Pivotable Luggage Frame for Modular Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luggage systems lack modularity and expandability, with fixed mobility and support features that hinder the ability to change configurations, such as the detachment of removable items, which affects their support and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A luggage system with a pivotable frame that moves between supporting and non-supporting positions, allowing access to compartments and featuring a modular assembly for compact storage, enabling the luggage item to be both modular and expandable by using a frame with pivotable arms and a cross member that can be moved between positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed frame is permanently attached to the lower portion of the luggage item to provide support and mobility, then the item can stand upright and be mobile, but the frame impedes the detachment of removable items and reduces modularity
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is designed to be movable between a first position where it supports the luggage item in an upright position and a second position where it clears the item to allow access to compartments or detachment of removable items. This dynamic reconfiguration enables the frame to adapt between providing structural support and enabling modularity operations.
2Ease of operation
If the frame is moved to a second position to clear the frame from the surface of the item, then access to compartments and features is enabled, but the support and reinforcement function is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The frame transitions between static support position and dynamic cleared position, allowing the system to switch between providing structural reinforcement and enabling access to compartments or removable items based on operational needs.
3Ease of operation
If fixed wheels are attached to the front of the main luggage item to provide mobility, then the item can be rolled, but the front of the item cannot be made into a modular removable item
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly is coupled to the movable frame, allowing the entire assembly to move between a deployed position where wheels provide mobility and a retracted position where the front of the item is accessible for modular configuration changes or removable item attachment/detachment.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides improved support and flexibility, allowing for increased volumetric space and modular configurations, enhancing the usability and adaptability of luggage items according to changing travel needs.
Implementation Method 1
The frame is movable from a first position that supports or reinforces the item to a second position that clears the frame from a surface of the item
Implementation Method 2
A pivotable frame is coupled to the item at opposing pivot points on the item. The frame includes a pair of arms, each arm pivotably coupled to the item at a pivot point and extending therefrom
Data Source
AI summary
An item of luggage consisting of a plurality of sides sufficient to define a first volumetric space is coupled to a frame. The frame is movable from a first position that supports or reinforces the item to a second position that clears the frame from a surface of the item, allowing access to compartments or features on the item that were impeded by the frame in its first position. In certain embodiments, a pivotable frame is coupled to the item at opposing pivot points on the item. The frame includes a pair of arms, each arm pivotably coupled to the item at a pivot point and extending therefrom. A cross member is disposed between and coupled to the arms. The arms pivotably move the cross member from a first position to a second position. In other embodiments, a modular assembly for a frame allows for compact storage of the frame. A luggage item may also be a modular item in an assembly with a permanent frame or a modular frame.