Luggage case

Abstract

The luggage case includes a base portion including an extendable drag handle and a soft face portion coupled to the base portion and together defining an interior volume of the luggage case. The soft face portion includes two or more straps positioned on a rear side of the soft face portion in a spaced-apart configuration, and the soft face portion is configured to transition between a rolled-up configuration and a deployed configuration to change an interior volume of the luggage case. At least one of the more than two straps selectively engages the extendable drag handle when the extendable drag handle extends to couple the soft face to the extendable drag handle to selectively support the soft face.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present utility generally relates to adjustable luggage configured to adjust size and / or height. The present utility specifically relates to a roll-top luggage having a soft side and a rigid or semi-rigid base side. BACKGROUND

[0002] Existing luggage is generally hard-sided or soft-sided or a hybrid of the two. Hard-sided luggage, while providing reinforced protection for the bag, limits or is unable to change the storage capacity of the internal volume. As a result, hard-sided bags take up a significant amount of space even when not filled to their full capacity. Furthermore, hard-sided bags can allow contents to move within the container when not filled to their full capacity. Conversely, soft-sided bags can provide less protection and are generally difficult to move. For example, soft-sided bags must often be carried. Some soft-sided bags can include wheels, partial frames, or handle assemblies to make soft-sided bags easier to move, but can also allow contents to move within the container when not filled to their full capacity.

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

[0004] In one example of the disclosure, a luggage is disclosed. The luggage includes a base side including an extendable tow handle and a soft side coupled to the base side and together defining an internal volume of the luggage. The soft side includes two or more straps positioned on a rear side of the soft side in a spaced apart configuration and the soft side is configured to transition between a rolled configuration and an unrolled configuration thereby changing the internal volume of the luggage. At least one of the two or more straps selectively engages the extendable tow handle when the extendable tow handle is extended to couple the soft side to the extendable tow handle to selectively support the soft side.

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

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

[0007] In some examples, the luggage includes a closure assembly extending from the base side to the soft side and the internal volume is selectively accessible by the closure assembly in the rolled configuration and the unrolled configuration.

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

[0009] In some examples, the luggage includes two or more loop features extending from sides of the soft face to the base portion and engageable with the roll-up engagement features.

[0010] In some examples, the two or more roll-up engagement features are coupled with the loop features to retain the luggage in the roll-up configuration.

[0011] In some examples, the two or more loop features define a plurality of pairs of apertures and the two or more roll-up engagement features are coupled with the pairs of apertures to retain the luggage in the roll-up configuration.

[0012] In some examples, the two or more roll-up engagement features are coupled together to define a pull or carry handle.

[0013] In some examples, the strap defines a second pull or carry handle.

[0014] In some examples, the luggage is configurable into one or more roll-up configurations, each of the one or more roll-up configurations varying a capacity of the interior volume.

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

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

[0017] In some examples, the bottom portion and the rear base portion are coupled at an interface and the base portion is foldable about the interface.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0035] In one example, a luggage is disclosed. The luggage includes a base portion and a soft face portion coupled with the base portion and together defining an interior volume of the luggage, wherein the soft face portion is configured to transition between a rolled-up configuration and an unrolled configuration, thereby changing the interior volume of the luggage. The soft face portion includes a front panel including a closure assembly extending from the base portion to the soft face portion around a portion of the front panel. In the rolled-up configuration and the unrolled configuration, the interior volume is selectively accessible through the closure assembly.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0047] Figure 4E A front view of an example luggage in a fourth rolled-up configuration is shown.

[0048] Figure 4F A front view of an example luggage case is shown in a compact configuration in a bag.

[0049] Figure 5A A rear view of an example luggage case is shown. Figure 4A

[0050] Figure 5B A rear view of an example luggage case is shown. Figure 4D

[0051] Figure 5C A rear view of an example luggage case is shown. Figure 4E

[0052] Figure 6A A perspective view of an example compact configuration of a luggage case is shown. Figure 4F

[0053] Figure 6B An enlarged view of a wheel assembly shown. Figure 6A DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] The present application discloses a luggage case including a soft face portion and a base portion. The base portion can be a rigid or semi-rigid portion. The luggage case can be converted between two or more configurations to selectively change the size or capacity of an interior volume defined by the soft face portion and the base portion. The two or more configurations can also selectively change the exterior size or height of the luggage case. Accordingly, a luggage case that can be selectively arranged for various volumes is disclosed.

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

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

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

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

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

[0060] In use, the soft face can be transitioned between an unfolded configuration and a rolled configuration to selectively change the interior or exterior dimensions of the luggage. In some examples, the bottom can be foldable and the luggage can be arranged in a compact configuration for transport, storage, or placement within a second luggage. The various dimensional configurations can correspond to luggage dimensions for public transportation services or carriers, such as bus companies, airlines, or train companies. For example, in the context of an airline, the luggage can be configured with corresponding various dimensional configurations for oversized luggage, checked bags, carry-on bags, handbags, or under-seat bags or bags for placement in a second luggage.

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

[0062] The luggage 100 includes a soft face 130 and a base 120. The soft face 130 and the base 120 together define an interior volume 160 of the luggage 100 to carry or store items. As Figure 2 or Figure 3 shown, the interior volume 160 can be accessed from the top side 112 through a rolled top 132 or from the front side 104 via a closure assembly zipper 230, discussed more below.

[0063] As can be appreciated from the drawings, the luggage 100 has one or more rolled configurations as a result of rolling up or unfolding the luggage 100. For example, in Figure 1A the luggage 100 is in a rolled configuration 202. In Figure 1B the luggage 100 is in a second rolled configuration with a more compact configuration or reduced interior volume 160. Figures 4A-4E Additional configurations are shown and discussed more below. The luggage 100 is transitioned between an unfolded configuration 200 and one or more rolled configurations 202 to selectively access the interior volume 160 defined by the soft face 130 and the base 120. Figure 2 Figure 4A and Figure 5A

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

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

[0066] The soft face portion 130 can be coupled to, integral with, or extend from the base portion 120. The soft face portion 130 can be a flexible or semi-flexible portion of the luggage 100. The soft face portion 130 can define or be positioned at the top side 112 of the luggage 100 and can also be referred to as an upper portion. The soft face portion 130 includes a roll-up closure or roll-up top 132. For example, in the deployed configuration 200, the roll-up top 132 can be a fabric or other flexible portion that extends about the top side 112 of the luggage 100. As shown, the roll-up top 132 defines a roll-up top opening to provide access to the interior volume of the luggage 100. The roll-up top 132 is a flexible feature to fold or invert itself to close or open the opening 134. This configuration can provide a water-tight seal or closure of the interior volume 160. In some examples, the entire soft face portion 130 can be flexible or roll-up to assist in closing the opening 134. In some examples, the roll-up top 132 optionally includes a secondary closure mechanism 136 to selectively close the roll-up top opening. The secondary closure mechanism 136 can be a zipper, hook-and-loop fastener, snap feature, or the like. The secondary closure mechanism 136 can be positioned at or near the opening 134. For example, the secondary closure mechanism 136 can extend about a portion or the entire perimeter of the opening 134. Figure 2

[0067] ​When the rolled top 132 is rolled up, material from the rear side 106 of the luggage 100 can transition to the top side 112. Thus, material or features described as being positioned at the rear side 106 in one configuration can become the top side 112, and similarly, features at the top side 112 can transition to the front side 104, or be folded or wrapped into the rolled top 132.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0074] Reference is made to​Figure 2 、 4C and 4D, and continuing reference to Figure 1A To secure the luggage 100 in one or more rolled configurations, the luggage 100 can include corresponding or mating engagement features 148 and coupling features. The engagement features 148 can be fasteners, buckles, or hooks. The engagement features 148 can be coupled to or integral with the upper portion. For example, the engagement features 148 can be coupled to or extend from the rolled top 132. In one example, the engagement features 148 are positioned at the left side 108 and the right side 110 of the rolled top 132. In some examples, the engagement features 148 are positioned at or near the rolled top opening. By positioning the engagement features 148 at the sides (e.g., the left side 108 and the right side 110), the engagement features 148 can remain exposed whether the rolled top 132 is in the unfolded configuration 200 or the rolled configuration 202.

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

[0076] In operation or use, the rolled top 132 can be transitioned from the unfolded configuration 200 as shown in Figure 2 or from the rolled configuration 202 to a second rolled configuration, for example in Figure 1A and Figure 1BThe roll-up configuration 202 is shown. To secure the roll-up top 132 within the roll-up configuration 202, the roll-up top 132 can be folded or rolled up, exposing the engagement feature 148 (e.g., extending from the side of the suitcase 100). The roll-up top 132 can be rolled up, for example toward the bottom side 114, until the dimensions of the internal volume 160 correspond to the contents of the suitcase 100. In such examples, the soft face 130 can be rolled up in addition to the roll-up top 132. In some examples, the roll-up top 132 can be rolled up until the external dimensions of the suitcase 100 reach the desired volume or height. Once the desired dimensions of the suitcase 100 are reached, the engagement feature 148 can be engaged with the loop feature 190 to secure the roll-up top 132. Thus, the suitcase 100 can be arranged with the roll-up configuration 202. In some examples, the engagement feature 148 can be adjusted (e.g., via an adjustable strap) to fine-tune the dimensions of the suitcase 100 or compress the contents of the internal volume 160.

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

[0078] Whether the luggage 100 is in the rolled configuration 202 or the unfolded configuration 200, access to the interior volume 160 is provided by the closure assembly 230 extending from the base portion. For example, by positioning a portion of the closure assembly 230, such as the base 234 of the closure assembly 230, at or near the base portion 120 and opposite the rolled top portion 132 and the opening 134, the closure assembly 230 is accessible and can be selectively opened in the rolled configuration 202. The closure assembly 230 can also allow packing or removing contents from the interior volume 160 of the luggage 100 with the top side 112 facing up or the back side 106 facing down or on the ground, both.

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

[0080] Referring to Figure 4A and 5A , front and rear views of the luggage 100 in the unfolded configuration 200 are shown. As described herein, in the unfolded configuration 200, the rolled top portion 132 can be unfolded or extended to allow access to the interior volume 160. In one example, in the unfolded configuration 200, the height H of the luggage 100 is 82 cm, the width W is 40 cm, and the depth D is 25 cm.

[0081] As Figure 5AAs shown, the extendable drag handle 180 can extend from the cavity or pocket 188 at or near the base portion 120 and engage with the strap 138. For example, the drag handle 180 can be received by either or both of the first strap 140 or the second strap 142. The drag handle 180 and the base portion 120 (e.g., the rear base portion 122 and / or the bottom portion 124) can provide structural support or rigidity to the luggage 100. The support or rigidity can help keep the luggage 100 open for loading of items or contents. After the luggage 100 is loaded, the rolled top portion 132 can be selectively closed by the secondary closure mechanism 136.

[0082] Figure 4B A front view of an example rolled configuration 202 is shown. Figure 4B The rolled configuration 202 of the luggage 100 in FIG. 2 can correspond to a cargo or oversize shipment or large capacity arrangement of the luggage 100. In the large capacity configuration 208, the rolled top portion 132 can be rolled or folded enough to close the opening 134. In some examples, the rolled top portion 132 can include a secondary closure mechanism 136 to seal the opening 134. The secondary closure mechanism 136 can be a zipper, hook and loop fastener, clasp, or strap to selectively seal the rolled top portion 132 to close the opening 134. In the large capacity configuration 208, the engagement features 148 of the rolled top portion 132 can be coupled to define a carry handle.

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

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

[0085] refer to Figure 4D The image shows a front view of a suitcase 100 in a rolled-up configuration 202 with a limited carry-on configuration 212. Figure 5B A rear view of the carry-on configuration 212 is shown. In the carry-on configuration 212, the fixing feature 148 can be attached to either the second ring feature 190b or the third ring feature 190c. To define the carry-on configuration 212, additional portions of the rolled-up top 132 and the soft face 130 can be folded or rolled up. In some examples of the carry-on configuration 212, such as... Figure 5B As shown, the second strap 142 can be attached to the tow handle 180. In this configuration, the first strap 140 is not attached to the tow handle 180. Instead, the first strap 140 can be positioned on the top side 112 of the suitcase 100 and serve as a carrying handle. By selectively engaging the strap 138, the tow handle 180 can provide structural support proportional to the dimensions or height H of the internal volume 160 of the suitcase 100. Compared to the checked baggage configuration 210, the carry-on configuration 212 can have a reduced internal volume 160 or reduced external dimensions. In one example of the carry-on configuration 212, the suitcase 100 has a height H of 55 cm, a width W of 40 cm, and a depth D of 25 cm.

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

[0087] As can be appreciated from the figures, the closure assembly 230 is accessible in each of the unfolded configuration 200 and the rolled configuration 202. For example, as shown in Figure 4E In some examples, the rolled top 132 can be limited to folding or rolling to the bottom 124. Accordingly, contents in the interior volume 160 can be accessible through the closure assembly 230 in each of the rolled configuration 202 or the unfolded configuration 200.

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

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

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

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

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

[0093] The details shown herein are by way of example only for illustrative purposes in discussing the preferred embodiments of the present application and the reasons for providing these details are to provide a description that is deemed most useful and easy to understand in terms of the principles and conceptual aspects of the various embodiments of the present application. In this regard, the description is not intended to be more detail than is necessary to understand the principles of the present application in connection with the drawings and / or the examples that make clear how several forms of the present application can be put into practice by those skilled in the art.

[0094] As used in manner herein, the words "a" and "an" shall be understood to mean "one" or "at least one" or "one or more" unless otherwise indicated. As used herein, a singular term shall include a plural unless the context otherwise requires.

[0095] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words "comprise," "comprising," and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of "including, but not limited to." Words using the singular or plural number also include the plural and singular number, respectively. Additionally, the words "herein," "above," and "below" and words of similar import refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portion thereof unless otherwise indicated.

[0096] Of course, it should be understood that any of the examples, embodiments, or processes described herein can be combined with one or more of the other examples, embodiments, and / or processes, or separated into further embodiments and / or processes, without departing from the scope of the system, device, and method of this application.

[0097] Finally, the above discussion is meant to be illustrative only of the system of the present application and should not be construed as limiting the appended claims to any particular embodiment or group of embodiments. Thus, although the system of the present application has been described in detail with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should be appreciated that various modifications and substitutions can be made by those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the broader and intended spirit and scope of the system of the present application as set forth in the following claims. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative manner and are not a limitation on the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A luggage case (100) characterized by The luggage case (100) comprises: a base portion (120) comprising: an extendable tow handle (180); and a soft face portion (130) coupled to the base portion (120) and together defining an interior volume (160) of the luggage case (100), the soft face portion (130) comprising: two or more straps (138) positioned on a rear side (106) of the soft face portion (130) in a spaced apart configuration, and wherein the soft face portion (130) is configured to transition from a rolled configuration (202) to an unrolled configuration (200) thereby changing the interior volume (160) of the luggage case (100); wherein at least one of the two or more straps (138) selectively engages the extendable tow handle (180) when the extendable tow handle (180) is extended to couple the soft face portion (130) to the extendable tow handle (180) to selectively support the soft face portion (130).

2. The luggage case (100) of claim 1, wherein the luggage case (100) further comprises: a rolled top portion (132) having an opening (134) for selectively accessing the interior volume (160) of the luggage case (100), and wherein in the unrolled configuration (200), the opening (134) provides access to the interior volume (160).

3. The luggage case (100) of claim 2, wherein in the unrolled configuration (200), the opening (134) defined by the rolled top portion (132) is positioned at a top side (112) of the soft face portion (130).

4. The luggage case (100) of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the luggage case (100) further comprises: a closure assembly (230) extending from the base portion (120) to the soft face portion (130), and wherein in the rolled configuration (202) and the unrolled configuration (200), the interior volume (160) is selectively accessible through the closure assembly (230).

5. The luggage case (100) of claim 2 or 3, wherein the luggage case (100) further comprises: two or more rolled engagement features (148) positioned proximate the opening (134) to selectively close the opening (134) in the rolled configuration (202).

6. The luggage case (100) of claim 5, wherein the luggage case (100) further comprises: two or more loop features (190) extending from a side of the soft face portion (130) to the base portion (120) and engageable with the rolled engagement features (148), and wherein the two or more rolled engagement features (148) couple with the loop features (190) to retain the luggage case (100) in the rolled configuration (202).

7. The luggage case (100) of any of claims 1-3, wherein the strap constitutes a second pull or carry handle.

8. The luggage case (100) of any of claims 1-3, wherein the base portion (120) further comprises: a bottom portion (124), and a rear base portion (122) extending from the bottom portion (124), wherein: the bottom portion (124) and the rear base portion (122) are coupled at an interface (126), and the base portion (120) is foldable about the interface (126).

9. The luggage case (100) of claim 8, wherein the luggage case (100) further comprises: two or more wheel assemblies (170) coupled to the base portion (120).

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

11. The luggage case (100) of claim 8, wherein either or both of the bottom portion (124) or the rear base portion (122) is rigid or semi-rigid.

12. The luggage case (100) of claim 4, wherein: a front panel (116) is defined by the soft face portion (130), and the closure assembly (230) extends from the rolled top portion (132) to about the base portion (120) about a perimeter (118) of the front panel (116).

13. The luggage case (100) of claim 4, wherein: the closure assembly (230) is U-shaped and includes a base (234) extending across a portion of a width (W) of the luggage case (100), and the base (234) of the closure assembly (230) is positioned at or about the base portion (120) of the luggage case (100).

14. The luggage case (100) of any of claims 1-3, wherein the base portion (120) further comprises a tow handle pocket, and the extendable tow handle (180) is received in the tow handle pocket.

15. The luggage case (100) of any of claims 1-3, wherein: at least a first capacity of the interior volume (160) is defined when at least two of the two or more straps (138) are engaged with the extendable tow handle (180); at least a second capacity of the interior volume (160) is defined when none or one of the two or more straps (138) is engaged with the extendable tow handle (180); and the first capacity is greater than the second capacity.

Images