Luggage case

Abstract

A luggage case (102) includes a first shell (116) and a second shell (118) and an open zipper assembly (128) selectively coupling the first shell (116) and the second shell (118). A first expansion zipper (130) is attached to the first housing (116) and a first side of the open zipper assembly (128). A second expansion zipper (132) is attached to the second housing (118) and a second side of the open zipper assembly (128). A first reinforcing structure is attached to and located between the first expansion zipper (130) and a first side of the open zipper assembly (128). A second reinforcement structure is attached to and located between the second expansion zipper (132) and a second side of the open zipper assembly (128).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to luggage cases, and more particularly to luggage cases having improved expandable zipper arrangements. Background Art

[0002] An important feature of some luggage cases is an expandable zipper and the expandability of the luggage case. An expandable zipper allows the luggage case to have more functionality because it can be converted from a first, unexpanded interior volume to a second, expanded interior volume that is larger than the unexpanded interior volume. Expansion zippers are known to be adjacent to one side of an opening zipper and allow the luggage case to expand on the corresponding side where the zipper is located. One problem with current expansion zippers is that many expansion zippers do not allow the luggage case to fully expand to accommodate the user's belongings, requiring the user to either obtain another luggage case or reduce the belongings to accommodate a typical expanded luggage case. In the case where existing luggage cases do allow for significant expansion, they typically require complex, expensive and / or heavy mechanisms to facilitate such expansion.

[0003] There is a need for an improved expansion zipper arrangement that is simple, strong, and inexpensive in construction and that allows the luggage case to fully expand to accommodate a greater volume of user items while maintaining structural integrity. Utility Model Content

[0004] A luggage case is disclosed. The luggage case may include a first shell having a first peripheral edge defining a first opening, and a second shell having a second peripheral edge defining a second opening, an opening zipper assembly selectively coupling the first and second peripheral edges of the first and second shells, a first expansion zipper attached to the first peripheral edge and a first side of the opening zipper assembly, a second expansion zipper attached to the second peripheral edge and a second side of the opening zipper assembly, a first reinforcement structure attached to and located between the first expansion zipper and the first side of the opening zipper, and a second reinforcement structure attached to and located between the second expansion zipper and the first side of the opening zipper.

[0005] Additionally, the first shell and the second shell may be made of a hard facing material.

[0006] Additionally or alternatively, the first and second reinforcement structures are first and second elongated duct structures, each of the first and second duct structures comprising an elongated member.

[0007] Additionally or alternatively, either or both of the first and second elongate members are made from wire, extruded plastic or fiberglass.

[0008] Additionally or alternatively, the duct structure may include a cover layer forming a channel to receive the elongate member.

[0009] Additionally or alternatively, each of said first and second reinforcement structures extends along said respective first and second peripheral edges.

[0010] Additionally or alternatively, each of the first and second reinforcement structures extends along the respective first and second housing openings.

[0011] Additionally or alternatively, each of the first and second reinforcement structures extends along the respective first and second expansion zippers.

[0012] Additionally or alternatively, the elongate member is a single member forming a loop.

[0013] Additionally or alternatively, the elongated member is a plurality of individual members attached together. Additionally, adjacent ends of each individual member are fixed together by a connecting member.

[0014] Additionally or alternatively, each expansion zipper defines an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration, the expanded configuration having an expanded width defined by the gusset members, wherein in the expanded configuration, each expansion zipper has a greater width than the unexpanded configuration and further separates the connected first and second shells. Additionally or alternatively, the expanded widths of the respective gusset members of the first and second expansion zippers are the same. Alternatively, the expanded widths of the respective gusset members of the first and second expansion zippers are different.

[0015] Additionally or alternatively, each expansion zipper has first and second opposing and engageable zipper tapes and zipper teeth, and wherein the respective gusset member is attached between the first and second zipper tapes. Additionally, at least one gusset member is attached below or beneath the first and second opposing zipper tapes.

[0016] Additionally or alternatively, each of said respective gusset members is attached to said reinforcement structure along one edge. Additionally, each of said respective gusset members is attached to said opening zipper member along one edge.

[0017] Additionally or alternatively, opposing edges of each of the respective gusset members are coupled to the respective expansion zipper or a rim of the luggage case.

[0018] Additionally or alternatively, at least one hinge connects the first shell to the second shell to allow the shells to pivot relative to each other along an opening edge when the opening is zipped open.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively, the first and / or second expansion zipper has an expanded width between the expanded and unexpanded configurations of the first or second housing, the expanded width comprising about 1 inch to about 4 inches.

[0020] Additionally or alternatively, a towing handle may be attached to one of the first or second housings. Additionally or alternatively, a carrying handle may be attached to one of the first or second housings. Additionally or alternatively, at least one wheel assembly may be attached to one of the first or second housings at a lower corner region.

[0021] Additional embodiments and / or features are set forth in part in the following description and will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the specification, or may be learned by practicing the disclosed subject matter. A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present disclosure may be achieved by reference to the remainder of the specification and the accompanying drawings that form a part of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that each of the various aspects and features of the present disclosure may be advantageously used alone in some cases, or in combination with other aspects and features of the present disclosure in other cases. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] The description will be more fully understood with reference to the following drawings, wherein components are not drawn to scale, which present various examples of the present disclosure and should not be construed as a complete recitation of the scope of the present disclosure, and which are characterized by:

[0023] Figure 1A An example luggage case implementing the present invention is shown in an unexpanded configuration;

[0024] Figure 1B Shown in the expanded position Figure 1A suitcases;

[0025] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1A The enlarged area shown in 2-2;

[0026] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1A A cross-sectional view taken along line 3-3 of ;

[0027] Figure 4 It is along Figure 1B A cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of ; and

[0028] Figure 5A and Figure 5B is an example of an elongated member that reinforces the structure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The improved expansion zipper arrangement described herein includes two expansion zipper assemblies, positioned on opposite sides of an adjacent main zipper assembly or an opening zipper assembly, with the opening zipper assembly disposed or sandwiched therebetween, and allowing expansion of a luggage case by using one or both of the expansion zipper assemblies. Each expansion zipper assembly may include at least one reinforcement structure to support the expansion zipper assembly when in an expanded configuration and an unexpanded configuration. In the expanded position of one expansion zipper assembly unzipped, each reinforcement structure may reduce the droop or deflection of an edge (and bottom panel) of a housing to which it is most closely positioned (e.g., a support surface disposed closest to the luggage case). In the event that both expansion zipper assemblies are expanded, each reinforcement structure acts to reduce the droop or deflection of a corresponding edge (and bottom panel) of the housing, and secondarily supports the other edge (and bottom panel) of the other housing.

[0030] The improved expansion zipper arrangement described herein may be applicable to many different types of luggage items, including but not limited to hard-sided luggage, soft-sided luggage, hybrid luggage, duffel bags, briefcases, and other types of luggage. The improved expansion zipper arrangement is described herein by way of example only with respect to a hard-sided luggage case having a first shell and a second shell 118, however, the present invention may be particularly suitable and advantageous for use on such a hard-sided luggage case.

[0031] Figure 1A 1 is an isometric view of a luggage item in a closed configuration according to some examples of the present disclosure. A luggage item 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure comprises a luggage case 102 formed by a plurality of walls or panels, and the walls or panels define an internal compartment and a storage volume for carrying user items. As shown, the luggage item 100 comprises a front panel 104 relative to a rear panel 106, a top panel 108 relative to a bottom panel 110, and a left panel 112 relative to a right panel 114, and the panels jointly define an external structure of a pair of relative shells 116, 118 and the luggage case 102. As shown, a plurality of wheel assemblies 120 can engage a support surface 121, and can be a caster-type wheel assembly, which can be connected to at least the bottom panel 110, for example, at a lower corner area 122.

[0032] The luggage item 100 may also include one or more carry handles 124, typically one on one side (e.g., 114, not shown) and another (124) on the top panel 108 of the luggage item 100. The luggage item 100 may also include an extendable or retractable hauling handle 126 attached to at least one panel of the luggage case 102 (e.g., attached to the back panel 106).

[0033] Continue to refer Figure 1A, the luggage case 102 in this example includes a first shell 116 defining a first peripheral edge or rim 117, which defines a first shell opening, and a second shell 118 having a second peripheral edge 119, which defines a second shell opening. The respective first and second peripheral edges 117 and 119 of each shell are secured by an opening zipper assembly 128. The opening zipper assembly 128 allows the luggage case to be opened so that the first shell 116 and the second shell 118 are pivoted away from each other to allow access to the interior compartment of the luggage case 102. The opening zipper assembly 128 (e.g., a zipper structure) extends across at least the top panel 108, the left panel 112, and the bottom panel 110. The opening zipper assembly 128 may continue along a portion of the right panel, and a hinge structure 134 may be formed, for example, on the right panel 114, so that when the opening zipper assembly 128 is unzipped, the respective peripheral edges or rims 117, 119 of each of the two halves (shells 116, 118) of the luggage case 102 remain connected by the hinge 134, and the shells 116, 118 rotate apart about the hinge 134 to access the interior volume of the luggage case 102. The shells 116, 118 may define an inner surface and an outer surface, and may be formed of a material used to construct hard-sided or hard luggage cases (e.g., a plastic material such as polypropylene, polyurethane, self-reinforced polypropylene, or other materials).

[0034] Figure 1BThe opening zipper assembly 128 is shown in a closed configuration, and each of the first expansion zipper assembly 130 and the second expansion zipper assembly 132 is in an expanded configuration. The first expansion zipper assembly 130 is positioned between the opening zipper assembly 128 and the first shell 116. In the expanded configuration, the first expansion zipper assembly 130 effectively increases the interior volume of the first shell 116 by allowing the first shell 116 and the second shell 118 to be spaced further apart when remaining coupled together than when in the unexpanded configuration. The distance that the first shell 116 and the second shell 118 can be spaced apart in the expanded configuration can be defined by the effective expanded width of the first expansion gusset 136. The first expansion zipper assembly 130 defines a first expansion zone on the luggage case 102. The second expansion zipper assembly 132 is positioned between the opening zipper assembly 128 and the second shell 118. In the expanded configuration, the second expansion zipper assembly 130 effectively increases the interior volume of the second shell 118 by allowing the first shell 116 and the second shell 118 to be spaced further apart when remaining coupled together than when in the unexpanded configuration. The distance that the first shell 116 and the second shell 118 can be spaced apart in the expanded configuration can be an amount defined by the effective width of the second expansion gusset 138. The second expansion zipper assembly 132 defines a first expansion zone on the luggage case 102. The effective widths of the first expansion gusset 136 and the second expansion gusset 138 can be the same, wherein each expansion zipper assembly can increase the interior volume of the corresponding shell by the same amount. The effective widths of the first gusset 136 and the second gusset 138 can be different from each other, and can therefore increase the interior volume of the corresponding shell by different amounts. The hinge 134 is shown extending along the length of the opening zipper assembly 128. The hinge 134 can be fixed between the opening zipper assembly 128 and each adjacent reinforcement assembly described below.

[0035] Figure 2 and Figure 3 It shows that Figure 1AA partially enlarged view of an example of an opening zipper assembly 128 and adjacent expansion zipper assemblies 130 and 132 shown. The opening zipper assembly 128 may include a first opening zipper member 140 and a second opening zipper member 142. The first opening zipper member 140 and the second opening zipper member 142 may have the same or similar structure and are described herein using common reference numerals of common structures. Each of the first opening zipper member 140 and the second opening zipper member 142 may include an elongated zipper tape 144 having a closing member 146 extending along an opposing edge portion 148. The closing member 146 may include zipper teeth or zipper coils, and the closing member may be hidden or exposed along the edge 148 of the zipper tape 144. The closing member 146 may be attached and separated by one or more zipper sliders 150. Each of the other opposing edge portions 152 of each zipper tape 144 may be coupled to a corresponding expansion zipper assembly 130, 132. The first expansion zipper component 130 is on one side of and adjacent to the first opening zipper member 140 , and the second expansion zipper component 132 is on an opposite side of and adjacent to the second opening zipper member 142 .

[0036] refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , showing the closed or unexpanded configuration ( Figure 3 ) and in the open or expanded configuration ( Figure 4) of the present invention. In the expanded configuration (regardless of whether only one expansion zipper is expanded or both expansion zippers are expanded), each of the first and second expansion zipper components has a greater width than in the unexpanded configuration, allowing the connected first and second shells to be spaced further away from each other. Each of the first expansion zipper component 130 and the second expansion zipper component 132 can have the same or similar structure. Each of the first expansion zipper component 130 and the second expansion zipper component 132 can include a first expansion zipper member 156 and a second expansion zipper member 158. Each of the first expansion zipper member 156 and the second expansion zipper member 158 can include an elongated zipper tape 164 having a closing member 166 extending along one opposing edge region 168. The closing member 166 can include zipper teeth or zipper coils, and the closing member 166 can be hidden (e.g., attached along the lower edge of the zipper tape) or exposed (e.g., attached along the upper edge of the zipper tape), or both hidden and exposed (e.g., double zipper) along the edge region of the zipper tape 164. Another edge region 170 of the zipper tape 164 of the first expansion zipper member 156 can be coupled to the edge 117, 119 of the respective luggage case shells 116, 118. The edge region 172 of the zipper tape 164 of the second expansion zipper member 158 can be coupled to the opening zipper assembly 128. In one example, the edge region 172 can be part of a multi-layer structure attached to the opening zipper assembly 128 by stitching 184.

[0037] Also refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the respective gusset members 136, 138 of each expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 can have the same or similar structures and connections, and can be described herein with respect to one gusset member 136, which can be applied to the other gusset members 138 unless otherwise specified. The gusset members 136 can include opposing edge regions 178 and 180. The edge region 178 can be coupled between the first expansion zipper member 156 and the second expansion zipper member 158, and can collapse when the respective expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 is in a closed or unstretched configuration, and can expand to the full effective width of the gusset member 136 when the respective expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 is in an open or stretched configuration. In one example, the gusset member 136 can be coupled to the edge region 170 of the zipper tape 164 and the edges 117, 119 of the respective housings 116, 118 by a row of stitching 174. Alternatively, the gusset members 136 may be coupled to the edge regions 170 of the zipper tapes 164 via rows of stitching 176 , which are then attached to the edges 117 , 119 of the respective shells 116 , 118 via rows of stitching 174 .

[0038] The opposing edge regions 180 of the gusset members 136 of each expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 can be coupled to the edge regions 172 of the corresponding expansion zipper member 158. As described above, the edge regions 172 of the zipper tapes 164 of the first expansion zipper member 156 and / or the second expansion zipper member 158 can be coupled to the opening zipper assembly 128. In one example, the edge regions 172 of each expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 can be portions of a multi-layer structure that are each attached along opposing sides of the opening zipper assembly 128 by stitching.

[0039] refer to Figure 4 In the fully expanded configuration, the fully expanded gusset members 136 of each expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 can be sized to allow for approximately 1 inch of expansion of each expansion zipper assembly 130, 132, approximately 4 inches of expansion of each expansion zipper assembly 130, 132, or an amount of expansion therebetween. In one example, the amount of expansion can be measured by the difference in spacing between the first peripheral edge 117 of the first shell 116 and the second peripheral edge 119 of the second shell 118 when in the unexpanded configuration and the expanded configuration. In this example, when the expansion zipper assemblies 130, 132 are in the unexpanded configuration, the spacing between the first peripheral edge 117 and the second peripheral edge 119 can be approximately 0.5 inches to approximately 2 inches. In another example, the amount of expansion is measured by the difference in spacing between the zipper teeth of the respective expansion zipper assemblies 130, 132 between the unexpanded configuration and the expanded configuration. In this example, when each expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 is in the unexpanded configuration, the spacing between the corresponding zipper teeth is minimized or close to zero inches because the zipper teeth are engaged. The fully expanded width in the examples provided can be greater or less than these examples depending on the amount of expansion desired in the luggage. The expansion of each expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 can be the same as each other, or can be different from each other. In one example, the amount of expansion is the same for each expansion zipper assembly 130, 132, and each gusset member 136 in each corresponding expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 can define the same expansion dimension, such as width. In examples where the amount of expansion of each expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 is different, each gusset member 136 in each corresponding expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 can define different expansion dimensions, such as different width dimensions. For example, the gusset member 136 of the expansion zipper assembly 130 can be 1 inch, and the gusset member 136 of the expansion zipper assembly 130 can be 4 inches. The amount of expansion of each expansion zipper assembly can be less than 1 inch, or can be greater than 4 inches.

[0040] In one example, the volume of the unexpanded luggage case 102 can be increased by a first volume by opening the first expansion zipper assembly 130 (first expansion zone). The volume of the luggage case can be further increased by opening the second expansion zipper assembly 132 (second expansion zone). In one example, the carry-on luggage case has unexpanded interior dimensions of 19 inches long or high by 14 inches wide by 10 inches deep, and each expansion zipper assembly produces an expansion of the depth dimension of 1.5 inches. The unexpanded volume of the luggage case is therefore 2660 cubic inches. The unexpanded volume of the luggage case is increased by approximately 15% to 3059 cubic inches by expanding the first expansion zipper assembly 130 (which increases the depth by 1.5 inches). Expanding or opening the second expansion zipper assembly 132 incrementally increases the depth by an additional 1.5 inches, increasing the total volume of the luggage case to 3458 cubic inches, an incremental increase of approximately 15% in volume over the unexpanded volume, and a total increase of 30% over the unexpanded volume. The second expansion zipper assembly 132 expands by approximately 13% more volume than the first expansion volume. The reinforcement structure 190 described herein facilitates improved luggage case expansion by reducing sagging or deflection of the expanded luggage case portion during expansion.

[0041] Continue to refer to Figure 1. Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 , each expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 may also include a reinforcement structure 190 positioned between the expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 and the opening zipper assembly 128. The reinforcement structure 190 may extend along at least a portion of the length of the opening zipper assembly 128 and the corresponding expansion zipper assembly. In another example, the reinforcement structure 190 may extend along the entire length of the opening zipper and the corresponding expansion zipper assembly. In one example, the reinforcement structure 190 may surround the luggage case and form a ring. The ring may be fully surrounded or partially surrounded, such as the reinforcement structure 190 extending at least 75% of the periphery of its connecting edge. In one example, each reinforcement structure 190 may extend along the peripheral edge 117, 119 of one of the luggage case shells 116, 118 and be spaced apart from the peripheral edge. The size or width of the interval may be defined by the expansion zipper assembly 128 and its expanded or unexpanded configuration located between the reinforcement structure 190 and the adjacent peripheral edges 117, 119 of the corresponding luggage case shells 116, 118. In one example, the width or size of the gap may be about 0.5 inches to about 4 inches, or more or less.

[0042] The first reinforcement structure 190 may be positioned between the first expansion zipper assembly 130 and the opening zipper assembly 128 , and the second reinforcement structure 190 may be positioned between the second expansion zipper assembly 130 and the opening zipper assembly 128 .

[0043] Each reinforcement structure 190 can be defined by a duct structure 194. The duct structure 194 can include an elongated member 198 positioned in an internal channel 202 formed by a cover layer 206. The elongated member 198 can be relatively rigid but elastically flexible. The elongated member 198 can be made of relatively thin materials, such as wire, (e.g., spring steel), extruded plastic or fiberglass. In some examples, the elongated member 198 can have a circular cross-section along its length, an oval cross-section, a linear cross-section, a teardrop cross-section, or a cross-section of variable shape. The steel wire in the elongated member 198 can have a main cross-sectional size of 2.4 to 3.2 mm (commonly 3.0 mm). The plastic or fiberglass in the elongated member 198 can have a main cross-sectional size of 2.0 to 4.0 mm (where 3.5 mm is used). The main cross-sectional diameter can be larger or smaller according to the desired physical properties and the material used.

[0044] refer to Figure 5A In one example, the elongated member 198 within the cover layer 206 can be a single member of material (e.g., steel wire) that forms a loop. The single member of material can be relatively flexible, for example to allow bending around a relatively large radius, such as formed by the corner area 123 defined by the transition from the top panel 108 or the bottom panel 110 of the luggage case 102 to the side panels 110, 112 of the luggage case 102 (see Figure 1B ).

[0045] refer to Figure 5B In another example, the elongated member 198 within the cover layer 206 can be made of more than one member 214 attached together. In one such example, there can be four individual members 214, with the ends of adjacent individual members 214 secured together by connecting members 216. In another example, the length of each individual member 214 matches the wall or panel forming the peripheral edge 217, 219 of the corresponding first luggage shell 116 or second luggage shell 118, and the connecting member 216 is a corner connecting member to attach adjacent individual members 214 at the corner area 123 of the peripheral edge 117, 119. Figure 1B and Figure 5A As described above, the corner regions 123 may be formed by transitions from the top panel 108 or the bottom panel 110 of the luggage case 102 to the side panels 110, 112 of the luggage case 102 (see Figure 1B). In one example, the corner connecting member 214 has a curved shape so that the individual members 214 that join the corner member 216 extend at an angle so that each individual member 214 extends along a portion of the corresponding peripheral edge 117, 119 of the luggage case. The corner member 216 can be bent into an "L" shape with an angle as defined above between the first portion 218 and the second portion 220. An example of an angle is approximately 90 degrees. In order to couple the individual members 214 together, each of the first portion 218 and the second portion 220 can define a sleeve that forms a groove to receive the end of the individual member 214. The ends of the individual members 214 can be attached to the corner member 214 by a friction fit, an adhesive, a clamp, a suture, or a mechanical fastener.

[0046] The cover layer 206 can be made of a flexible material. The flexible material can be folded over or on it to define an internal channel 202 for receiving the elongated member 198. The overlapping ends of the cover layer 206 can be sewn or otherwise fastened together once folded. In some examples, the overlapping ends can be sewn, sewed, or fastened together with other layers (e.g., gusset members 136, hinge members 134, zipper tape 164, or other layers). The channel 202 can be sized to tightly receive and engage the elongated member 198 along its length. The cover layer 206 can frictionally secure the elongated member 198 in place within the cover layer 206. The cover layer 206 can be made of the same material that forms the gusset member 236, and in some examples, the cover layer 206 and the gusset member 136 can be separate members of material, and in other examples, can be an integral single member of material. In other examples, the cover layer 206 may be an extruded material defining an interior passage 202 for receiving the elongated member 198, the extruded material defining flanges to allow it to be sewn together with other layers in a sandwich or laminate structure as defined below.

[0047] Also refer to Figure 3 and Figure 4, one edge portion 170 of the first expansion zipper assembly 130 can be secured along the first edge 117 of the first shell 116. The second expansion zipper assembly 132 can have the same or similar structure as the first expansion zipper 130 described herein. In one example, the zipper tape 164 of the first expansion zipper assembly 130 and one opposing edge portion 178 of the gusset member 136 form a layer of a thin layer or sandwich structure and are secured to the edge 117 of the first shell 116 by stitching. Alternatively, the portion of the gusset member 136 within the edge portion 178 can be attached to the zipper tape 164, optionally along the row of stitching 176, and the edge portion 178 may or may not be secured to the edge 117 of the shell 116 with the edge portion 170 of the zipper tape 164. An optional S-shaped edge guard or trim 175 may be included on the rim 117 of the first housing 116 and included in a thin layer or sandwich structure sewn together with the rim 117 to provide protection and / or a finished appearance.

[0048] Continue to refer Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the opposing edge portions 172 of the first expansion zipper component 130 can be coupled to the first reinforcement structure 190 and secured to the adjacent edge 152 of the opening zipper component 128. In one example, the expansion zipper tape 130, the opposing edge regions 180 of the gusset member 136, the first reinforcement structure 190, and the edge regions 152 of the first opening zipper tape 128 are aligned together to form a thin layer or sandwich structure by stitching 184. In another example, the opposing edge regions 180 of the gusset member 136 can be secured to the expansion zipper tape 164 alone and not together with other layers. The thin layer or sandwich structure may include other layers not defined herein or shown in the drawings.

[0049] In the example shown, the first reinforcement structure 190 can include edges 210 of a covering layer 206 that overlap and form an interior channel 202 that receives the elongated member 198. The edges 210 of the covering layer 206 can define layers in a thin layer or sandwich structure that are attached together by stitching 184 in one example. As described above, in another example, the covering layer 206 of the duct 194 is formed of an extruded plastic material and defines an attachment flange that can be included in the thin layer or sandwich structure and secured by stitching between the first expansion zipper assembly 130 and the opening zipper assembly 128 (instead of the edges 210 of the covering layer 206). Reference Figure 4 Each of the thin layers of layers sewn together by stitching 184 may be covered by a decorative layer 244 to provide some protection, as well as a final appearance.

[0050] like Figure 4As shown in dashed lines in , the presence of hinge 134 can connect the first shell to the second shell to allow the shells to pivot relative to each other along the opening edge when the opening zipper assembly 128 is opened. In another example, the hinge 134 can define opposite edge regions 212, each of which is coupled to a corresponding opposite edge region of the opening zipper assembly 128, and can extend only above the opening zipper assembly. In another example, each edge region 212 of the hinge 134 can be positioned between the opening zipper assembly 128 and the reinforcement structure 190 as part of a thin layer of a layer and fixed there by stitches, such as stitches 184. The hinge 134 in this example can be made of a non-extending material or, in another example, made of an elastic material, and can extend above the opening zipper assembly 128. The hinge 134 may not extend above the reinforcement structure 190 or the expansion zipper assembly 130, 132. In this way, the expansion function of either the first or second expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 is not interfered with. In another example, the hinge 134 can extend over the reinforcement structure 190 and be coupled to the expansion zipper assemblies 130, 132, respectively, along either edge region 212, or respectively coupled to the reinforcement structure 190. In another example, the edge region 212 of the edge region can be directly or indirectly attached to the peripheral edge 117, 119 of the shell 116, 118 and extend over all or part of the opening zipper assembly and the first and second expansion zipper assemblies 130, 132.

[0051] Reference now Figure 1A , Figure 1B , Figure 3 and Figure 4, where in this example, the luggage case 102 is shown as being placed upright with the wheel assembly 120 engaging the support surface 121. In this example, the first reinforcement structure 190 can provide structural support Z to the first peripheral edge or rim 117 and / or a portion of the adjacent or adjacent portion of the bottom panel 110, and / or the first expansion zipper assembly 130, and / or the opening zipper assembly to reduce and / or limit the downward deflection Y of some or all of these components toward the support surface 121 (see Figure 1). The deflection of some or all of these components is due to the weight of the contents of the luggage case in either the unexpanded or expanded configuration. Similarly, the second reinforcement structure 190 can provide structural support Z to the second peripheral edge or rim 119 and / or a portion of the adjacent or adjacent portion of the bottom panel 110, and / or the second expansion zipper assembly 132, and / or the opening zipper assembly 128 to reduce and / or limit the downward deflection Y of some or all of these components toward the support surface 121 (see Figure 1). The deflection of some or all of these components is due to the weight of the contents of the luggage case in either the unexpanded or expanded configuration. Structural support is generated by the extension of the reinforcing structure 190 around at least a portion of the outer peripheral edge or edge 117, 119 of each of the shells 116, 118. In the case where the reinforcing structure 190 is in the form of a ring (whether made of a single member or a plurality of members connected together) and extends around the entirety of the outer peripheral edge 117, 119 of the corresponding luggage case shell 116, 118, the strength of the duct 194 generates structural support. The elongated member 198 can be the main source of the supporting structure. The elongated member 198 is received in the cover layer 206 to form the duct 194, which is connected to the opening zipper assembly 128 on one side and to the corresponding expansion zipper assembly 130, 132 on the other side to connect the reinforcing structure 190 to the corresponding shell 116, 118.

[0052] In one example, the support provided to each peripheral edge 117, 119 and the adjacent portion of the bottom panel 114 can be greater in the unexpanded position than in the expanded position. Figure 3 As shown, this may be because in the unexpanded position, the reinforcement structure 190 is more closely positioned adjacent its respective peripheral edges 117, 119 separated only by the width of the respective closed expansion zippers 130, 132. Figure 4132 are both opened / expanded, the respective structures 190 may be further away from the respective peripheral edges 117, 119. In this expanded configuration, the reinforcing structure 190 still provides support to reduce or limit deflection of the peripheral edges or edges 117, 119 due to loads caused by the contents of the luggage case. The reinforcing structure 190 coupled to the first expansion zipper assembly 130 primarily provides support to the first edge 117 and bottom panel 110 of the first shell 116. Some additional support may also be provided to the second edge 119 and bottom panel 114 of the second shell 118. Similarly, the reinforcing structure 190 coupled to the second expansion zipper assembly 132 primarily provides support to the second edge 119 and bottom panel 110 of the second shell 118. Some additional support may also be provided to the first edge 117 and bottom panel 110 of the first shell 116. Each reinforcement structure 190 provides structural support at respective opposite edges (e.g., see arrows 220, 240) of the opening zipper assembly 128 because of the structural strength of the duct 194, and in one example, particularly because the elongated member 198 is relatively stiff. When the elongated member 198 is included in the cover layer 206, the duct 194 reduces the deflection of the edges 117, 119 of the shells 116, 118 and the bottom panel 110 under the load of the contents of the luggage case 102. In one example, where the reinforcement structure 190 is a duct 194 including the elongated member 198 received in the cover layer 206 and forming a loop attached along the respective edges of the opening zipper assembly 130, the structure can support the load of the luggage case contents and can significantly reduce the deflection of the peripheral edges or edges 117, 119 of the shells 116, 118 and the bottom panel 110.

[0053] All relative and directional references (including: up, down, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, top, bottom, side, above, below, front, middle, rear, vertical, horizontal, etc.) are given by way of example to help the reader understand the specific examples described herein. Unless specifically set forth in the claims, they should not be construed as requirements or limitations, particularly with respect to position, orientation, or use. Connection references (e.g., attachment, connection, connection, coupling, etc.) should be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between the connection of elements and relative movement between elements. Thus, unless specifically set forth in the claims, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship to each other.

[0054] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the examples disclosed herein teach by way of example and not by way of limitation. Therefore, what is contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not restrictive. The following claims are intended to cover all general and specific features described herein, as well as all statements of the scope of the present methods and systems, which as a matter of language may be considered to fall therein.

Claims

1. A luggage case (102), comprising: a first housing (116) having a first peripheral edge (117) defining a first opening, and a second housing (118) having a second peripheral edge (119) defining a second opening; An opening zipper assembly (128) selectively connecting the first peripheral edge (117) and the second peripheral edge (119) of the first shell (116) and the second shell (118); characterized in that the luggage case (102) also includes: a first expansion zipper (130) attached to the first peripheral edge (117) and a first side of the opening zipper assembly (128), a second expansion zipper (132) attached to the second peripheral edge (119) and a second side of the opening zipper assembly (128), a first reinforcement structure attached to and between the first expansion zipper (130) and the first side of the opening zipper assembly (128), and A second reinforcement structure is attached to and located between the second expansion zipper (132) and the first side of the opening zipper assembly (128).

2. The luggage case (102) of claim 1, wherein the first shell (116) and the second shell (118) are made of a hard-surface material.

3. The luggage case (102) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first and second reinforcement structures are first and second elongated duct structures, each of the first and second elongated duct structures comprising an elongated member (198).

4. The luggage case (102) of claim 3, wherein either or both of the elongated members (198) are made of wire, extruded plastic, or fiberglass.

5. The luggage case (102) of claim 3, wherein the elongated duct structure includes a cover layer (206) forming a channel (202) to receive the elongated member (198).

6. The luggage case (102) of claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the first and second reinforcement structures extends along a respective first peripheral edge (117) and second peripheral edge (119).

7. The luggage case (102) of claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the first and second reinforcement structures extends along respective first and second shell openings.

8. The luggage case (102) of claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the first and second reinforcement structures extends along a respective first expansion zipper (130) and second expansion zipper (132).

9. The luggage case (102) of claim 3, wherein the elongated member (198) is a single member forming a loop.

10. The luggage case (102) of claim 3, wherein the elongated member (198) is a plurality of separate members (214) attached together.

11. The luggage case (102) of claim 10, wherein adjacent ends of each individual member (214) are secured together by a connecting member (216).

12. The luggage case (102) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: Each expansion zipper defines an unexpanded configuration and an expanded configuration, the expanded configuration having an expanded width defined by the gusset members, In the expanded configuration, each of the expanded zippers has a greater width than in the unexpanded configuration and further separates the connected first shell (116) and second shell (118).

13. The luggage case (102) of claim 12, wherein the expansion widths of the respective gusset members (136) of the first expansion zipper (130) and the second expansion zipper (132) are the same.

14. The luggage case (102) of claim 12, wherein the expansion widths of the respective gusset members (136) of the first expansion zipper (130) and the second expansion zipper (132) are different.

15. The luggage case (102) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: Each expansion zipper has first and second opposed and engageable zipper tapes (164) and zipper teeth, and Wherein, a respective gusset member (136) is attached between said first and second zipper tapes (164).

16. The luggage case (102) of claim 15, wherein at least one gusset member (136) is attached beneath the first and second opposing zipper tapes (164).

17. The luggage case (102) of claim 15, wherein: Each of the respective gusset members (136) is attached to the reinforcement structure along one edge.

18. The luggage case (102) of claim 17, wherein: Each of the respective gusset members (136) is attached to the opening zipper assembly (128) along one edge.

19. The luggage case (102) of claim 18, wherein: Opposing edges of each of the respective gusset members (136) are coupled to the respective expansion zipper or to a rim of the luggage case.

20. The luggage case (102) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: At least one hinge connects the first housing (116) to the second housing (118) to allow the housings to pivot relative to each other along an opening edge when the opening zipper assembly (128) is opened.

21. The luggage case (102) of claim 7, wherein: The first expansion zipper (130) and / or the second expansion zipper (132) have an expanded width between an expanded configuration and an unexpanded configuration of the first shell (116) and the second shell (118), the expanded width comprising approximately 1 to 4 inches.

22. The luggage case (102) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the luggage case (102) further comprises: a pulling handle (126) attached to one of the first housing (116) or the second housing (118); a carrying handle (124) attached to one of the first housing (116) or the second housing (118); At least one wheel assembly (120) is attached to one of the first housing (116) or the second housing (118) at a lower corner region (122).

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