Intermediary Strap System for Linking Conventional Wheeled Suitcases

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional luggage systems do not efficiently allow connection of multiple conventional wheeled suitcases of different sizes and types, making it difficult for passengers to manage multiple bags, especially in crowded transportation hubs, as existing solutions require specially adapted suitcases which are expensive and incompatible with conventional wheeled luggage.

Innovation Solution

A set of interchangeable suitcase covers with integral straps and buckles, or alternative connection means like hook and loop systems, that can be used to securely attach and manage multiple conventional wheeled suitcases, providing a protective layer and adjustable straps for versatility.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If specially adapted suitcases with integral attachment means are used, then luggage connection capability is improved, but cost and compatibility with conventional luggage worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveluggage connection capabilityVSAvoidcost and compatibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a separate attachment system comprising straps, buckles, and connection means that are not integral to the suitcases themselves. These intermediary components can be added to conventional suitcases without modifying the suitcases, thereby enabling connection capability while maintaining compatibility with existing luggage and avoiding the need for expensive specially adapted suitcases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment means are designed to be universally applicable to multiple conventional wheeled suitcases of different sizes and types. The connection system can attach to various suitcase configurations (handles, frames, bodies) and allows multiple suitcases to be connected in series, providing a multi-functional solution that works across different luggage types without requiring suitcase-specific adaptations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If multiple conventional wheeled suitcases are pulled separately, then compatibility with standard luggage is maintained, but ease of operation and maneuverability worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovemaneuverabilityVSAvoidluggage system configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces connection means that act as intermediaries between multiple suitcases, allowing them to be linked together as a single maneuverable unit. These intermediaries include attachment straps that connect to suitcase handles or frames, and a central connection point that allows multiple suitcases to be joined in series, thereby improving ease of operation without requiring the suitcases themselves to be specially adapted.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment system is divided into separate, modular components including straps, buckles, and connection means that can be independently attached and detached. This segmentation allows the connection system to be configured for different numbers and types of suitcases, providing flexibility in system configuration while maintaining simplicity in each individual component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Strength

If attachment means are fixed directly to suitcases, then connection strength is improved, but adaptability to different suitcase types worsens

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection strengthVSAvoidcompatibility with conventional luggage
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs attachment means that serve as intermediaries between the user and the suitcases, rather than requiring direct fixation to the suitcases. The connection system includes straps that can wrap around or attach to various parts of conventional suitcases (handles, frames, bodies) and connect through buckles and connection points, providing strong connections while maintaining adaptability to different suitcase types without modifying the suitcases themselves.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS12161206B2Luggage attachment means
Publication Date: 2024.12.10 LYNCH JANE
  • US12161206B2 patent drawing
  • US12161206B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An accessory for a suitcase comprising: a suitcase attachment means and a connecting means attached to the suitcase attachment means. The suitcase attachment means receives and engages with a portion of a suitcase and the connecting means connects with the connecting means of another accessory for a suitcase.