Suitcase Coupler and Adjustable Strap for Secondary Bag Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing luggage systems do not effectively allow for the secure and convenient coupling of multiple bags, leading to cumbersome travel with multiple bags, especially when airline restrictions limit passengers to two carry-on bags.
Innovation Solution
A suitcase with a coupler and adjustable strap system that allows a secondary bag to be securely attached in a use position and stowed in a hidden position, featuring a collapsible handle with interchangeable grips and a lock-fastener for adjusting the strap length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a coupler and strap system is added to enable bag coupling, then the functionality to attach secondary bags is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is divided into separate functional components: a coupler attached to the suitcase, a strap with adjustment mechanism, and a lock-fastener system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while working together to achieve bag coupling capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler is designed to be stowable within the opening of the suitcase when not in use, and the strap can be collapsed or retracted. This nesting approach hides the coupling mechanism within the suitcase structure, reducing visual complexity while maintaining functionality when needed.
2Shape
If the coupler is made stowable within the opening, then the aesthetic appearance is improved, but the ease of operation for deploying the coupler decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler is pre-positioned within the opening in a stowed state, ready for rapid deployment. The strap is pre-configured with the lock-fastener mechanism, allowing the user to simply pull the strap to extend the coupler outward when needed, without requiring complex assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler transitions between a static stowed position within the opening and a dynamic extended position when the strap is pulled. This dynamic transformation allows the system to adapt its configuration based on operational needs while maintaining a clean aesthetic appearance when not in use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the strap length is made adjustable via lock-fastener, then the adaptability for different bag sizes is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The strap length parameter can be changed by adjusting the position of the lock-fastener along the strap. This allows the same strap to accommodate different bag sizes and coupling distances by simply modifying the effective length parameter through the lock-fastener positioning mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock-fastener mechanism is designed to be self-adjusting and self-securing. The user can pull the strap to the desired length and the lock-fastener automatically engages to secure the position, eliminating the need for complex adjustment procedures or additional fastening steps.
Data Source
AI summary
A suitcase may include a main body having an opening therein. The suitcase may further include a base disposed in the opening. The suitcase may further include a coupler configured to selectively engage with a portion of a secondary bag, the coupler being configured to be received in the opening. The suitcase may further include a strap extending from the coupler. The suitcase may further include a lock-fastener supported by the main body and configured to allow the strap to be adjusted to increase or decrease a length of the strap between the coupler and the lock-fastener.