Expandable Luggage Frame With Locking Gusset Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing expandable luggage technologies do not effectively allow for a flexible and secure expansion mechanism that maintains structural integrity and versatility in hard-shell luggage.
Innovation Solution
An expandable frame assembly for hard-shell luggage comprising a frame member, gusset, and bracing mechanism, which allows for a sliding tongue and groove engagement, and secure locking in multiple positions, using materials like aluminum and flexible fabrics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a rigid frame structure is used to maintain structural integrity, then strength and rigidity are improved, but the ability to expand and contract is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The frame members are designed with movable connections that allow the structure to transition between expanded and contracted states. The bracing mechanism includes movable components that enable dynamic adjustment of the frame configuration while maintaining structural integrity in both states.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame is divided into multiple frame members that can move relative to each other. The bracing mechanism is segmented into separate components including tongues, grooves, and locking elements that work together to enable controlled expansion and contraction while preserving overall structural strength.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an expandable mechanism is added to increase storage capacity, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bracing mechanism serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, enables expansion and contraction, and includes locking capabilities to secure the frame in different positions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components for each function, thereby managing complexity while enhancing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracing mechanism components are nested within the frame structure, with tongues fitting into grooves and locking elements integrated into the frame members. This nesting approach allows the expandable mechanism to be compact when contracted and minimizes overall structural complexity.
3Volume of moving object
If the frame is expanded to increase volume, then storage capacity is improved, but structural rigidity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bracing mechanism dynamically adjusts the frame structure during expansion and contraction. Locking elements engage to maintain rigidity in the expanded state, while the same mechanism allows controlled movement during transitions, ensuring structural stability is maintained throughout the expansion process.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracing mechanism is pre-configured with locking elements and guide structures that ensure the frame maintains proper alignment and rigidity before, during, and after expansion. The predetermined path of the bracing mechanism ensures structural integrity is preserved as the volume increases.
Data Source
AI summary
An expandable frame (15, 115) for a carrying article is disclosed. A frame (15) for an expandable article of luggage (10) includes a first frame member (16) including a first recess (54), a second frame member (16) including a second recess (64), and a gusset (22) extending between the first frame member (16) and the second frame member (18) to secure the first frame member (16) to the second frame member (18). A first edge (40) of the gusset (22) is received in the first recess (54) in the first frame member, and a second edge (60) of the gusset (22) is received in the second recess (64) in the second frame member (18). An article of luggage (10) including the expandable frame (15) is disclosed. In some embodiments, an expandable frame (115) does not include the first frame member and the gusset (122) is secured directly to a first hard shell (112) of an article of hard shell luggage (110).