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: 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: This laptop computer case takes advantage of the clamshell opening construction and the relatively stiff, mutually engaging frames (13) forming the clamshell closure construction. A pair of gripping elements engages a laptop computer (L) by its major surfaces. The gripping elements preferably comprise an upper gripping bar (16) and lower bars (20) or tray support (18). These elements move towards and away from one another and thus into engagement with the laptop computer (L) being carried. These elements are moved and forced to clamp the computer (L) by the clamshell frames. High friction materials of the gripping elements engage the upper and lower surface of the laptop computer (L) to prevent the laptop computer from being dashed against the sides and top of the case. The gripping force is enhanced by a linkage system and torsion spring providing a significant mechanical advantage.

Abstract: Luggage cases of sewn fabric panels are old. These are cumbersome to manufacture, requiring many manual processes. A more advanced luggage case uses a shape retaining foam and fabric laminate to form major portions of the luggage case. This prior case still requires manual steps to apply shape stabilizing frame parts to the inside of the formed foam shell, and sewing to attach the slide fastener type closure around the perimeter of the shell. Disclosed is a process for forming a clamshell type luggage case (1) with an injection molded peripheral frame (5, 5′) and a fabric panel for a broad face (3). The edges of the fabric panel are attached to the injection molded frame by an autogenous bond formed between the edge of the panel and the plastic frame during molding.

Abstract: A luggage case comprises a lid shell (11) and a base shell (12) connected together by a hinge (22). The edges of the shells can be fastened together by latches (23, 24, 25). Two latches (23, 24) are mounted on the lid shell at the end walls. When they are released, they project downwardly and outwardly to provide gripping elements for opening the case. The case has two wheels (70, 71) and a steering handle (74) for rolling the case in a two-wheeled mode. Two castors (72, 73) are located on the back wall, and a pulling handle (76) is provided on the front wall. The pulling handle can be used for pulling the case on the wheels and the castors in four-wheeled mode. The carrying handle (21) is fixed to the frame (22) so as not to pivot. It is made of thermoplastic rubber to allow twisting movement for the comfort of the traveller. The latch (25) operates easily under carrying handle (21).

Abstract: The invention is a device for locking the closure mechanism on an item of luggage. The device includes a movable rod which drives a movable clasp bolt on one part of the luggage. The clasp bolt interacts with an opening in another part of the luggage, which opening serves as the strike for the clasp bolt. A movable latch may be interposed in the path of the rod, so that in an active position the latch blocks the movement of the rod, thus locking the case, but when the latch is in a retracted position the rod is released. The latch is moved by an electric motor connected to the latch by a gear reduction unit which amplifies the output torque of the motor. The latch may remain in its blocking position when motor torque is not supplied. A control signal generator actuates the motor in response to the reception of an access code input by the user.

Abstract: The straps connecting the lid of a brief case and the outer panel of an expansible portfolio are adjustably connected to the outer panel through a track and buckle arrangement. The buckle is ordinarily locked in place on the track by a locking element spring urged into engagement with a complementary locking element on the track. A button connected to the buckle locking element allows the user to overcome the force of the spring and slide the buckle along the track to adjust the associated strap. The locking element and the spring are integrally formed components from a unitary molded plastic part which is carried by the buckle casing.