portion 148 and a second portion 150. The first portion 148 is located below the second portion 150.The first portion 148 is defined by a rear wall 104 that defines the depth of the first portion 148 of the recess, opposing side walls 144 and 146 that define the width of the recess 102, and a bottom wall 142. The upper part 150 of the recess 102 is defined by a rear wall 104 that defines the depth of the second portion 150 of the recess 102, and opposing side walls 144 and 146 that define the width of the second portion 150 of the recess 102. The depth of the first portion 148 is generally less than the depth of the second portion 150 of the recess. The second portion 150 of the recess 102 extends into the top panel 129. The recess 102 can be formed in the rear shell 103, mainly in the rear panel 125, and in this example at least partially in the top panel 129. The recess 102 may be press-formed into the rear shell 103. Alternatively, the recess 102 may be a separate structure positioned within the rear shell 103 so as to cover or fill an opening having the shape of the peripheral edge of the recess 102, which is cut out from the rear shell 103.

[0054] Figure 1 also shows a removable storage system 300. The storage system 300 includes a pocket 302 that is removablely disposed within the recess 102. The pocket 302 may include rails configured to be slidably housed within track features 210 formed in the recess 102. In some embodiments, the rails may extend continuously along each of the opposing lateral sides of the pocket. Alternatively, in some examples, the rails may extend discontinuously along each of the opposing lateral sides of the pocket 302, for example, by a plurality of segmented and spaced rail features arranged along each of the opposing lateral sides of the pocket 302. The pocket 302 can be removablely coupled to the baggage item 100 by slidably engaging the opposing rail features 310 with the track features 210. The pocket 302 includes a body 362 that defines an internal storage volume 336 and has lateral periphery portions 354. The body 362 may have an upper portion 356, a middle portion 358, and a lower portion 360 (as shown, for example, in Figure 3). Pocket 302 may include opposing top panel 314 and bottom panel 316, opposing left side panel 318 and right side panel 320, and opposing front panel 324 and rear panel 322. Each panel of pocket 302 can be selectively connected to another adjacent panel of the pocket so that items can be added to or removed from the pocket when it is opened. For example, the rear panel 322 and the front panel 324 can be selectively fastened to each other by a closure device 342 such as hook-and-loop fasteners, zippers, snaps, buttons, or hinges.

[0055] When the grip handle 202 is in the retracted position (for example, as shown in Figure 1), the pocket 302 can be secured within the recess 102. For example, when the grip handle 202 is in the retracted position, the grip handle 202 can prevent the pocket 302 from being removed from the luggage item 100 by limiting the slidable engagement of the opposing rail feature 310 with the track feature 210. For example, as shown in Figure 2, the grip handle can be moved to the extended position to remove the pocket 302 from the recess 102. For example, the pocket 302 can be removed from the recess by sliding it along the length of the recess 102 and through the open second portion of the recess 102. For example, the pocket can be removed from the recess by sliding it out of the upper end 150 of the recess 102. In another example, the pocket can also pass through the handle recess 141 when being removed from the recess 102. To facilitate the attachment and removal of the pocket 302 from the storage system 300, the pocket 302 may include a handle or strap 338 located on the rear panel 322 of the pocket 302. In some examples, the handle 338, such as a grip or handle, can be formed on the rear panel 322. Figure 2 shows the pocket 302 in a partially detached state. Figure 3 shows the pocket 302 completely detached from the recess 102.

[0056] Figure 4A is a cross-sectional view of the baggage item 100 along line 4-4 in Figure 1. Some details of Figure 4A are shown in Figure 4B. The towing handle assembly 200 can be configured to house and hold a pocket 302. For example, as shown in Figures 4A to 4B, a track feature 210 can be formed in the baggage item 100 to house a rail 310. The rail may include a rail feature 310 opposite to the pocket 302. The opposing rail feature 310 can be positioned on the opposing side walls 318, 320 of the pocket 302. When the pocket 302 is housed in the recess 102 by the housing of the opposing rail feature 310 within the track feature 210, the opposing rail feature 310 engages with the rear wall 104 and retaining edge 208 of the recess 102. The opposing rail feature 310 fits snugly within the track feature 210, helping to hold the pocket 302 in the recess 102. The track feature portion 210 can be positioned between the wall of the recess 102 and the towing handle tube 206 of the baggage item 100. In some examples, the track feature portion 210 can be formed on the opposing side walls 144, 146 of the recess 102. In some examples, a portion of the track feature portion 210 can be formed by the gap between the towing handle tube 206 and the wall 104 of the recess 102, and a portion can be formed as a feature of the side walls 144, 146 of the recess 102 independently of the towing handle tube 206. For example, the track feature portion 210 can be defined between the rear wall 104 of the recess 102 and the towing handle tube 206. The outer portion 218 of the track feature portion 210 can be formed by the outer towing handle tube 206A. The rear portion 220 of the track 210 can be formed by the rear wall 104 of the recess 102. For example, the rear portion 220 of the track 210 can be formed by the walls 104 of a recess 102 extending in a plane along the longitudinal direction 134 and the transverse direction 130. In some examples, the outer towing handle tube 206a may include a retaining edge 208 extending outward from the towing handle tube 206a in the transverse direction 130 and entering the recess 102.In this example, each of the pair of towing handle tubes 206 may include a retaining edge 208 that extends laterally 130 and enters the recess 102 to reduce the dimension of the gap between the towing handle tubes 206. In some examples, the lateral dimension 232 between the retaining edges 208 is smaller than the lateral dimension 352 between the opposing rail features 310. The track features 210 may be formed from other structures, such as retaining edges formed in part of the rear panel 125 or part of the wall 104 of the recess 102.

[0057] In some examples, the baggage item 100 does not have to include the recess 102, and the track feature 210 may be formed as part of a panel of the baggage item 100 (e.g., rear panel 125). In some examples, the baggage item 100 does not have to include the recess 102, and the track feature 210 may be formed as part of one or more towing handle tubes 206 of the baggage item 100. In some examples, the baggage item 100 does not have to include the recess 102, and the track feature 210 may be partially formed as part of a panel of the baggage item 100, and may be partially formed as part of one or more towing handle tubes 206 of the baggage item 100. In such examples, the opposing rail feature of the pocket 302 may be selectively housed in the track feature 210 as described above, and the pocket 302 does not have to be recessed in each panel of the baggage item 100 on which the pocket is located, i.e., it does not have to be flush with the panel.

[0058] In some examples, the track feature 210 can be formed within a housing that surrounds the towing handle tube 206. The towing handle tube 206 of the towing handle assembly can be housed within the housing. For example, the housing can be integrated with a panel of the baggage item 100, such as the rear panel 125. Part of the track feature 210 can be molded or otherwise formed within the housing. In some examples, the housing forming the track feature 210 can be a separate part attached to or joined to a panel of the baggage item 100. In such a housing, the track feature 210 can be more easily formed by injection molding, vacuum forming, or other suitable process.

[0059] The track feature section 210 may have a depth 230 defined between the outer portion 218 and the rear portion 220. In some examples, the depth 230 may be slightly smaller than the thickness dimension 350 of the opposing rail feature section 310 (as shown, for example, in Figure 5C). In other examples, the depth 230 may be approximately the same size as the thickness dimension of the opposing rail feature section 310. In other examples, the depth 230 may be larger than the thickness dimension of the opposing rail feature section 310. In some examples, the depth 230 may be varied in the vertical direction 134. For example, the depth 230 near the top of the track feature section 210 may be larger than the depth 230 near the bottom of the track feature section 210. The depth 230 of the track section 210 may be smoothly changed from a thicker depth to a thinner depth along the vertical direction 134. In some examples, the depth 230 may be varied in the horizontal direction 130. For example, the depth 230 of the recess 102 near the side walls 144 and 146 can be made narrower than the depth 230 further away from the side walls 144 and 146 towards the interior of the recess 102. In another example, the depth 230 of the recess 102 near the side walls 144 and 146 can be made wider than the depth 230 further away from the side walls 144 and 146 towards the interior of the recess 102.

[0060] The retaining edges 208 can form the outer portion 218 of the track feature portion 210. In some examples, a pair of track feature portions 210 are formed between a pair of opposing retaining edges 208 and the respective rear walls 104 of the recess 102. In some examples, the retaining edges 208 can extend along the entire length of the towing handle tube 206A. In some examples, the retaining edges may be one of a plurality of retaining edges spaced apart along at least a portion of the length of the towing handle tube 206A. In the example shown, the retaining edges 208 extend substantially parallel to each other. In other examples, the retaining edges 208 on opposing sides of the recess 102 can be tapered laterally 130 toward each other. The tracks 210 can be tapered toward each other, for example, they can be spaced laterally closer together at the bottom of the tracks 210 than at the top of the tracks 210. For example, the first track 210 of a pair of tracks can be tapered laterally 130 toward the second track 210 of the pair of tracks. For example, the retaining edges 208 on the opposing sides of the recess 102 can be brought closer together at the other end of the recess 102 (e.g., the lower end) than at one end of the recess 102 (e.g., the upper end). Lateral tapering can form a "seat" into which the pocket 302 fits snugly. Such lateral tapering can have the advantage of better securing the pocket 302 within the recess 102 by locking it into the narrower end of the recess 102. Another advantage of lateral tapering is that the dimensions of the opposing rail features 310 and / or track features 210 do not need to be precise, which can lead to improved manufacturability, reduced costs, or higher pass rates in quality inspections. Therefore, the storage system 300 can be made more resistant to variations in the lateral dimension 352 of the opposing rail features 310, which may be caused by manufacturing variations or deformation due to use.

[0061] In other examples, the track 210 can be tapered in the depth direction 132. For example, the track 210 can be made narrower at one end (e.g., the lower end) of the recess 102 than at the other end (e.g., the upper end). Such depth tapering can be achieved by shaping the retaining edge 208 such that it is closer to the rear wall 104 of the recess 102 at the lower end 148 than at the upper end 150 of the recess 102. Similarly, depth tapering can be achieved by shaping the rear wall 104 at the lower end 148 of the recess 102 such that the wall 104 extends away from the front panel 127 in the depth direction 132. For example, an inclined surface can be formed in the recess 102 by angling the wall 104 with respect to the towing handle tube 206. For example, the towing handle tube 206 can extend in the longitudinal direction 134 while the wall 104 is inclined in the depth direction 132. In another example, the wall 104 may extend in the vertical direction 134, while the towing handle tube 206 may be inclined in the depth direction 132. In yet another example, both the towing handle tube 206 and the wall 104 may be inclined in the depth direction so as to be either toward or away from each other along the vertical direction 134.

[0062] Figures 5A to 5D show embodiments of pocket 302A suitable for use with storage system 300. Pocket 302A includes a body 362. The body 362 may have an upper section 356, a middle section 358, and a lower section 360 (as shown, for example, in Figure 3). Pocket 302A may include opposing top panel 314 and bottom panel 316, opposing left side panel 318 and right side panel 320, and opposing front panel 324 and rear panel 322. Rail features 310 extend around at least a portion of the lateral periphery 354 of pocket 302A. In some examples, rail features 310 extend around the entire periphery of pocket 302A. For example, the rail may include a wire loop extending around the entire periphery of the pocket. In some examples, the top panel 314 or bottom panel 316 may not engage with the track feature, so the rail feature may extend along all or part of the length of the side edge of the pocket, rather than along the top panel 314 or bottom panel 316. The pocket includes a front end 313, which is the end defined by the bottom panel 316 of the pocket, and which first enters the recess 102 when the pocket 302 is inserted into the recess 102. The ends of the rail feature 310 adjacent to the front end 313 may define a leading edge 317 suitable for initiating engagement between each rail feature 310 and the opposing track feature 210. The pocket includes a rear end 315, which is the end defined by the top panel 314 of the pocket, and which is located on top of the recess 102 after the pocket has been fully inserted into the recess. The end of the rail feature portion 310 adjacent to the rear end portion 315 can define a rear edge portion 319 which can be positioned on the upper part of the opposing track portion 210 when the pocket 302A is inserted into the recess 102.

[0063] The pocket may include a closure device 342 that selectively exposes the opening to allow access to the internal compartment of the pocket. The closure device 342 can be located on the front panel 324, the top panel 314, the opposing side panels 318, 320, or a combination of one or more of these panels. In one example, the front panel 324 and the rear panel 322 can be selectively joined by the closure device 342 that selectively exposes the opening of the pocket 302. In some examples, the closure device 342 can partially or entirely replace the top panel of the pocket. In the illustrated example, the closure device 342 is a zipper. In other examples, the closure device 342 may be a button, snap, hook-and-loop fastener, etc. As best shown in Figure 5B, the closure device 342 can extend around at least a portion of the lateral periphery 354 of the pocket 302A. The front panel 324 and the rear panel 322 are joined at the left panel 218 by a hinge 344. Therefore, when the closing device 342 is configured in the open position, for example as shown in Figure 5B, the front panel 324 and the rear panel 322 can be separated from each other to access the internal storage volume 336 of the pocket 302A. For example, the front panel 324 and the rear panel 322 can be separated from each other to expose the inner surfaces of the front panel 346 and the rear panel 348. An inner pouch 364 can be placed on the inner surfaces of the front panel 346 and / or the rear panel 348.

[0064] Cable 308 may include one or more cable sections, such as cable section 308A and cable section 308B, and these cable sections may have different internal power interfaces 306 that are electrically connected. For example, cable section 308A may include a USB-A power interface. Cable section 308B may include a mini-USB or micro-USB power interface.

[0065] Figure 5C shows a cross-section of pocket 302A with the liner 370 removed for clarity. The front panel 324 and / or rear panel 322 can be formed from fabric with an ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) backing. For example, the rear panel 322 may include a fabric layer 322B bonded to a layer 322A of EVA or other suitable plastic. Similarly, the front panel 324 may include a fabric layer 324B bonded to a layer 324A of EVA or other suitable plastic. The shape of the front panel 324 can be formed by a molding step, creating a three-dimensional shape that produces a defined volume within the pocket even when it is empty. This three-dimensional molded shape also allows at least a portion of the front panel 324 to be flush with the back of the rear shell of the baggage item. Depending on the intended internal storage volume of the pocket, the front panel 324 may be lower or higher than the coplanar plane. The rear panel may also have a shape formed by a mold or the like, as needed. The positions of layers 324A / B and / or layers 322A / B can be as shown in the figure, with the plastic layer facing the internal storage volume 336 side of pocket 302A and the fabric layer facing the outside of pocket 302A. Alternatively, the positions of layers 324A / B and / or layers 322A / B can be swapped so that the fabric layer faces the internal storage volume 336 side of pocket 302A and the plastic layer faces the outside of pocket 302A.

[0066] Referring further to Figure 5C, the front panel 324 and the rear panel 322 can be joined using a selective closing device 342 and rail 310, as shown in the figure. A portion of the piping 353 can be used to wrap the reinforcing material 312 longitudinally. The closing device 342 may include a tape portion 368 suitable for attaching the closing device 342 to the pocket 302A. The tape portion 368 may be made of cloth or a membrane. The overlapping edges of the piping 353 can be sandwiched between the tape portion 368 and the front panel 324. A cover portion 366 can be positioned to cover both sides of the sandwich structure consisting of the piping 353, the tape portion 368, and the front panel 324, and joined with a seam 326 to form a hem 328 and rail 310. Similarly, with the cover portions 366 positioned on both sides and secured with a seam 326, another tape portion 368 of the closing device 342 can be sandwiched together with the rear panel 322. The liner 370 and / or pouch 364 can be included in a sandwich structure along with the front panel, rear panel, and tape portion (as shown, for example, in Figures 4A and 4B).

[0067] Referring to Figures 5E, 5F, and 5G, an example of pocket 302B may include opposing rail features 310. The opposing rail features 310 can be configured to be selectively housed within the track 210. The opposing rail features 310 can be positioned on the pocket 302 and spaced apart from each other by a dimension 352 greater than the dimension 232 between the spaced-away opposing retaining edges 208. The opposing rail features 310 can be positioned on at least a portion of the lateral periphery 354 of the pocket 302. The opposing rail features 310 can be positioned at the intersection of the front panel 324 of the pocket 302 and the opposing side walls 318, 320. In some examples, the opposing rail features 310 can be positioned anywhere along the side walls of the pocket 302. In some examples, the opposing rail features 310 can be positioned only on the front panel 324 of the pocket 302. In the illustrated examples of pockets 302A and 302B, the opposing rail features 310 are positioned on at least a portion of the edge or border 354 formed between the front panel 324 and the opposing side walls 318 and 320. The opposing side walls 318 and 320 can be considered to be spaced laterally apart from each other across the width of the pocket 302. This position allows the pockets 302A / 302B to be held adjacent to the rear wall 104 of the recess 102 and the rear panel 322 of the pockets 302A / 302B to be flush with the rear panel 125 of the baggage item 100. In other examples, the depth relationship between the opposing rail features 310 and the track features 210 allows the rear panel 322 of the pocket 302 to be positioned further back than the rear panel 125 of the baggage item 100. In another example, the depth relationship between the opposing rail feature 310 and track feature 210 allows the rear panel 322 of the pocket 302 to protrude from the rear panel 125 of the baggage item 100. Each of the opposing lateral rail feature 310 can be slidably engaged with each of the pair of track feature 210.

[0068] The front panel 324 and rear panel 322 of pocket 302B can be selectively joined by a closing device 342, such as a zipper, at the portion of the top panel 314 that extends to the left panel 318 and the right panel 320, respectively. As previously described, the rear panel 322 may include a strap or handle 338.

[0069] As shown in the example in Figure 5G, the opposing rail features 310 can be formed by a linearly extending member or a plurality of individual members. The member is sufficient to engage with the track features and has sufficient effective length to prevent the pocket from being disengaged from the opposing rail features 310 by the gap between the opposing rail features 310. To secure the pocket 302 within the track features 210, the opposing rail features 310 can be made relatively rigid or rigid. In the example shown in Figure 5C, the opposing rail features 310 are formed by a rib structure or piping structure positioned around at least a portion of the periphery 354 of the pocket at the intersection of the rear wall of the pocket and the opposing side wall. The piping structure includes a reinforcing member 312, such as a steel wire. The reinforcing member 312 can be positioned within a hem 328 formed between two adjacent panels of a plurality of panels of the pocket 302. For example, the rail feature portion 310 may include a hem 328 formed by a portion of the front panel 324 that is wrapped around the wire 312, folded over itself, and sewn to itself and the bridge portion 330 by a seam 326. In other examples, the hem 328 may be secured by adhesive, welding, rivets, or other suitable means instead of, or in addition to, the seam 326. For example, the method of forming the hem 328 can be determined by the materials of the rear panel 322, the front panel 324, the reinforcing material 312, etc. The reinforcing material may consist of an elastic material such as steel, a thermoplastic, or a fiber-reinforced composite.

[0070] An example of pocket 302C is shown in Figure 5G. Pocket 302C may include a rear panel 322 made from a rigid material such as plastic, metal, or wood. Pocket 302C may include a front panel 324 made from a flexible material such as textile, cloth, leather, or plastic. The rear panel 322 and the front panel 324 can be joined by a bridge section 330, which can be made of the same material as either the rear panel 322 or the front panel 324, or a different material. In other examples, the rear panel 322, the front panel 324, and / or the bridge section 330 may be formed from any suitable rigid or flexible material. For example, the front panel 324 and / or the rear panel 322 can be formed from a fabric with an ethylene-vinyl acetate backing. In other examples, the panels can be formed from a suitable plastic such as polypropylene or polyethylene. The rear panel 322 and the front panel 324 can be joined to the bridge section by a seam 326.

[0071] The pocket 302C may include a body 362 defining opposing side walls 318, 320, and the rail feature 310 is positioned along at least a portion of the side walls, similar to other rail features described herein. The body 362 of the pocket 302 in this example may be formed entirely or at least partially by a molding process, such as plastic injection molding, vacuum forming, or other types of molding. If at least the side wall portion of the pocket is a molded part, the rail feature may be formed integrally or collectively with the molded side walls of the pocket. For example, the rail feature 310 may be a pair of opposing flanges 311 extending laterally outward 130 from each of the left and right panels 318, 320 of the pocket 302C. In some examples, the rail feature 310 may be elongated and may extend along most of the length of the pocket 302 or along its entire length. In some examples, the rail feature 310 may be a plurality of individual segments or discontinuous, spaced-out segments extending along a portion of each lateral edge along at least a portion of the pocket or along its entire length. The thickness dimension of each rail feature 310 is sufficient to accommodate within its respective track feature 210 and may be consistent along the length of the pocket 302, or its thickness may vary to enhance engagement with the rail feature 310. For example, the rail feature 310 may have a thickness that is relatively thinner at the bottom of the pocket (e.g., near the bottom panel 316) than at the top of the pocket (e.g., near the top panel 314). In some examples, for example, to improve insertion and removal from the recess 102 of the pocket 302, the track feature 210 may not engage with the front and rear of the rail feature 310 at the bottom of the track feature 210, but may fit snugly at the top of the rail feature 310.

[0072] Referring again to Figures 4A and 4B, the rail feature portion 310 of any pocket 302 disclosed herein can be selectively housed within the track feature portion 210, and the pocket 302 can be fixed within the recess 102. For example, the lower end of the rail feature portion 310 of pocket 302C can be inserted into the track 210 at the upper part 150 of the recess 102 and slid along the track feature portion 210. Pocket 302C can be fully housed within the recess 102, with one end of pocket 302 (e.g., bottom panel 316) adjacent to the lower wall 142 of the recess 102. As the rail feature portion 310 slides along the track feature portion 210, the retaining edge portion 208 can form a recess 340 in the pocket 302 so that the rail feature portion 310 engages with the track 210. For example, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, the opposing retaining edges 208 on the opposing sides of the recess 102 can be spaced apart by a dimension 232 smaller than the dimension 352 between the rail feature portions 310 on the opposing sides 318 and 320 of the pocket 302. The pocket 302 can be held within the recess 102 by a dimension 232 that is relatively small to the dimension 352. In addition, the pocket 302 can be secondarily held within the recess 102 by the engagement / pinch (tightening) effect of the retaining edges 208 against the side walls 318 and 320 of the pocket 302, thereby forming a recess 340. For example, the rail feature portion 310 can be fixed between the retaining edge portion 208 and the rear panel 125 of the baggage item. For example, the rail feature portion 310 can be fixed between the retaining edge portion and the wall 104 of the recess 102. Similarly, if the pocket 302C is made of at least partially rigid material and includes integrally molded rail features 310 such as the pair of opposing flanges 311 mentioned above, the rail features 310 can be moved or slid along the track 210 until the pocket 302 is fully accommodated within the recess 102.

[0073] The sliding engagement of the rail feature portion 310 with the track 210 secures the pocket 302 within the recess 102, preventing it from being pulled backward along the length of the recess 102 (for example, pulled in the depth direction 132 and dislodged from the recess 102) by the gap formed between the retaining edges 208 (for example, the gap along dimension 232 in Figures 4A and 4B). The grip handle 202 can function to secure the pocket 302 within the recess 102 when in the stowed position (see Figure 1). In this position, the grip handle 202 closes the open second portion of the recess 102, restricting the movement of the pocket 302 along the track feature portion 210 to the point where it could be removed from the recess 102. When the baggage is stored in a luggage compartment or luggage conveyor system, the restriction of the pocket 302's movement within the recess 102 by the grip handle 202 conveniently keeps the pocket 302 in place. By slightly extending the grip handle 202 and sliding the pocket 302 out of the recess 102, the pocket 302 can be easily pulled out.

[0074] When inserting the pocket 302 into the recess 102, it is necessary to align the rail feature portion 310 with each track feature portion 210 and move the pocket 302 along the length of the recess 104 to the seated position, i.e., the fully engaged position. In one example, the initial insertion of the leading edge portions 317 of the opposing rail feature portions 310 is reinforced by a lead-in structure on the upper part of each retaining edge portion 208. Figure 6 shows an example of a lead-in structure, which in this example is a cap 212 that can be coupled to or formed together with the towing handle tube 206a. The cap 212 can be positioned at the end of the towing handle tube. The cap 212 can be configured to initiate, facilitate, or assist in the insertion of the rail feature portion 310 into the track feature portion 210. The cap 212 may include a shoulder portion 214 that projects laterally into the recess 102. The shoulder portion 214 can be positioned on the lateral inner surface 222 of the cap 212 to facilitate slidable engagement of the rail feature portion 310 with the track 210. For example, the cap 212 may include a shoulder portion 214 projecting laterally from the cap 212 toward the centerline of the recess 102. The shoulder portion 214 may include a back surface 224, a front surface 226, and a top portion 227 between the back surface 224 and the front surface 226. The shoulder portion 214 can be tapered to form a transition from the open shape of the recess 102 to the shape of the retaining edge portion 208. Thus, the shoulder portion 214 can act as a funnel to capture the rail feature portion 310 and begin guiding the rail feature portion 310 into the track feature portion 210. For example, the front surface 226 of the shoulder portion 214 can be spaced 132 in the depth direction from the wall 104 by a dimension 228 greater than the depth dimension 230 of the track feature portion 210. The depth of the gap can transition smoothly from dimension 228 to dimension 230 of the track feature section 210. In some examples, a cap may be formed from a plastic that can be formed by injection molding, machining, blow molding or similar methods and then coupled to the towing handle tube 206A.

[0075] Figure 7 shows a partial cutaway of pocket 302. In some examples, pocket 302 is suitable for containing a power supply 332. The internal storage volume of the pocket can be made suitable for housing a power supply. The power supply can be a battery or power pack suitable for supplying power to electronic devices such as mobile phones, laptops, tablets, and game consoles. The power supply 332 can be removed from pocket 302 via a closure 342 of pocket 302, as described above. The power supply 332 can include a power interface 306 suitable for receiving power from the power supply 332. The power interface 306 can be made suitable for receiving power to the power supply 332 and recharging the power supply 332. An external power interface 334 can be coupled to the rear panel 322 of the multiple panels of pocket 302. The external power interface 334 may be located at the top 356 of the rear panel 322, the middle 358 of the rear panel 322, or the bottom 360 of the rear panel 322. In some examples, two or more external power interfaces can be located in the upper 356, middle 358, and / or lower 360 of the rear panel 322. The power supply 332 may include an internal power interface 306, and the power supply 332 can be located within the internal storage volume 336 of the pocket 302. In some examples, the portion of the external power interface 334 within the pocket 302 can be hidden behind the cover 372.

[0076] Cable 308 can be electrically connected to the internal power interface 306 and the external power interface 334 to operate in order to supply power from the power supply 332 to the external power interface 334. Power interface 306 can be electrically connected to the external power interface 334 via cable 308. The external power interface 334 may be coupled to pocket 302 or formed together with pocket 302. For example, the external power interface 334 can be coupled to the rear panel 322 of pocket 302. In many examples, power interfaces 306 and 334 are Universal Serial Bus (USB) interfaces suitable for supplying power to electronic devices. Any generation or variant of the USB interface can be used as power interfaces 306 and 334, including USB A, USB B, USB C, micro-USB A, micro-USB B, mini USB B (5-pin), mini USB B (4-pin), USB 3.0 A, etc. Power interfaces 306 and 334 may be other suitable types of interfaces, such as Apple Lightning®, FireWire® (IEEE 1394), or Power over Ethernet®.

[0077] A portion of the external power interface 334 can be selectively covered by the cover 304. For example, the cover 304 can cover the electrical contacts of the external power interface, preventing such contacts from becoming dirty, contaminated, or wet. The cover 304 can be secured to the pocket 302 by a tether 305. The tether may be connected to the cover. The tether 305 may be connected to the external power interface 334. The tether 305 may be connected to the rear panel 322. The tether 305 can function to hold the cover 304 when it is removed from the external power interface 334. The tether 305 can be any suitable structure that allows the cover 304 to be removed from the external power interface 334 while keeping it close enough to access the external power interface 334 but not so close that the cover is lost or damaged. For example, the tether 305 can be a string, elastomer filament, cable, chain, rope, etc. The lid 304 can be secured to the external power interface 334 by means of a clip or snap-fit ​​suitable for holding the lid 304 in place when the external power interface 334 is not in use. The external power interface 334 may have advantages such as enabling charging of personal electronic devices without removing the pocket 302 from the luggage item 100.

[0078] Figure 8A shows a partial cross-sectional view of the towing handle tubes 206A-206C of the baggage item 100. Figure 8B shows an isometric view of the inside of the rear shell 103. As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, the towing handle tube 206A can be secured to the rear panel 125 of the baggage item 100 by fasteners 216. The fasteners 216 can be any suitable type of fastener, such as screws, bolts, rivets, or pins. The outer towing handle tube 206A can extend through an opening 152 in the lower wall 142 of the recess 102. The outer towing handle tube 206A may have an upper part 138 that is exposed to the outside of the baggage item 100 above the lower wall 142. The outer towing handle tube 206A may include a lower part 136 that is housed in the internal storage compartment of the baggage item 100 below the lower wall 142. For example, the external towing handle tube 206A may extend through an opening 152 in the lower wall 142 of the rear panel 125, such as at the lower part 148 of the recess 102. The towing handle tube 206 can be housed in a housing 126 within the internal storage volume of the baggage item 100. The housing 126 prevents the towing handle tube 206 from contacting, snagging, or interfering with the contents of the baggage item 100. The housing 126 can be attached to the front panel 127 of the baggage item 100 by any suitable method, such as a snap-fit ​​interface, adhesive, or fasteners.

[0079] All relative and directional references (including up, down, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, side, superior, downward, front, center, rear, vertical, horizontal, etc.) are given as examples to help the reader understand the specific embodiments described herein. Unless specifically stated in the claims, these references should not be construed as requirements or limitations, particularly relating to position, orientation, or use. References relating to connections (e.g., attached, joined, connected, joined, etc.) should be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between connections of elements and relative motion between elements. Thus, references relating to connections do not necessarily indicate that two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship with one another unless specifically stated in the claims.

[0080] Those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosed embodiments are taught as examples, not as limitations. Therefore, matters included in the above description and those shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not as limiting. The following claims are intended to include all of the general and specific features described herein, and all of the descriptions relating to the scope of the methods and systems of the present invention, which may be expressed linguistically between them.

Claims

1. Rear panel (125) and A grip handle (202) including a pair of spaced-apart tubes (206, 206A, 206B, 206C) attached to the rear panel (125), The rear panel (125) is partially defined and has a handle recess (141) for receiving the grip handle (202), A recess (102) is defined between the tubes (206, 206A, 206B, 206C), Removable pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) that can be detachably attached to the recess (102) between the tubes (206, 206A, 206B, 206C), Equipped with, The removable pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) and the recesses (102) include corresponding interlocking engagement features (210, 310) to at least partially hold the pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) within the recesses (102), A baggage accessory wherein, when the grip handle (202) is in the retracted position, the removable pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) are held in the recess (102), and when the grip handle (202) is in the extended position, the removable pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) are removed from the recess (102) and pass through the opening of the handle recess (141), and when the removable pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) are in the recess (102), the removable pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) are flush with the rear panel (125).

2. The mutually engaging engagement feature portion (310) of the aforementioned pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) includes the rail feature portion (310), The mutually engaging feature portion of the recess (102) includes the track feature portion (210), The baggage accessory according to claim 1, wherein the rail feature portion (310) is housed within the track feature portion (210), and the pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) are configured to be at least partially held within the recess (102).

3. The baggage item according to claim 2, wherein the rail feature portion (310) is slidably housed within the track feature portion (210), and the pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) are configured to be detachably connected to the baggage item.

4. The baggage accessory according to claim 3, wherein the pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) are removed by sliding them out from the upper end of the recess (102).

5. The baggage accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the grip handle (202) is selectively positionable between a retracted position and an extended position, and when the grip handle (202) is in the retracted position, the grip handle (202) is positioned above the pocket and holds the pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) within the recess (102).

6. The baggage accessory according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the rail feature portion (310) extends along at least a portion of the length of each opposing side wall (318, 320) of the pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C).

7. The baggage accessory according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the rail feature portion (310) includes a wire loop (312) extending around the entire circumference of the pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C).

8. The baggage accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the pocket (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) comprises a main body (362) having a plurality of panels (314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324) that define an internal storage capacity (336).

9. The baggage item according to claim 8, wherein at least one of the plurality of panels (314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324) is made of a soft material.

10. The baggage item according to claim 9, wherein the soft material is a fabric having a plastic backing.

11. The baggage accessory according to claim 8, further comprising an external power interface (334) coupled to one of the plurality of panels (314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324).

12. The baggage accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the removable pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) are slidably housed within the recess (102).

13. The baggage accessory according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) include a closure mechanism (342) that selectively exposes the opening so that the internal storage volume of the pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) can be accessed.

14. A removable pocket (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) configured to fit the baggage item (100) described in claim 1, and comprising a mutually engaging feature portion (310) configured to engage with a mutually engaging feature portion (210) of a recess (102).

15. The baggage item (100) according to claim 1, wherein the removable pockets (302, 302A, 302B, 302C) are made of a soft-sided material.

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