Abstract: A switchable magnetic device comprising a first ferromagnetic material or layer comprising or consisting of a first rare earth nitride alloy, the first rare earth nitride alloy including at least two lanthanide species; a second ferromagnetic material or layer comprising or consisting of a second rare earth nitride alloy, the second rare earth nitride alloy including at least two lanthanide species; a blocking material or layer located between the first and second ferromagnetic materials or layers.

Abstract: A protective shell is provided for a piece of luggage. The shell includes a pair of substantially rigid, transparent shell sections, each having an interior space, which at least partly accommodates the piece of luggage. The shell sections are pivotably interconnected such that they are pivotable between an open condition to expose the interior space of each shell section and a closed condition to define an enclosure about the interior spaces for accommodating the piece of luggage therein. The shell sections are provisionally fastened in the closed condition and include a slot that receives the handle of the piece of luggage such that both the luggage and the shell may be carried by a person using the shell.