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.

Abstract: An item of luggage, comprising: a plurality of sides sufficient to define a first volumetric space, an expandable section disposed within the space between first and second opposing sides, wherein at least the first opposing side defines a boundary for the volumetric space and provides an exterior surface for the item of luggage; the expandable section having a first configuration wherein it is stored within the space and has an expandable side that is adjacent to the first opposing side, and a second configuration wherein the expandable side extends a predetermined distance from the first opposing side to define a boundary for a second volumetric space that is the same as or different from the first volumetric space.

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.

Abstract: A combined day pack/travel pack which conveniently converts for use as a single combined unit, a dual combined unit in which the travel pack is worn on the user's back while the day pack rides against the user's front, or two separate units. When used as a single combined unit, the day pack is detachably fixed to the front side of the travel pack. When used as a dual combined unit, snap hooks mounted on the top of the day pack are detachably fixed to D-rings mounted on shoulder straps fixed to the travel pack, such that the user carries the travel pack on the back using the shoulder straps and the day pack is suspended in a position adjacent to the user's chest.

Abstract: A luggage container which conveniently converts for use as wheeled suitcase, a backpack and a hand-carry bag having a first and second compartment for storage of belongings. A pair of wheels are rotatably mounted to an axle which is at an edge along the bottom of the first compartment. A pair of shoulder straps are provided in the second compartment and are concealed by a cover. When the container is used as a backpack, the cover is opened to reveal the shoulder straps. The cover is wrapped over the wheels and secured to the bottom side of the first compartment. In this manner the traveler and the traveler's belongings are protected when cartage is on the traveler's back from filth that accumulates on the wheels.