luggage case

Abstract

The present invention relates to a luggage compartment (1), particularly for releasable connection to a rear load carrier (36) to be mounted on a vehicle, the luggage compartment (1) comprising a rigid bottom element (2), a rigid cover element (3), and side walls (8) made of fabric, wherein the luggage compartment (1) is foldable between a use configuration and a transport configuration, in which the bottom element (2) and the cover element (3) are spaced apart from each other, and the side walls (8) connect the bottom element (2) and the cover element (3) to form a luggage receiving space inside, and in the transport configuration, the cover element (3) lies on the bottom element (2), and the side walls (8) are folded between the cover element (3) and the bottom element (2). The invention also relates to a rear load carrier (36) for mounting on a vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a luggage compartment, and more particularly to a luggage compartment that can be releasably connected to a rear load carrier to be mounted on a vehicle. Furthermore, this invention relates to a rear load carrier having such a luggage compartment. Background Technology

[0002] Load carriers, used to be secured to the rear of a vehicle (especially a motor vehicle such as a car), are typically used to transport loads that are not suitable for the vehicle's trunk. Generally, such load carriers include a connecting device in their front end area, which is usually designed to allow the load carrier to be secured to a ball on a conventional trailer hitch.

[0003] These load carriers can carry luggage compartments, allowing the transport of additional luggage exceeding the vehicle's trunk capacity. These compartments are typically characterized by being enclosed, thus limiting the internal luggage receiving space and protecting the transported luggage from dust and water. The fact that luggage compartments can be releasably or releasably attached to rear load carriers has proven its merits in principle. However, it is sometimes argued that luggage compartments require a large amount of space when not in use, which is disadvantageous, especially when the luggage compartments need to be transported or stored for extended periods. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to provide an optional suitcase that is easy to transport and store when not in use.

[0005] This objective is achieved by a suitcase comprising a rigid bottom element, a rigid lid element, and fabric sidewalls, wherein the suitcase is foldable between a use configuration and a transport configuration, wherein in the use configuration the bottom element and lid element are spaced apart from each other, and the sidewalls connect the bottom element and lid element to form a luggage receiving space inside, and in the transport configuration the lid element is located on the bottom element, and the sidewalls are folded between the lid element and the bottom element.

[0006] This invention is based on the consideration of providing a foldable suitcase that can be in a transport configuration, enabling space-saving transport or storage, and in a use configuration, forming an internal luggage receiving space. Therefore, the sidewalls, made of fabric, are deformable so that when the suitcase is in the transport configuration, it can fold between the lid element and the bottom element. When the suitcase is in its use configuration, the sidewalls can be releasably connected to the bottom element and the lid element via zippers, Velcro, or other suitable mechanisms. In particular, the sidewalls are connected to the bottom element and the lid element over the entire circumference. Preferably, the sidewalls are designed to surround the luggage receiving space.

[0007] According to a preferred embodiment, the bottom element is made of plastic and / or includes a base plate and an upward-facing circumferential boundary. Similarly, the cover element can be made of plastic and / or includes a cover plate and a downward-facing circumferential boundary. Plastic is a suitable material for making rigid bottom or cover elements because it is relatively shape-stable and allows for lightweight designs. The base plate or cover plate and the circumferential boundary result in high mechanical stability for the bottom and / or cover elements. Preferably, the bottom and / or cover elements have a substantially rectangular shape in a top view.

[0008] According to a preferred embodiment, the suitcase may include two support yokes fixed to opposite portions of a bottom element, the support yokes being rotatable about a pivot axis between a supported position and a lowered position. In the supported position, the support yokes extend vertically from the bottom element to support a cover element in a use configuration; in the lowered position, the support yokes lie on the bottom element to convert the cover element into a transport configuration. Thus, the mechanical stability of the suitcase in its use configuration is achieved by the two support yokes, which may be made of a curved profile rotatable about a preferably horizontal pivot axis between the supported and lowered positions. The yokes may have a U-shape, with the free ends of the yokes pivotally connected to the bottom element. Furthermore, the support yokes can be used to stabilize and stretch sidewalls made of deformable fabric. Preferably, the pivot axes of the support yokes are arranged on opposite sides of the suitcase, particularly on opposite sides of the longer edge ends of a rectangle.

[0009] To hold the support yoke in the supported position, at least one, and particularly two, beam devices can be provided, with the support yokes interconnected by the beam devices when both support yokes are in the supported position. Preferably, the beam devices extend substantially horizontally when the support yokes are in their supported positions. Specifically, the beam devices may be connected to the support yokes at the upper part, i.e., spaced apart from the bottom element. In this way, stability of the device can be achieved when the yokes are in their supported positions.

[0010] Preferably, at least one, and especially exactly one, beam assembly comprises two end beam elements, each fixed to a support yoke; and a central beam element, which, when the support yoke is in its supported position, is releasably connected to the end beam elements by means of a locking mechanism. This design is based on the consideration of providing two end beam elements, which are preferably permanently held on top of the two support yokes. A locking mechanism is provided by which the central beam element can be releasably connected to the two end beam elements to fix the support yoke relative to each other.

[0011] To secure the end beam element to the support yoke, the end beam element may include a groove whose shape is complementary to the cross-section of the support yoke and / or be screwable onto the support yoke. The groove is formed to allow the end beam element to accommodate the support yoke.

[0012] Each locking mechanism may include an engaging protrusion formed at an end beam element or a central beam element, which engages behind a corresponding engaging groove formed in the other of the two elements (i.e., the end beam element or the central beam element). Preferably, when viewed from above, the engaging protrusion is L-shaped. Preferably, when the central beam element is connected to the end beam element, a first L-shaped leg extends longitudinally along the respective beam assembly, and a second L-shaped leg extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction so that it can engage behind the corresponding engaging groove. Thus, when viewed from above, the engaging groove also has an L-shape. In this way, movement of the support yoke relative to the bottom element about its pivot can be safely prevented when the engaging protrusion engages in the engaging groove.

[0013] Specifically, an engaging protrusion can be formed in the central beam element, and a corresponding engaging groove can be formed in the end beam element. The locking mechanism may include a sliding element located on the end beam element or the central beam element (preferably the central beam element) and movably supported between a locked position and a released position. In the locked position, the sliding element engages with the other two elements (preferably the end beam elements) to lock the central beam element onto the end beam elements. In the released position, the sliding element does not engage with the other of the two elements (preferably the end beam element), thus disengaging the central beam element from the end beam elements. In other words, the sliding element serves to create further engagement of the central beam element at the end beam elements. In the locked position, the sliding element engages such that the central beam element cannot be released from the end beam elements. Preferably, the sliding element is translatably movable in the direction of the first L-shaped leg of the engaging protrusion, particularly in the longitudinal direction of the beam assembly. The sliding element is movably clamped at the central beam element and can engage with a corresponding engagement depth formed in the end beam element. In this way, the central beam element can be fixed relative to the end beam element, first by engaging the protrusions, especially the first L-shaped leg, and then by the sliding element.

[0014] To move the sliding element to its release position, a release button is provided. Specifically, the release button can be vertically supported in an end beam element or a central beam element, preferably in the central beam element, and can engage with the sliding element to convert vertical movement of the release button into horizontal movement of the sliding element. Preferably, the release button protrudes upward from the central beam element. This allows the release button to be contacted from above, thereby converting downward movement of the release button into horizontal movement of the sliding element in its release position. For this purpose, the release button may have a sliding bolt that engages with a corresponding sliding groove formed in the sliding element, wherein the sliding groove extends obliquely relative to the horizontal and vertical directions, so that vertical movement of the release button is converted into horizontal movement of the sliding element. A spring device can be provided to deflect the release button to a position corresponding to the locking position of the sliding element.

[0015] The two beam assemblies positioned on opposite sides of the support yoke do not need to have identical designs. Furthermore, the luggage compartment is characterized by at least one, and particularly only one, beam assembly comprising an elongated beam with snap-fit ​​connectors at both ends, through which the elongated beam can be directly connected to the two support yokes. Therefore, it is not intended that the end beam elements be permanently retained on the support yokes, but at least the beam assembly can be designed so that the ends of the elongated beam are releasably connected to the support yokes. To separate the beam assembly from the support yokes, a release mechanism, particularly a release lever, can be provided when the support yokes should be placed in a lowered position. The release lever can be biased to a position where it engages around the support yokes to achieve a form-fit connection between the elongated beam and the corresponding support yokes.

[0016] Preferably, the luggage compartment comprises two beam assemblies in total, a rear beam assembly including two end beam elements and a central crossbeam element fixed to each support yoke, and a front beam assembly including an elongated crossbeam releasable directly to the support yoke. The idea is based on the fact that one beam assembly (especially the elongated crossbeam) can carry the cover element, while the other beam assembly, including the central beam element, can be fixed to a sidewall made of fabric, and a zipper can be provided at the transition between the central beam element and the end beam elements for further access to the luggage receiving space.

[0017] Specifically, a beam assembly, particularly a slender beam of a front beam assembly, may have at least one hinge joint, especially multiple hinge joints connected to a cover element, such that the cover element is pivotally supported to a beam assembly and can pivot relative to the beam assembly between an open state and a closed state. In the open state, the luggage receiving space can be accessed from the top, and in the closed state, the luggage receiving space is completely closed from the top. Therefore, in the configuration of use, the cover element can rotate about the hinge joints fixedly connected to a beam assembly.

[0018] To prevent the cover element from closing, blocking devices can be provided. These may include a blocking hook formed at the cover element and a corresponding engaging device to lock the cover element in the closed state. A corresponding engaging device may be provided at a beam assembly, particularly at the central beam element of the beam assembly. Additionally, a lock cylinder may be provided to protect transported baggage from theft.

[0019] The fabric sidewalls can be secured to the crossbeam assembly and may include zipper fasteners for access to the interior of the suitcase in the use configuration.

[0020] A further feature of the suitcase is the inclusion of a fastening mechanism that secures the lid element to the bottom element when the suitcase is folded in its transport configuration. Specifically, two fastening mechanisms are provided on opposite sides of the suitcase. Each mechanism includes a fastening rod rotatably mounted on the lid or bottom element about a horizontally extending axis of rotation, and a fastening element rotatably mounted on the fastening rod. The axis of rotation of the fastening element relative to the fastening rod is spaced apart from the axis of rotation of the fastening rod relative to the bottom or lid element. The fastening element is capable of engaging a corresponding blocking hook or a specific circumferential protrusion formed in another of the lid or bottom elements. This allows the fastening element to engage behind the blocking hook to secure the lid element to the bottom element of the suitcase in the transport configuration. This securely fastens the lid element to the bottom element, facilitating the transport or storage of the suitcase without the risk of the lid element shifting relative to the bottom element. For ease of transport, wheels can be provided at the bottom element to allow the suitcase to roll on the ground. Preferably, a circumferential protrusion is formed at the cover element and / or bottom element such that it surrounds the top / bottom portion of the sidewall from the outside of the sidewall.

[0021] To releasably attach the luggage compartment to the rear load carrier, the luggage compartment may include attachment devices. These attachment devices may include at least two, particularly four through-openings formed in the bottom element. The through-openings are configured to position the luggage compartment above the rear load carrier, such that the through-openings are positioned above corresponding recesses formed in the rear load carrier, particularly in laterally extending profile guides of the rear load carrier. This allows clamping devices to be inserted and engaged with the corresponding recesses in the rear load carrier to support the bottom element of the luggage compartment on the rear load carrier. Furthermore, a depth may be provided on the bottom of the luggage compartment near each through-opening, the depth receiving clamping rods of the clamping devices to further support the bottom element on the rear load carrier.

[0022] Such clamping devices may include a clamping rod, a pivot joint (rotatably supported at the end of the clamping rod about an axis of rotation), an elongated clamping pin (fixed to the pivot joint and extending perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the pivot joint), and a slotted nut (rotatably fixed to the free end of the clamping pin). The slotted nut has a generally rectangular shape, and when the longer edge of the rectangle faces the warp direction, the slotted nut can be inserted into a T-slot of the rear load carrier. It can also engage behind the slot by rotating about the longitudinal axis of the clamping pin, so that the longer edge extends perpendicular to the warp direction, thus supporting the suitcase onto the rear load carrier. Because the slotted nut is rectangular, it can be inserted into the T-slot when the load receiving device is already placed on the load carrier. Therefore, when the orientation of the slotted nut causes the smaller edge to extend perpendicular to the warp direction, it can be inserted into the narrow upper slot section. Once the slotted nut reaches the wide bottom slot section, it can be rotated to engage behind the upper slot section. In this way, the clamping device can be used to support the suitcase onto the rear load carrier.

[0023] Preferably, the clamping rod is movable relative to the pivot joint between an insertion position and a clamping position, wherein in the insertion position the clamping pin extends at least substantially in the same direction as the clamping rod, and in the clamping position the clamping pin extends at least substantially perpendicular to the direction of the clamping rod. For this purpose, the clamping rod may include a through groove at the end of the pivot joint that separates the clamping rod so that the elongated clamping pin can rotate freely about the axis of rotation of the pivot joint relative to the clamping rod.

[0024] To secure the suitcase to the profile guide rail, the clamping bar may include a clamping face extending parallel to and spaced from the pivot joint, so that when the clamping bar moves from its insertion position to the clamping position and the clamping face contacts the support surface of the corresponding suitcase to be attached, the profile guide rail of the suitcase and rear load carrier is pressed between the slotted nut and the clamping face. In other words, the contact surface of the clamping bar is spaced from the pivot joint so that the profile guide rail and the load receiving device are clamped between the contact surface of the slotted nut and the clamping bar. Therefore, the distance between the T-slot and the clamping face formed in the bottom element of the suitcase is selected so that these elements can be pressed between the slotted nut and the clamping face of the clamping bar. When the clamping bar is in its clamping position and the clamping face contacts the support surface, a guide protrusion may be formed in the support surface to prevent unintentional rotation of the clamping device.

[0025] An elongated molded part can be formed in the bottom element, extending parallel to each other, so as to engage with a corresponding profile guide rail of the rear load carrier with a concave outer contour. In this way, the suitcase can be uniquely placed on the rear load carrier.

[0026] The luggage compartment may include a clamping device designed to connect to the yoke of the rear load carrier. Preferably, the clamping device is designed to ensure that the luggage compartment can be positioned on the rear load carrier from the top, such that the clamping device surrounds the yoke from the top, thereby clamping the luggage compartment onto the yoke in the longitudinal and / or lateral directions. This design is based on considerations of providing additional stability for the luggage compartment's fixation at the rear load carrier. Specifically, the clamping device may include two clamping elements that are clamped within the luggage compartment, particularly onto the front beam, and preferably fixed to the front beam.

[0027] The clamping element may have a clamping groove formed to receive a portion of the rear load carrier yoke. In other words, the yoke, which provides the bicycle carrier, can engage with the clamping groove. The clamping groove is formed to accommodate the horizontal top of the yoke and the adjacent vertical portion. Therefore, the yoke may have a U-shape so that the yoke can engage with the clamping groove in the transition area between the central portion and the U-shaped leg. For this purpose, the clamping groove may open towards the bottom and inward toward another clamping element. Preferably, the clamping elements are arranged symmetrically with each other so that the clamping groove can engage with the yoke from the outside and top, thereby the clamping element surrounds the yoke from the top and guides the luggage compartment laterally relative to the yoke to secure the luggage compartment in the longitudinal and transverse directions of the yoke.

[0028] The present invention also aims to solve the problem of a rear load carrier for installation on a vehicle, the rear load carrier having a base body that defines the longitudinal and lateral directions between its front and rear sides, a connecting device for connecting a vehicle side trailer coupling on the front side of the base, and a fixing device designed to allow a luggage compartment to be releasably attached to the rear load carrier, and the luggage compartment can be attached to the rear load carrier. Attached Figure Description

[0029] Regarding embodiments of the present invention, reference can also be made to the claims and the following description of the embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings are shown below:

[0030] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a suitcase according to the present invention;

[0031] Figure 2 Showing no sidewalls Figure 1 The suitcase and the open lid components;

[0032] Figure 3 It shows a structure with sidewalls. Figure 1 The suitcase and the open lid components;

[0033] Figure 4 It shows Figure 1 The transport configuration of the luggage in the package;

[0034] Figure 5 yes Figure 1Detailed perspective view of the supporting yoke of the luggage compartment and the adjacent front beam assembly;

[0035] Figure 6 A perspective view of part of the yoke and the corresponding rear beam assembly with a luggage lock mechanism;

[0036] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Another perspective view of the locking mechanism shown;

[0037] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 and Figure 7 Side view of the locking mechanism shown;

[0038] Figure 9 It is releasably connected to the rear load carrier. Figure 1 A perspective view of the suitcase in the picture;

[0039] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 The side view of the arrangement shown has the lid element of the suitcase in the open position;

[0040] Figure 11 yes Figure 9 and Figure 10 Detailed perspective view of the rear load carrier and luggage compartment, with the clamping lever of the clamping device in its insertion position; and

[0041] Figure 12 It shows Figure 11 The arrangement shown has the clamping rod in its clamped position. Detailed Implementation

[0042] Figures 1 to 8 A suitcase 1 according to the present invention is shown. The suitcase 1 has a rigid bottom element 2 made of plastic and a rigid lid element 3 also made of plastic. The bottom element 2 includes a bottom plate 4 and an upward circumferential boundary 5. In the same manner, the lid element 3 includes a generally rectangular lid plate 6 and a downward circumferential boundary 7. In addition, the suitcase 1 has side walls 8 made of waterproof fabric.

[0043] Suitcase 1 can be Figures 1 to 3 The usage configuration shown is as follows Figure 4 The transport configuration shown folds between the two. In the usage configuration, the bottom element 2 and the cover element 3 are spaced apart from each other, and the side wall 8 connects the bottom element 2 and the cover element 3, thereby forming a luggage receiving space inside. In the transport configuration, the cover element 3 lies on the bottom element 2, and the side wall 8, made of fabric, folds between the cover element 3 and the bottom element 2 to save transport and storage space for the suitcase 1.

[0044] For this purpose, the suitcase 1 includes two support yokes 9, which are supported on opposite end portions of the bottom element 2. The support yokes 9 can be in a support position (e.g., as...) Figure 2 The cover element 3 can be rotated about a pivot axis between the supported position and the lowered position. In the supported position, the support yoke 9 extends vertically from the bottom element 2 so as to support the cover element 3 in the use configuration. In the lowered position, the support yoke 9 lies on the bottom element 2 so that the cover element 3 lies on the bottom element 2 in the transport configuration.

[0045] To support the support yoke 9 in its supported position, two beam devices 10a and 10b are provided, which connect the two support yokes 9 to each other when they are in their supported positions. One beam device 10a is arranged on the rear side of the support yoke 9, while the other beam device 10b is arranged on the front side of the support yoke 9. The beam devices 10a and 10b are not identical. The two beam devices 10a and 10b extend substantially horizontally and connect to the support yoke 9 at the top.

[0046] The beam assembly 10a includes two end beam elements 11, each of which is fixed to a support yoke 9. Each end beam element 11 has a groove 12 whose shape is complementary to the cross-section of the support yoke 9 so that it receives a portion of the corresponding support yoke 9 and screws onto the latter.

[0047] Furthermore, the beam assembly 10a includes a central beam element 13, which is formed as an elongated beam with a generally rectangular cross-section. When the support yoke 9 is in its supported position, the central beam element 13 can be releasably connected to the end beam elements 11 fixed to the support yoke 9 via a locking mechanism 14.

[0048] Each locking mechanism 14 includes an engaging protrusion 15, which, when viewed from above, is L-shaped and formed at one end of the central beam element 13. The engaging protrusion 15 is formed such that it can engage behind a corresponding engaging groove 16 formed in the end beam element 11.

[0049] Furthermore, the locking mechanism 14 includes a sliding element 17 movably supported in the longitudinal direction of the central beam element 13, particularly in the locking body at the end of the central beam element 13, between a locked position and a released position. In the locked position, the sliding element engages with the end beam element 11 to lock the central beam element 13 at the end beam element 11; in the released position, the central beam element 13 can disengage from the end beam element 11, specifically, from the disengagement depth. A release button 18 is provided to move the sliding element 17 to its released position. The release button 18 is movably supported in the vertical direction of the central beam element 13, particularly in the locking body at the end of the central beam element 13, and cooperates with the sliding element 17 such that vertical movement of the release button 18 is converted into horizontal movement of the sliding element 17. For this purpose, the release button 18 has a sliding bolt 19 that engages with a corresponding sliding groove 20 formed in the sliding element 17. The sliding groove 20 extends obliquely with respect to both the horizontal and vertical directions, specifically at an angle of approximately 55 degrees with respect to the horizontal direction. This converts vertical movement of the release button 18 into horizontal movement of the sliding element 17. A spring device in the form of a helical compression spring 21 is provided, by which the release button is biased towards a position corresponding to the locked position of the sliding element 17.

[0050] The beam assembly 10a is characterized in that a central crossbeam element 13 is connected to a portion of a side wall 8 made of fabric. At the connection between the central beam element 13 and the end beam elements 11, a vertically extending zipper 22 is provided on the side wall portion for access to the interior of the luggage compartment, such as... Figure 3 As shown.

[0051] Another beam assembly 10b is designed in a different manner. It includes an elongated beam 23. At both ends of the elongated beam 23, there are snap-fit ​​connectors 24, through which the elongated beam 23 can be connected to two support yokes 9. Corresponding release mechanisms 25 are provided in these snap-fit ​​connectors 24, which can be actuated by pushing a release rod 26. Thus, when the support yokes 9 are to be moved to their lowered position, the support yokes 9 can disengage from the elongated beam 23.

[0052] The elongated beam 23 carries a plurality of hinged joints 27 connected to the cover element 3, so that the cover element 3 is pivotally connected to the elongated beam, and the cover element 3 can be in an open state relative to the elongated beam (e.g., Figure 3 (as shown) and off state (as shown) Figure 1 It pivots between (as shown).

[0053] To prevent the cover element 3 from entering the closed state, corresponding blocking devices are provided. These blocking devices include a blocking hook 28 formed at the cover element 3 and a corresponding engaging device 29 to prevent the cover element 3 from entering the closed state. In addition, a lock cylinder 30 is provided to prevent accidental entry into the baggage receiving space.

[0054] The suitcase 1 also includes a fastening device / equipment that secures the lid element 3 to the bottom element 2 when the suitcase is folded in its transport configuration, such as... Figure 4 As shown. Specifically, the fastening device / equipment includes two fastening devices 31, which are arranged on opposite sides of the suitcase 1. Each fastening device 31 includes a fastening rod 32, which is rotatably mounted on the bottom element 2 about a horizontally extending axis of rotation. Furthermore, the fastening device 31 includes a fastening element 33 made of bent wire, which is rotatably mounted on the fastening rod 32, wherein the axis of rotation of the fastening element 33 relative to the fastening rod 32 is spaced apart from the axis of rotation of the fastening rod 32 relative to the bottom element. The fastening element 33 is capable of engaging a corresponding hook or corresponding circumferential protrusion 34 formed in the cover element 3, such that the fastening element 33 can engage behind the circumferential protrusion 34 to secure the cover element 3 against the bottom element 2. At one end of the suitcase 1, the bottom element 2 is provided with a roller 35 so that the suitcase 1 can roll on the ground.

[0055] exist Figures 9 to 12 In this configuration, the luggage compartment is releasably attached to a rear load carrier 36. The rear load carrier 36 includes a base body 37 defining a longitudinal direction L and a lateral direction T between its front and rear sides. Specifically, the base body 37 has a C-shape opening towards the rear and includes two base profiles 38 extending along the longitudinal direction L. The base profiles 38 are interconnected at their front ends via a central portion 39 of the base body 37.

[0056] At the central portion 39, a connection device 40 for connecting to a vehicle-side trailer coupling is provided. The connection device 40 includes a lever 41 that is rotatable about a pivot axis extending in the longitudinal direction L.

[0057] The rear load carrier 36 also includes two sliding profiles 42, which are supported on the base profiles 38 and are movable relative to them in the longitudinal direction L. A yoke 43 is connected to the front end of each sliding profile 42 to support the load to be transported on the rear load carrier 1. The yoke 43 has a U-shaped opening towards the bottom and is connected to the sliding profiles 42, allowing the yoke 43 to be in a vertical position relative to the sliding profiles 42. Figure 9 The sliding profile 42 moves between a position shown in the diagram and at least a basic horizontal position (yoke 43 lying on base 37). At the rear end of the sliding profile 42, a license plate holder 44 and two taillight units 45 are mounted.

[0058] The rear load bracket 36 includes a fixing device in the form of three profile rails 46 extending laterally, which are fixed to the sliding profile 42. The three profile rails 46 are spaced equidistant from each other and have the same cross-section along their entire length. Each profile rail 46 includes a groove 47 having a T-shaped cross-section extending longitudinally or longitudinally along the profile rail 46. The T-shaped groove 47 opens upwards and is centrally located within the profile rail 46. This means that the T-shaped groove 47 includes a narrow upper groove segment 48 and a wide bottom groove segment 49, such that the bottom groove segment 49 undercuts the upper groove segment 48. Facing upwards, the profile rail 46 has the T-shaped groove 47 centrally located within a concave outer contour 50.

[0059] Two elongated members 51 are formed in the bottom element 2 of the luggage compartment, which engage with the concave outer contours 50 of the two front profile guide rails 46. The elongated members 51 extend parallel to each other, and the distance between them is the same as the distance between two adjacent profile guide rails 46. In this way, the luggage compartment 1 is located on the rear load carrier 36.

[0060] To connect the luggage compartment 1 to the rear load carrier 1, a total of four through openings 52 are formed in the bottom element 2. The through openings are arranged to be above the T-slots 47 formed in the profile guide rails. Currently, two through openings 52 are located above the T-slots 47 of the front profile guide rail 46, and the other two through openings 52 are located above the middle profile guide rail 46.

[0061] Clamping devices 53 are assigned to each through opening 52. Clamping devices 53 in... Figure 11 and Figure 12 As detailed in the diagram, it includes a clamping rod 54 and a pivot joint 55, the pivot joint being rotatably supported at the end portion of the clamping rod 54. Furthermore, the clamping device 53 includes an elongated clamping pin 56 fixed to the pivot joint 55 and extending perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the pivot joint 55. To allow movement of the elongated clamping pin 56, the clamping rod 54 includes a through groove 57 at the end of the pivot joint 55, which divides the clamping rod 54 so that the elongated clamping pin 56 can rotate freely about the pivot joint 55 relative to the axis of rotation of the clamping rod 54.

[0062] At the free end of the clamping pin 56, the slotted nut 58 is fixed by rotation. The slotted nut 58 has a basic rectangular shape. The rectangle is formed such that when the longer edge of the rectangle faces the meridian direction of the T-slot 47, the slotted nut 58 can be inserted into the T-slot 47. This is as follows: Figure 11As shown. By rotating about the longitudinal axis of the clamping pin 56, the slotted nut 58 can engage behind the slot 47, thereby allowing the longer edge to extend perpendicular to the warp direction of the profile guide. This structure is as follows. Figure 12 As shown.

[0063] To secure the bottom component 2 against the profile guide rail 46, the clamping rod 54 is movable relative to the clamping pin 56 between an insertion position and a clamping position. In the insertion position, the extending direction of the clamping pin 56 is at least approximately the same as the extending direction of the clamping rod 54 (e.g., ...). Figure 11 (as shown); in the clamped position, the clamping pin 56 extends substantially perpendicular to the direction of the clamping rod 54 (as shown). Figure 12 As shown). Figure 12 As shown, the slotted nut 58 is arranged relative to the clamping rod 54 such that when the slotted nut 58 engages behind the T-slot 47 of the profile guide rail 46, the clamping rod 54 extends along the warp direction of the profile guide rail 46.

[0064] The clamping rod 54 includes a clamping surface 59 that extends parallel to and spaced apart from the pivot joint 55, such that when the clamping rod 54 is in its clamped position and the clamping surface 59 contacts the corresponding support surface 60 of the bottom element 2, the bottom element 2 and the profile guide rail 46 are pressed between the slotted nut 58 and the clamping surface 59. Figure 12 As shown. The clamping rod 54 can be guided by an elongated guide protrusion 61 projecting upward from the support surface 60 to prevent the clamping device 53 from rotating unintentionally about the longitudinal axis of the elongated clamping pin 56. In this way, the slotted nut 58 can be prevented from unintentionally disengaging from the T-slot 47.

[0065] To further stabilize the luggage compartment 1 on the rear load carrier 36, a clamping device is provided. This clamping device is attached to the luggage compartment 1 and is designed to secure it to the yoke 43 of the rear load carrier 36. Figure 9 As shown. Specifically, the clamping device includes two clamping elements 62 and 63, which are fixed to the slender beam 23 of the front beam assembly 10b and spaced apart from each other in the lateral direction T. The clamping elements 62 and 63 are formed and arranged symmetrically with respect to the central vertical plane.

[0066] Both clamping elements 62 and 63 have clamping grooves 64 for receiving a portion of the yoke 43 of the rear load carrier 36. The clamping grooves 64 are formed to accommodate the horizontal top portion and the adjacent vertical portion of the yoke 43. Therefore, the U-shaped yoke 43 can engage with the clamping grooves 64 in the two transition areas between the central portion and the U-shaped legs. In this way, the clamping grooves 64 engage with the yoke 43 from both sides and the top, so that the luggage compartment 1 is securely fixed in the longitudinal direction L and the lateral direction T.

[0067] List of reference numerals

[0068] 1. Suitcase

[0069] 2 Bottom Components

[0070] 3. Cover element

[0071] 4. Base plate

[0072] 5. Boundaries

[0073] 6. Cover plate

[0074] 7 Boundaries

[0075] 8. Sidewalls

[0076] 9. Support yoke

[0077] 10a Beam Assembly

[0078] 10b Beam Assembly

[0079] 11 End Beam Components

[0080] 12 grooves

[0081] 13 Central beam element

[0082] 14 Locking mechanism

[0083] 15. Engaging protrusions

[0084] 16 Engaging Grooves

[0085] 17 Sliding element

[0086] 18 Release button

[0087] 19 Sliding Bolt

[0088] 20 Sliding groove

[0089] 21 Helical Compression Spring

[0090] 22 Zippers

[0091] 23 Slender beams

[0092] 24. Snap-fit ​​connectors

[0093] 25. Release mechanism

[0094] 26 Release lever

[0095] 27. Hinge Joint

[0096] 28. Blocking hook

[0097] 29. Engaging device

[0098] 30 Lock Cylinder

[0099] 31 Fastening device

[0100] 32 Fastening rod

[0101] 33 Fastening elements

[0102] 34 Circumferential protrusions

[0103] 35 rollers

[0104] 36 Rear Load Bracket

[0105] 37. Base body

[0106] 38 Base Profile

[0107] 39. Central Section

[0108] 40 Connecting device

[0109] 41 Joystick

[0110] 42 Sliding profile

[0111] 43. Yoke

[0112] 44 License Plate Holders

[0113] 45 Taillight assembly

[0114] 46 profile guide rail

[0115] 47 T-groove

[0116] 48 Upper tank section

[0117] 49 Bottom groove section

[0118] 50 Concave outer contour

[0119] 51 Slender Formed Parts

[0120] 52 Through opening

[0121] 53 Clamping device

[0122] 54 Clamping rod

[0123] 55 Pivot Joint

[0124] 56 Slender Clamping Pins

[0125] 57 Through-slot

[0126] 58 slotted nut

[0127] 59 Clamping surface

[0128] 60 Support surface

[0129] 61 Guide protrusion

[0130] 62 Clamping elements

[0131] 63 Clamping elements

[0132] 64 Clamping Grooves

[0133] L (vertical direction)

[0134] T Lateral direction

Claims

1. A suitcase (1), said suitcase (1) comprising: Rigid bottom element (2). Rigid cover element (3), and Sidewalls made of fabric (8) The suitcase (1) can be folded between a use configuration and a transport configuration. In the use configuration, the bottom element (2) and the cover element (3) are separated from each other, and the side wall (8) connects the bottom element (2) and the cover element (3) to form an internal luggage receiving space. In the transport configuration, the cover element (3) lies on the bottom element (2), and the side wall (8) is folded between the cover element (3) and the bottom element (2). The suitcase (1) includes two support yokes (9) supported on opposite portions of a bottom element (2), the support yokes (9) being rotatable about a pivot axis between a supported position and a lowered position. In the supported position, the support yokes (9) extend vertically from the bottom element (2) such that, in the use configuration, the support yokes (9) support a cover element (3); in the lowered position, the support yokes (9) lie on the bottom element (2) such that, in the transport configuration, the cover element (3) can lie on the bottom element (2). At least one beam assembly (10a, 10b) is provided, through which the two support yokes (9) are connected to each other when the two support yokes (9) are in their supported positions. A beam assembly (10b) carries at least one hinge joint (27) connected to a cover element (3) such that the cover element (3) is pivotally fixed to a beam assembly (10b) and is pivotable relative to the beam assembly (10b) between an open state and a closed state, in which the baggage receiving space can be accessed from the top and in the closed state the baggage receiving space is completely closed.

2. The luggage case (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that The bottom element (2) is made of plastic and / or includes a base plate (4) and an upward-facing circumferential boundary, and / or the cover element (3) is made of plastic and / or includes a cover plate (6) and a downward-facing circumferential boundary, and / or in a top view, the bottom element (2) and / or the cover element (3) have a basic rectangular shape.

3. The suitcase (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one beam assembly (10a) includes two end beam elements (11) and a central beam element (13), each end beam element being fixed to a support yoke (9), and the central beam element (13) being releasably connected to the end beam elements (11) via a locking mechanism (14) when the support yoke (9) is in its supported position.

4. The suitcase (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, Each locking mechanism (14) includes an engaging protrusion (15) formed at the end beam element (11) or the central beam element (13), the engaging protrusion being formed such that it can engage behind a corresponding engaging groove (16) formed in the other of the two elements.

5. The suitcase (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that, When viewed from above, the engagement protrusion (15) is formed in an L-shape, and / or the engagement protrusion (15) is formed in the central beam element (13), and the corresponding engagement groove (16) is formed in the end beam element (11).

6. The suitcase (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that, At least one beam assembly (10b) includes an elongated beam (23) having connecting devices at both ends thereto, through which the elongated beam (23) can be connected to two support yokes (9).

7. The suitcase (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The sidewalls (8) made of fabric are fixed to the beam assembly and / or include zippers for access to the interior of the suitcase (1) in the use configuration.

8. The suitcase (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, A fastening device is provided so that when the suitcase (1) is in its transport configuration, the cover element (3) can be fastened to the bottom element (2).

9. The suitcase (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least two through openings (52) are provided in the bottom element (2), the through openings being configured such that the luggage compartment (1) can be positioned above the rear load bracket (36) to be mounted on the vehicle, such that the through openings (52) are located above the T-slots (47) formed in the profile guide rails (46) of the rear load bracket (36), such that the clamping device (53) can be inserted into and engage the T-slots (47) of the rear load bracket (36), thereby securing the bottom element (2) of the luggage compartment (1) against the profile guide rails (46) of the rear load bracket (36).

10. The suitcase (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The luggage compartment (1) includes a clamping device designed to be connected to the yoke (43) of the rear load carrier (36) to be mounted on the vehicle.

11. A rear load bracket (36) for mounting to a vehicle, comprising: The base body (37) defines the longitudinal (L) and lateral directions between its front and rear sides. Connecting device (40), which is used to connect to a vehicle-side trailer coupling disposed on the front side of the base body (37), and The securing device is designed to allow the suitcase (1) to be connected to the rear load carrier (36), and The luggage (1) according to any one of claims 1-10 is connected to the rear load carrier (36).

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