US 2016/0235173 A1 · FRAMES FOR LUGGAGE ITEMS

Abstract

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.

Claims28

Dependent claims

An item of luggage, comprising:

a plurality of sides comprising a front side, an opposing back side and opposing left and right sides disposed between the front and back sides, the side defining a first volumetric space,
a frame coupled to the left and right sides of the item, the frame being moveable from a first position that supports or reinforces the item along the bottom edge of the front side to a second position that is rearward of the front side and toward the back side, the second position clearing the frame from a surface of the item allowing access to compartments or features on the item accessed at the front side of the item.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Frames for luggage items

Life of this patent

Frames for luggage items

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims28