Luggage system with removable carrying bag and compression system

Abstract

The luggage system (102) may include an outer luggage body (110) having a first luggage body portion (112), at least a first anchor (118) fixed to the first luggage body portion, and a carry bag (230) which may be in the form of a backpack or other wearable bag. The carry bag may include a main body portion having at least one internal compartment and a first shoulder strap (236) connected to the main body portion. A first compression strap assembly (260) may be configured to engage the main body portion and the first anchor, and to tighten the main body portion toward the first anchor.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , , ,

[0005] ,

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 492,195, filed Mar. 24, 2023, and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Copyright Notice Part of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights.

Background Art

[0003] Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a luggage system having components designed to provide compression. <​​​​​​​​​By configuring the carrying bag to function as a compression device within the luggage, users can benefit from a dual use: as a carrying bag for everyday use when transporting personal belongings, and as a compression component for efficiently packing luggage. This gives users the option to free the carrying bag from its compression configuration and then use it in the same way they would normally use a tote bag, messenger bag, or backpack.

[0006] At least one other aspect of the invention disclosed herein includes the possibility that certain additional optional efficiencies can be achieved by using existing strap connection points on a carry bag, such as a backpack or shoulder bag, for an additional compression function. For example, a carry bag, including backpacks and shoulder bags, may include structural connections between upper and lower strap connection points, which are designed to withstand loads applied to the body of the bag during use. The connection points of the shoulder straps of a backpack are subjected to loads exceeding the total weight of the backpack and its contents during use, such as loads caused by gravity or attempted theft. Therefore, these connection points are attached to the carry bag with such maximum structural loads in mind. Some such carry bags include structural connections between upper and lower connection points to withstand such loads. For example, in some backpacks, the structural connection between the upper and lower shoulder strap connection points is formed of a fabric that may or may not be exposed on the outer surface of the bag. For example, such structural interconnections may be formed using a fabric, webbing, or other material that is the same as or different from the outer material of the carry bag, having a minimum denier ratio.

[0007] At least one other aspect of the invention disclosed herein involves realizing that a carry bag can withstand higher and / or different loads by using the carry bag as a compression plate. If connection points for compression are formed on more vulnerable areas of the bag, other parts of the bag, such as zippers or other accessory compartments, may be subjected to excessive loads that may result in damage or require additional reinforcement of the bag. Thus, in some embodiments, the carry bag may include connection points that are also used for both shoulder strap attachment and compression purposes. However, in other embodiments, the carry bag may be provided with connection points at other locations, e.g., on the outward-facing surface of the carry bag. In such embodiments, the connection points may be positioned to avoid exposing weaker parts of the carry bag to excessive loads. In other optional embodiments, such connection points may be connected to reinforcing materials, such as webbing, that are located on or recessed from the outside of the carry bag.

[0008] At least one other aspect of the invention disclosed herein involves realizing that a carry bag can be compressed within a luggage by using an anchor, even when there are no compressible objects in the internal volume of the carry bag, and even when the carry bag is resting on the inner surface of the luggage, by positioning the anchor at an effective height inside the associated luggage that is lower than the total height of the carry bag. In this scenario, the carry bag may contain compressible articles within the main internal compartment of the carry bag, and the anchor may be used to compress the carry bag and such articles within it.

[0009] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system including an outer luggage body, the luggage system comprising: a first luggage body portion including a first upper periphery, a first side wall extending around the first upper periphery, and a first inner wall recessed inward from the first upper periphery and connected to the first side wall, wherein the first internal volume portion is defined between the inner wall, the first upper periphery, and the first side wall; and a second luggage body portion including a second upper periphery defining a second internal volume portion, wherein the luggage system comprises an outer luggage body including an outer luggage body including a first luggage body portion including a first upper periphery, and the first luggage body portion including a first internal volume portion, and the first luggage body portion including a second internal volume portion, and the first luggage body portion including an open position and a closed position An outer luggage body comprising: a second luggage body portion connected to a first luggage body portion so as to be movable between a position and a place; a closing mechanism configured to secure the first and second luggage body portions in a releasable position in a closed position; and at least first and second upper anchors and first and second lower anchors fixed to the first luggage body portion at a distance from the second upper periphery and in a recessed position within the second internal volume portion; and a carry bag in the form of a backpack comprising an upper, lower and main body portion including at least one internal compartment A carry bag comprising: a body portion; first and second upper shoulder strap connectors fixed to the upper part of the main body portion; first and second lower shoulder strap connectors fixed to the lower part of the main body portion; a first shoulder strap including a first upper connector and a first lower connector configured to releasably engage with the first upper shoulder strap connector and the first lower shoulder strap connector, respectively; and a second shoulder strap including a second upper connector and a second lower connector configured to releasably engage with the second upper shoulder strap connector and the second lower shoulder strap connector, respectively; and a first pair of upper compression straps, each of which comprises a first free end and a first compression strap connector configured to releasably engage with one of the first and second upper connectors, and each of the first pair of compression straps, when each first compression strap connector engages with each first upper connector, by pulling each first free end of each first compression strap,A first pair of upper compression straps and a second pair of lower compression straps, each of which includes a second free end and a second compression strap connector configured to releasably engage with one of the first and second lower connectors when each second compression strap connector engages with each second lower connector. The carry bag includes a second pair of lower compression straps, which are engaged with one of the first and second lower anchors, so that by pulling each second free end of the compression straps, the upper part of the main body can be tightened toward the first and second lower anchors to compress an object placed between the main body and the inner surface of the first luggage body, and the carry bag functions as a wearable backpack when the first and second shoulder straps are connected to the main body, and functions as a compression plate when the main body is occupied toward the inner surface of the first luggage body with the first pair of upper compression straps and the second pair of lower compression straps.

[0010] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, wherein the main body portion of the carry bag includes a side facing the user, and the carry bag and first and second shoulder straps are configured such that the side facing the user leans against the user of the carry bag during use, and the first and second lower shoulder strap connectors are fixed to the user-facing side of the main body portion.

[0011] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system in which the main body portion of the carry bag includes an outward-facing side, the carry bag and the first and second shoulder straps are configured such that the outward-facing side faces away from the user of the carry bag during use, and the first and second lower shoulder strap connectors are fixed to the outward-facing side of the main body portion.

[0012] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system in which a first pair of upper compression straps and a second pair of lower compression straps are permanently attached to a carry bag or a first luggage body portion.

[0013] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, the luggage system comprising an outer luggage body, a first luggage body portion including a first upper periphery, a first side wall extending around the first upper periphery, and a first inner wall recessed inward from the first upper periphery and connected to the first side wall, the first internal volume portion being defined between the inner wall, the first upper periphery, and the first side wall, and a second luggage body portion including a second upper periphery defining a second internal volume portion, which is movable between an open position and a closed position. A carry bag in the form of a backpack, comprising: a second luggage body portion connected to a first luggage body portion as shown; a closing mechanism configured to secure the first and second luggage body portions in a releasable position in a closed position; at least first and second upper anchors and first and second lower anchors fixed to the first luggage body portion at a distance from the second upper periphery and in a recessed position within the second internal volume portion; and a main body portion including an upper, lower and at least one internal compartment, and first and lower anchors fixed to the upper part of the main body portion. A carry bag comprising: a first shoulder strap comprising: a second upper shoulder strap connector; first and second lower shoulder strap connectors fixed to the lower part of the main body portion; a first shoulder strap comprising: a first upper connector and a first lower connector configured to releasably engage with the first upper shoulder strap connector and the first lower shoulder strap connector, respectively; a second shoulder strap comprising: a first upper compression strap comprising: a first free end and a first compression strap connector configured to releasably engage with the first upper connector, wherein the first upper compression strap is engaged with the first upper anchor so that when the first compression strap connector is engaged with the first upper connector, the first free end of the first upper compression strap can be pulled to tighten the upper part of the main body portion toward the first upper anchor; and a second free end.A second lower compression strap includes a second compression strap connector configured to releasably engage a second lower connector, the second lower compression strap being engaged with a first lower anchor so that when the second compression strap connector is engaged with the first lower connector, the second free end can be pulled to tighten the lower part of the main body portion toward the first lower anchor.

[0014] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system in which first upper and lower compression straps are configured to compress an object placed between the main body portion and the inner surface of the first luggage body portion.

[0015] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system and further includes a second upper compression strap configured to engage a second upper connector, a second upper anchor, and a second lower compression strap.

[0016] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system in which a carry bag functions as a backpack when first and second shoulder straps are connected to a main body portion, and functions as a compression plate when the main body portion is engaged with a first luggage body portion having a first upper compression strap and a second lower compression strap.

[0017] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, wherein the main body portion of the carry bag includes a side facing the user, and the carry bag and first and second shoulder straps are configured such that the side facing the user leans against the user of the carry bag during use, and the first and second lower shoulder strap connectors are fixed to the user-facing side of the main body portion.

[0018] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system in which the main body portion of the carry bag includes an outward-facing side, the carry bag and the first and second shoulder straps are configured such that the outward-facing side faces away from the user of the carry bag during use, and the first and second lower shoulder strap connectors are fixed to the outward-facing side of the main body portion.

[0019] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system in which a first pair of upper compression straps and a second pair of lower compression straps are permanently attached to a carry bag or a first luggage body portion.

[0020] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system including an outer luggage body, the luggage system including an outer luggage body, a first luggage body portion including a first upper periphery, a first side wall extending around the first upper periphery, and a first inner wall recessed inward from the first upper periphery and connected to the first side wall, the first internal volume portion being defined between the inner wall, the first upper periphery, and the first side wall, and at least a first anchor fixed to the first luggage body portion at a distance from the first upper periphery and recessed within the first internal volume portion; a carry bag including a main body portion including an upper, lower, and at least one internal compartment, and a first shoulder strap connected to the main body portion; and a first compression strap assembly configured to engage the main body portion and the first anchor, and to tighten the main body portion toward the first anchor.

[0021] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, wherein the first anchor is fixed to the first inner wall.

[0022] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, where the carry bag is in the form of a backpack.

[0023] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, the carry bag including first and second upper shoulder strap connectors fixed to the upper part of the main body portion, and first and second lower shoulder strap connectors fixed to the lower part of the main body portion.

[0024] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, wherein a first compression strap assembly includes a Y-strap, the Y-strap having a first end configured to engage with a single compression strap connector in the upper portion of the main body portion, and a second end configured to engage with two compression strap connectors in the lower portion of the main body portion.

[0025] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, the first compression strap assembly includes a first upper compression strap, which includes a first free end and a first compression strap connector configured to releasably engage with a first upper connector on the main body portion, and is engaged with a first upper anchor so that when the first compression strap connector is engaged with the first upper connector, the first free end of the first upper compression strap can be pulled to tighten the upper part of the main body portion toward a first anchor; and a second lower compression strap, which includes a second free end and a second compression strap connector configured to releasably engage with a second lower connector on the main body portion, and is engaged with a second lower anchor so that when the second compression strap connector is engaged with the second lower connector, the second free end can be pulled to tighten the lower part of the main body portion toward a first lower anchor.

[0026] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, where the first compression strap assembly includes a first shoulder strap.

[0027] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, and the first compression strap assembly is configured to compress an object disposed between the main body portion and the inner surface of the first luggage body portion.

[0028] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, and the first compression strap assembly engages the main body portion at at least three positions.

[0029] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, and the carry bag is configured to be worn by a user over at least one shoulder during use, and functions as a compression plate when the main body portion is engaged with a first luggage body portion having a first compression strap assembly.

[0030] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, the main body portion of the carry bag includes a side facing the user, and the carry bag and the first shoulder strap are configured such that the side facing the user is configured to be borne by the user of the carry bag during use, and the carry bag further includes first and second compression strap connectors fixed to the side of the main body portion facing the user.

[0031] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, the main body portion of the carry bag includes a side facing outward, and the carry bag and the first and second shoulder straps are configured such that the side facing outward faces away from the user of the carry bag during use, and the carry bag further includes first and second compression strap connectors fixed to the side of the main body portion facing outward.

[0032] In some aspects, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, and the first compression strap assembly is permanently attached to the carry bag or the first luggage body portion.

[0033] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a luggage system, the luggage system comprising: an outer luggage body comprising a first luggage body portion comprising an inner bottom wall; a carry bag comprising a main body portion comprising at least one internal compartment; and a first compression strap assembly configured to engage with the main body portion and to tighten the main body portion toward the inner bottom wall.

[0034] These and other features of the invention disclosed herein will be described below with reference to drawings of several embodiments of the luggage system, which are intended to illustrate but not limit the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0035] [Figure 1] This is a schematic perspective view of the hard shell body of the luggage system in a closed state, according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic perspective view of the hard shell body of the cargo system shown in Figure 1, with the hard shell body in the open position. [Figure 3] These are plan and partially exploded schematic diagrams of a luggage system including a hard shell body and a removable carry bag configured to function as a compression member within the hard shell body. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is an elevation view of the backpack as seen from behind while in use. [Figure 5] This is an elevation view of the inside of a backpack with backpack straps, as shown in the exploded view (i.e., the side of the backpack that faces the user's back during use). [Figure 6] Overlaid on a schematic diagram of compressible items for packing luggage, schematic and partial cross-sectional views of a backpack positioned within the internal volume of a hard-shell body using optional tension straps. [Figure 7] Figure 6 shows a further schematic and partial cross-sectional view of the arrangement, where the ends of the tension straps are connected to anchor points on the backpack. [Figure 8]Figure 7 is a further schematic and partial cross-sectional view of the arrangement shown, where the tension straps are pulled to a taut state inside the backpack, and the compressible items are compressed. [Figure 9] Figure 6 is a schematic top view of the embodiment illustrated in the diagram. [Figure 10] This is a schematic top view of a modified example of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 9. [Figure 11] This is a schematic top view of another modified example of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 9. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0036] The improved luggage system 102 is shown in the context of a removable backpack used as a compression member within a rolling luggage unit, because it has a specific context within this environment. However, the invention disclosed herein can also be used in other contexts, for example, with other types or forms of luggage, other types of carry bags, or other removable bags or components used as compression members within luggage.

[0037] The following detailed description is purely illustrative and is not intended to limit the embodiments of the subject matter or the use of such embodiments in this application. As used herein, the term “exemplary” means “serving as an example, illustration, or descriptive.” No embodiment described herein as exemplary should necessarily be construed as preferred or superior to other embodiments. Furthermore, this application is not intended to be bound by any express or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background art, summary of the invention, or the following detailed description.

[0038] Certain terms may be used in the following description for reference purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. For example, terms such as “upper,” “lower,” “above,” and “below” refer to directions in the drawings from which the reference is made, and, where indicated, may also refer to such directions during use or manufacture in the embodiments described. Terms such as “front,” “rear,” “back,” and “side” describe the orientation or position of each part of the component within a consistent but arbitrary reference frame, as becomes apparent by referring to the text and the text describing the components and the associated drawings. Such terms may include the terms specifically mentioned above, their derivatives, and terms with similar meanings. Similarly, terms such as “first,” “second,” and other such numerical terms referring to structures or methods do not, unless expressly indicated or explicitly implied herein, imply or require a limitation on the number of structures permitted by the context of the description, or a required or unnecessary order.

[0039] Figures 1-2 are used to illustrate a portion of the luggage system 102 according to one embodiment of the present technology. The luggage system 102 may include an outer luggage body 110 and a removable carry bag 230 (Figures 3-5).

[0040] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the luggage system 102, showing the outer luggage body 110 in a closed state, which accommodates a removable carry bag 230 that can optionally be used as a compression plate, which will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 3 to 5. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the luggage system 102 with the outer luggage body 110 of the luggage system 102 open.

[0041] The outer luggage body 110 can be any type of known luggage, including, but is not limited to, a carry-on bag or a clamshell rolling bag commonly used for air travel, or any other type of known bag. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer luggage body 110 is a carry-on rolling luggage form comprising a first half and a second half connected to each other by a hinge, and may include fasteners, latches, and / or zippers extending around the rest of the periphery of each half in a typical known manner.

[0042] The outer cargo body 110 is optional and can generally be formed from an inelastic material (e.g., polycarbonate), but has a thickness that allows the panels of the outer cargo body 110 to conform to the contents inside. This type of external structure configuration can provide high strength, puncture resistance, light weight, and conformability, and such configurations are well known in the art. Other materials and configurations can also be used.

[0043] The outer luggage body 110 may include a first body portion 112 and a second hard shell body portion 122. The first and second body portions 112 and 122 may be pivotally connected to each other so that the outer luggage body 110 can be selectively opened and closed. The first body portion 112 may have a first hard shell exterior and may define a first storage compartment portion 116. The second hard shell body portion 122 may have a second hard shell exterior 124 and may define a second storage compartment portion 126.

[0044] According to some embodiments, the internal storage compartment of the outer luggage body 110 can be considered to include both a first storage compartment portion 116 and a second storage compartment portion 126, which function as a first internal volume portion and a second internal volume portion, respectively. The first storage compartment 116 may include a bottom wall 114 having an inner surface 117. Side walls may extend from the periphery of the bottom wall and may include an inner side wall surface 119. Side walls may also include an upper periphery portion 121. The internal volume defined by the first storage compartment 116 can be considered to be defined between the inner surface 117, the inner side wall surface 119, and the upper periphery portion 121. In addition, one or more closing mechanisms may be included to secure the first storage compartment portion 116 and the second storage compartment portion 126 to each other. For example, a zipper 123 may be included to secure the upper edge 121 of the first body portion 112 to the upper edge of the second hard shell body portion 122. Other closing mechanisms may also be used.

[0045] As shown in Figure 3, the luggage system 102 includes an outer luggage body 110 and a removable carry bag 230. The removable carry bag 230 and the outer luggage body 110 can be optionally configured so that the removable carry bag 230 can be used as a compression member.

[0046] Optionally, in some embodiments, the outer cargo body 110 may include anchor points configured to support compression, which are connected internally. For example, in some embodiments, the outer cargo body 110 may include anchors 118 and / or 120, which can function as anchor points and be attached to the inner surfaces of the internal volumes 116 and / or 126. For example, the anchor points may be connected to the outer cargo body 110 so as to be accessible on the inner surface of the internal volume 116 at bottom wall locations indicated as anchor 118 and / or side wall locations indicated as anchor 120. Some of the following description refers only to anchor 118, but anchor 120 may also be used in place of anchor 118 in the following description. The outer cargo body 110 is also shown as including four sets of wheels 170. However, other arrangements of wheels may also be used.

[0047] Structurally, anchors 118 and 120 can be configured to cooperate with straps used for compression. Anchors 118 and 120 can have any configuration, such as loops, male or female receptacles, or other hardware. For example, anchors 118 and 120 can be configured to engage with tension straps attached to another structure to apply tension and pull the other structure toward the bottom of the internal volume 116. This can optionally provide the functionality of a compression plate. For example, in some embodiments, a carry bag 230 can function as a compression plate.

[0048] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the carry bag 230 can be any bag configuration configured for user transport. In the illustrated embodiment, the carry bag 230 is in the form of a backpack. However, the carry bag 230 can be in the form of other types of carry bags, including but not limited to, handbags, messenger bags, totes, duffels, or other types of bags.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the carry bag 230, which is a backpack configuration, includes a main container portion 232 (which may be considered to function as the main body portion) and a carrying strap arrangement 234. As it is a backpack configuration, the carrying strap arrangement 234 includes a pair of backpack straps 236. In the illustrated embodiment, optionally, the backpack straps 236 may be detachably attached to the main container portion 232. For example, the backpack straps 236 may include connectors, for example, detachable clips 238 that can be detachably connected to connection points 240, 242 on the upper and lower ends of the main container portion 232. Thus, the backpack straps 236 may together be considered to include first and second upper shoulder strap connectors and first and second lower shoulder strap connectors.

[0050] The connection points 240 and 242 can have any known configuration, including, but are not limited to, fabric loops. In the illustrated configuration, there are two upper connection points 240 and two lower connection points 242. Thus, the carry bag 230 can be considered to include the first and second upper connection points 240 and the first and second lower connection points 242. Furthermore, as shown in Figures 3 and 5, the upper connection points 240 can be retractable into and unfolded from a zippered pocket 244.

[0051] In the illustrated embodiment, the bag 230 is worn using a strap 236 that extends over the user's shoulder. Figure 4 shows the outward-facing side 250 of the bag 230, and Figure 5 shows the inward-facing side 252 of the bag 230, which faces the user's back during use. Thus, the inward-facing side 252 can also be considered the user-facing side or the side that comes into contact with the user of the carry bag 230.

[0052] At least one aspect of the invention disclosed herein includes the possibility that certain additional optional efficiencies can be achieved by using existing strap connection points on a carry bag 230, such as a backpack or shoulder bag, for additional compression functionality. For example, a carry bag, including a backpack and a shoulder bag, may include structural connections between upper and lower strap connection points, which are designed to withstand the loads applied to the body of the bag during use. For example, a backpack shoulder strap connection point is subjected to a load exceeding the total weight of the backpack and its contents during use. Therefore, these connection points are attached to the carry bag with the maximum structural load in mind. Some such carry bags include structural connections between upper and lower connection points to withstand such loads. For example, in some backpacks, the structural connection between the upper and lower shoulder strap connection points is formed of a fabric that may or may not be exposed on the outer surface of the bag. For example, such structural interconnections may be formed using a fabric, webbing, or other material that is the same as or different from the outer material of the carry bag, having a minimum denier ratio.

[0053] At least one aspect of the invention disclosed herein involves enabling a carry bag to be subjected to higher and / or different loads by using the carry bag as a compression plate. If connection points for compression are formed on more vulnerable areas of the bag, other parts of the bag, such as zippers or other accessory compartments, may be subjected to excessive loads and therefore require additional webbing to be added to the bag. Thus, in some embodiments, the carry bag 230 may include connection points 240, 242 which are also used for both shoulder strap attachment and compression purposes. However, in other embodiments, the carry bag 230 may be provided with connection points in other locations, for example, on the outward-facing surface 250 of the carry bag 230. In such embodiments, the connection points may be positioned to avoid exposing weaker parts of the carry bag 230 to excessive loads. In other optional embodiments, such connection points may be connected to reinforcing materials, such as webbing, which is located outside or recessed from the outside of the carry bag 230.

[0054] Continuing to refer to Figure 3, in the illustrated embodiment, the form factor of the bag 230 may be similar in size to, and / or smaller than, one of the periphery portions of the first body portion 112 and the second body portion 122 of the outer luggage body 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the bag 230 has an outer periphery portion that is approximately the same size as the inner periphery portion of the half 122 of the outer luggage body 110.

[0055] In some embodiments, the bag 230 can be positioned above the opening of the half 122 with its inner surface 252 facing upward, as shown in Figure 5. In this configuration, optionally, the attachment points 40 and 42 can be fixed to the half 122 and / or compressed with additional tension straps fixed to the inside of the half 122, which will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 6-8. Optionally, backpack straps 236 can be attached to points 240 and 242 (or alternative positions) and used as tension straps. Thus, the bag 230 can be used as a compression member to hold and / or compress articles packed inside and beneath the half 122.

[0056] In some embodiments, the bag 230 may have a slim profile with a small internal volume. In other embodiments, the bag 230 may have a larger internal volume, such as the typical internal volume of a known commercially available backpack. In embodiments where the bag 230 has a larger volume, it may include foldable side panels (not shown) that allow the bag 30 to be folded into a slimmer profile so that it can be used as a compression member in a more efficient manner.

[0057] Optionally, as shown in Figure 3, the backpack straps 236 can be detached from the carry bag 230 and placed under the bag 230 for storage inside the outer luggage body 110.

[0058] Figures 6–8 show optional embodiments of a tension strap assembly 260 used to tighten the backpack 30 toward the internal bottom surface of the first body portion 112 and optionally to compress one or more compressible articles 258 within the first body portion 112.

[0059] For example, as shown in Figure 6, the compressible article 258 is placed within the first body portion 112 and rests on its inner surface. The compressible article 258 has an initial height of dimension C1. The compressible article 258 can typically be any one or a number of articles packed into a package. For example, the compressible article 258 can be a collection of clothing or other articles that can be compressed into a package.

[0060] The carry bag 230 is placed on top of the article 258. The carry bag 230 is shown with an initial height dimension B1. Only the first body portion 112, the article 258, and one end of the carry bag 230 are shown, but it should be understood that the same type of configuration may be provided at the other ends and sides of these components.

[0061] As shown in Figure 6, the downward-facing surface of the anchor is at a height F1 above the inner surface 117. Therefore, height F1 can be considered the effective height of anchor 118. Similarly, the effective height of an optional anchor 120 is specified as height F2. The total depth of the internal volume 116 is specified as depth D. At least one aspect of the present invention disclosed herein involves realizing that the carry bag 230 can be compressed using an anchor, even when there are no compressible objects 258 in the internal volume 116 and the carry bag 230 is resting on the inner surface 117, by positioning an anchor such as anchor 118 or 120 at an effective height F1 or F2 lower than the total height B1 of the carry bag 230. In this scenario, the carry bag 130 may contain compressible articles in the main compartment of the carry bag 230, and anchors 118, 120 can be used to compress the carry bag 230 and the articles therein.

[0062] Continuing to refer to Figure 6, the carry bag 230 includes a connection point 242 on or adjacent to the top surface of the backpack 30 (in the orientation shown in Figures 6-8). In this configuration, the connection point 242 is located on or on the inward-facing surface 252 of the carry bag 230. In this optional configuration, the position of the connection point 242 is at an effective height B1 from the surface 250. As described above, in some embodiments, the height B1 may be greater than the effective height F1 or F2.

[0063] The optional tension strap assembly 260 may include any type of tension strap arrangement. In the illustrated embodiment, the tension strap assembly 260 includes a webbing 261, which can be formed from any type of strap or webbing material, such as a type of strap commonly used in the art for compression purposes. Optionally, the tension strap assembly 260 includes a clip 262 connected to one end of the webbing 261. Optionally, the clip 262 includes a hooked portion 264 configured to engage with a mounting point 242. For example, in some embodiments, the hooked portion 264 may include an open slot and, optionally, a hook-shaped portion configured to hook onto a loop formed by the connection point 242.

[0064] Optionally, the tension strap assembly 260 may include additional fastener components to maintain tension. For example, a portion of the webbing 261 may include one portion of a hook and hook fastener 266, and another portion of the webbing 261 may include the other portion of a hook and hook fastener 268. Similarly, a portion at position 268 may also be provided on the connection point 242 at position 270. In some embodiments, the tension strap assembly 260 is permanently attached to the outer luggage body 110. For example, the tension strap assembly 260 can be permanently attached to anchor 118 or anchor 120. In other embodiments, the tension strap assembly 260 can be detectably connected to the outer luggage body 110 and detachably connected to either anchor 118 or 120, for example.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the anchor point 118 includes a loop, one end of which is fixed to the inner surface of the first body portion 112. The webbing 261 is attached in a loop via the anchor point 118, thereby allowing the webbing to be pulled in either direction through the anchor point 118. Other types of devices and structures can also be used as the anchor point 118.

[0066] Referring to Figure 7, during use, the hooked portion of the clip 264 can engage with the loop formed by the mounting point 242. With the orientation shown in Figure 7, the user can apply tension to the webbing 261 by, for example, pulling upward as seen in Figure 7. This pulls the webbing 261 through the loop formed by the anchor point 118, resulting in the effect of tightening the anchor point 242 toward the bottom surface of the first body portion 112, as shown in Figure 8.

[0067] Referring to Figure 8, the carry bag 230 is compressed to a compression height of dimension B2, and the compressible item 258 is compressed to a height dimension C2.

[0068] To maintain the carry bag 230 and the compressible article 258 in the illustrated orientation, the webbing 261 can be pulled and pressed over the clip 262 and connecting portion 242. As described above, optionally, the webbing 261 may include hook-and-loop fasteners. Thus, in the orientation shown in Figure 8, the webbing 261 is pulled over the clip 262 and connecting portion 242 so that the hook-and-loop portion 266 is in contact with the other hook-and-loop portions 268, 270, thereby keeping the webbing 261 releaseable in the illustrated orientation of Figure 8, with the carry bag 230 and the compressible article 258 in a compressed state. Thus, the carry bag 230 functions as both a wearable bag and a compression plate.

[0069] Figure 9 schematically illustrates the configuration shown in Figures 3 to 5. More specifically, Figure 9 includes four tension strap assemblies 260, each assembly engaging with one of the four anchors 118 as previously described with reference to Figures 3 to 5. In the configuration of Figure 9, the luggage system can be considered to include a first pair of upper compression strap assemblies 260 (left side of Figure 9) and a second pair of lower compression strap assemblies 260 (right side of Figure 9).

[0070] Figure 10 shows a modified embodiment of the one in Figure 9. As shown in Figure 10, the modified luggage body portion 112A includes one anchor 118 at the upper end, two anchors 118 at the lower end, and a single integrated tension strap assembly 260A. The integrated tension strap assembly 260A includes a branched end (right end as seen in Figure 10) containing two portions of webbing 261, and a central fused or unbranched portion extending to the single anchor 118 at the upper end. In some embodiments, the upper end of the tension strap assembly 260A may include a single portion of webbing 261 and a single connector 262. Optionally, the tension strap assembly 260A may include another branch forming a second portion of webbing 261 and a second connector 262 (shown by dashed lines).

[0071] Figure 11 shows another modification of the embodiment in Figure 9. As shown in Figure 11, the modified carry bag 230B includes only a single upper connector 244 and a single lower connector 242. Furthermore, the modified luggage body portion 112B includes only one anchor 118 at the upper end of the luggage body portion 112B (left side in Figure 11) and a single anchor 118 at the lower end of the luggage body portion 112B (right side in Figure 11). In addition, the modified tension strap assembly 260B includes only a single portion of webbing 261 extending between clips 262.

[0072] In some embodiments, the clip 262 can be removed, and the free end of the webbing 261 can engage with the connectors 242, 244 by passing through a loop formed by the connectors 242, 244 and / or by an additional clip or connector (not shown). In addition, other configurations of the tension strap assemblies 260, 260A, 260B may also be used.

[0073] While several embodiments are presented in the detailed description above, a vast number of variations exist. The embodiments described herein are not intended to limit in any way the scope, applicability, or configuration of the claimed subject matter. Rather, the detailed description above provides a useful roadmap for implementing the embodiments described. Various modifications can be made to the function and arrangement of the elements without departing from the scope defined by the claims, including known and foreseeable equivalents at the time of filing this patent application.

Claims

1. It is a luggage system, The outer packaging is the main body of the package. A first cargo body portion includes a first upper peripheral edge, a first side wall extending around the first upper peripheral edge, and a first inner wall recessed inward from the first upper peripheral edge and connected to the first side wall, wherein the first internal volume portion is defined between the inner wall, the first upper peripheral edge, and the first side wall, A second internal volume portion is defined, and a second luggage body portion including a second upper peripheral portion is connected to the first luggage body portion so as to be movable between an open position and a closed position, A closing mechanism configured to fix the first and second cargo body portions in a releaseable position, At least the first and second upper anchors and the first and second lower anchors are fixed to the first cargo body portion at a distance from the second upper peripheral edge and in a recessed position within the second internal volume portion, The outer luggage body, including, A carry bag in the form of a backpack, The main body portion includes an upper section, a lower section, and at least one internal compartment, First and second upper shoulder strap connectors fixed to the upper part of the main body portion, First and second lower shoulder strap connectors fixed to the lower part of the main body portion, A first shoulder strap including a first upper connector and a first lower connector, each configured to releasably engage with the first upper shoulder strap connector and the first lower shoulder strap connector, A second shoulder strap including a second upper connector and a second lower connector, each configured to releasably engage with the second upper shoulder strap connector and the second lower shoulder strap connector, The carry bag includes, A first pair of upper compression straps, each of the first pair of upper compression straps comprising a first free end and a first compression strap connector configured to engage releasably with one of the first and second upper connectors, each of the first pair of upper compression straps being engaged with one of the first and second upper anchors, such that when each first compression strap connector engages with each first upper connector, pulling each first free end of each first compression strap can tighten the upper part of the main body portion toward the first and second upper anchors to compress an object placed between the main body portion and the inner surface of the first luggage body portion. A second pair of lower compression straps, each of which includes a second free end and a second compression strap connector configured to engage releasably with one of the first and second lower connectors, each of which is engaged with one of the first and second lower anchors, such that when each second compression strap connector engages with each second lower connector, pulling each second free end of each second lower compression strap can tighten the upper part of the main body portion toward the first and second lower anchors to compress an object placed between the main body portion and the inner surface of the first luggage body portion. Includes, The carry bag functions as a wearable backpack when the first and second shoulder straps are connected to the main body portion, and functions as a compression plate when the main body portion is occupied toward the inner surface of the first luggage body portion, which has the first pair of upper compression straps and the second pair of lower compression straps. The aforementioned luggage system.

2. The luggage system according to claim 1, wherein the main body portion of the carry bag includes a side facing the user, the carry bag and the first and second shoulder straps are configured such that the side facing the user leans against the user of the carry bag during use, and the first and second lower shoulder strap connectors are fixed to the side of the main body portion facing the user.

3. The luggage system according to claim 1, wherein the main body portion of the carry bag includes an outward-facing side, the carry bag and the first and second shoulder straps are configured such that the outward-facing side faces away from the user of the carry bag during use, and the first and second lower shoulder strap connectors are fixed to the outward-facing side of the main body portion.

4. The luggage system according to claim 1, wherein the first pair of upper compression straps and the second pair of lower compression straps are permanently attached to the carry bag or the first luggage body portion.

5. It is a luggage system, The outer packaging is the main body of the package. A first cargo body portion includes a first upper peripheral edge, a first side wall extending around the first upper peripheral edge, and a first inner wall recessed inward from the first upper peripheral edge and connected to the first side wall, wherein the first internal volume portion is defined between the inner wall, the first upper peripheral edge, and the first side wall, A second internal volume portion is defined, and a second luggage body portion including a second upper peripheral portion is connected to the first luggage body portion so as to be movable between an open position and a closed position, A closing mechanism configured to fix the first and second cargo body portions in a releaseable position, At least the first and second upper anchors and the first and second lower anchors are fixed to the first cargo body portion at a distance from the second upper peripheral edge and in a recessed position within the second internal volume portion, The outer luggage body, including, A carry bag in the form of a backpack, The main body portion includes an upper section, a lower section, and at least one internal compartment, First and second upper shoulder strap connectors fixed to the upper part of the main body portion, First and second lower shoulder strap connectors fixed to the lower part of the main body portion, A first shoulder strap including a first upper connector and a first lower connector, each configured to releasably engage with the first upper shoulder strap connector and the first lower shoulder strap connector, A second shoulder strap including a second upper connector and a second lower connector, each configured to releasably engage with the second upper shoulder strap connector and the second lower shoulder strap connector, The carry bag includes, A first upper compression strap comprising a first free end and a first compression strap connector configured to releasably engage with the first upper connector, wherein the first upper compression strap is engaged with the first upper anchor so that when the first compression strap connector is engaged with the first upper connector, the first free end of the first upper compression strap can be pulled to tighten the upper part of the main body portion toward the first upper anchor, A second lower compression strap comprising a second free end and a second compression strap connector configured to releasably engage with the second lower connector, wherein the second compression strap connector is engaged with the first lower anchor so that the lower part of the main body portion can be tightened toward the first lower anchor by pulling the second free end when the second compression strap connector is engaged with the first lower connector, The luggage system, including the aforementioned luggage system.

6. The luggage system according to claim 5, wherein the first upper and lower compression straps are configured to compress an object placed between the main body portion and the inner surface of the first luggage body portion.

7. The luggage system according to claim 5, further comprising a second upper compression strap configured to engage with the second upper connector, the second upper anchor, and the second lower compression strap.

8. The luggage system according to claim 5, wherein the carry bag functions as a backpack when the first and second shoulder straps are connected to the main body portion, and functions as a compression plate when the main body portion is engaged with the first luggage body portion having the first upper compression strap and the second lower compression strap.

9. The luggage system according to claim 5, wherein the main body portion of the carry bag includes a side facing the user, the carry bag and the first and second shoulder straps are configured such that the side facing the user leans against the user of the carry bag during use, and the first and second lower shoulder strap connectors are fixed to the side of the main body portion facing the user.

10. The luggage system according to claim 5, wherein the main body portion of the carry bag includes an outward-facing side, the carry bag and the first and second shoulder straps are configured such that the outward-facing side faces away from the user of the carry bag during use, and the first and second lower shoulder strap connectors are fixed to the outward-facing side of the main body portion.

11. The luggage system according to claim 5, wherein the first pair of upper compression straps and the second pair of lower compression straps are permanently attached to the carry bag or the first luggage body portion.

12. It is a luggage system, The outer packaging is the main body of the package. A first cargo body portion includes a first upper peripheral edge, a first side wall extending around the first upper peripheral edge, and a first inner wall recessed inward from the first upper peripheral edge and connected to the first side wall, wherein the first internal volume portion is defined between the inner wall, the first upper peripheral edge, and the first side wall, At least one first anchor is fixed to the first cargo body portion at a distance from the first upper peripheral edge and in a recessed position within the first internal volume portion, The outer luggage body includes, It's a carry bag, The main body portion includes an upper section, a lower section, and at least one internal compartment, A first shoulder strap connected to the main body portion, The aforementioned carry bag includes, A first compression strap assembly is configured to engage the main body portion and the first anchor, and to tighten the main body portion toward the first anchor, The luggage system, including the aforementioned luggage system.

13. The luggage system according to claim 12, wherein the first anchor is fixed to the first inner wall.

14. The luggage system according to claim 12, wherein the carry bag is in the form of a backpack.

15. The luggage system according to claim 13, wherein the carry bag includes first and second upper shoulder strap connectors fixed to the upper part of the main body portion, and first and second lower shoulder strap connectors fixed to the lower part of the main body portion.

16. The luggage system according to claim 12, wherein the first compression strap assembly includes a y-strap having a first end configured to engage with a single compression strap connector at the upper part of the main body portion and a second end configured to engage with two compression strap connectors at the lower part of the main body portion.

17. The luggage system according to claim 12, the first compression strap assembly further comprises: a first upper compression strap including a first free end and a first compression strap connector configured to releasably engage with a first upper connector on the main body portion, the first upper compression strap being engaged with a first upper anchor so that when the first compression strap connector is engaged with the first upper connector, the first free end of the first upper compression strap can be pulled to tighten the upper part of the main body portion toward the first anchor; and a second lower compression strap including a second free end and a second compression strap connector configured to releasably engage with a second lower connector on the main body portion, the second lower compression strap being engaged with a second lower anchor so that when the second compression strap connector is engaged with the second lower connector, the second free end can be pulled to tighten the lower part of the main body portion toward the first lower anchor.

18. The luggage system according to claim 12, wherein the first compression strap assembly includes the first shoulder strap.

19. The luggage system according to claim 12, wherein the first compression strap assembly is configured to compress an object placed between the main body portion and the inner surface of the first luggage body portion.

20. The luggage system according to claim 12, wherein the first compression strap assembly engages the main body portion in at least three positions.

21. The luggage system according to claim 12, wherein the carry bag is configured to be worn by a user over at least one of the user's shoulders during use, and the main body portion functions as a compression plate when engaged with the first luggage body portion having the first compression strap assembly.

22. The luggage system according to claim 12, wherein the main body portion of the carry bag includes a side facing the user, the carry bag and the first shoulder strap are configured such that the side facing the user leans against the user of the carry bag during use, and the carry bag further includes first and second shoulder strap connectors fixed to the side of the main body portion facing the user.

23. The luggage system according to claim 12, wherein the main body portion of the carry bag includes an outward-facing side, the carry bag and the first shoulder strap are configured such that the outward-facing side faces away from the user of the carry bag during use, and the carry bag further includes first and second shoulder strap connectors fixed to the outward-facing side of the main body portion.

24. The luggage system according to claim 12, wherein the first compression strap assembly is permanently attached to the carry bag or the first luggage body portion.

25. It is a luggage system, The outer packaging is the main body of the package. First cargo body section including the internal bottom wall The outer luggage body includes, It's a carry bag, Main body section including at least one internal compartment The aforementioned carry bag includes, A first compression strap assembly configured to engage with the main body portion and to tighten the main body portion toward the inner bottom wall, The luggage system including the aforementioned luggage system.

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