Luggage with Integrated Fold-Out Table Platform for Travel Workspaces

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Solution Overview

Problem

Travelers face difficulties in working or eating while traveling due to the lack of a convenient work surface, as they need to carry extra pieces that add weight and reduce bag storage capacity.

Innovation Solution

A luggage design featuring a foldable platform integrated into the handle, which transitions from a stowed position to a handle position and then to a table position, allowing it to serve as a portable work surface, with locking hinges and pivotable legs for stability, and expandable slots for increased workspace.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If travelers carry extra pieces or parts to create a work surface, then a work surface can be obtained, but weight increases and bag storage capacity is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvework surface availabilityVSAvoidluggage weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the work surface function with the luggage handle by integrating a platform into the handle structure. The platform can be positioned at different heights and angles, allowing it to serve both as a pull handle and as a work surface for eating or working during travel.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The handle structure is designed to perform multiple functions: it serves as a pull handle for moving the luggage, and simultaneously can be configured as a work surface. The platform integrated into the handle can be adjusted to provide a stable surface for eating meals or working on devices during transit.

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

2Adaptability or versatility

If travelers carry extra pieces or parts to create a work surface, then a work surface can be obtained, but bag storage capacity is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvework surface availabilityVSAvoidbag storage capacity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The work surface function is merged with the existing handle structure of the luggage. The platform is integrated into the handle, eliminating the need for separate work surface equipment and preserving bag storage capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The platform is nested within the handle structure, allowing it to be stored within the handle when not in use and deployed when needed. This nesting approach ensures that the work surface functionality does not occupy additional external space or reduce bag storage capacity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a platform is made slidable and pivotable to provide multiple positions, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveplatform position optionsVSAvoidplatform mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The handle structure incorporates dynamic elements including a slidable platform that can move along the handle length, and a pivotable connection that allows the platform to rotate relative to the handle. These dynamic features enable the platform to assume multiple positions and orientations to suit different user needs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The handle structure is segmented into movable components: the platform can slide independently along the handle, and can also pivot at its connection point. This segmentation of motion degrees of freedom allows complex functionality to be achieved through simple, independent mechanical movements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS10405627B2Luggage with fold out table
Publication Date: 2019.09.10 BOLAND III MICHAEL CHARLES
  • US10405627B2 patent drawing
  • US10405627B2 patent drawing
  • US10405627B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A luggage having a luggage body with a fold out table is provided. The luggage body includes a top, a bottom, a front side, a rear side, a first side and a second side. The body further includes a slot formed along the rear side with an opening formed at the top leading into the slot. At least one wheel, such as a plurality of wheels are secured to the bottom of the body. A platform is slidably engaged with the slot. The platform includes a stowed position, a handle position, and a table position. The stowed position includes the platform substantially disposed within the slot, the handle position includes the platform extending from the slot and disposed vertically, and the table position includes the platform extending from the slot and disposed horizontally.