Wheeled luggage article with integrated personal mobility capability

Abstract

A wheeled luggage article includes a base defining an interior chamber and a liner configured to divide the interior chamber into a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being physically separated from the first portion. A personal luggage article can be stored in the first portion of the chamber. First and second wheels are rotatably coupled to the base so as to be movable between a stowed position located in the second portion of the chamber and a deployed position located outside of the base to enable a ride mode of the luggage article. A steering bar is rotatably deployable to operably connect to the first wheel to enable the first wheel to be steered by a user riding the luggage article in the ride mode. To propel the luggage article in the ride mode, a battery within the interior chamber can provide power to an in-wheel motor operably connected to the second wheel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments disclosed herein relate to luggage items, and more particularly to wheeled luggage items that can be converted into personal mobility devices. Background Technology

[0002] As is well known, suitcases and other luggage items are equipped with wheels to make it easier for users to move them. However, under certain travel conditions, and due to age, fatigue, and / or other physical limitations, users may find it difficult to roll their luggage items the required distance. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one aspect of the embodiments described herein, a wheeled suitcase article is provided. The suitcase article includes a base defining an internal chamber and a liner configured to divide the internal chamber into a first portion and a second portion physically separated from the first portion. Wheels are rotatably coupled to the base so as to be movable between a stowed position located within the second portion of the chamber and an unfolded position located outside the second portion of the chamber.

[0004] In another aspect of the embodiments described herein, a wheeled suitcase item is provided. The suitcase item includes: a base; and rotatable wheels rotatably coupled to the base for movement between a stowed position and an unfolded position. A first steering rod and a second steering rod are rotatably coupled to the base. The first and second steering rods are also operatively connected to the wheels so that, when the wheels are in the unfolded position, steering is achieved by simultaneously rotating the first steering rod in one of a first rotational direction and a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, and rotating the second steering rod in the other of the first and second rotational directions.

[0005] In another aspect of the embodiments described herein, a wheeled luggage item is provided. The luggage item includes a base defining an internal chamber and swivel wheels rotatably coupled to the base to allow movement between a stowed position and an unfolded position. A first steering rod and a second steering rod are rotatably coupled to the base. A gear set is operatively connected to the first and second steering rods. A torque transmission member is operatively connected to the gear set such that simultaneous rotation of the first steering rod in one of a first rotational direction and a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, and simultaneous rotation of the second steering rod in the other of the first and second rotational directions, causes the torque transmission member to rotate in the associated torque direction. The luggage item also includes a first steering cable and a second steering cable operatively connected to the torque transmission member and the wheels such that when the wheels are in the unfolded position, rotation of the torque transmission member in the associated torque direction causes the wheels to rotate in the associated direction. Attached Figure Description

[0006] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate various systems, methods, and other embodiments of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the element boundaries (e.g., frames, groups of frames, or other shapes) shown in the figures represent one embodiment of a boundary. In some embodiments, one element may be designed as multiple elements, or multiple elements may be designed as one element. In some embodiments, an element shown as an internal component of another element may be implemented as an external component, and vice versa. Furthermore, elements may not be drawn to scale. Additionally, for simplicity and clarity, corresponding or similar elements of different embodiments of the invention appearing in different figures may have similar reference numerals where appropriate.

[0007] Figure 1A and 1B This is a schematic perspective view of a wheeled luggage item according to an embodiment described herein, illustrating a luggage item transportation mode.

[0008] Figure 1C yes Figure 1A and 1B A schematic perspective view of a wheeled luggage item, showing that when the luggage item is in transport mode, the riding wheels of the luggage item are retracted into a portion of the internal cavity of the luggage item.

[0009] Figure 1D This is a schematic block diagram of a wheeled luggage item according to an embodiment described herein, illustrating the braking, throttle, and control systems of the luggage item in riding mode.

[0010] Figure 2 yes Figure 1A and 1B A schematic perspective view of a wheeled luggage item, shown in riding mode of the device.

[0011] Figure 2A yes Figure 1A and 1B A view of the wheeled luggage items viewed from the front of the device.

[0012] Figure 2B This is a schematic end view of a steering handle for a suitcase with a throttle, showing how the throttle controls the throttle and brakes of the suitcase in riding mode.

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A schematic side view of a wheeled luggage compartment shows a user or rider seated on the seat structure of the device, with the seat structure in an elevated orientation.

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 2A schematic side view of a wheeled luggage item, showing a user or rider seated on the seat structure of the device, wherein the seat structure is in a folded or lowered orientation.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a schematic perspective view of the front portion of a suitcase item in riding mode, showing a mounting bracket configured to attach steerable wheels to the base of the suitcase item, with the wheels fixed in the unfolded position.

[0016] Figure 5A yes Figure 5 The schematic perspective view of the front portion of the luggage shown illustrates the brakes integrated into the front mounting bracket and steering wheel.

[0017] Figure 6 yes Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of a support frame for a suitcase item, the support frame supporting the front and rear wheels of the suitcase item, wherein the front and rear wheels are in the deployed position for riding mode.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the first or front wheel of a luggage unit in the unfolded position, taken from the underside of the wheel, showing the connection of the steering cable to the wheel hub.

[0019] Figure 8 This is a schematic front perspective view of a mechanism installed in the internal cavity of the base of a suitcase item, which is used to steer the suitcase item when it is in riding mode and to hold the steering lever in its retracted position when the suitcase item is in transport mode.

[0020] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A schematic rear perspective view of a portion of the steering mechanism shown.

[0021] Figure 10A yes Figure 8 and 9 The schematic front cross-sectional view of a portion of the steering mechanism shows the fixing rod of the mechanism in the orientation that rotates the steering lever to the rest of the steering mechanism so that luggage items can be steered in riding mode.

[0022] Figure 10B yes Figure 10A A schematic front cross-sectional view shows the fixed rod in an orientation that allows the steering rod to rotate independently of the rest of the steering mechanism to a stowed position along the base of the luggage compartment.

[0023] Figure 10C yes Figure 10A and 10BA schematic perspective view of a portion of the steering mechanism shows a detachable rotatable connection between the pawl protrusion of the steering mechanism connecting member and the pawl receiving portion of the steering mechanism gear block.

[0024] Figure 11 It is a diagram showing the relationship between the throttle angle and the generated kinetic force when the throttle rotates in a first direction, and the relationship between the throttle angle and the generated braking force when the throttle rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction. Detailed Implementation

[0025] This disclosure relates to a wheeled luggage item that can be switched by a user to either a transport mode or a riding mode. In transport mode, the user holds the handle of the luggage item to roll it along the ground in the manner of a conventional rollable suitcase. In riding mode, the luggage item is self-propelled and configured to be driven by a user seated on it. The luggage item includes a base defining an internal chamber and a liner configured to divide the internal chamber into a first portion and a second portion physically separated from the first portion. Personal luggage can be stored in the first portion of the chamber. A first wheel and a second wheel are rotatably coupled to the base to move between a stowed position located in the second portion of the chamber and an extended position located outside the base to achieve the riding mode of the luggage item. A steering lever can be rotatably extended to be operably connected to the first wheel, thereby allowing the first wheel to be steered by the user riding the luggage item in riding mode. To propel the luggage item in riding mode, a battery in the internal chamber provides power to an in-wheel motor operably connected to the second wheel. When not in use, the steering lever can be rotated into the cavity formed in the base, so that the space occupied by the luggage items is within the allowable space range of carry-on luggage on commercial flights.

[0026] Figure 1A and 1B This is a schematic perspective view of the wheeled luggage item 20 according to the embodiments described herein. Figure 1A A wheeled luggage item 20 in transport mode is shown, in which the luggage item can be manually rolled along the ground in the manner of a conventional carry-on suitcase or other luggage item. In one or more arrangements, the wheeled luggage item 20 can be configured to fit within the permissible space of a commercial flight carry-on suitcase (e.g., 22 inches × 14 inches × 9 inches) when the wheeled luggage item is in transport mode. The wheeled luggage item 20 may be provided with a retractable handle 20z and conventional luggage wheels or wheels 20y (…). Figure 1B This allows users to easily move items in their suitcases when they are in transport mode. Figure 1B A wheeled luggage item 20 is shown, with the handle 20z unfolded for transport.

[0027] Figure 2 This is another schematic perspective view of the wheeled luggage item 20, showing the luggage item in riding mode. In riding mode, the wheeled luggage item 20 can be self-propelled and manually guided using a steering mechanism, allowing the user to sit on the luggage item and use it as a personal vehicle. Figure 2A yes Figure 2 A front view of the wheeled luggage item 20. In the embodiments described herein, the wheeled luggage item 20 is configured to be manually switched between a transport mode and a riding mode as needed by the user.

[0028] As used herein, when elements are connected to rotate together in coordination, the elements are "rotatably connected" and "rotatably connected" to each other. When the rotational connection between elements can fail or be interrupted due to certain operations on wheeled luggage items, the elements are "detachably rotatably connected" (e.g., rotating the retaining rod 94 to a first position to allow free rotation of the steering rods 30a, 30b, or the connecting member and the associated gear block sliding into contact in response to excessive steering torque applied to the steering rod, as described herein). Elements are "rotatably coupled" to each other when they are operably connected such that they can rotate relative to each other (i.e., can rotate independently or separately) or when one element can rotate relative to another element. Furthermore, the term "operably connected" as used throughout the specification can include direct or indirect connections, including connections without direct physical contact.

[0029] refer to Figures 1A to 4 In one or more arrangements, the wheeled luggage item 20 may include a base 22. The base 22 may include interconnected walls forming a flat first edge 22a defining a first plane P1, a flat second edge 22b extending from the first edge 22a, a flat third edge 22c extending opposite to the first edge 22a, and a flat fourth edge 22d extending from the first edge 22a toward the third edge and defining a second plane P2. A first beveled edge 22e may connect the third edge 22c to the fourth edge 22d, and a second beveled edge 22f may connect the second edge 22b to the third edge 22c.

[0030] like Figure 4As shown, when the wheeled luggage item 20 is in riding mode, a portion of the first edge 22a can define a seating surface for the user. Additionally, the first edge 22a can be configured to form the top edge or uppermost edge of the wheeled luggage item 20. When the wheeled luggage item 20 is in riding mode, the second edge 22b can be configured to form the forward edge or front edge of the wheeled luggage item 20, and the fourth edge 22d can be configured to form the rear edge of the wheeled luggage item 20. When the wheeled luggage item 20 is in riding mode, the third edge 22c can be configured to form the lowermost edge or bottom edge of the base 22.

[0031] refer to Figures 1A to 4 The wheeled luggage item 20 may include a seat structure 24 having a first portion 24a and a second portion 24b extending from the first portion. The seat structure 24 may be operably connected to a base 22 so as to be able to be positioned relative to the base 22 in a first (folded) orientation (e.g., ...). Figure 1A , 1B (as shown in Figure 4) and the second (elevation) orientation (as shown in Figure 4) Figure 2 and 3 The seat structure 24 rotates between the two orientations shown. When the seat structure 24 is in the first orientation and the wheeled luggage 20 is in riding mode, the first portion 24a can form a seating surface positioned at a first height H1 above the ground GS1. Furthermore, when the seat structure 24 is in the second orientation and the wheeled luggage 20 is in riding mode, the second portion 24b can form a seating surface positioned at a second height H2 above the ground GS1, where the second height H2 is greater than the first height H1. For relatively tall users, the seat structure 24 can rotate to... Figure 2 and 3 The raised orientation is shown. A releasable locking mechanism (not shown) may be provided to hold the seat structure 24 in a second orientation when raised. When the seat structure 24 is in the folded orientation, a first portion 24a may extend along a first edge 22a of the base so as to be coplanar or flush with the first edge along plane P1, and a second portion 24b may extend along a portion of a fourth edge 22d of the base and be coplanar or flush with plane P2 of the fourth edge 22d. For rider comfort, one or more seat cushions may extend along the first portion 24a and the second portion 24b of the seat structure. In some arrangements, a gusset plate 24c may extend between the first portion 24a and the second portion 24b to help support the seat surface S2 when the seat structure is raised.

[0032] The base 22 may also include a first surface 22g and a second surface 22h extending opposite to the first surface 22g. The first surface 22g may extend between the base edges 22a-22f to connect these edges along corresponding first sides of the base edges. Similarly, the second surface 22h may extend between the base edges 22a-22f to connect these edges along corresponding second sides of the base edges.

[0033] The first steering rod receiving portion 22s can be formed to extend between the first edge 22a and the first surface 22g. The first steering rod receiving portion 22s can be configured to receive the first steering rod 30a therein when the first steering rod 30a is rotated to the retracted orientation of the first steering rod (as shown in FIG. 1) (described in more detail below). Similarly, the second steering rod receiving portion 22t can be formed to extend between the first edge 22a and the second surface 22h. The second steering rod receiving portion 22t can be configured to receive the second steering rod 30a when the second steering rod 30b is rotated to the retracted orientation of the second steering rod (as shown in FIG. 1) (described in more detail below). Figures 1A to 1B (as shown) when receiving the second steering rod 30b (described in more detail below).

[0034] Referring to Figures 1 to 5, the base edges 22a-22f and the first surface 22g and second surface 22h can be combined to define an internal cavity 22j of the base 22. The internal cavity 22j can be configured to receive and / or store elements therein, such as luggage to be transported in the base and other parts of the wheeled luggage compartment item 20. A liner 23 can be configured to divide the internal cavity 22j into a first portion 22k and a second portion 22m adjacent to and physically separated from the first portion 22k, in order to prevent movement of objects between the first portion 22k and the second portion 22m. The liner 23 can be formed of, for example, a molded polymer. Figure 5 It can be seen that the outer edge 23a of the liner 23 can abut against or be located near the edges 22a-22f of the base 22 forming the base 22, so as to maximize the use of the space inside the base 22 for storage.

[0035] The first portion 22k of the internal chamber can be formed as a accommodating part for storing luggage and other items for user transport. The first portion 22k of the internal chamber can be accessed via an opening 22n formed along the first surface 22g. The opening 22n can be accessed by a door 22w operably connected to the first surface 22g of the base. Figure 2The door 22w can be connected to the base 22 to be rotatable relative to the rest of the base 22, or otherwise movable away from the opening 22n to open and allow the user access to the contents of the first portion 22k of the inner chamber. The door 22w can have a relatively soft, flexible structure or a relatively rigid, robust structure. The door 22w can be secured in the closed position along the first surface 22g to hold luggage items inside the first portion 22k of the inner chamber during movement of the wheeled luggage item 20. For example, a zipper, latch, or any other suitable mechanism can be used to secure the door 22w in the closed position. In a particular arrangement, the door 22w may have a pocket (not shown) (e.g., a sleeve for storing and transporting a laptop computer 99) mounted on the portion of the door 22w facing the first portion 22k of the inner chamber.

[0036] The second portion 22m of the internal chamber can be configured to form a wheel housing for receiving the first wheel 40 and the second wheel 42 (described in more detail below) of the wheeled luggage item 20. The wheels 40, 42 can be configured to unfold from the second portion 22m of the internal chamber as described herein, so that a user can ride the wheeled luggage item 20 in riding mode.

[0037] refer to Figure 2A A pair of pedals 20p can be rotatably mounted to the base 22 along surfaces 22g and 22h. In riding mode, the pedals 20p can be rotatably extended to support the user's feet and can be rotated to be located in the corresponding pedal chambers formed in surfaces 22g and 22h.

[0038] refer to Figure 5 A wheel hinge pin sleeve receiving portion 22r can be formed in the inner cavity 22j of the base along the second inclined edge 22f. The receiving portion 22r can be configured to receive the hinge pin sleeve 60s of the wheel mounting bracket 60 (described in more detail below), so that the wheel mounting bracket can be rotatably connected to the base 22 via hinge pins 61 extending through the sleeves 60s. Each end of the hinge pin 61 can then be secured to a corresponding portion of the base 22 located within the inner cavity 22j of the base. The wheel mounting bracket 60 and the attached first steerable wheel 40 can then be rotated into (and out of) the second portion 22m of the inner cavity for retraction and deployment.

[0039] refer to Figure 5A steering cable channel 22p may be formed within an internal cavity 22j of the base to extend along a second edge 22b of the base. The steering cable channel 22p may be configured to receive a pair of steering cables 70a, 70b (described in more detail herein) operably connecting steering rods 30a and 30b to a first wheel 40 supported by a wheel mount 60. The steering cable channel 22p may be configured to guide and protect the steering cables 70a, 70b extending through the channel.

[0040] refer to Figure 1D and 5A Elements of brake 40b can be integrated into the first wheel 40 and mounting bracket 60. In one or more arrangements, brake 40b can be a conventional hydraulic disc brake or another type of mechanical brake. In a particular arrangement, the brake may include an actuator 40m (e.g., a servo motor) and a master cylinder 40c, which is connected to caliper 40n via hose 40y and operable to pressurize caliper 40n to engage the first wheel 40, thereby slowing and stopping the forward movement of the luggage item 20. Actuator 40m can be operatively connected to the luggage item's control module 213 (described in more detail below) to receive control signals from the control module 213.

[0041] refer to Figure 6 The support frame 22z can extend within the internal cavity 22j along the third edge 22c of the base, so that the first wheel 40 and the second wheel 42 can be rotatably coupled to the base 22. Mounting brackets 60 and 160, respectively supporting the first wheel 40 and the second wheel 42, can be rotatably mounted to the support frame 22z via associated first and second rotatable coupling mechanisms (not shown), so that the first wheel 40 and the second wheel 42 can be retracted and deployed from the second portion 22m of the internal cavity, as described herein.

[0042] Refer again Figure 5 The wheel mounting bracket 60 is rotatably connected to the frame 22z via a hinge pin 61 for rotatably supporting the first wheel 40 thereon. The wheel mounting bracket 60 and the wheel 40 can be configured to be secured in a first (retired) orientation, in which the first wheel 40, rotatably connected to the mounting bracket 60, is received (and held) in the second portion 22m of the internal cavity of the base. The wheel mounting bracket 60 and the wheel 40 can also be configured to be secured in a second (deployed) orientation, in which the first wheel 40, rotatably connected to the mounting bracket 60, is held in the deployed position. A locking mechanism (not shown) can be operably connected to the mounting bracket 60 for securing the mounting bracket in the deployed orientation to support the deployed first wheel 40. Figure 3 and 4As can be seen, the wheel mounting bracket 60 can be rotatably connected to the base 22 to support the first wheel 40, such that when the first wheel 40 is locked in the unfolded position and in contact with the ground GS1, the first wheel extends below the lowermost part of the base 22 (in this example, the third edge 22c of the base).

[0043] refer to Figure 5 The wheel mounting bracket 60 may have a first end 60a rotatably connected to the base 22. A hinge pin sleeve 60s (as previously described) may be located near the first end 60a of the wheel mounting bracket and configured to receive a hinge pin 61 therein for rotatably securing the wheel mounting bracket 60 to the base 22. The hinge pin sleeve 60s may have a first open end 60s-1, a second open end 60s-2 opposite to the first open end 60s-1, and a body portion 60s-3 extending between the first end and the second end. The body portion 60s-3 may be configured such that portions of the steering cables 70a, 70b can pass through its wiring. Additionally, an opening 60s-4 may be formed in the body portion 60s-3 so that the steering cables 70a, 70b entering the sleeve 60s at the first end 60s-1 can exit the sleeve 60s along the body portion 60s-3.

[0044] The wheel mounting bracket 60 may also have a second end 60b (i.e., the wheel support end) opposite the first end 60a. Figure 5 As can be seen, the steering knuckle 74 can be coupled to the second end 60b of the wheel mounting bracket. The hub 40h of the first wheel 40 can be rotatably connected to the steering knuckle 74 in a known manner via the kingpin 40p, such that the hub 40h of the first wheel and the first wheel 40 can rotate about the kingpin axis 40x of the kingpin 40p. The rotation of the first wheel 40 about the kingpin axis 40x changes the direction in which the wheel 40 points, thereby enabling the user to steer the wheeled luggage 20 in the manner described herein.

[0045] like Figure 5 , 6 As shown in Figure 7, the wheel mounting bracket 60 may further include an outwardly extending body portion 60c, which is configured to extend from the second end 60b of the mounting bracket along the front-rear plane P9 away from the base 22 when the mounting bracket 60 supports the wheel 40 in the extended position of the wheel. Figure 7 Extending in the direction of ). For example, Figure 2A Therefore, considering the wheeled luggage item 20 as a means of transportation when in riding mode and the base 22 as the main body of the vehicle, the front and rear planes P9 of the base 22 can be vertical planes extending through the front and rear axes of the base 22 when the base is in riding mode. (See again...) Figures 5 to 7The inwardly extending portion 60e of the mounting bracket 60 can be configured to extend from the end 60d of the outwardly extending body portion 60c along a direction toward the front and rear plane P9 of the base 22 when the mounting bracket 60 supports the wheel 40 in the extended position. The outwardly extending body portion 60c and the inwardly extending portion 60e can be combined to define a chamber 60f therebetween. (See reference) Figure 7 The chamber 60f can be configured to receive a portion of the wheel 40 when the wheel rotates in the direction S2, as described in more detail below.

[0046] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 7 In a particular arrangement, the mounting bracket 60 may have a two-piece structure consisting of an outer bracket member 62 and an inner bracket member 63. The outer bracket member 62 and the inner bracket member 63 may be bolted together or otherwise fixed together. In such an arrangement, the outer bracket member 62 may have an associated first end 62a and a second end 62b opposite to the first end. The first end 62a may be coupled along its connecting hinge pin sleeve 60s. The outer bracket member 62 may have a basic structure similar to that described above with respect to the entire mounting bracket 60. That is, the outer bracket member 62 may have an outwardly extending body portion 62c configured to extend from the second end 62b of the outer bracket member along a direction away from the front-rear plane P9 of the base 22 when the mounting bracket 60 supports the first wheel 40 in the deployed position of the first wheel. The outer support member 62 may also have an inwardly extending body portion 62e, which is configured to extend from the end 62d of the outwardly extending body portion 62c along a direction toward the front and rear planes P9 and the first end 63a of the outer support member when the mounting bracket 60 supports the first wheel 40 in the wheel unfolded position.

[0047] In the two-piece arrangement, the inner support member 63 may also have an associated first end 63a and a second end 63b opposite to the first end 63a. The inner support member 63 may also have a basic structure similar to that described above with respect to the entire mounting bracket 60. That is, the inner support member 63 may have an outwardly extending portion 63c configured to conform to the inner surface of the outwardly extending portion 62c of the outer support member. The inner support member 63 may also have an inwardly extending portion 63e configured to extend from the end 63d of the outwardly extending portion 63c along a direction toward the front and rear plane P9 toward the base when the mounting bracket 60 supports the first wheel 40 in the deployed position, thereby conforming to the inwardly extending portion 62e of the outer support member 62 for attachment. The outwardly extending portions 63c and 63e of the inner support member 63 may be combined to define a chamber 60f therebetween.

[0048] refer to Figure 5 and 7 The inner support member 63 may further include a first channel 63p formed therein, configured to receive a portion of the first steering cable 70a therein. The inner support member 63 may also include a second channel 63r formed therein, configured to receive a portion of the second steering cable 70b therein. When the outer support member 63 is secured to the inner support member 62 to form the mounting bracket 60, portions of the steering cables 70a, 70b extending along channels 63p, 63r may be secured between the outer support member 62 and the inner support member 63. Thus, channels 63p, 63r can facilitate the guidance of the steering cables 70a, 70b from the torque transmission member 65 (described below) to their respective connection positions on the first hub 40h. In some arrangements, a locking mechanism for securing the mounting bracket 60 in an unfolded orientation may be incorporated into (or operably connected to) the inner support member 63. Using the mounting bracket 60, the wheel 40 can be rotatably connected to the base 22 so that it can move between a retracted position located in the second part 22m of the chamber and an extended position located outside the second part of the chamber.

[0049] refer to Figure 5 and 7 A first steerable wheel 40 can be rotatably coupled to a base 22 to allow movement between a stowed position and an extended position. In one or more arrangements, the first wheel 40 is rotatably coupled to a second end 60b of a mounting bracket. The first wheel 40 may include a tire 40a and a hub 40h supporting the tire. An end of a first steering cable 70a may exit its associated mounting bracket channel 63p to connect to the hub 40h along a first side T1 of the hub. Similarly, an end of a second steering cable 70b may exit its associated mounting bracket channel 63r to connect to the hub 40h along a second side T2 opposite the first side of the hub. In this manner, the operable connection of the first steering cable 70a to the first side T1 of the hub 40h allows force to be applied to the first cable 70a by rotation of a torque transmission member 65 (described below) to cause the wheel 40 to rotate about the kingpin axis 40x in a first direction S1. Furthermore, the operable connection between the second steering cable 70b and the second side T2 of the hub 40h allows force to be applied to the second cable 70b via the rotation of the torque transmission member 65 in the opposite direction, causing the wheel 40 to rotate about the kingpin axis 40x in a second direction S2 opposite to the first direction S1. In one or more arrangements, the first wheel 40 can be rotatably coupled along one side of the wheel 40 to the second end 60b of the mounting bracket, such as... Figure 5 and 7As shown.

[0050] refer to Figures 8 to 10C The wheeled luggage item 20 may be equipped with a steering mechanism so that a user seated on the wheeled luggage item can steer the luggage item using a first steering lever 30a and a second steering lever 30b. The steering lever 30a may have a steering handle 30h suitable for gripping by the user's right hand during riding. The steering lever 30b may have a steering handle 30j suitable for gripping by the user's left hand during riding.

[0051] In one or more arrangements, one of the steering handles (e.g., steering handle 30h in the illustrated embodiment) can be implemented as a throttle, which is configured to be manually rotated when a user is riding luggage in riding mode. Reference Figure 1D and 2B The throttle 30h can be combined with (or operatively connected to) an angle sensor 30s, the angle sensor being configured to detect the angle of rotation of the throttle in a first direction R1 or in a second direction R2 opposite to the first direction. Figure 2B As shown, in some arrangements, the first direction R1 can be oriented towards the rear of the luggage compartment in riding mode, and the second direction R2 can be oriented towards the front of the luggage compartment in riding mode. As described herein, the luggage compartment 20 can be configured such that rotation of the throttle 30h in the first direction R1 controls the operation of the motor 42x of the second wheel to propel the luggage compartment forward. The luggage compartment 20 can also be configured such that rotation of the throttle 30h in the second direction R2 controls the operation of the brake 40b mounted in the first (front) wheel 40 to slow down and stop the forward movement of the luggage compartment. The angle sensor 30s can be wired or otherwise operably connected to the control module 213 (described in more detail below) mounted in the second part 22m of the internal cavity of the base.

[0052] In one or more arrangements, the steering mechanism may include a gear carrier 72 fixedly mounted on a support structure (not shown) located in a portion of the internal chamber 22j of the base, outside the liner 23 and inside the outer wall of the base forming the second edge 22b. The gear carrier 72 may have a central opening 72a extending therethrough to receive a fixed shaft 76 passing through the central opening.

[0053] The gear set (generally designated 78) can be supported (e.g., using bearings) on the gear carrier 72 so that the gears of the gear set can rotate within a portion of the internal chamber 22j of the base, as described herein. The gear set 78 can be configured to apply force to the steering cables 70a, 70b extending through the base 22 in response to rotation of the steering levers 30a, 30b, as described herein.

[0054] The first gear block 80 may be rotatably connected to the gear carrier 72 using one or more bearings 81. The first gear block 80 may have a central through-hole 80a through which the fixed shaft 76 can pass. The first gear block 80 may have a rotation axis X1. The first gear block 80 may have an outward-facing first side 80b, wherein a first plurality of angledly spaced pawl receiving portions 80c extend along the first side. The pawl receiving portions 80c may be configured to detachably engage complementary pawl protrusions 82a formed on the first connecting member 82 (described in more detail below) by receiving each pawl protrusion 82a between a pair of angledly adjacent pawl receiving portions 80c.

[0055] A spring receiving chamber 80d may be formed near an opening 80a and extend into the opening from a first side portion 80b. The opening 80a may have a shoulder 80e configured to support a first spring 85 (e.g., a coil spring) received therein. The first gear block 80 may also have an inwardly facing second side portion 80f positioned opposite the first side portion 80b. A first bevel gear 80g may be formed along the second side portion 80f of the first gear block. The first bevel gear 80g may be configured to mesh with a plurality of pinions 86 rotatably coupled to the gear carrier 72 in the manner described herein. Thus, the pawl receiving portion 80c and the first bevel gear 80g are rotatably connected.

[0056] The first spring 85 may be positioned in the spring receiving chamber 80d and may be configured to apply a force to push the first connecting member 82 (described in more detail below) away from the first gear block 80 so as to disengage the pawl protrusion 82a of the first connecting member 82 from the associated pawl receiving portion in the pawl receiving portion 80c of the first gear block when the force maintaining the engagement of the pawl protrusion 82a with the pawl receiving portion 80c is released.

[0057] The second gear block 87 may be rotatably connected to the gear carrier 72 using one or more bearings 88. The second gear block 87 may have a central through-hole 87a through which the fixed shaft 76 can pass. The second gear block 87 may have a rotation axis coaxial with the rotation axis of the first gear block (i.e., along axis X1). The second gear block 87 may have an outwardly facing first side 87b, with a second plurality of angledly spaced pawl receiving portions 87c extending along the first side. The pawl receiving portions 87c may be configured to detachably engage complementary pawl protrusions 89a formed on the second connecting member 92 (described in more detail below) by receiving each pawl protrusion 89a between a pair of angledly adjacent pawl receiving portions 87c. A spring receiving chamber 87d may be formed near the opening 87a and extend into the opening from the first side 87b. The opening 87a may have a shoulder 87e configured to support a second spring 90 (e.g., a coil spring) received therein.

[0058] The second gear block 87 may also have an inwardly facing second side positioned opposite the first side 87b. A second bevel gear 87g may be formed along the second side of the second gear block. The second bevel gear 87g may be configured to mesh with a plurality of pinions 86 rotatably connected to the gear carrier 72 in the manner described herein. Therefore, the pawl receiving portion 87c and the second bevel gear 87g are rotatably connected.

[0059] The second spring 90 can be positioned in the spring receiving chamber 87d and can be configured to apply a force that pushes the second connecting member 92 (described in more detail below) away from the second gear block 87 so that when the force that keeps the pawl protrusion 89a engaged with the pawl receiving portion 87c is released, the pawl protrusion 89a of the second connecting member 92 disengages from the corresponding pawl receiving portion in the pawl receiving portion 87c of the second gear block.

[0060] The gear set 78 may further include one or more pinions 86 rotatably coupled to a gear carrier 72 between the first gear block 80 and the second gear block 87. The pinions 86 may be configured to rotatably mesh with a first bevel gear 80g of the first gear block 80 and a second bevel gear 87g of the second gear block 87 during rotation of the steering rods 30a, 30b (as described herein), such that all pinions 86 are rotatably coupled to each of the first bevel gear 80g and the second bevel gear 87g. A first pinion among the pinions 86 may be configured to support a torque transmission member 65 rotatably coupled to that first pinion. One or more additional pinions 86 may be rotatably coupled to the gear carrier 72 at positions angularly spaced from the first pinion along the gear carrier, also contributing to maintaining the spacing between the first gear block 80 and the second gear block 87.

[0061] refer to Figure 8 and 9 The torque transmission member 65 is rotatably connected to the first pinion in the pinion 86. In the manner described herein, the ends of the first steering cable 70a and the second steering cable 70b can be attached to the torque transmission member 65, and the opposite ends of the first steering cable 70a and the second steering cable 70b can be attached to the hub 40h of the steerable first wheel 40. Figure 7 The rotation of the torque transmission member 65 in the associated first torque direction V1 causes the steerable wheel 40 to rotate in the first direction S1, and the rotation of the torque transmission member 65 in the associated second torque direction V2, which is opposite to the first torque direction V1, causes the steerable wheel 40 to rotate in the second direction S2.

[0062] Refer again Figure 5 and 7 The first steering cable 70a and the second steering cable 70b can extend downward through the internal cavity 22j of the base to enter the hinge pin sleeve 60s at the opening end 60s-1. The first steering cable 70a and the second steering cable 70b can exit the hinge pin sleeve 60s at the opening 60s-4 to enter the associated steering cable channel in the steering cable channels 63p, 63r formed in the mounting bracket 60. (Reference) Figure 7 The first steering cable 70a is operably connected to a first side T1 of the wheel hub 40h so that a force can be applied to the first cable to rotate the wheel about the kingpin axis 40x in a first direction S1. The second steering cable 70b is operably connected to a second side T2 of the wheel hub 40h opposite to the first side of the wheel hub so that a force can be applied to the second cable 70b to rotate the wheel 40 about the kingpin axis in a second direction S2 opposite to the first direction S1.

[0063] refer to Figures 8 to 10BThe first connecting member 82 may have a channel 82p extending through it to receive a portion of the fixed shaft 76. The first connecting member 82 may have a first end portion 82b, which engages with the aforementioned pawl protrusion 82a for engaging a complementary pawl receiving portion 80c formed on the first gear block 80. A shoulder portion 82c of the first end portion may be positioned adjacent to the fixed shaft channel 82p to provide a support surface for the end portion of the first spring 85 extending from the spring receiving chamber 80d of the first gear block. The first connecting member 82 may also have a second end portion 82d positioned opposite the first end portion 82b. A portion of the second end portion 82d of the first connecting member may extend from the inner chamber 22j of the base and to the outside of the base 22, where the second end portion 82d may be rotatably coupled to the first steering rod 30a. At a position where the first connecting member 82 is away from the base 22, a first bushing 82e may be inserted between the first connecting member 82 and the base 22 to rotatably support the first connecting member 82 relative to the base 22.

[0064] The first connecting member 82 may be operably connected to the gear set 78 (described in more detail below) about the fixed shaft 76 so that the first connecting member 82 can move along the longitudinal axis X1 of the fixed shaft. The second end 82d of the first connecting member may have a chamber 82f with an internal shoulder 82g.

[0065] The first steering rod 30a can be rotatably connected to the base 22 and is adjacent to the first surface 22g of the base 22. Figure 2 ), so that it can be deployed in an orientation ( Figure 2 ) and the retraction orientation located inside the first steering rod receiving portion 22s ( Figure 1A The first steering rod 30a is rotatably connected to the first connecting member 82 and is located near the second end 82d of the first connecting member. (See reference...) Figure 1A and 8 The first steering rod 30a may have a fixed rod receiving chamber 30z formed thereal, the fixed rod receiving chamber being configured to receive the fixed rod 94 (described in more detail below) therein when the fixed rod 94 is rotated to its second orientation. The chamber 30z may be configured such that when the fixed rod 94 is received in the chamber 30z, the fixed rod 94 extends flush with the outer surface of the first steering rod 30a, or such that the fixed rod 94 is recessed within the chamber 30z and located below the outer surface.

[0066] refer to Figure 10A and 10BThe second connecting member 92 may have a channel 92a extending through it to receive a portion of the fixed shaft 76. The second connecting member 92 may have a first end portion 92b, which engages with the aforementioned pawl protrusion 89a for engaging a complementary pawl receiving portion 87c formed on the second gear block 87. A shoulder portion 87e of the second end portion may be configured adjacent to the fixed shaft channel 92a to provide a support surface for the end portion of the second spring 90 extending from the spring receiving chamber 87d of the second gear block.

[0067] The second connecting member 92 may also have a second end 92d positioned opposite the first end 92b. A portion of the second end 92d of the second connecting member may extend from the internal cavity 22j of the base and extend to the outside of the base 22, where the second end 92d may be rotatably coupled to the second steering rod 30b. At a position where the second connecting member 92 is away from the base 22, a second bushing 92e may be inserted between the second connecting member 92 and the base 22 to rotatably support the second connecting member 92 relative to the base 22. The second steering rod 30b may be rotatably connected to the second connecting member 92 and proximate the second end 92d of the second connecting member.

[0068] refer to Figure 10A and 10B The second connecting member 92 may have a chamber 92k formed therein and a chamber opening at a second end 92d of the second connecting member. A base plate 92m may be present in the chamber 92k for supporting a torque release spring 100 located thereon. The torque release spring 100 may be any type of spring suitable for the purposes described herein. The torque release spring 100 may have a first end supported against the base plate 92m and a second end opposite the first end. The torque release spring 100 may have a spring constant much larger than the spring constants of the first spring 85 and the second spring 90 previously described (i.e., the torque release spring 100 may be much “stiffer” than the first spring 85 and the second spring 90). A cap 101 may be applied to the torque release spring 100 to support the torque release spring at its second end. The cap 101 may be attached to the second end 76b of the fixed shaft 76 (described in more detail below) such that the force applied to the cap by the fixed shaft 76 in the direction F1 is transmitted to the torque release spring 100 to compress the torque release spring. Figure 8 , 10A As can be seen from 10B, the gear set 78 is mounted on the gear carrier 72 between the first connecting member 82 and the second connecting member 92.

[0069] The second steering rod 30b can be rotatably connected to the base 22 and adjacent to the second surface 22h of the base 22, so as to enable deployment orientation ( Figure 2 and 8) and the retraction direction located inside the second steering rod receiving part 22t ( Figure 1A and 1B The second steering rod 30b is rotatably connected to the second connecting member 92 and is located near the second end 92d of the second connecting member.

[0070] The fixed shaft 76 may have a first end 76a extending into a chamber 82f at the second end of the first connecting member and a second end 76b extending into a spring receiving chamber 92k at the second end of the second connecting member. For example... Figure 10A and 10B As shown, the fixed shaft 76 can extend into the cavity 82f at the second end of the first connecting member, passing through the first connecting member 82, the first gear block 80, the gear carrier 72, the second gear block 87, and the second connecting member 92, until the fixed shaft applies the cap 101 to the torque relief spring 100. The fixed shaft 76 can be axially moved along the longitudinal axis X1 of the shaft in response to rotation of the fixed rod 94, as described below. The fixed shaft 76 can also be rotated about the axis X1. As described herein, the combination of the fixed rod 94, the fixed shaft 76, and the torque relief spring 100 enables the transmission of force along the axis X1, which causes the pawl protrusion 82a of the first connecting member to engage in a detachable rotatable connection with the pawl receiving portion 80c of the first gear block, and causes the pawl protrusion 89a of the second connecting member to engage in a detachable rotatable connection with the pawl receiving portion 87 of the second gear block.

[0071] The fixing rod 94 can be rotatably connected to the fixing shaft 76 at the first end 76a of the fixing shaft, thereby forming a rotation axis X3 between the fixing rod 94 and the fixing shaft 76. The fixing rod 94 can also be configured to abut against the inner shoulder 82g of the first connecting member located inside the cavity 82f at the second end of the first connecting member. The fixing rod 94 can be rotatable to (and fixed to) a first orientation ( Figure 10B ) and the second orientation ( Figure 8 , 10A Any of the orientations in ).

[0072] refer to Figure 10B In the first orientation of the fixing rod 94, the first surface 94b of the fixing rod 94 is supported against the inner shoulder 82g of the first connecting member 82. Additionally, the torque release spring 100 (fixed by the cap 101 along the fixing shaft 76) is supported against the base plate 92m of the second connecting member 92. With this arrangement, the fixing rod 94 is operably connected to both the first and second connecting members.

[0073] The fixed rod 94 can be configured such that rotation of the rod along direction DD1 to the first orientation (where the first surface 94b of the rod abuts against the inner shoulder 82g) causes the fixed shaft 76 to move along direction F2. Figure 10BThis movement causes the force applied by the first spring 85 to push the first connecting member 82 away from the first gear block 80 along direction F1 (opposite to direction F2). This movement disengages the pawl protrusion 82a of the first connecting member from the pawl receiving portion 80c of the first gear block, thereby disengaging the first connecting member 82 from the first gear block 80. Since the first steering rod 30a is rotatably connected to the first connecting member 82, the disengagement of the rotatable connection between the first connecting member 82 and the first gear block 80 allows the first steering rod 30a to rotate independently of the gear set 78.

[0074] Similarly, rotation of the fixed rod 94 to the first position causes the force applied by the second spring 90 to push the second connecting member 92 away from the second gear block 87 along direction F2. This movement disengages the pawl protrusion 89a of the second connecting member from the pawl receiving portion 87c of the second gear block, thereby disengaging the second connecting member 92 from the second gear block 87. Since the second steering rod 30b is rotatably connected to the second connecting member 92, the disengagement of the rotatable connection between the second connecting member 92 and the second gear block 87 allows the second steering rod 30b to rotate independently of the gear set 78.

[0075] Now for reference Figure 10AWhen the fixed rod 94 rotates along direction DD2 to the second orientation of the rod, the second surface 94a of the fixed rod 94 abuts against the inner shoulder 82g for support. This rotation causes the fixed shaft 76 to move along direction F1. Since the spring constant of the torque release spring 100 is much larger than the spring constants of the first spring 85 and the second spring 90, the movement of the fixed shaft 76 along direction F1 causes the second connecting member 92 to overcome the separation force exerted by the second spring 90 and move along direction F1, thereby engaging the pawl protrusion 89a of the second connecting member with the pawl receiving portion 87c of the second gear block, without significant axial deflection of the torque release spring 100. This rotatably connects the second connecting member 92 and its rotatably connected second steering rod 30b to the second gear block 87 and gear set 78. Similarly, when the fixed rod 94 pushes against the shoulder 82g, the movement of the fixed shaft 76 along direction F1 causes the first connecting member 82 to overcome the separation force applied by the first spring 85 and move along direction F2, thereby engaging the pawl protrusion 82a of the first connecting member with the pawl receiving portion 80c of the first gear block. This rotatably connects the first connecting member 82 and its rotatably connected first steering rod 30a to the first gear block 80 and the gear set 78. The rotation of the fixed rod 94 along direction DD2 also retracts the fixed rod into the cavity 30z of the first steering rod, thereby locking the fixed rod 94 in the retracted orientation to maintain the rotatable connection between the first connecting member 82 and the first gear block 80 and the rotatable connection between the second connecting member 92 and the second gear block 87. Therefore, the rotation of the fixed rod 94 to the first orientation allows the first connecting member 82 and the second connecting member 92 to disengage from the gear set 78. Furthermore, the rotation of the fixed rod 94 to the second orientation pushes the first connecting member 82 and the second connecting member 92 toward each other and into rotational connection with the gear set 78, thereby rotatably connecting the first steering rod 30a and the second steering rod 30b to the gear set 78.

[0076] refer to Figures 1A to 6 The second wheel 42 can be rotatably connected to the base 22 so that it can be in a retracted position located in the first part of the chamber (e.g., Figures 1A to 1C (as shown) and the unfolded position located outside the first part of the chamber ( Figure 2 , 3 Movement between and 4). In one or more arrangements, the second wheel 42 is rotatably coupled to the base 22 by rotatably coupling the second wheel 42 to the second end of another mounting bracket 160, the other mounting bracket having a structure similar to the aforementioned mounting bracket 60, but omitting the steering cable channel. The other mounting bracket 160 may be rotatably coupled to the frame 22z. The second wheel 42 may include a tire 42a and a hub 42h supporting the tire 42a. As shown, the wheel 42 may form the rear wheel of the wheeled luggage item 20. Figure 3 and 4As can be seen, the wheel mounting bracket 160 can be rotatably connected to the base 22 to support the second wheel 42, such that when the second wheel 42 is locked in the unfolded position and in contact with the ground GS1, the second wheel extends below the lowermost part of the base 22 (in this example, the third edge 22c of the base).

[0077] refer to Figure 6 Known or subsequently developed direct drive or other in-wheel motors 42x can be operatively connected to the second wheel 42 to drive the second wheel 42 to rotate in a known manner during operation of the wheeled luggage item 20 in transport mode. A battery 25 can also be mounted on the frame and operatively connected to the motor 42x to supply power to the wheel 42 to propel the wheeled luggage item 20 when it is in riding mode.

[0078] In one or more arrangements, the planetary gearbox 42g can be used to transmit motion from the motor 42x to the driven second wheel 42. For example, the motor 42x can be statically mounted on the wheel mounting bracket 160, and the output shaft of the motor 42x can be configured to mesh with two or more external gears (not shown), which are rotatably coupled to a bracket rotatably connected to the wheel 42. Rotation of the motor's output shaft then causes rotation of the external gears and the rotatably attached wheel 42. In this way, the second wheel 42 can be driven by the motor 42x in a known manner.

[0079] Motor 42x can be operatively connected (via wired or wireless connection) to control module 213, which can transmit throttle control signals to motor 42x to control the speed of the motor in response to the angle of throttle 30h detected by angle sensor 30s.

[0080] refer to Figure 1D The luggage item 20 may include one or more processors 110. In one or more arrangements, the processors (multiple processors) 110 may be the main processors (multiple main processors) of the luggage item 20. For example, the processors (multiple processors) 110 may be electronic control units (ECUs).

[0081] The luggage item 20 may include memory 112. Memory 112 is random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk drive, flash memory, or other suitable memory for storing modules (multiple modules). Memory 112 may include sensor data 119. In this document, "sensor data" refers to any information about the sensors (multiple sensors) equipped on the luggage item 20, including information about the capabilities of these sensors and other information. As an example, sensor data 119 may include information about the angle sensor 30s of the throttle described herein.

[0082] Memory 112 may store control module 213 for controlling various aspects of the luggage item 20 when it is used in driving mode. Luggage item 20 may include one or more such modules. These modules (multiple modules) may be implemented as computer-readable program code, which, when executed by processor (multiple processors) 110, is implemented in one or more of the various processes described herein. One or more modules may be components of processor (multiple processors) 110, or one or more modules may be executed on and / or distributed on other processing systems operatively connected to and / or distributed within those other processing systems. Modules may include instructions (e.g., program logic) executable by one or more processors 110. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the data memory 115 or another portion of luggage item 20 may contain such instructions.

[0083] In summary, the modules used herein include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc., that perform specific tasks or implement specific data types. In another aspect, memory typically stores the aforementioned modules. The memory associated with a module may be a buffer or cache embedded within a processor, RAM, ROM, flash memory, or other suitable electronic storage media. In yet another aspect, the modules contemplated in this disclosure are implemented as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), system-on-a-chip (SoC) hardware components, programmable logic arrays (PLAs), or other suitable hardware components embedded with a defined set of configurations (e.g., instructions) to perform the disclosed functions. In one or more arrangements, one or more of the modules described herein may include artificial intelligence or computational intelligence elements, such as neural networks, fuzzy logic, or other machine learning algorithms. Furthermore, in one or more arrangements, one or more of the modules may be distributed across multiple modules described herein. In one or more arrangements, two or more of the modules described herein may be combined into a single module.

[0084] The control module 213 may include computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor 110, cause the processor to control the rear wheel motor 42x to increase the driving force generated by the motor proportionally to the rearward angle indicated by the angle sensor 30s on the throttle 30h. Figure 11 It can be seen that the control module 213 can also be configured to de-energize the motor when the throttle 30h is at a slightly backward rotation angle, so that energy can be regenerated and recovered from the forward momentum of the luggage items 20 when the luggage items decelerate.

[0085] refer to Figure 5A and 11The control module 213 may include computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor 110, cause the processor to control the servo motor 60m to begin pressurizing the master cylinder 40c in response to the user rotating the throttle to a predetermined forward angle. The pressurization of the master cylinder 40c can cause the caliper 40n to contact the wheel hub, thereby slowing or braking the wheel 40. The control module 213 may also include computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor 110, cause the processor to control the servo motor 40m to increase the pressurization of the master cylinder 40c in response to further rotation of the throttle in direction R2. This may increase the pressure exerted by the caliper 40n on the wheel 40, thereby increasing the braking force on the wheel 40. The control module 213 may also include computer-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor 110, cause the processor to control the servo motor 40m to decrease the pressurization of the master cylinder 40c in response to rotation of the throttle 30h in direction R1. This can reduce the pressure exerted by the caliper on the wheel 40, thereby reducing the braking force. Furthermore, the motor 42x can be configured to regenerate and recover energy from the forward momentum of the luggage items 20 when the caliper 40n makes frictional contact with the wheel 40 (i.e., when the brake 40b is engaged). This energy can be diverted to the battery 45 to help charge the battery.

[0086] The operation of the throttle and braking mechanisms will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0087] To control the forward movement of the luggage compartment 20 by pressing the throttle, you can rotate the throttle handle 30h backward on direction R1, as shown. Figure 2B As shown. Figure 11 As shown, the control module 213 can be configured to control the operation of the motor 42x to increase the driving force generated by the motor proportionally to the rearward angle to which the throttle 30h has been rotated.

[0088] like Figure 11 As can be seen, to slow down and stop the luggage item 20, the throttle can be rotated forward in direction R2. When the throttle 30h is at a slightly rearward rotation angle, the motor 42x can be de-energized to regenerate energy from the forward momentum of the luggage item 20 as it decelerates. This energy can be diverted to the battery 45 to help charge it. When the user rotates the throttle 30h to a predetermined forward angle, the control module 213 can generate a signal to the servo motor 40m, thereby initiating the active operation of the brake 40b. This causes the servo motor 40m to pressurize the cylinder 40c, causing the caliper 40n to engage frictionally with the wheel 40.

[0089] The operation of the steering mechanism will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0090] refer to Figure 1AThe wheeled luggage item 20 can initially be in transport mode. In this mode, the wheeled luggage item 20 can be manually pulled along the ground like a traditional suitcase. The wheeled luggage item 20 can be manually switched from transport mode to riding mode. To switch the wheeled luggage item 20 to riding mode, the first wheel 40 and the second wheel 42 can be unlocked from their respective stowed positions inside the second part 22m of the internal chamber at the base, and then rotated from the stowed position (along direction G1 for wheel 40 and along direction G2 for wheel 42) to their respective unfolded positions. Then, wheels 40 and 42 can be locked in their respective unfolded positions.

[0091] The retaining rod 94 can be positioned along direction DD1 from its second (locking) orientation (e.g.) Figure 1A , 8 (As shown in 10A) Rotate to its first (unlocked) orientation (as shown in 10A) Figure 10B As shown), this allows the first connecting member 82 to be disengaged from the first gear block 80 and the second connecting member 92 to be disengaged from the second gear block 87, as previously described. This allows the first steering rod 30a and the second steering rod 30b to rotate independently of the gear set 78. The steering rods 30a and 30b can then be rotated to their respective raised or steered positions (e.g., as shown). Figures 2 to 4 As shown), the first gear block 80 and the second gear block 87 do not need to be rotated.

[0092] Then, the retaining rod 94 can be rotated along direction DD2 back to the second orientation as previously described to secure the engagement of the pawl protrusion 82a of the first connecting member with the pawl receiving portion 80c of the first gear block and to secure the engagement of the pawl protrusion 89a of the second connecting member with the pawl receiving portion 87c of the second gear block. This rotatably connects the steering rods 30a, 30b to the gear set 78, thereby enabling steering of the wheeled luggage compartment items 20 when the user is riding.

[0093] As previously described, when the fixed rod 94 is in the second orientation, the first gear block 80 is rotatably connected to the first steering rod 30a and also rotatably connected to the pinion 86, with the torque transmission member 65 rotatably connected to the pinion. Furthermore, the second gear block 87 is rotatably connected to the second steering rod 30b and also rotatably connected to the pinion 86, with the torque transmission member 65 rotatably connected to the pinion. (Reference) Figure 7 and 9Simultaneous rotation of the first steering rod 30a in the first rotation direction W1 and the second steering rod in the second rotation direction W2, opposite to the first rotation direction, can generate rotation of the pinion 86 (including a pinion rotatably connected to the torque transmission member 65) in the associated first torque direction V1. The rotation of the pinion 86 (rotatably connected to the torque transmission member 65) in direction V1 causes rotation of the torque transmission member 65 in the first torque direction V1. The rotation of the torque transmission member 65 in the first torque direction V1 pulls the attached first steering cable 70a, which in turn pulls the first side T1 of the hub attached to the end of the first steering cable 70a. Figure 7 This causes wheel 40 to rotate about the kingpin axis and causes wheel 40 to rotate in direction S1. Figure 7 ).exist Figure 9 In the view shown, in riding mode, the first rotation direction W1 of the steering lever is in the forward direction of the moving wheeled luggage item 20, and the second rotation direction W2 is in the rearward direction of the moving wheeled luggage item 20. Therefore, during the forward motion of the luggage item 20, the user can simultaneously rotate the first steering lever 30a forward and the second steering lever 30b backward to position the device in the direction towards the first side P9-a of the vertical plane P9 (i.e., from the user's perspective while seated on the luggage item, towards the "left" side of the base 22, as shown). Figure 3 and 4 (As shown) Turn.

[0094] Similarly, the simultaneous rotation of the first steering rod 30a in the second rotation direction W2 and the second steering rod 30b in the first rotation direction W1 can generate rotation of the pinion 86 (including the pinion rotatably connected to the torque transmission member 65) in the associated second torque direction V2, opposite to the first torque direction V1. The rotation of the pinion 86 rotatably connected to the torque transmission member 65 causes the torque transmission member 65 to rotate in the first torque direction V2. The rotation of the torque transmission member 65 in the second torque direction V2 pulls the second steering cable 70b, which in turn pulls the second side T2 of the wheel hub. Figure 7 This causes the wheel 40 to rotate about the kingpin axis and causes the wheel 40 to rotate in the opposite direction S2 to direction S1. Therefore, during the forward movement of the wheeled luggage item 20, the user can simultaneously rotate the first steering lever 30a backward and the second steering lever 30b forward to position the luggage item in the direction of the second side P9-b facing the vertical plane P9 (i.e., from the perspective of the user sitting on the luggage item, facing the "right" side of the base 22, such as...). Figure 3 and 4 As shown, the wheel 40 turns upwards. When it turns in this direction, a portion of the wheel 40 will also enter the wheel mounting bracket chamber 60f.

[0095] Return to Figure 10A The torque relief spring 100 can be configured to apply a compressive force to the gear set 78 and the first connecting member 82 when the fixed rod 94 is in the second orientation. In order to enable the steering rods 30a and 30b to operate normally, when the torque applied to the first steering rod is lower than a predetermined level, the force of the torque relief spring can be sufficient to maintain the rotational connection between the first connecting member 82 and the first gear block 80.

[0096] refer to Figure 10C The first connecting member 82 and the first gear block 80 can be configured such that the first connecting member 82 can disengage from the first gear block 80 in response to a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined level applied to the first steering rod 30a, overcoming the force applied by the torque release spring. To achieve this effect, the side portion 82s of the pawl protrusion 82a of the first connecting member and the wall 80w of the side portion of the pawl receiving portion 80c forming the first gear block can be complementaryly inclined or "sloped" so that the pawl protrusion 82a can slide relative to the receiving portion wall 80w in response to a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined level applied to the first steering rod 30a. This relative sliding movement can disengage the protrusion 82a from the receiving portion 80c, thereby overcoming the compressive force applied by the spring 100 and disengaging the first connecting member 82 from the first gear block 80. Therefore, for example, if the rider applies excessive torque to the first steering lever 30a in either the rotation direction W1 or W2, the applied torque may cause the pawl protrusion 82a to slide along the side 80w of the pawl receiving portion 80c, often causing the first connecting member 82 to separate from the first gear block 80. This allows the first connecting member 82 to “slip” relative to the first gear block 80, thereby helping to prevent damage to the steering mechanism due to excessive steering torque.

[0097] Similarly, the second connecting member 92 and the second gear block 87 can be configured such that the second connecting member 92 can disengage from the second gear block 87 in response to a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined level applied to the second steering rod 30b, overcoming the force applied by the torque release spring. To achieve this effect, the side portion (not shown) of the pawl protrusion 89a of the second connecting member and the wall (not shown) of the side portion of the pawl receiving portion 87c forming the second gear block can be complementaryly inclined or "ramped" so that the pawl protrusion 89a can slide relative to the pawl receiving portion 87c in response to a torque equal to or greater than a predetermined level applied to the second steering rod 30b, as described above. This relative sliding movement can disengage the protrusion 89a from the receiving portion 87c, thereby overcoming the compressive force applied by the spring 100 and disengaging the second connecting member 92 from the second gear block 87. Therefore, for example, if the rider applies excessive torque to the second steering lever 30b in either of the rotation directions W1 or W2, the applied torque may cause the pawl protrusion 89a to slide along the wall of the pawl receiving portion 87c, often causing the second connecting member 92 to separate from the second gear block 87. This allows the second connecting member 92 to “slide” relative to the second gear block 87, thereby helping to prevent damage to the steering mechanism due to excessive steering torque. Thus, in the manner just described, the first connecting member 82 can be detachably and rotatably connected to the first gear block 80, and the second connecting member 92 can be detachably and rotatably connected to the second gear block 87.

[0098] In the detailed description above, reference has been made to the accompanying drawings, which form part of this document. In the drawings, similar symbols generally denote similar parts unless the context otherwise requires. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without departing from the scope of the subject matter described herein. It will be readily understood that, as illustrated in the general description and drawings herein, various aspects of this disclosure can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated, and designed in a variety of different configurations, all of which are expressly contemplated herein.

[0099] The terms “a” and “an” as used herein are defined as one or more. The term “multiple” as used herein is defined as two or more. The term “another” as used herein is defined as at least a second or more second ones. The terms “including” and / or “having” as used herein are defined as including (i.e., open-ended language). The phrase “at least one of… and…” as used herein refers to and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more of the related listed items. For example, the phrase “at least one of A, B, and C” includes only A, only B, only C, or any combination thereof (e.g., AB, AC, BC, or ABC).

[0100] Although the features and conditions of the invention have been described in conjunction with certain embodiments, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Rather, the invention is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements within the spirit and scope of the appended claims, which should be given the broadest interpretation to cover all such modifications and equivalent structures permitted by law.

Claims

1. A wheeled suitcase item, comprising: Base; A rotatable wheel is rotatably coupled to the base so as to be able to move between a stowed position and an unfolded position; A first steering rod rotatably connected to the base; as well as A second steering rod is rotatably connected to the base. The first steering rod and the second steering rod are operably connected to the steerable wheel so that when the steerable wheel is in the deployed position, the steerable wheel is steered by simultaneously rotating the first steering rod in one of a first rotation direction and a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, and rotating the second steering rod in the other of the first rotation direction and the second rotation direction.

2. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 1, wherein, The base defines an internal chamber, and the wheeled luggage also includes: A liner configured to divide the internal chamber into a first portion and a second portion, the second portion being physically isolated from the first portion, wherein the rotatable wheels are rotatably coupled to the base to allow movement between a retracted position located within the second portion of the internal chamber and an extended position located outside the second portion of the internal chamber; and A seat structure that can rotate to either a folded-down orientation or a raised orientation, wherein in the folded-down orientation, the seating surface of the seat structure is located at a first height above the ground, and in the raised orientation, the other seating surface of the seat structure is located at a second height above the ground, the second height being greater than the first height.

3. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 2, wherein, The base includes a first edge, a first surface extending along a first side portion of the first edge, and a second surface extending along a second side portion of the first edge opposite to the first surface, and wherein the wheeled luggage item further includes: A first steering rod receiving portion extending between the first edge and the first surface; A second steering rod receiving portion is formed between the first edge and the second surface; The first steering rod is connected to the base so as to be movable between an extended orientation and a retracted orientation located within the first steering rod receiving portion; and The second steering rod is connected to the base so that it can move between an unfolded orientation and a retracted orientation located inside the second steering rod receiving portion.

4. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 2, wherein, The seat structure includes a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion, the seat structure being rotatable relative to the base between a folded orientation and a raised orientation, such that when the seat structure is in the folded orientation and the wheeled luggage is in a riding configuration, the first portion forms the seating surface at a first height above the ground, and when the seat structure is in the raised orientation and the wheeled luggage is in the riding configuration, the second portion forms the other seating surface at a second height above the ground.

5. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 2, further comprising: Another wheel, rotatably coupled to the base, is capable of moving between a retracted position located in the second part of the internal chamber and an extended position located outside the second part of the internal chamber; as well as An in-wheel motor, operably connected to the other wheel, is provided to drive the rotation of the other wheel during operation of the wheeled luggage item in the transport mode of the wheeled luggage item.

6. The wheeled luggage item of claim 5, further comprising a battery operably connected to the in-wheel motor so that the battery can provide power to the in-wheel motor.

7. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 1, wherein: The first steering rod is rotatably connected to the base and is adjacent to the first surface of the base; The second steering rod is rotatably connected to the base and adjacent to the second surface of the base opposite to the first surface; and The first steering rod and the second steering rod are operably connected to the steerable wheel such that by simultaneously rotating the first steering rod in a first rotational direction and the second steering rod in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, the steerable wheel can be steered in a first direction extending from the front and rear planes of the base toward the first surface, and by simultaneously rotating the first steering rod in the second rotational direction and the second steering rod in the first rotational direction, the steerable wheel can be steered in a second direction extending from the front and rear planes of the base toward the second surface.

8. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 1, further comprising: A gear set operably connected to the base; as well as A torque transmission member operably connected to the gear set and the steerable wheel, such that rotation of the torque transmission member in a first torque direction causes the steerable wheel to rotate in an associated first direction, and rotation of the torque transmission member in a second torque direction causes the steerable wheel to rotate in an associated second direction. The first steering rod and the second steering rod are operably connected to the gear set, such that simultaneous rotation of the first steering rod in the first rotational direction and the second steering rod in the second rotational direction generates rotation of the torque transmission member in the first torque direction. Furthermore, the first steering rod and the second steering rod are operably connected to the gear set, such that the simultaneous rotation of the first steering rod in the second rotational direction and the second steering rod in the first rotational direction generates the rotation of the torque transmission member in the second torque direction.

9. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 8, wherein, The gear set includes: A first bevel gear, rotatably connected to the base and configured to be rotatably connected to the first steering rod; A second bevel gear, rotatably connected to the base and configured to be rotatably connected to the second steering rod; and A pinion, rotatably connected to the base and located between the first bevel gear and the second bevel gear, The torque transmission component is rotatably connected to the pinion. The pinion is configured to mesh with the first bevel gear and the second bevel gear, such that the simultaneous rotation of the first steering rod in the first rotational direction and the rotation of the second steering rod in the second rotational direction causes the pinion and the torque transmission member to rotate in the first torque direction.

10. The wheeled luggage item of claim 1, further comprising a steering knuckle operably connected to the base, wherein, The hub of the steerable wheel is rotatably connected to the steering knuckle via a kingpin, allowing rotation about the kingpin axis, and the wheeled luggage also includes: A first steering cable, operably connected to the first steering rod and a first side of the wheel hub, such that applying a force to the first steering cable causes the steerable wheel to rotate about the kingpin axis in a first direction; and A second steering cable is operatively connected to the second steering rod and a second side of the wheel hub opposite to the first side of the wheel hub, such that applying a force to the second steering cable causes the steerable wheel to rotate about the kingpin axis in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

11. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 10, wherein, The steering knuckle is coupled to a wheel mounting bracket rotatably connected to the base, and wherein the first steering cable and the second steering cable extend along the wheel mounting bracket to the hub of the steerable wheel.

12. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 11, wherein, The wheel mounting bracket has a first end rotatably connected to the base, a second end coupled to the steering knuckle, and a body portion extending between the first end and the second end, the body portion comprising: An outwardly extending portion, configured to extend from a second end of the wheel mounting bracket along a direction away from the front and rear planes of the base when the wheel mounting bracket supports the steerable wheel in its deployed position; and An inwardly extending portion, configured to extend from the end of the outwardly extending portion along a direction toward the front and rear planes of the base when the wheel mounting bracket supports the steerable wheel in its deployed position. The outwardly extending portion and the inwardly extending portion combine to define a chamber therebetween, the chamber being configured to receive a portion of the steerable wheel when the steerable wheel rotates in the first direction.

13. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 1, further comprising: A first connecting member rotatably connected to the first steering rod; A second connecting member rotatably connected to the second steering rod; A gear set is installed to the base between the first connecting member and the second connecting member; as well as A fixing rod operably connected to the first connecting member and the second connecting member. Rotation of the fixed rod to the first orientation causes the first connecting member and the second connecting member to be disengaged from the gear set, and rotation of the fixed rod to the second orientation causes the first connecting member and the second connecting member to be rotatedly connected to the gear set, thereby rotatably connecting the first steering rod and the second steering rod to the gear set.

14. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 13, further comprising a fixing shaft, wherein the fixing rod is rotatably connected to the fixing shaft and contacts the first connecting member. in, The first connecting member, the gear set, and the second connecting member are positioned along the fixed axis. Furthermore, the first connecting member is movably mounted on the fixed shaft, such that rotation of the fixed rod toward the second orientation pushes the first connecting member toward the second connecting member along the fixed shaft, thereby causing the first connecting member and the second connecting member to be rotatably connected to the gear set.

15. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 13, further comprising: A first spring is inserted between the first connecting member and the gear set; as well as A second spring is inserted between the second connecting member and the gear set. The wheeled luggage compartment is configured such that rotation of the fixing rod toward the first orientation causes the first spring to push the first connecting member away from the gear set and disengage it from the gear set, thereby disconnecting the first steering rod from the gear set. The rotation of the fixed rod toward the first orientation also enables the second spring to push the second connecting member away from the gear set and disengage from the rotational connection with the gear set, thereby disengaging the second steering rod from the gear set.

16. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 13, wherein, The first connecting member is configured to be detachably rotatably connected to the gear set when the fixing rod is in the second orientation, wherein the wheeled luggage item further includes a torque release spring configured to apply a force to the gear set and the first connecting member when the fixing rod is in the second orientation, the force being sufficient to maintain the rotational connection between the first connecting member and the gear set when the torque applied to the first steering rod is below a predetermined level, and wherein the first connecting member and the gear set are configured such that the first connecting member can disengage from the gear set in response to the force of the torque release spring in overcoming a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined level applied to the first steering rod.

17. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 13, wherein, When the fixing rod is in the second orientation, the second connecting member is configured to be detachably rotatably connected to the gear set. The wheeled luggage also includes a torque release spring configured to apply a force to the second connecting member and the gear set when the fixing rod is in the first orientation. When the torque applied to the second steering rod is below a predetermined level, the force is sufficient to maintain the rotatable connection between the second connecting member and the gear set. Furthermore, the second connecting member and the gear set are configured such that the second connecting member can disengage from the gear set in rotation in response to the application of a torque equal to or greater than the predetermined level to the second steering rod, overcoming the force of the torque release spring.

18. A wheeled suitcase item, comprising: The base of the internal chamber is defined; A rotatable wheel is rotatably connected to the base so as to be movable between a stowed position and an unfolded position; A first steering rod rotatably connected to the base; A second steering rod rotatably connected to the base; A gear set operably connected to the first steering rod and the second steering rod; A torque transmission member operably connected to the gear set, such that simultaneous rotation of the first steering rod in one of a first rotational direction and a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, and simultaneous rotation of the second steering rod in the other of the first and second rotational directions, causes the torque transmission member to rotate in the associated torque direction. as well as A first steering cable and a second steering cable are operatively connected to the torque transmission member and the steerable wheel, such that when the steerable wheel is in the deployed position, rotation of the torque transmission member in the associated torque direction causes the steerable wheel to rotate in the associated direction.

19. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 18, wherein, The internal chamber is divided into a first part and a second part opposite to and physically separated from the first part, and wherein the wheeled luggage includes: Another wheel, rotatably coupled to the base, is movable between a retracted position within the second portion of the internal cavity and an extended position outside the second portion of the internal cavity; and An in-wheel motor, operably connected to the other wheel, is provided to drive the rotation of the other wheel during operation of the wheeled luggage item in the transport mode of the wheeled luggage item.

20. The wheeled luggage item according to claim 18, wherein, The gear set includes: A first bevel gear, rotatably connected to the base, and configured to be rotatably connected to the first steering rod; A second bevel gear, rotatably connected to the base and configured to rotatably connect to the second steering rod; and A pinion, rotatably connected to the base and located between the first bevel gear and the second bevel gear, The torque transmission component is rotatably connected to the pinion. The pinion is configured to mesh with the first bevel gear and the second bevel gear such that rotation of the first steering rod in one of the first and second rotational directions and rotation of the second steering rod in the other of the first and second rotational directions cause the pinion and the torque transmission member to rotate in the associated torque direction.

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