Convertible pack systems and methods
AssigneeW. L. Gore & Associates, Inc.
InventorJohn P. Barklow
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Pack systems are convertible or transitionable to different configurations in which the systems may be used in different manners. These different manners include using the systems similarly to typical luggage, using the systems similarly to typical backpacks, pulling the systems similarly to a typical sled, using the systems as seats in rafts, and/or using the systems as supports for tables. Pack systems also facilitate replacement of typically relatively easily damaged components, such as wheels and handles.
Claims22
A handle assembly comprising:
- a handle comprising a hand grip, a base comprising a pivot shaft, and a shank extending between the hand grip and the base;
- and
- a coupling module configured to releasably couple the handle base to a frame of a luggage system such that the handle can be pivoted, the coupling module comprising:
- a receiver comprising a first collar with a first mouth, the pivot shaft receivable in the first mouth of the first collar, and
- a lock mechanism releasably securable to at least one of the receiver and the pivot shaft such that the pivot shaft is secured in the first mouth of the collar, the lock mechanism comprising a latch is manually operable to lock and unlock the lock mechanism.
A pack system comprising:
- a frame comprising a body comprising a back side, a front side, and a first aperture extending through the body;
- and
- a handle assembly comprising,
- a handle comprising a hand grip, a base comprising a pivot shaft, and a shank extending between the hand grip and the base;
- and
- a coupling module configured to releasably couple the handle base to the body of the frame such that the handle can be pivoted, the coupling module comprising,
- a receiver comprising a first collar received through the first aperture of the body of the frame, the first collar comprising a first mouth, the pivot shaft pivotably received in the first mouth of the first collar, and
- a lock mechanism releasably secured to at least one of the receiver and the pivot shaft such that the pivot shaft is secured in the first mouth of the collar, the lock mechanism comprising a latch that is manually operable to lock and unlock the lock mechanism.
A pack system comprising:
- a frame comprising a body;
- and
- a handle assembly comprising,
- a handle comprising a hand grip, a base, and a shank extending between the hand grip and the base, and
- a coupling module configured to releasably couple the base of the handle to the body of the frame such that the handle can be pivoted between a first angular position and a second angular position, wherein the first and second angular positions are angularly offset by 90 degrees or more, the coupling module being manually releasable to uncouple the handle assembly from the body of the frame.
17-18. (canceled)
23-70. (canceled)
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.