Abstract: A lightweight computer carrying case (1) has an undulating leaf spring (17) enclosed between two layers of foam. The foam strips and leaf spring are bonded to one another, and the combined spring protection system (15) is surrounded by an aesthetic layer of fabric and mounted in the interior of a main packing compartment. Once snugly fitted betwixt the spring protection device, the computer (23) is strapped in and enjoys superior safety from impact forces, including impacts felt on the corner of the carrying case. The foam is of EVA construction and the leaf spring comprises polypropylene or ABS. A unique and aesthetically pleasing outer pocket with a curving zippered access (29) holds valuables, and a sleeve pocket on the outer front face of the case provides easy access to computer peripherals and such.

Abstract: Non-textile fabric panels (FIG. 17) are either formed, formed and joined, or joined by using plates or elements 1, 2, 51, 52 having edges with connection structures of complementary shaped and spaced knuckles 54, 55, 58 that interfit with one another. The knuckles include surfaces 57, 56, 59, that interfit and engage similar structures on adjacent elements or plates. Aligned, interfitting connection structures or knuckles can hinge along major bending axes, giving the non-textile fabric made thereby the ability to flex and bend like textile fabric or leather. Buttressing surfaces 7, 57 between connected knuckles help prevent early disengagement of intermitting surfaces when the non-textile fabric is subjected to strong tensile forces. Elements 51, 52 having the overall shape of a right isoscoles triangle in the plane of the non-textile fabric formed therefrom thus provide four major bending axes for superior flexible strength.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and system for providing several stages of closure of a luggage case (2), including an open stage, a pre-close stage in which one or more latching mechanisms are engaged, and a secure stage in which a drawing action pulls both shells of the luggage case (2) further together. Also disclosed is a method and system for automatically ensuring proper latching of the multiple latching mechanisms around the perimeter of a luggage case (2). The latching mechanisms may be aligned by use of a single operative mechanism (16). The present invention comprises a low-friction, durable system. The present invention ensures security of a user's belongings by providing the extra measurement of closure. The user enjoys a single operative mechanism (16), and needs to exert only a minimal amount of pressure to latch the case (2), thanks to a clever design of the single operative mechanism (16). The user needs not worry about their suitcase (2) popping open due to a failed latching mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention provides a latch-type of lock 2 that includes an override mechanism to grant access to an article of luggage 1 by an override tool such as a master key. The present invention can be used on any type of storage facility and/or transport vessel including large storage containers, such as molded plastic storage and shipping boxes for linens and the like, briefcases, computer bags, messenger bags, backpacks, hard or soft-sided totes, hybrids, other molded or non-molded vessels, framed cases, unframed cases, and so on. The latch lock 2 of the present invention includes a mechanism for clearing a pathway 46, that, when the lock 2 is in a locked condition, is blocked. A pivot arm 12 is provided to block/unblock pathway 46. The pivot arm 12 is operated by a cam 10, which is in turn operated by the override tool.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and system for compressing and automatically expanding an expandable luggage case 2 comprising a ratchet mechanism 8 and a bungee cord 32, that is used to bias a locking mechanism, in the form of detents 54 that mate with teeth 44, in a locked position, and to bias a jack mechanism 14 for automatic expansion. The bungee cord 32 biases the ratchet compressor system 8 in an expanded state. Thus, automatic expansion is achieved, in a very easy to use manner. In addition to being operated while the luggage case 2 is open, the ratchet compressor 8 is also operable from the outside of the luggage case 2 once the luggage case 2 has been packed and closed. A user may then compress the luggage case 2 simply by applying pressure to the lid 24. The ratchet compressor system 8 therefore provides a zipper-less, automated method of expanding a luggage case 2 as well as compressing the luggage case 2 once the luggage case 2 has been closed.

Abstract: The present embodiment provides a neat, tailored accordion gusset 4 with crisscrossing elastic ribbons 22 attached to opposite rigid wire frames 8 and 10 of the expandable gusset 4, as well as a tensioned bungee cord 20 attached to the innermost edge of the center seam 26 of the expansion gusset 4. These elastic members 22 are enclosed and sealed from view by the outermost wall 6 of the luggage case 2 and an inner wall 14 defined by an elastic textile such as Spandex or the like. The resulting expansion gusset 4 can best be built into a main packing compartment door 6 of the luggage case 2 and will expand in response to over-packing of the main packing compartment 18 by expanding the expansion gusset 4 in response to the pressure of the goods against the restoring force of the various elastic members 22.

Abstract: Backpacks, book bags and day packs have advantages over conventional luggage in that the user's hands are free from carrying the backpack since the backpack is carried on the back of the user. However, this places the backpack out of line of sight from the user, and thus subjects the user to pickpocket or other thieves accessing goods carried in the backpack. The inventive backpack disclosed herein limits access to the packing compartment of the backpack (2) by continuing the zipper tracks (20, 56) for those compartments (12, 50) and terminating them on the back face (6) of the backpack which is normally contacting the upper back of the user. These zipper tracks terminate in a pouch (22) secured by a releasable closure, such as a hook and loop fastener (29). This pouch is primarily defined by a flap (28) which is covered by or constructed of the same padded textile material that covers the back face of the backpack to provide comfort to the user. Thus, the backpack is not easily opened by sneak thieves.