Adjustable luggage case

Abstract

The luggage case (100) includes a base portion (120) including an extendable drag handle (180) and a soft face portion (130) coupled to the base portion (200) and together defining an interior volume (160) of the luggage case (100). The soft face portion (130) includes two or more straps (138, 140, 142) positioned on a rear side (110) of the soft face portion (130) in a spaced-apart configuration, and the soft face portion (130) is configured to transition between a rolled-up configuration (202, 208, 210, 212, 214, 220) and a deployed configuration (200) to change an interior volume (160) of the luggage case (100). At least one of the two or more straps (138, 140, 142) selectively engages the extendable drag handle (180) when the extendable drag handle (180) extends to couple the soft face (130) to the extendable drag handle (180) to selectively support the soft face (130).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to an adjustable luggage case configured to adjust size and / or height. The present invention particularly relates to a roll-top luggage case having a soft face and a rigid or semi-rigid base bottom. Background Art

[0002] Existing luggage cases are generally hard-faced or soft-faced or a combination of both. While hard-faced luggage cases provide enhanced protection for the bag, they limit or do not allow for changing the storage capacity of the internal volume. Thus, even when not filled to its full capacity, hard-faced bags take up a large amount of space. Additionally, hard-faced bags can allow contents to move within the container when not filled to its full capacity. In contrast, soft-faced bags can provide less protection and are generally difficult to move. For example, soft-faced bags must often be carried. Some soft-faced bags can include wheels, partial frames, or handle assemblies to make the soft-faced bags easier to move, but can also allow contents to move within the container when not filled to its full capacity.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for a luggage case that can change either or both the internal size capacity and the external size of the bag. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one example of the present disclosure, a luggage case is disclosed. The luggage case includes a base bottom and a soft face, the base bottom including an extendable towing handle, and the soft face being coupled to the base bottom and together defining the internal volume of the luggage case. The soft face includes two or more straps positioned in a spaced-apart configuration on a rear side of the soft face, and the soft face is configured to transition between a rolled-up configuration and an unfolded configuration, thereby changing the internal volume of the luggage case. When the extendable towing handle is extended to couple the soft face to the extendable towing handle to selectively support the soft face, at least one of the two or more straps selectively engages the extendable towing handle.

[0005] In some examples, the luggage case includes a roll-top having an opening for selectively accessing the internal volume of the luggage case, and in the unfolded configuration, the roll-top opening provides access to the internal volume.

[0006] In some examples, wherein in the unfolded configuration, the opening defined by the roll-top is positioned at a top of the soft face.

[0007] In some examples, the luggage case includes a closure assembly extending from the base bottom to the soft face, and in the rolled-up configuration and the unfolded configuration, the internal volume is selectively accessible through the closure assembly.

[0008] In some examples, the luggage includes two or more rolled engagement features positioned near the rolled top opening to selectively close the rolled top opening in the rolled configuration.

[0009] In some examples, the luggage includes two or more loop features extending from a side of the soft face to the base bottom and engageable with the rolled engagement features.

[0010] In some examples, the two or more rolled engagement features are coupled to the loop features to hold the luggage in the rolled configuration.

[0011] In some examples, the two or more loop features define a plurality of pairs of holes, and the two or more rolled engagement features are coupled to the pairs of holes to hold the luggage in the rolled configuration.

[0012] In some examples, the two or more rolled engagement features are coupled together to define a lifting or carrying handle.

[0013] In some examples, the strap defines a second lifting or carrying handle.

[0014] In some examples, the luggage is configurable into one or more rolled configurations, each of the one or more rolled configurations changing the capacity of the interior volume.

[0015] In some examples, each of the one or more rolled configurations defines one or more storage capacities corresponding to one or more cargo sizes, checked sizes, carry-on sizes, under-seat sizes, or flat-pack sizes.

[0016] In some examples, the base bottom further includes a bottom and a rear base bottom extending from the bottom.

[0017] In some examples, the bottom and the rear base bottom are joined at a junction, and the base bottom is foldable about the junction.

[0018] In some examples, the base bottom includes a second strap extending from one of the bottom or the rear base bottom and coupled to the other of the bottom and the rear base bottom, and the second strap holds the luggage in the folded configuration.

[0019] In some examples, the luggage includes two or more wheel assemblies coupled to the base bottom.

[0020] In some examples, the two or more wheel assemblies include a first portion coupled to the bottom and a second portion coupled to the rear base bottom, and the two or more wheel assemblies are foldable about the junction.

[0021] In some examples, either or both of the bottom or the rear base bottom are rigid or semi-rigid.

[0022] In some examples, the base bottom includes a rigid or semi-rigid material.

[0023] In some examples, the front panel is defined by the soft face, and the closure assembly extends from the rolled top to near the base bottom around the perimeter of the front panel.

[0024] In some examples, the closure assembly is U-shaped and extends along the corresponding long sides of the luggage and between the long sides at or near the bottom of the luggage.

[0025] In some examples, the closure assembly is U-shaped and includes a base extending across a portion of the width of the luggage, and the base of the U-shaped closure assembly is positioned at or near the base bottom of the luggage. In some examples, the base extends across a portion of the width of the front panel of the luggage.

[0026] In some examples, the closure assembly is a zipper.

[0027] In some examples, the front panel includes a front pocket.

[0028] In some examples, at least a portion of the luggage is waterproof.

[0029] In some examples, the base bottom further includes a drag handle pocket, and the extendable drag handle is received in the drag handle pocket.

[0030] In some examples, when at least two of the two or more straps are engaged with the extendable drag handle, at least a first capacity of the internal volume is defined.

[0031] In some examples, when one of the two or more straps is engaged with the extendable drag handle, at least a second capacity of the internal volume is defined.

[0032] In some examples, the first capacity is greater than the second capacity.

[0033] In some examples, when none of the at least two or more straps is selectively engaged with the extendable drag handle, at least a third capacity of the internal volume is defined.

[0034] In some examples, the third capacity is less than the first capacity and the second support capacity.

[0035] In one example, a luggage case is disclosed. The luggage case includes a base portion and a soft face that is coupled to the base portion and together defines an interior volume of the luggage case, wherein the soft face is configured to transition between a rolled-up configuration and an unfolded configuration to change the interior volume of the luggage case. The soft face includes a front panel, and the front panel includes a closure assembly that extends from the base portion to the soft face around a portion of the front panel. The interior volume is selectively accessible through the closure assembly in the rolled-up configuration and the unfolded configuration.

[0036] In some examples, the soft face further includes two or more straps positioned on a rear side of the soft face in a spaced-apart configuration.

[0037] In some examples, the luggage case includes an extendable towing handle coupled to the base portion.

[0038] In some examples, when the extendable towing handle and the soft face are extended to couple the soft face to the extendable towing handle, the two or more straps selectively engage the extendable towing handle. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1A A right front perspective view of an example luggage case including a soft face and a base portion is shown.

[0040] Figure 1B A left rear perspective view of an example luggage case in a second rolled-up configuration is shown.

[0041] Figure 2 A top perspective view of an example luggage case in an unfolded or open configuration is shown.

[0042] Figure 3 A perspective view of an example luggage case in an open configuration with a U-shaped closure assembly is shown.

[0043] Figure 4A A front view of an example luggage case in an example unfolded configuration is shown.

[0044] Figure 4B A front view of an example luggage case in a first rolled-up configuration is shown.

[0045] Figure 4C A front view of an example luggage case in a second rolled-up configuration is shown.

[0046] Figure 4D A front view of an example luggage case in a third rolled-up configuration is shown.

[0047] Figure 4E Shows a front view of an exemplary suitcase in a fourth rolled-up configuration.

[0048] Figure 4F Shows a front view of an exemplary suitcase in a compact configuration within a bag.

[0049] Figure 5A Shows Figure 4A a rear view of an exemplary suitcase of

[0050] Figure 5B Shows Figure 4D a rear view of an exemplary suitcase of

[0051] Figure 5C Shows Figure 4E a rear view of an exemplary suitcase of

[0052] Figure 6A Shows Figure 4F a perspective view of an exemplary compact configuration of a suitcase of

[0053] Figure 6B Shows Figure 6A an enlarged view of the wheel assembly shown in DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] This application discloses a suitcase including a soft face and a base. The base can be a rigid or semi-rigid part. The suitcase can be converted between two or more configurations to selectively change the size or capacity of the internal volume defined by the soft face and the base. The two or more configurations can also selectively change the external size or height of the suitcase. Thus, a suitcase that can be selectively arranged for various volumes is disclosed.

[0055] The base is positioned at the bottom of the suitcase or defines the bottom of the suitcase. One or more wheel assemblies or support structures configured to engage the ground are attached to or extend from the bottom of the suitcase. The base also includes a rear base extending from the bottom. The rear base can be positioned on the rear of the suitcase. The base can be at least partially rigid or semi-rigid. The base can define the frame or support structure of the suitcase. The suitcase can also include an extendable towing handle. The extendable towing handle can include at least one lower tube that can be retracted into or extended from a handle support structure in the base.

[0056] The soft face is made of a flexible material. The soft face extends from and is connected to the base, and can define some or all of the front panel and the rear panel of the luggage. The soft face includes a rolled-up top. The rolled-up top is positioned opposite to the base and defines an opening that is selectively closed or opened by rolling up or unrolling the rolled-up top between a rolled-up configuration and an unrolled configuration, respectively. The rolled-up top may also include one or more engaging features to selectively fix the rolled-up top in the rolled-up configuration. Each rolled-up configuration can change the internal volume capacity or the external dimensions of the luggage. That is, by rolling up and unrolling the rolled-up top, the internal storage volume is reduced (by rolling up) or increased (by unrolling). The engaging features can be coupled to each other or to receiving features positioned along a part of the luggage to fix the rolled-up top in one or more rolled-up configurations. One or more straps, preferably at least two straps, are connected to or defined by the soft face. The straps are positioned on the rear side of the soft face in a configuration spaced apart from each other and from the rear panel of the luggage.

[0057] The towing handle can be selectively engaged with the soft face to provide structure or rigidity to the soft face. For example, the towing handle can be engaged with or received by the straps. In one example, the lower tube of the extendable towing handle can be received in and / or pass through the space defined between the respective strap and the rear panel of the luggage to provide support to and help define the upper portion in the unrolled configuration. In some examples, two or more straps can each be selectively engaged with the towing handle to help define a plurality of rolled-up configurations, each rolled-up configuration defining a different capacity of the internal volume. That is, the towing handle can be fully extended and pass through the space defined between each strap and the rear side of the soft face, causing the soft face to be partially or fully stretched.

[0058] In some examples, a U-shaped zipper can extend along or around the perimeter of the front panel of the luggage. The base of the U-shape is positioned at or near the bottom of the luggage. The U-shaped zipper allows access to the internal volume of the luggage regardless of whether the rolled-up top is in the unrolled configuration or the rolled-up configuration.

[0059] In some examples, the bottom of the luggage can include a collapsible wheel assembly. The collapsible wheel assembly can allow rotation or folding between two or more configurations of the luggage. For example, the wheel assembly can be folded with the luggage into a more compact or smaller rolled-up configuration for transportation or storage.

[0060] During use, the soft face can be converted between a deployed configuration and a rolled-up configuration to selectively change the internal or external dimensions of the luggage. In some examples, the bottom can be collapsible, and the luggage can be arranged in a compact configuration for transportation, storage, or placement inside a second piece of luggage. The configurations of various sizes can correspond to the luggage sizes of public transportation services or operators (e.g., bus companies, airlines, or train companies). For example, in the context of an airline, the luggage can be configured in various sizes corresponding to oversized luggage, checked bags, carry-on bags, handbags, or under-seat bags or bags for placement inside a second piece of luggage.

[0061] Turning to the drawings, Figure 1A A front perspective view of an example luggage 100 is shown. Figure 1B A rear perspective view of the example luggage 100 is shown. The luggage 100 can alternatively be referred to as a luggage item, a bag, a trolley, etc. The luggage 100 can be a rolled-up luggage. The luggage 100 includes a front side 104, a rear side 106 opposite to the front side 104, and a left side 108 and an opposite right side 110 located between the front side 104 and the rear side 106. The luggage 100 further includes a top side 112 and an opposite bottom side 114. The luggage 100 can have a height dimension H, a width dimension W, and a depth dimension D.

[0062] The luggage 100 includes a soft face 130 and a base 120. The soft face 130 and the base 120 together define an internal volume 160 of the luggage 100 for carrying or storing items. As Figure 2 or Figure 3 shown, the internal volume 160 can be accessed from the top side 112 by rolling up the top 132 or from the front side 104 via a closure assembly zipper 230 and is discussed further below.

[0063] It can be understood from the drawings that due to rolling up or deploying the luggage 100, the luggage 100 has one or more rolled-up configurations. For example, in Figure 1A , the luggage 100 is in a rolled-up configuration 202. In Figure 1B , the luggage 100 is in a second rolled-up configuration 202 with a more compact configuration or a reduced internal volume 160. Figures 4A - 4E Additional configurations are shown and discussed further below. The luggage 100 converts between the deployed configuration 200 shown in Figure 2 , Figure 4A and Figure 5A and one or more rolled-up configurations 202 to selectively access the internal volume 160 defined by the soft face 130 and the base 120.

[0064] The base portion 120 can be defined as positioned along a portion of the rear side 106 and / or the bottom 114 of the luggage 100 or along a portion of the rear side 106 and / or the bottom 114 of the luggage 100. For example, the base portion 120 can include a bottom 124 that defines the bottom side 114 of the luggage 100 or is positioned at the bottom side 114 of the luggage 100. The base portion 120 can include a rear base portion 122 that extends upward from the bottom 124 or extends substantially orthogonally or perpendicularly relative to the bottom 124. The rear base portion 122 is positioned along the rear side 106 of the luggage 100. In one example, the rear base portion 122 defines a portion of the rear side 106 of the luggage 100. The rear base portion 122 and the bottom 124 are hingedly connected at a junction 126, making the base portion 120 foldable. For example, the rear base portion 122 and the bottom 124 can be foldably rotated about the junction 126. In some examples, the base portion 120 can be at least partially flexible at the junction 126.

[0065] The base portion 120 can be a rigid or semi-rigid part of the luggage 100. For example, the base portion 120 can include molded plastic or aluminum features. The rear base portion 122 and the bottom 124 can be formed by one or more components or panels or frames. For example, the rear base portion 122 and / or the bottom base portion 124 can be integrally molded or defined by two or more joined panels.

[0066] The soft face 130 can be coupled to, formed integrally with, or extend from the base portion 120. The soft face 130 can be a flexible or semi-flexible part of the luggage 100. The soft face 130 can define or be located at the top 112 of the luggage 100 and can also be referred to as the upper portion 130. The soft face 130 includes a roll-up closure or roll-up top 132. For example, in the deployed configuration 202, the roll-up top 132 can be a fabric or other flexible part that extends around the top 112 of the luggage 100. As Figure 2 shown, the roll-up top 132 defines a roll-up top opening 134 to provide access to the interior volume of the luggage 100. The roll-up top 132 is a flexible feature to fold or flip itself to close or open the opening 134. This configuration can provide a waterproof seal or closure for the interior volume 160. In some examples, the entire soft face 130 can be flexible or rollable to assist in closing the opening 134. In some examples, the roll-up top 132 optionally includes a secondary closure mechanism 136 to selectively close the roll-up top opening 134. The secondary closure mechanism 136 can be a zipper, a hook-and-loop fastener, a snap feature, etc. The secondary closure mechanism 136 can be positioned at or near the opening 134. For example, the secondary closure mechanism 136 can extend around a portion or the entire perimeter of the opening 134.

[0067] When the top 132 is rolled up, the material from the rear side 106 of the luggage case 100 may be converted to the top side 112. Thus, the material or feature described as being located at the rear side 106 in one configuration may become the top side 112, and similarly, the feature at the top side 112 may be converted to the front side 104, or be folded or wrapped into the rolled-up top 132.

[0068] In some examples, the soft face 130 includes a front panel 116. The front panel 116 may be positioned at the front side 104 of the luggage case 100 or extend over the front side 104 of the luggage case 100. The front panel 116 may extend from the rolled-up top 132 to the base 120. The soft face 130 may optionally include a front panel pocket 152. The front panel pocket 152 may be positioned on the front panel 116 or defined by the front panel 116. The front panel pocket 152 may be located on the outside of the luggage case 100. In some examples, the front panel pocket 152 is optionally or additionally positioned on the inside of the luggage case 100.

[0069] The soft face 130 may be covered by, include, or be composed of a waterproof outer material. The waterproof material may also cover a portion of the base 120 or extend over a portion of the base 120. Thus, the luggage case 100 may be at least partially waterproof. By using a common material on the soft face 130 and the base 120, the luggage case 100 may have a common or unified aesthetic, which may be more visually appealing.

[0070] The luggage case 100 may include one or more straps 138 extending from or coupled to the soft face 130. The straps 138 may be positioned on the rear side 106 of the soft face 130 in a spaced-apart configuration. The straps 138 may be positioned below the rolled-up top 132. The straps 138 may include a first or top strap 140 and a bottom or second strap 142. The first strap 140 and the second strap 142 may be spaced apart from each other and from the soft face 130 of the luggage case 100. For example, the first strap 140 may be positioned above the second strap 142 or be vertically spaced apart from the second strap 142. Each strap 138 may define an opening 144 between the strap 138 and the soft face 130, where the strap is spaced apart from the soft face 130.

[0071] The luggage case includes an extendable towing handle 180 and wheel assemblies 170 to roll the luggage case 100. The luggage case 170 may include two or more wheel assemblies 170. Each wheel assembly 170 includes at least one wheel 172. The wheel assemblies 170 are positioned at the bottom side of the luggage case 100. For example, the wheel assemblies 170 may be coupled to the base 120. In one example, the wheel assemblies 170 are coupled to the bottom 124 and / or the rear base 122.

[0072] The extendable towing handle 180 can be extended from or retracted into the luggage case 100. For example, Figure 1A The towing handle 180 shown in the example extended position 184 is shown. Figure 1B The towing handle 180 shown in the partially retracted position 186 is shown. The extendable towing handle 180 can include at least one lower tube assembly 182. In some examples, the towing handle 180 includes two or more lower tube assemblies 182. The lower tube assembly 182 includes an inner tube coupled to the handle grip and an outer tube coupled to the base assembly and configured to receive the inner tube. The towing handle 180 can be positioned on the rear side 106 of the luggage case 100. The base assembly of the lower tube assembly 182 can be coupled to or included in the base portion 120. For example, a cavity or pocket 188 receives the lower tube assembly in the base portion 130 (e.g., the rear base portion 122). When not in use or for storage, the lower tube assembly 182 can be extended from or retracted into the cavity or pocket 188. The cavity or pocket 188 can be a closable opening (e.g., by a zipper or hook-and-loop fastener).

[0073] The extendable towing handle 180 can be positioned near the strap 138, e.g., below the strap 138. In operation or use, the soft face 130 is selectively coupled to the towing handle 182 by the strap 138. The extendable towing handle 180 can be selectively extended or retracted, e.g., between the extended configuration 184 and the retracted configuration 186, to be coupled to or received in the space 144 between the strap and the rear side of the soft face 130. In some examples, the towing handle 180 can be coupled to or received in the space 144 between both the first strap 140 and the second strap 142. In some examples, the towing handle 180 can be coupled to or received in the space 144 of either the first strap 138 or the second strap 140. In some examples, the towing handle 180 can be neither coupled to the first strap 140 nor the second strap 142. By coupling the towing handle 180 to the soft face 130, the towing handle 180 can provide structure or rigidity to the soft face 30 to support the contents of the luggage case 100 when the luggage case 100 is extended or retracted (i.e., in the rolled-up configuration 202 or the deployed configuration 200). By selectively coupling the soft face and the towing handle 180, the size (e.g., the internal volume 160 or the external dimensions) of the luggage case 100 can be selectively adjusted and customized. Additionally, the selective coupling can allow the strap 138 to be used for multiple purposes. For example, as Figure 1B shown, when the first strap 140 is not used to engage the towing handle 180, the first strap 140 can be used as a separate carrying handle.

[0074] Reference Figure 2 、 4C 4D, etc., and continue to reference Figure 1A , in order to secure the luggage 100 in one or more rolled-up configurations, the luggage 100 may include corresponding or mating engagement features 148 and coupling features 190. The engagement feature 148 may be a fastener, buckle, or hook. The engagement feature 148 may be coupled to or integral with the upper portion 130. For example, the engagement feature 148 may be coupled to or extend from the rolled-up top 132. In one example, the engagement feature 148 is positioned at the left side 108 and the right side 110 of the rolled-up top 132. In some examples, the engagement feature 148 is positioned at or near the rolled-up top opening 134. By positioning the engagement feature 148 at the (e.g., left 108 and right 110) sides, the engagement feature 148 may remain exposed whether the rolled-up top 132 is in the deployed configuration 200 or the rolled-up configuration 202.

[0075] The corresponding or mating coupling feature 190 may receive or couple with the engagement feature 148. The coupling feature 190 may be a loop or strap 190 to receive the engagement feature 148. For example, the loop feature 190 may define two or more pairs of corresponding holes or openings 192, such as on corresponding or opposite sides of the luggage 100. The loop feature 190 may be spaced or positioned along the height of the luggage 100. For example, the loop feature 190 may be spaced or extend along the left side 108 and the right side 110 of the luggage 100. The luggage 100 may include multiple loop features 190. The loop feature 190 may be coupled to or defined by the soft face 130 or the bottom 120. In some examples, the loop feature 190 may extend from the soft face 130 to the base bottom 120. In some examples, the loop feature 190 and the holes 192 may be used as side carrying handles for the luggage 100. In some examples, the engagement feature 148 and the coupling feature 190 may be corresponding snap fasteners, hook-and-loop fasteners, or various other coupling mechanisms.

[0076] In operation or use, the rolled-up top 132 may be converted from the deployed configuration 200 as shown in Figure 2 or from the rolled-up configuration 202 to a second rolled-up configuration 202, such as in Figure 1A and Figure 1BBetween the rolled-up configurations 202 shown. To secure the rolled-up top 132 within the rolled-up configuration 202, the rolled-up top 132 can be folded or rolled up, with the exposed engagement features 148 (e.g., extending from the side of the luggage 100) being revealed. The rolled-up top 132 can be rolled up, e.g., towards the bottom 114, until the dimensions of the internal volume 160 correspond to the contents of the luggage 100. In such an example, in addition to the rolled-up top 132, the soft face 130 can be rolled up. In some examples, the rolled-up top 132 can be rolled up until the external dimensions of the luggage 100 reach a desired volume or height. After the desired dimensions of the luggage 100 are reached, the engagement features 148 can be coupled to the loop features 190 to secure the rolled-up top 134. Thus, the luggage 100 can be arranged in the rolled-up configuration 202. In some examples, the engagement features 148 can be adjusted (e.g., via an adjustable strap) to fine-tune the dimensions of the luggage 100 or compress the contents of the internal volume 160.

[0077] Reference Figure 3 , the luggage 100 can include a closure assembly 230 to provide selective access to the internal volume 160. The closure assembly 230 can extend between the rolled-up tops 132, at or near the rolled-up top 132, and at or near the base 120. The closure assembly 230 can be a zipper. In some examples, the closure assembly 230 can be various other types of selectively engagable fasteners, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, snap fasteners, etc. The closure assembly 230 can be positioned at or around a portion of the front panel 116 of the soft face 130. The closure assembly 230 can extend around a portion or all of the perimeter 118 of the front panel 116. In one example, the closure assembly 230 can be a U-shaped or three-sided closure assembly 230 to provide selective access to the internal volume 160. In some examples, the closure assembly 230 can be another three-sided shape. For example, the U-shaped closure assembly 230 can include two long sides 232 extending from the rolled-up top 132 to the base 120. The base or short side 234 can extend between the long sides 232. The base 234 of the U-shaped closure assembly 230 can be positioned near the bottom 124 of the base 120.

[0078] Regardless of whether the luggage case 100 is in the rolled-up configuration 202 or the deployed configuration 200, by extending from the base portion, the closing assembly 230 provides access to the internal volume 160. For example, by positioning a portion of the closing assembly 230 (such as the base 234 of the closing assembly 230) at or near the base portion 120 and opposite the rolled-up top 132 and the opening 134, the closing assembly 230 can be accessed, and the closing assembly 230 can be selectively opened in the rolled-up configuration 202. The closing assembly 230 can also allow packing or removal of contents from the internal volume 160 of the luggage case 100 in both the upright position (such as with the top side 112 facing up) or the rear side 106 facing down or on the ground.

[0079] Go to Figures 4A - 4F , various deployed configurations 200 and rolled-up configurations 202 of the luggage case 100 are shown. Figures 5A - 5C Shown is Figures 4A - 4F A rear view of some example configurations 200, 202 of the luggage case 100 shown in. The configurations 200, 202 can correspond to luggage of common sizes defined by a transportation company or service (such as an airline, a bus company, or a train company). In some examples, the width W of the luggage case 100, such as from the left side 108 to the right side 110, is between 30 and 50 cm, and in one example is 40 cm. The width can be adjusted by changing the height or depth of the luggage case 100. In some examples, the luggage case 100 has a height or length H, such as from the bottom side 114 to the top side 112, that is adjustable between 40 cm and 90 cm, with each configuration defining one or more possible heights H. In some examples, as Figure 1A and shown in FIG. 6, the depth D of the luggage case 100, such as from the front side 104 to the rear side 106, is adjustable between 5 cm and 50 cm. In one example, in the deployed configuration 200 or the rolled-up configuration 202, the depth of the luggage case 100 is 40 cm.

[0080] Refer to Figure 4A and 5A , a front view and a rear view of the luggage case 100 in the deployed configuration 200 are shown. As described herein, in the deployed configuration 200, the rolled-up top 132 can be unfolded or extended to allow access to the internal volume 160. In one example, in the deployed configuration 202, the height H of the luggage case 100 is 82 cm, the width W is 40 cm, and the depth D is 25 cm.

[0081] As Figure 5AAs shown, the extendable drag handle 180 can extend from the cavity pocket 188 at or near the base 120 and engage with the strap 138. For example, the drag handle 180 can be received by either or both of the first strap 140 or the second strap 142. The drag handle 180 and the base 120 (such as the rear base 124 and / or the bottom 124) can provide structural support or rigidity to the luggage 100. The support or rigidity can help keep the luggage 100 open for loading items or contents. After the luggage 100 is filled, the rolled top 132 can be selectively closed by the secondary closure mechanism 136.

[0082] Figure 4B A front view of an example rolled-up configuration 202 is shown. Figure 4B The rolled-up configuration 202 of the luggage 100 in can correspond to a cargo or oversize checked or large-capacity arrangement 208 of the luggage 100. In the large-capacity arrangement 208, the rolled top 132 can be rolled or folded a sufficient amount to close the opening 134. In some examples, the rolled top 132 can include a secondary closure mechanism 136 to seal the opening 134. The secondary closure mechanism 136 can be a zipper, a hook-and-loop fastener, a snap, or a strap to selectively seal the rolled top 132 to close the opening 134. In the large-capacity arrangement 208, the engagement feature 148 that can be coupled to the rolled top 132 can define a carrying handle.

[0083] Referring Figures 4C to 4F , some rolled-up configurations 202 can be defined at least in part by the loop feature 190 coupled to the closure feature 148. The loop features 190 can be spaced apart along the height of the luggage 100. The loop feature 190 closer to the bottom 114 or the base 120 allows the luggage 100 to be in a smaller configuration, which has a reduced internal volume 160 compared to the larger-capacity configuration allowed by the loop feature 190 positioned closer to the top 112 or the rolled top 132. For example, the luggage 100 can include a first or top loop feature 190a, a second loop feature 190b, a third loop feature 190c, or a fourth loop feature 190d, etc.

[0084] Figure 4C A front view of an example rolled-up configuration 202 is shown. Figure 4BThe rolling-up structure 202 of the luggage case 100 in [description] can correspond to the checked-size structure 210 of the luggage case 100. In the checked structure 210, the engaging feature 148 can be coupled to the first or top ring feature 190a. In the checked structure 210, only the rolling-up top 132 can be rolled up, and the remaining part of the soft face 130 can define the internal volume 160 together with the base 120. Compared with the cargo structure 208, the internal volume 160 of the checked structure 210 can have a reduced capacity or reduced external dimensions. In one example, the height H of the checked structure 210 is about 75 cm, the width W is 40 cm, and the depth D is 25 cm.

[0085] Reference Figure 4D , a front view of the luggage case 100 in the rolling-up structure 202 defining the carry-on or stowable structure 212 is shown. Figure 5B A rear view of the carry-on structure 212 is shown. In the carry-on structure 212, the fixing feature 148 can be coupled to either the second ring feature 190b or the third ring feature 190c. To define the carry-on structure 212, the rolling-up top 132 and an additional part of the soft face 130 can be folded or rolled up. In some examples of the carry-on structure 212, as Figure 5B shown, the second strap 142 can be coupled to the towing handle 180. In this structure, the first strap 140 is not coupled to the towing handle 180. Instead, the first strap 140 can be positioned at the top 112 of the luggage case 100 and used as a carrying handle. By selectively engaging the strap 138, the towing handle 180 can provide structural support proportional to the size or height H of the internal volume 160 of the luggage case 100. Compared with the checked structure 210, the internal volume 160 of the carry-on structure 212 can have a reduced capacity or reduced external dimensions. In one example of the carry-on structure 212, the height H of the luggage case 100 is 55 cm, the width W is 40 cm, and the depth D is 25 cm.

[0086] Go to Figure 4E and 5C, shows a handbag or smaller carry - on configuration 214. In the handbag configuration 214, the engagement feature 148 can be coupled to the lowest or fourth loop feature 190d. In the handbag configuration 214, one of the straps 138 can be coupled to the drag handle 180 or none of the straps 138 can be coupled to the drag handle 180. For example, the second or bottom strap 142 can be positioned on the top 112 of the bag and used as a carrying handle. In such an example, the rear base 122 can define all or most of the rear side 106 of the luggage 100. In the handbag configuration 214, the height, depth, or width of the base 120 can correspondingly define the height, depth, or width of the luggage 100. Compared to the carry - on configuration 212, the internal volume 160 of the handbag configuration 214 can have a reduced capacity or reduced external dimensions. In some examples, the luggage 100 can optionally include, as Figure 4E shown, a shoulder strap.

[0087] As can be understood from the drawings, in each of the deployed configuration 200 and the rolled - up configuration 202, the closure assembly 230 is accessible. For example, as Figure 4E shown, even in the most compact handbag configuration 214, the base 234 of the closure assembly 230 is accessible or exposed. In some examples, the rolled - up top 132 can be restricted from folding or rolling up to the bottom 124. Thus, the contents in the internal volume 160 can be accessible through the closure assembly 230 in each of the rolled - up configuration 202 or the deployed configuration 200.

[0088] In some examples, the luggage 100 can be arranged to optionally fold into a compact configuration 220. Figure 4F , 6A and 6B show an example outline view of the luggage 100 in the optional compact configuration 220, Figure 4F showing the luggage 100 in a storage bag. The compact configuration 220 can be a folded configuration of the luggage 100, in which the luggage 100 is arranged for storage.

[0089] As Figure 6A and 6B shown, the luggage 100 can be arranged in a folded or compact configuration 220. Figure 6A shows a perspective view of the compact configuration 220. In the compact configuration 220, the luggage 100 is ready for storage or can be placed inside another luggage. For example, the luggage 100 can have a reduced height H and depth D. Compared to the rolled - up configuration 202, the width dimension W can be similar or reduced.

[0090] To define a compact configuration, the soft face 130 can be rolled up or folded under the top of the rear base 122. The extendable drag handle 180 can be retracted and / or positioned in a cavity or pocket 188. The base 120 folds around a junction or hinge 126. For example, the bottom 124 can fold around the junction 126 to define the front 104 of the luggage 100. In some examples, the soft face 130 can be positioned between the rear base 122 and the bottom 124. In such examples, the rear base 122 and the bottom 124 can compress the soft face 130 to help reduce the depth and overall size of the luggage 100.

[0091] In some examples, the base 120 can include a secondary strap 222 with hooks and corresponding coupling features 224, such as loops. The secondary strap 222 or the coupling feature 224 can be positioned on the rear base 122 and the bottom 124 for engaging with each other to maintain the compact configuration 220. In one example, the secondary strap 222 is coupled to the bottom 124, and the coupling feature 224 is positioned near the cavity or pocket 188.

[0092] The wheel assembly 170 of the luggage 100 can help allow the luggage to fold into the compact configuration 220. For example, the wheel assembly 170 can be foldable. Figure 6B An enlarged view of the foldable wheel assembly 170 is shown. The foldable wheel assembly 170 can include a first part 174 and a second part 176. The wheel 172 can be positioned between the first part 174 and the second part 176 or coupled to either the first part 174 or the second part 176. The first part 174 and the second part 176 can move relative to each other. For example, the first part 174 can be coupled to the bottom 124, and the second part 176 can be coupled to the rear base 122. In such examples, the first part 174 and the second part 176 can fold or rotate around the junction 126 of the base 120. Thus, when the base 120 is in the compact configuration 220, the wheel assembly 170 can be folded similarly.

[0093] The details shown herein are only examples for a schematic discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, and the reason for providing these details is to provide a description that is considered to be the most useful and easily understood in terms of the principles and conceptual aspects of the various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, no attempt has been made to show the structural details of the present invention in more detail than is necessary for a basic understanding of the present invention—the description in conjunction with the drawings and / or examples that enable those skilled in the art to clearly understand how several forms of the present invention can be put into practice.

[0094] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the terms "a" and "an" shall be understood to mean "one," "at least one," or "one or more." Unless the context otherwise requires, singular terms used herein shall include the plural, and plural terms shall include the singular.

[0095] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the terms "comprise," "include," and the like shall be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is, in the sense of "including, but not limited to." The use of the singular or plural also includes the plural and singular, respectively. Further, the terms "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar import when used in this application shall refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular part of this application.

[0096] Of course, it should be understood that any one of the examples, embodiments, or processes described herein can be combined with one or more other examples, embodiments, and / or processes, or separated and / or performed in separate devices or portions of devices in accordance with the systems, devices, and methods of the present invention.

[0097] Finally, the foregoing discussion is merely intended to illustrate the systems of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the appended claims to any particular embodiment or group of embodiments. Accordingly, although the systems of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that various modifications and alternative embodiments can be devised by those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the broader and intended spirit and scope of the systems of the present invention as set forth in the appended claims. Thus, the specification and drawings should be regarded in an illustrative rather than a limiting sense, and they are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A luggage case (100), comprising: A base portion (120), the base portion (120) comprising: an extendable towing handle (180); and A soft surface portion (130) is coupled to the base portion (120) and together defines an interior volume (160) of the luggage case (100), the soft surface portion (130) comprising: two or more straps (138, 140, 142) positioned in a spaced-apart configuration on the rear side (110) of the soft face portion (130), and wherein the soft surface (130) is configured to be converted from a rolled configuration (202, 208, 210, 212, 214, 220) to an unfolded configuration (200), thereby changing the interior volume (160) of the luggage case (100); Wherein when the extendable towing handle (180) is extended to connect the soft surface (130) to the extendable towing handle (180) to selectively support the soft surface (130), at least one of the two or more straps (138, 140, 142) selectively engages the extendable towing handle (180).

2. The luggage case (100) according to claim 1, further comprising: a roll-up top (130, 132) having an opening (134) for selectively accessing the interior volume (160) of the luggage case (100), and Wherein in the expanded configuration (200), the opening (134) provides access to the interior volume (160).

3. The luggage case (100) of claim 2, wherein in the deployed configuration (200), the opening (134) defined by the roll-up top (130, 132) is positioned at a top (112) of the soft surface (130).

4. The luggage case (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a closure assembly (230) extending from the base portion (120) to the soft surface portion (130), and wherein the interior volume (160) is selectively accessible via the closure assembly (230) in both the rolled configuration (202, 208, 210, 212, 214, 220) and the unfolded configuration (200).

5. The luggage case (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, further comprising: Two or more roll-up engagement features (148) are positioned adjacent the opening (134) to selectively close the opening (134) in the rolled configuration (202, 208, 210, 212, 214, 220).

6. The luggage case (100) according to claim 5, further comprising: two or more loop features (190) extending from the sides (104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114) of the soft face portion (130) to the base portion (120) and engageable with the roll-up engagement features (148), and The two or more roll-up engagement features (148) are coupled with the loop features (190) to retain the luggage case (100) in the rolled configuration (202, 208, 210, 212, 214, 220).

7. The luggage case (100) of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the strap (138, 140, 142) defines a second lifting or carrying handle.

8. The luggage case (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the base portion (120) further comprises: bottom (124), and a rear base portion (122) extending from the bottom portion (124), in: The bottom portion (124) and the rear base portion (122) are joined at a junction (126), and The base portion (120) is foldable about the junction (126).

9. The luggage case (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising: Two or more wheel assemblies (170) are coupled to the base portion (120).

10. The luggage case (100) of claim 9, wherein the two or more wheel assemblies (170) comprise: a first portion (174) coupled to the base (124), and a second portion (176) coupled to the rear base portion (122), Wherein the two or more wheel assemblies (170) are foldable about the junction (126).

11. The luggage case (100) according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein either or both of the bottom portion (124) or the rear base portion (122) are rigid or semi-rigid.

12. The luggage case (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The front panel (104, 116) is defined by the soft surface (130), and The closure assembly (230) extends around the perimeter (118) of the front panel (104, 116) from the roll-up top (130, 132) to adjacent the base portion (120).

13. The luggage case (100) according to any one of claims 4 to 12, wherein: The closure assembly (230) is U-shaped and includes a base (234) extending across a portion of the width (W) of the luggage case (100), and The base (234) of the closure assembly (230) is positioned at or near the base portion (120) of the luggage case (100).

14. The luggage case (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the base portion (120) further comprises a towing handle pocket (188), and the extendable towing handle (180) is received in the towing handle pocket (188).

15. The luggage case (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein: defining at least a first volume of the interior volume (160) when at least two of the two or more straps (138, 140, 142) are engaged with the extendable towing handle (180); defining at least a second volume of the interior volume (160) when none of the two or more straps (138, 140, 142) or one of the two or more straps (138, 140, 142) is engaged with the extendable towing handle (180); and The first capacity is greater than the second capacity.

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