Abstract: A shock absorbing component for a luggage wheel is disclosed. In one practice, the component comprises a resilient circular member comprising an outer circumference; a center hole comprising an incompressible sleeve inserted into the center hole and configured to receive a wheel axle; and a plurality of openings radially disposed between the outer circumference and the center hole, the plurality of openings configured to resiliently deform to absorb shock when the circular member is subjected to force along its longitudinal axis. A wheel assembly for an article of luggage and an article of luggage comprising the shock absorbing component are also separately disclosed.

Abstract: A stabilized luggage article is disclosed. In one practice, the luggage article comprises a plurality of swiveling wheel assemblies, each assembly comprising one or more wheels having a horizontal axis of rotation and mounted to a pivot member, such as a pivot post that has a vertical axis of wheel rotation; the vertical axis of rotation is laterally spaced from the horizontal axis of rotation and is projected outwardly toward the front wall of the luggage but not beyond it, the pivot post extending downwardly at least to the level of the horizontal axis of wheel rotation, preferably beyond it for further increased stability.

Abstract: An embodiment of an article of luggage is disclosed, the luggage in one practice having compression and expansion capability comprising an interposed metal frame of split configuration having an expansion portion positioned between the split where the metal frame is attached to one side of the luggage. One of more expansion and locking devices permit compression of contents and also enables locking the luggage in its expanded shape.

Abstract: An embodiment of an article of luggage is disclosed, the luggage in one practice having compression and expansion capability comprising an interposed metal frame of split configuration having an expansion portion positioned between the split where the metal frame is attached to one side of the luggage. One of more expansion and locking devices permit compression of contents and also enables locking the luggage in its expanded shape.