Bag with integrated garment compartment and stiffening system

Abstract

The present invention provides a garment bag (100) that folds from a first substantially flat open configuration to a second closed suitcase-like configuration. The bag comprises a front panel (1), a rear panel (2), a bottom connecting panel (3), side panels (4), a closable opening (5), a stiffening system (6), and means (7) for securing the bag in the folded configuration. The stiffening system comprises a three-rod open kinematic chain attached to each side panel, with a central rod (8) located at the junction between the respective side panel and the bottom panel, and side rods (9) perpendicular to the central rod in the first configuration and collapsed over the central rod in the second configuration. The rods may have magnetic or snap-fit fastening systems and may be connected by hinges.

Description

BAG WITH INTEGRATED GARMENT COMPARTMENT AND STIFFENING SYSTEM********

[0001] The present invention relates to a garment bag.Field of invention

[0002] Foldable garment bags are widely used by travelers to transport clothing neatly and with minimal bulk. These travel items combine the functionality of a traditional suitcase with the ability to carry hanging garments, such as suits or dresses, while minimizing creases.Prior art

[0003] Foldable garment bags typically feature an elongated section for hanging garments, which can be folded flat to create a more compact and manageable bag.

[0004] Despite their practicality, traditional foldable garment bags have some limitations. A common challenge is maintaining structural stability when the bag is folded, especially when not fully packed. This can lead to warping and potential damage to the garments inside. Furthermore, the folding mechanism itself can sometimes create unwanted creases in clothing, compromising the primary purpose of these travel items.

[0005] Another issue concerns the accessibility and organization of personal items within the bag. Many existing models don’t offer effective separation between hanging clothing and other items, making it difficult to quickly access certain items without disturbing the rest of the contents. Furthermore, the transition between the open configuration for hanging clothes and the closed one for carrying can be uncomfortable and time-consuming.

[0006] Another problem with the prior art concerns the limited accessibility of garment bags’ internal contents. Opening and closing often prevents the entire interior from being fully exposed, making filling and emptying difficult and increasing the risk of creasing the garments during these operations. The purpose of the present invention is therefore also to provide a bag that overcomes these limitations, allowing complete and easy access to its interior.

[0007] Another technical issue is the possibility of having a removable garment bag that can be used independently of the bag, for example in the case of complex trips with several stops, to make it easier to transport only part of the bag’s contents.Scope of the invention

[0008] It has been realized that a foldable garment bag is needed that overcomes one or more of these problems.Object of the invention

[0009] In a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a foldable garment bag configured to transition from a first open configuration, in which it is substantially flat and fully openable up to 180 degrees to facilitate access to and arrangement of garments, to a second closed configuration, in which it is folded into a suitcase shape. The bag comprises: a front panel and a rear panel; a bottom connecting panel between the front panel and the rear panel such that the bag can be folded into three overlapping sections, the bottom panel acting as the base of the bag, allowing it to stand upright when in the second configuration; side panels; the front panel, the rear panel, the bottom panel and the side panels forming an internal space between said panels when in the second configuration; a closable opening for accessing the internal space between the panels; a stiffening system secured to each of the side panels; means for securing the bag in the second configuration.

[0010] The presence of the stiffening system allows for the use of a single zip as fastening means that crosses the bag from one side panel to the other, joining the flaps of the front and back panels.

[0011] In particular, the stiffening system may comprise a three-rod open kinematic chain, where the central rod is placed at the junction between the respective side panel and the bottom panel, the side rods being perpendicular to the central rod when the bag is in the first configuration, collapsed superimposed on the central rod when the bag is in the second configuration.

[0012] This configuration allows the bag to easily transform from a fully open flat shape for inserting delicate clothing to a structured, stable shape for use, offering versatility and convenience to the user.

[0013] The rods may feature a magnetic fastening system.

[0014] The use of a magnetic fastening system allows for quick and secure switching between open and closed configurations, improving the usability of the bag.

[0015] The rods may feature a snap-fit fixing and / or centering system.

[0016] The interlocking fastening system provides additional security when closing the bag, ensuring that it maintains its shape even during transport.

[0017] The rods can be self-centering via magnetic connection.

[0018] The self-centering feature makes it easy to align the rods correctly when closing the bag, making the process more intuitive and less subject to errors.

[0019] The rods can be connected to each other via a hinge.

[0020] Using a hinge to connect the rods provides a smooth, controlled movement when opening and closing the bag, increasing the life of the mechanism.

[0021] The rods can be inserted into a central area of the respective side panel, which can be collapsed on itself so that in the second configuration the central area is folded inwards, while the external areas have their internal flaps matching using the means to secure the bag.

[0022] This configuration allows for a compact closure of the bag, maximizing the internal space available when in use and minimizing the bulk when closed.

[0023] The rods may be inserted into a first rigid half-shell comprising the front panel and a first half of each side panel, and a second rigid half-shell comprising the rear panel and a second half of each side panel.

[0024] The use of rigid half-shells increases the protection of the bag’s contents and maintains a defined shape, improving both the functionality and aesthetics of the product.

[0025] The bag, regardless of its opening system and / or the possibility of switching from a completely open and flat configuration for insertion to a closed one for transport, may have a clothing compartment that can be reversibly attached to the bag.

[0026] The addition of a removable garment compartment increases the bag’s versatility, allowing the user to better organize and protect clothing items while traveling.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0027] Aspects of the invention will be described, by way of example, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0028] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a garment bag of the invention in the open configuration, with the garment compartment removed.

[0029] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a foldable garment bag of the invention in the open configuration, with a garment compartment attached.

[0030] Figure 3 shows a detailed view of the components of the stiffening system, according to a first variant of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 4 illustrates a front orthogonal view of a stiffening system, according to a second variant of the invention.

[0032] Figure 5 shows a detailed perspective view of the connection mechanism between the rods of Figure 4.

[0033] Equal numerical references are used to indicate similar features and elements.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] With reference to the attached figures, the present invention relates to a foldable garment bag 100. The garment bag 100 is configured to switch from a first open configuration, in which it is substantially flat, to a second closed configuration, in which it is folded into the shape of a suitcase.

[0035] In the open configuration, the garment bag appears as a substantially flat panel that can be laid out on a flat surface, making it easy to insert and arrange garments inside.

[0036] When closed, the garment bag takes on a compact shape similar to that of a traditional suitcase, allowing for easy transport and greater protection of its contents. This transformation from open to closed configuration is made possible thanks to a folding and stiffening system integrated into the bag’s structure.

[0037] The ability to convert from a flat to a three-dimensional configuration offers significant advantages in terms of ease of use and versatility. The garment bag thus combines the functionality of a traditional garment bag with the convenience of a compact suitcase.

[0038] The garment bag comprises a front panel 1 , a back panel 2, a bottom panel 3, and two side panels 4. The front panel 1 and the back panel 2 form the main surfaces of the bag when it is closed. The bottom panel 3 connects the front panel 1 and the back panel 2, serving as the base of the bag and allowing it to stand upright. The side panels 4 are positioned on the sides of the bag, connecting the front panel 1 and the back panel 2 along the vertical edges.

[0039] These panels 1 , 2, 3, and 4, when assembled, form the bag’s interior space, designed to hold clothing and other items. The 100 bag features a false bottom that conceals the wheel housing and handle housing. This feature allows for a clean, streamlined exterior while concealing the bag’s functional elements.

[0040] The bag’s structure also comprises a semi-rigid construction hidden in the false bottom. This semi-rigid structure plays a key role in maintaining the bag’s shape when open, ensuring stability and making it easier to organize its contents. This structure allows the bag to maintain its shape even when fully open, improving functionality and ease of use.

[0041] The garment bag features a closable opening 5 that allows access to the interior space. This opening 5 is designed to allow the bag to be fully opened up to 180 degrees, leaving the structured sides 4 closing the perimeter of the bottom panel 3, along with the front panels 1 and back panels 2, all on the same plane, so their interior surface is fully accessible. This greatly facilitates the insertion and removal of garments, while also allowing the bag 100 to maintain a defined shape when closed and in use for transport.

[0042] To ensure a secure and convenient closure, the bag 100 features a perimeter zipper, such as a double slider. This solution offers greater flexibility in opening and closing the bag 100, allowing access to its contents from various positions. The two sliders can be positioned anywhere along the perimeter of the bag, allowing for partial or full opening as needed.

[0043] The bag is also equipped with fastening devices 6 to secure it when folded. These fastening devices 6 ensure that the bag maintains its compact shape when closed, making it easier to carry and preventing accidental opening. The fastening devices 6 can be strategically placed along the edges of the bag to ensure a uniform and secure closure.

[0044] The opening and closing system is designed to offer a balance between accessibility and content protection. When the bag is open, items are easily accessible and visible, while when closed, the contents are protected and the bag takes on a compact shape suitable for carrying.

[0045] The stiffening system 6 attached to the side panels 4 of the garment bag plays a key role in maintaining the bag’s structure and shape in various configurations. This system consists of a three-rod open kinematic chain, designed to provide structural support while maintaining the flexibility needed for the bag’s transformation.

[0046] The kinematic chain comprises a central rod 8 positioned at the junction between the respective side panel 4 and the bottom panel 3 of the bag. This central rod 8 serves as the basis for the entire stiffening system. Perpendicular to the central rod are two lateral rods 9, one on each side.

[0047] When the bag is in the open, flat configuration, the side rods 9 are arranged perpendicular to the central rod 8, forming a U-shaped structure. This arrangement provides stability and support to the bag 100 when it is fully extended, making it easier to pack and organize clothing.

[0048] As the bag is folded to the closed configuration, the side rods 9 collapse, overlapping the central rod 8. This movement allows the bag 100 to assume a compact shape without compromising the structural integrity of the stiffening system 6.

[0049] An innovative aspect of this system is the integration of magnetic rods or compasses 8, 9 into the semi-rigid side of the bag. These compasses 8, 9 are designed to be self-centering, ensuring precise alignment during the opening and closing phases of the bag. The magnetic nature of the rods helps keep the rods 8, 9 in the desired position, both when the bag 100 is open and closed.

[0050] The use of self-centering magnetic compasses 8, 9 offers several advantages. First, it ensures that the rods 8, 9 of the stiffening system are correctly positioned every time the bag 100 is opened or closed, eliminating the need for manual adjustments. Second, the magnetic force helps maintain the stability of the structure, resisting small stresses that could otherwise cause undesired movement of the rods 8, 9 themselves.

[0051] The rigid and magnetic rod 8, 9 system creates a robust yet flexible stiffening system, capable of adapting to the different configurations of the garment bag 100. This innovative design allows the garment bag 100 to maintain a defined shape when open, making it easier to access and organize its contents, while allowing for a smooth transition to a compact and stable shape when closed for transport.

[0052] The garment bag 100 features several innovative fastening and connection mechanisms that contribute to its functionality and versatility.

[0053] A first fastening system uses magnets integrated into the rods 8, 9 of the stiffening system 6. These magnets allow for precise and automatic alignment of the rods 8, 9 during the opening and closing of the bag 100. The magnetic system offers the advantage of keeping the rods 8, 9 in the desired position without the need for manual intervention, ensuring stability in both the open and closed configurations.

[0054] A second fastening mechanism consists of an interlocking system (figure 5). This system allows for a secure connection between the various components of the bag, in particular between the rods 8, 9 of the stiffening system 6. In particular, the lateral rod 9 has a recess 15 designed to accommodate the central rod 8 so that it overlaps with it when the bag 100 is in the second configuration. The connection between the recess 15 and the central rod 8 can also include a magnetic system that facilitates the insertion of the central rod into the recess 15. This interlocking mechanism ensures that the rods 8, 9 are correctly positioned during use of the bag, according to the arrow F indicated in figure 5, preventing unwanted movements or openings. Naturally, the interlocking mechanism can be reversed, providing the recess on the central rod 8 to accommodate the lateral rods 9 inside it, without compromising the functioning of the system.

[0055] In some embodiments, the rods 8, 9 of the stiffening system 6 may be connected to each other via a hinge 14 (Figure 4). The hinge 14 provides an additional degree of flexibility to the system, allowing for smooth and controlled movement during the transition between the open and closed configurations of the bag. The hinge 14 also facilitates the folding of the side rods 9 onto the central rod 8 when the bag 100 is closed.

[0056] These various fastening and connection mechanisms work together to ensure the bag 100’s structural stability in all its configurations, while maintaining the flexibility needed for easy conversion between open and closed. The combination of magnetic, snap-fit, and zippered systems creates a sturdy, reliable, and easy-to-use garment bag.

[0057] The garment bag 100 can be made in several alternative configurations that offer different functionality and structural features.

[0058] An alternative configuration includes a central area 10 that can be collapsed into the side panels 4 of the bag. This central area 10 can fold in on itself when the bag 100 is closed, allowing for a reduction in overall volume. In the closed configuration, the central area 10 is folded towards the inside of the bag.

[0059] The external areas 11 of the side panels 4, in this configuration, have internal flaps 12 that fit together when the bag is closed. These internal flaps 12 can be secured together using special closures 7, ensuring a secure and compact closure of the bag.

[0060] Another alternative configuration involves making the bag with two hard shells (not shown). A first hard shell comprises the front panel and the first half of each side panel. A second hard shell comprises the back panel and the second half of each side panel.

[0061] This hard shell configuration offers greater protection for the bag’s contents, increasing resistance to impacts and external stress. Hard shells can be made of durable materials such as rigid plastic or composite materials.

[0062] The various alternative configurations affect the bag’s functionality in several ways. The version with a collapsible central area offers greater flexibility and compactness when the bag is closed, making it easier to transport and store. Onthe other hand, the configuration with rigid half-shells prioritizes content protection and the bag’s structural stability.

[0063] The choice between these configurations may depend on the user’s specific needs, such as the need for greater compactness or superior protection for the transported contents.

[0064] Both alternative configurations retain the core features of the garment bag, such as the ability to switch from a flat open configuration to a compact closed configuration, while offering specific benefits based on their construction.

[0065] The garment bag 100 can be equipped with an optional garment compartment 13 that can be reversibly attached to the garment bag 100. This additional compartment 13 is designed to enhance the functionality and versatility of garment bag 100 by providing dedicated, organized space for carrying more delicate garments.

[0066] The optional garment compartment 13 is designed as a separate element that can be easily attached or removed from the main bag 100 as needed. This feature allows for greater flexibility in the use of the bag 100, allowing it to be adapted to different travel situations or carrying needs.

[0067] When attached to the bag 100, the garment compartment 13 provides additional space specifically designed to store and protect garments. This compartment can be particularly useful for carrying clothes that require special care, such as suits, shirts, or evening dresses, keeping them separate from the rest of the bag 100’s contents and reducing the risk of creases or damage.

[0068] The reversible fastening system of the garment compartment 13 to the main bag 100 can be achieved through various mechanisms, such as zippers, snaps, or quick-release systems, such as magnetic ones. These mechanisms are designed to ensure a secure connection between compartment 13 and bag 100, while still allowing for easy removal when not needed.

[0069] The optional garment compartment 13 increases the overall carrying capacity of the bag 100, allowing the user to carry more clothing or organize it more efficiently. Additionally, the ability to remove the compartment 13 when not needed allows the size and weight of the bag 100 to be reduced, making it suitable for shorter trips or situations where a more compact package is required.

[0070] The garment compartment 13 can be equipped with additional features such as hanging hooks, internal accessory pockets, or an integrated folding system to minimize creases during transport. These features help improve the organization and protection of the clothing while traveling.

[0071] The versatility offered by the optional garment compartment 13 significantly increases the utility of the bag 100, making it suitable for a wide range of travel scenarios, from short business trips to longer leisure trips. The user can choose to use the bag 100 with or without the additional garment compartment 13, tailoring it to their specific needs for each trip.

[0072] Of course, it is possible to include this removable garment compartment 13 even in a bag that does not have the possibility of flat opening up to 360 degrees, while still maintaining many advantages.

[0073] The bag 100 features a 45-degree split with a guided fold and a groove in the central area 10 of the side panels 4 (Figure 3). This structural feature allows the bag 100 to fold in a precise and controlled manner during the transition between configurations. The groove serves as a guide for the fold, ensuring that the bag 100 always closes in the same position, thus maintaining its shape and functionality over time.

[0074] To ensure the durability and structural integrity of the bag 100, a technical and aesthetic stitching is used. This stitching serves the dual function of firmly securing the lining material to the rods 8, 9 of the stiffening system 6 and adding a decorative element to the bag. The technical stitching ensures that the lining material remains in place during the use and repeated transitions between the open and closed configurations.

[0075] A distinctive feature of the bag 100 is that it’s the retractable, leather- covered handle. This handle is designed to disappear and fully integrate into the case when not in use. When the bag 100 is closed, the handle retracts into the frame, maintaining a clean, streamlined exterior. When it is necessary to carry bag 100, the handle can be easily pulled out, providing a comfortable and secure grip.

[0076] Using a single zipper 7 for the transition between configurations greatly simplifies the bag’s use. The user can open or close the bag in a single, fluid motion, without having to manipulate multiple closures or mechanisms. This solution notonly increases ease of use, but also reduces the risk of malfunctions or breakages associated with more complex closure systems.

[0077] Features of any example or embodiment outlined above may be combined to create additional examples or embodiments without losing the intended effect. It should be understood that the description of an embodiment or example provided above is for illustrative purposes only, and various modifications could be made by a person skilled in the art. Furthermore, a person skilled in the art will recognize that numerous further modifications and combinations of various aspects are possible. Accordingly, the aspects described are intended to encompass all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A bag (100) capable of transitioning from a first open configuration in wherein the bag is fully opened to 180 degrees to allow access to its internal space and it is substantially flat, to a second closed configuration, where it is folded into a suitcase shape, comprising: a front panel (1 ) and a rear panel (2), a bottom panel (3) connecting the front panel (1 ) and the rear panel (2), such that the bag can be folded into three overlapping sections, with the bottom panel (3) acting as the base of the bag (100), allowing it to stand upright in the second configuration, side panels (4), the front panel (1 ), rear panel (2), bottom panel (3), and side panels (4) forming an internal space between said panels when in the second configuration; a closable opening (5) suitable for fully opening the bag up to 180 degrees to access the internal space between the panels (1 , 2, 3, 4); a stiffening system (6) attached to each of the side panels (4); means (7) for securing the bag (100) in the second configuration.

2. A bag (100) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the stiffening system (6) comprises an open kinematic chain with three rods, wherein the central rod (8) is positioned at the junction between the respective side panel (4) and the bottom panel (3), and the lateral rods (9) are: perpendicular to the central rod (8) when the bag (100) is in the first configuration, collapsed and overlapping the central rod (8) when the bag (100) is in the second configuration.

3. A bag (100) according to claim 2, characterized in that the rods (8, 9) include a magnetic fastening system.

4. A bag (100) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the rods (8, 9) include an interlocking fastening system (15).

5. A bag (100) according to any one of claims 1 -4, characterized in that the rods (8, 9) are self-centering via magnetic connection.

6. A bag (100) according to any one of claims 1 -5, characterized in that the rods (8, 9) are connected by a hinge (14).

7. A bag (100) according to any one of claims 1 -6, characterized in that the rods (8, 9) are housed in a central area (10) of the respective side panel (4), collapsible onto itself so that, in the second configuration, said central area (10) folds inward, while the outer areas (11 ) have their respective inner edges (12) aligned via the means (7) for securing the bag (100).

8. A bag (100) according to any one of claims 1 -6, characterized in that the rods (8, 9) are housed within a first rigid semi-shell comprising the front panel (1 ) and a first half of each side panel (4), and a second rigid semi-shell comprising the rear panel (2) and a second half of each side panel (4).

9. A bag (100) according to any one of claims 1 -8, characterized by the presence of a garment compartment (13) reversibly attachable to the bag (100).

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