System for an adaptable handle to transport wheeled luggage

Abstract

Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a system for transporting wheeled luggage using a handle which adapts to the natural position of a user's hand, arm, wrist, or elbow, decreasing strain on a user pushing or pulling the wheeled luggage. In an embodiment, an adaptable handle may rotate and pivot. The adaptable handle may pivot by pivotably connecting a cross bar to a first retractable shaft and a second retractable shaft. The first retractable shaft and second retractable shaft may be inserted into a crossbar and the crossbar may pivot around the retractable shafts. The adaptable handle may be rotatably connected to the cross bar allowing the adaptable handle to rotate.

Description

This is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 10/881,378 filed Jun. 29, 2004 which is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 10/446,207 filed May 27, 2003.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a system for ergonomic transportation of luggage. In particular, the present invention relates to a system for a rotating and pivoting luggage handle.

Typically, luggage may be used to transport personal belongings during travel. Many different types of luggage currently exist. For example, luggage may exist in many different shapes, sizes, and materials. Moreover, luggage may have several methods of opening and closing, for example zippers or buttons. Many different techniques for transporting luggage also currently exist. Luggage may be carried, by hand or strapped on a user's back, for example. Furthermore, a user may push or pull wheeled luggage along the ground.

Typically, wheeled luggage has two wheels attached to the bottom of the luggage unit. The wheels may be attached, for example, so when the luggage unit is angled or tilted with relation to the ground, a user may transport the luggage by rolling the luggage unit along the ground.

Typically, the luggage unit has a handle which allows the user to push or pull the wheeled luggage. The handle may be attached to the outside of the luggage unit or attached as part of a retractable device. Modem wheeled luggage handles are generally part of a retractable device. The retractable device typically consists of a plurality of extendable shafts, usually two, which extend from the luggage unit. The end of the extendable shafts which extends from the luggage unit are typically connected by the handle. The handle is usually some sort of rigid apparatus which is incapable of adapting to a user's hand, arm, wrist, or elbow position.

The rigid, inflexible structure of modem wheeled luggage handles may impose stress on a user's hand, arm, wrist, or elbow or may compel a user's hand, arm, wrist, or elbow into an unnatural, uncomfortable position. The luggage unit may become difficult, and even painful, for a user to maneuver.

Therefore, a need exists for a system for transporting wheeled luggage which adapts to the natural position of a user's hand, arm, wrist, or elbow. Such a system may allow easier maneuverability of wheeled luggage while also decreasing strain on the hand, wrist, elbow or arm of a user pushing or pulling the wheeled luggage.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Certain embodiments of the present invention provide a system for transporting wheeled luggage using a handle which adapts to the natural position of a user's hand, arm, wrist, or elbow. An embodiment of the invention comprises a ball joint mechanism for allowing rotation and pivot movement of the adaptable handle. The ball joint mechanism comprises a ball joint connected to the adaptable handle by a handle shaft. The ball joint may be within a ball joint assembly. The ball joint assembly may be connected to a handle frame and the handle frame connected to at least one retractable shaft.

The ball joint assembly contains a pivot channel to allow pivot movement of the adaptable handle. Moreover, the wheeled luggage may contain a docking recess to allow the adaptable handle and the handle frame to retreat into the wheeled luggage. The wheeled luggage may comprise at least one shaft channel to allow at least one retractable shaft to retreat into the wheeled luggage. The wheeled luggage may also contain a docking recess to allow the adaptable handle and the handle frame to fold into the wheeled luggage. The ball joint may be connected to the adaptable handle by a screw and washer assembly. Furthermore, the ball joint mechanism may allow the adaptable handle to encompass a plurality of rotation and pivot angles.

In an embodiment, a cross bar mechanism allows rotation and pivot movement of the adaptable handle. The cross bar mechanism comprises the adaptable handle which is connected to a ball encased in a cross bar. The ball allows rotation of the adaptable handle. The cross bar is connected to a plurality of end caps. The end caps allow the adaptable handle to pivot.

Preferably, the adaptable handle may be connected to the ball by a self tapping screw. However, the adaptable handle may be connected to the ball by any technique. A ball cover may also be used to cover the ball encased in the cross bar. The ball may be notched to allow rotation of the adaptable handle. The cross bar may be connected to the plurality of end caps by plugs on the cross bar. Moreover, the plurality of end caps may be connected to a plurality of retractable shafts, each retractable shaft being connected to a single end cap. The end caps may also be connected to the retractable shafts by a self tapping screw. However, the end caps may be connected to the retractable shafts by any technique.

The wheeled luggage may also contain a docking recess to allow the adaptable handle to pivot between the retractable shafts and retreat into the docking recess. The wheeled luggage may also contain a docking recess to allow the adaptable handle to pivot into the wheeled luggage. The cross bar mechanism may allow the adaptable handle to encompass a plurality of rotation and pivot angles.

In an embodiment, a cross bar mechanism allows rotation and pivot movement of the adaptable handle. The cross bar mechanism comprises an adaptable handle which is connected to a cross bar by a fitted plug. The fitted plug allows rotation of the adaptable handle. The cross bar is connected to a plurality of end caps. The end caps allow pivot movement of the adaptable handle. The fitted plug may be tapered to allow the fitted plug to be inserted into a hole in the cross bar. The fitted plug may also have a ridge allowing the fitted plug to lock into the cross bar upon inserting the fitted plug into the hole. The cross bar may be connected to a plurality of end caps by plugs on the cross bar. The plurality of end caps may be connected to a plurality of retractable shafts, each retractable shaft may be connected to a single end cap. The wheeled luggage may contain a docking recess to allow the adaptable handle to pivot between the retractable shafts and retreat into the docking recess. The wheeled luggage may also contain a docking recess to allow the adaptable handle to pivot into the wheeled luggage.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention in application.

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention shown in a retracted perspective view.

FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention shown in an extended perspective view.

FIG. 4 illustrates a detailed perspective of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 illustrates a detailed perspective of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 illustrates a detailed perspective of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates a front view of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates a detailed perspective of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates a detailed perspective of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 illustrates a detailed perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 illustrates a detailed perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 illustrates a detailed perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention.

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of certain embodiments of the present invention, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the invention, certain embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should be understood, however, that the present invention is not limited to the arrangements and instrumentality shown in the attached drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a system 100, which demonstrates an application of the present invention. The system 100 shows a wheeled luggage assembly for transporting wheeled luggage 10 using an adaptable handle 12. The wheeled luggage assembly contains an adaptable handle 12 which may pivot or rotate. As shown in FIG. 1, the adaptable handle 12 of the wheeled luggage assembly may be attached to a retractable device, and the retractable device attached to a docking recess. Accordingly, the wheeled luggage assembly may retreat into the wheeled luggage 10.

FIG. 2 illustrates a system 200, which shows the wheeled luggage assembly and wheeled luggage 10 of FIG. 1 more closely. The wheeled luggage 10 is shown in a retracted view and has a lower wheeled end 23 and an upper end 24. A handle frame 26 and the adaptable handle 12 are shown retracted into a docking recess 29 (not shown) within the wheeled luggage 10. The docking recess 29 may allow the adaptable handle 12 and the handle frame 26 to retreat into the wheeled luggage 10, as shown. Alternatively, the docking recess 29 may allow the adaptable handle 12 and the handle frame 26 to lay substantially flush with the exterior of the upper end 24 of the wheeled luggage 10. The adaptable handle 12 and the handle frame 26 may fold, for example, to lay substantially flush with the exterior of the upper end 24 of the wheeled luggage 10.

FIG. 3 illustrates a system 300, which shows an extended, perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment of the wheeled luggage assembly as shown in FIG. 3 is a ball joint mechanism 350. The ball joint mechanism 350 allows the adaptable handle 12 to rotate or pivot according to the position of a user's hand, wrist, arm, or elbow, for example. The ball joint mechanism 350 utilizes a ball joint 45 (not shown), among other elements, to allow the adaptable handle 12 to pivot or rotate.

The docking recess 29, as discussed in FIG. 2, is shown in FIG. 3. The wheeled luggage 10 is shown with two retractable shafts 31 extending from the upper end 24 of the wheeled luggage 10. Although the preferred embodiment utilizes two retractable shafts 31, as shown in FIG. 3, any number of retractable shafts 31 may be used, including a single retractable shaft 31. Corresponding shaft channels 32 (not shown) may allow the retractable shafts 31 to retract into the wheeled luggage 10 as shown in FIG. 2. The retractable shafts 31 are attached to the handle frame 26. The handle frame 26 is attached to a ball joint assembly 33. In an embodiment, the ball joint assembly 33 contains a ball joint 45 (not shown). The ball joint assembly 33 and the ball joint 45, among other elements, allow free rotation and pivot movement of the of the adaptable handle 12, thus allowing transportation of the wheeled luggage 10 while allowing a natural, more comfortable, hand, arm, elbow, and wrist position for a user 14.

As used herein, the adaptable handle 12 rotates on an axis substantially parallel to the retractable shafts 31. Moreover, the adaptable handle 12 pivots on an axis substantially perpendicular to the retractable shafts 31. The adaptable handle 12 may pivot and rotate simultaneously allowing the adaptable handle 12 to adapt to any hand, arm, elbow, or wrist position of a user 14. The retractable shafts 31, the handle frame 26, and the adaptable handle 12, may be extended as shown in FIG. 3 by a user pulling the adaptable handle 12, the handle frame 26, or the retractable shafts 31, out of the docking recess 29, for example.

FIG. 4 illustrates a system 400, which shows a detailed view of the ball joint mechanism 350, encircled in FIG. 3. The handle frame 26, the adaptable handle 12, the retractable shafts 31, and the ball joint assembly 33 shown in FIG. 3 are shown in detail in FIG. 4. Moreover, the ball joint 45, mentioned with reference to FIG. 3, is visible in FIG. 4. In an embodiment, the ball joint 45 and ball joint assembly 33, among other elements, allow the adaptable handle 12 to freely rotate. Moreover, the ball joint 45 and ball joint assembly 33 in combination with a pivot channel 44, among other elements, allow the adaptable handle 12 to pivot. The ability of the adaptable handle to rotate or pivot allows the position of the adaptable handle to encompass a plurality of rotation and pivot angles.

The handle shaft 42 connects the adaptable handle 12 to the ball joint 45. In an embodiment, the handle shaft 42 and the ball joint 45 are a single piece. A screw 72 and washer 74 assembly (not shown) may connect the ball joint 45 to the adaptable handle 12 by screwing the adaptable handle 12 into the handle shaft 42. Alternatively, the handle shaft 42 is not part of the ball joint 45. As such, the handle shaft 42 may be part of the adaptable handle 12 or an independent piece 42. In another alternative embodiment, the adaptable handle 12, handle shaft 42, and ball joint 45 are one piece. Accordingly, any technique to attach the ball joint 45 to the adaptable handle 12 may be used.

FIG. 5 illustrates a system 500, which shows the detailed perspective 400 with the adaptable handle 12 in a rotated position. The system 500 demonstrates the rotation movement of the adaptable handle 12 in relation to the handle frame 26, the retractable shaft 31, and the wheeled luggage 10, for example. In the preferred embodiment, the adaptable handle 12, the handle shaft 42, and the ball joint 45 may rotate 360 degrees on an axis substantially parallel to the retractable shafts 31. However, the benefits of adaptable handle 12 rotation for a user 14 may be achieved by an adaptable handle 12 which rotates less than 360 degrees. Accordingly, any degree of rotation may be used.

Similarly, FIG. 6 illustrates a system 600, which shows the detailed perspective 400 with the adaptable handle 12 rotated and pivoted. As in system 500, the adaptable handle 12 may rotate to accommodate the user's hand, arm, wrist, or elbow position. Likewise, as shown in the system 600, the adaptable handle 12 may pivot to similarly accommodate the user 14. In the preferred embodiment, the pivot movement may allow the adaptable handle 12 to pivot 90 degrees. The pivot channel 44 of the preferred embodiment allows the adaptable handle 12 to pivot so the handle shaft 42 moves away from a user 14 pulling the wheeled luggage 10. The limited range of pivot movement is preferred as a balance of flexibility and strength to provide for optimal comfort and control. However, the benefits of the adaptable handle 12 pivot movement for a user 14 may be achieved by an adaptable handle 12 which pivots more, or less, than 90 degrees. Alternatively, the pivot channel 44 may allow the adaptable handle 12 to pivot toward a user 14 pulling the wheeled luggage 10. In another alternative embodiment, the pivot channel may allow the adaptable handle 12 to pivot both toward and away from a user 14 pulling the luggage. Accordingly, any degree of pivot movement may be used.

The rotation and pivot movement of the adaptable handle 12 as shown in systems 500 and 600 preferably combine during transportation of the wheeled luggage 12 to provide a natural and comfortable experience for a user 14. The adaptable handle 12 may rotate or pivot to accommodate the arm, hand, wrist, or elbow position of a user. Accordingly, any degree of rotation or pivot movement may be used with the ball joint mechanism 350.

FIG. 7 illustrates a system 700, which shows a front view of an embodiment of the present invention. The wheeled luggage 10 is shown with the retractable shafts 31 in the extended position. The docking recess 29 and shaft channels 32 are depicted in hidden line. The retractable shafts 31 are attached to the handle frame 26. The handle frame 26 is connected to the ball joint assembly 33. The ball joint assembly 33 and ball joint 45 are connected to the adaptable handle 12 by a ball screw 72, a washer 74, and the handle shaft 42, for example. However, any technique or device may be used to connect the ball joint 45 to the adaptable handle 12. A docking recess 29 is also shown as part of the wheeled luggage 10. The docking recess 29 may allow the handle frame 26 to retract into the wheeled luggage 10, similar to the retractable shafts 31 retracting into the wheeled luggage 10.

In an alternative embodiment, the ball joint mechanism 350 may be replaced by a cross bar mechanism 850. FIG. 8 illustrates a system 800, which shows an extended, perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention. The embodiment as shown in FIG. 8 is a cross bar mechanism 850. The cross bar mechanism allows the adaptable handle 12 to rotate or pivot according to the position of a user's hand, wrist, arm, or elbow, for example. The cross bar mechanism 850 utilizes a ball 840 to allow the adaptable handle 12 to rotate on an axis substantially parallel to the retractable shafts 31 and a plurality of end caps 820 to allow the adaptable handle 12 to pivot on an axis substantially perpendicular to the retractable shafts 31.

The system 800 illustrates the adaptable handle 12 connected to a cross bar 810 by a ball 840, and a self tapping ball screw 845. The ball 840 is encased in the cross bar 810, for example, and allows the adaptable handle 12 to rotate freely. In the preferred embodiment, the ball 840 is notched to permit the adaptable handle 12 to freely rotate on an axis substantially parallel to the retractable shafts 31. Preferably, the ball 840 is partially notched, as shown in FIG. 8, to restrict the rotation of the adaptable handle 12. Preferably, the rotation of the adaptable handle 12 is restricted to be substantially perpendicular with the cross bar 810. For example, the adaptable handle 12 may rotate 90 degrees clockwise and 90 degrees counter-clockwise. The limited rotation provides strength and stability to the rotation of the adaptable handle 12. Alternatively, the ball 840 may be notched to allow other angles of rotation of the adaptable handle 12, including full 360 degree rotation. Alternatively, the ball 840 does not have a notch and permits the adaptable handle 12 to freely rotate, up to 360 degrees. Accordingly, any degree of rotation may be used.

The ball cover 860 covers the opening in the cross bar 810 which contains the ball 840 and the self tapping ball screw 845. In the preferred embodiment, the cross bar 810 is connected to two end caps 820 by plugs 870 at the ends of the cross bar 810. The end caps 820 allow plugs 870 on the cross bar 810 to be inserted into the end caps 820. The plugs 870 are preferably tapered to allow the plugs 870 to be inserted into the end caps 820. The plugs 870 also preferably have a ridge allowing the plugs 870 to lock into the end caps 820.

The end caps 820 secure the cross bar 810 to the retractable shafts 31 while allowing the cross bar 810 free pivot movement along an axis substantially perpendicular to the retractable shafts 31. In the preferred embodiment, the pivot movement may allow the adaptable handle 12 to pivot 180 degrees. The cross bar 810 of the preferred embodiment may allow the adaptable handle 12 to pivot so the adaptable handle 12 moves away from a user 14 pulling the wheeled luggage 10. The limited range of pivot movement is preferred as a balance of flexibility and strength to provide for optimal comfort and control. However, the benefits of the adaptable handle 12 pivot movement for a user 14 may be achieved by an adaptable handle 12 which pivots more, or less, than 180 degrees. Alternatively, the cross bar 810 may allow the adaptable handle 12 to pivot toward a user 14 pulling the wheeled luggage 10. In another alternative embodiment, the cross bar 810 may allow the adaptable handle 12 to pivot both toward and away from a user 14 pulling the luggage. Accordingly, any degree of pivot movement may be used.

In an embodiment, the end caps 820 are secured to the retractable shafts 31 by two self tapping end cap screws 830, for example. Alternatively, the end caps 820 may be part of the retractable shafts 31. Similar to the ball joint mechanism 350, the cross bar mechanism 850 and the retractable shafts 31 may retreat into shaft channels 32 (not shown). Alternatively, both the retractable shafts 31 as well as the end caps 830 may retreat into shaft channels 32. Moreover, the adaptable handle 12 may pivot to fit between the two retractable shafts 31 and retreat into the docking recess 29. Alternatively, the adaptable handle 12 may lay substantially flush with the exterior of the upper end 24 of the wheeled luggage 10. The adaptable handle 12 may pivot, for example, to lay substantially flush with the exterior of the upper end 24 of the wheeled luggage 10.

In an alternative embodiment, rotational movement of the adaptable handle 12 may be facilitated by a fitted plug 905 instead of the ball 840, and other associated elements. FIG. 9 shows the adaptable handle 12, the fitted plug 905, and a modified cross bar 910. The fitted plug 905 may be part of the adaptable handle 12, as shown in FIG. 9. Alternatively, the fitted plug 905 may be a separate piece from the adaptable handle 12 and may be attached to the adaptable handle 12 via a screw mechanism, for example. The fitted plug 905 is preferably tapered to allow the fitted plug 905 to be inserted into a hole 915 in the modified cross bar 910. The fitted plug 905 also preferably has a ridge 920 allowing the fitted plug 905 to lock into the modified cross bar 910 upon inserting the fitted plug 905 into the hole 915. The modified cross bar 910 may have similar features as cross bar 810. However, the hole 915 of the modified cross bar 910 may have appropriate dimensions to receive the fitted plug 905. The hole 915 of the modified cross bar 910 also may have appropriate dimensions to lock the fitted plug 905 and the adaptable handle 12 to the modified cross bar 910. When the fitted plug 905 is locked in the modified cross bar 910, the mechanism permits full 360 degree rotation of the adaptable handle 12.

In an alternative embodiment, a modified cross bar 1010 may be connected to modified end caps 1020 by a circular plug attachment 1040 and a self tapping screw 1030. FIG. 10 shows the modified cross bar 1010, the modified end caps 1020, and the self tapping screw 1030, and circular plug attachment 1040. The modified cross bar 1010 is similar to the cross bar 810 and modified cross bar 910 except that the ends of modified cross bar 1010, which may be inserted into the modified end caps 1020, have fittings capable of receiving the self tapping screw 1030 and the modified end caps 1020 are capable of receiving the circular plug attachments 1040. The self tapping screw 1030 may have a circular plug attachment 1040 which houses a portion of the self tapping screw 1030. The modified end caps 1020 have a first side capable of receiving the self tapping screw 1030 as well as the circular plug attachment 1040. The modified end caps 1020 have a second side capable of receiving the end of the modified cross bar 1010.

Together, the circular plug attachment 1040 and the self tapping screw 1030 may be inserted into the first side of the modified end cap 1030 and the end of the modified cross bar 1010 may be inserted into the second side of the modified end cap 1020. The self tapping screw 1030 may be screwed into said modified cross bar 1010, fastening the circular plug attachment 1040 and the modified cross bar 1010 within the modified end caps 1020. FIG. 11 illustrates the circular plug attachment 1040 and the self tapping screw 1030 connected to the modified cross bar 1010 through the modified end cap 1020.

FIG. 12 illustrates a system 1200 as an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 illustrates similar features as previous embodiments, except the modified cross bar 1010 is shown connected to the modified end caps 1020 by the circular plug attachment 1040 and self tapping screw 1030. The handle 12 is also shown connected to the modified cross bar 1010 by a circular plug attachment 1040 and self tapping screw 1030.

Multiple techniques in connecting the cross bar to the end caps, and the cross bar to the adaptable handle have been described above. It should be noted that any combination of these techniques may be combined to utilize various embodiments of the invention. For example, the handle may be connected to the cross bar by a plug, and the cross bar connected to the end caps by a circular plug assembly, or vice versa. As another example, the handle may be connected to the cross bar by a ball assembly, whereas the cross bar may be fastened to the end caps by a circular plug attachment. Accordingly, any technique for fastening the various components of an embodiment together may be used. Moreover, any technique which allows a luggage handle to rotate or pivot may be used.

FIG. 13 illustrates a system 1300 as an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 illustrates an embodiment of the invention in which the retractable shafts 31 corner at approximately a 90-degree angle and may be inserted into a cross bar. Alternatively, the cross bar 1310 may be inserted into the retractable shafts 31. In the embodiment show in FIG. 13, the retractable shafts 31 are cornered at approximately a 90 degree angle and are inserted into cross bar 1310. The cross bar 1310 may pivot around the retractable shafts 31, allowing the handle pivot movement similar to previous embodiments. As shown in FIG. 13, the cross bar 1310 may have slots, shown as slot 1335 and 1345. The slots 1335 and 1345 each accommodates a roll pin 1338 and 1348 respectively. The roll pins 1338 and 1348 may be inserted into the slots and through a portion of the retractable shafts 31. The slots 1335 and 1345 and roll pins 1338 and 1348 may restrict the pivot movement of the cross bar 1310, for example restrict the pivot movement to approximately 180 degrees.

The handle assembly 1360 may be attached to the cross bar 1310 through a hole approximately centered in the cross bar 1310. The handle assembly 1360 may be attached in a similar manner as previous embodiments allowing the handle assembly 1360 to rotate, for example rotate 360 degrees. As shown in FIG. 13, the handle assembly 1360 is attached to the cross bar 1310 using a shoulder bolt 1362.

FIG. 14 illustrates the cross bar 1310 separated from the remainder of the components. The slots 1335 and 1345 are shown as well as the hole 1450 approximately in the center in the cross bar 1310. In an embodiment, the hole 1450 permits rotation of the handle assembly 1360.

FIG. 15 illustrates a transparent view of the cross bar 1310, the retractable shafts 31, the shoulder screw 1362, the slots 1335 and 1345, and the respective roll pins 1338 and 1348. The retractable shafts 31 are shown inserted into the cross bar 1310. In the example of FIG. 15, the retractable shafts 31 do not extend the entire length of the cross bar 1310. The retractable shafts 31 extend beyond the slots 1335 and 1345, respectively, but do not extend to the hole 1450. The hole 1450 and shoulder screw 1362 are shown for connection to the handle assembly 1360. The cross bar 1310 may pivot around the retractable shafts 31.

The slots 1335 and 1345 and the roll pins 1338 and 1348 may restrict the pivot movement of the cross bar 1310. Roll pins 1338 and 1348 may be inserted into holes in retractable shafts 31 to lock the retractable shafts 31 into the cross bar 1310 and to restrict the pivot movement of the cross bar 1310, for example restrict pivot movement approximately 180 degrees.

FIG. 16 illustrates the handle assembly 1360. The handle assembly 1360 may include two U bars 1620 and 1630 that may be inserted into two handle assembly cross bars 1650 and 1660. Alternatively, the handle assembly cross bars 1650 and 1660 may be inserted into the two U bars 1620 and 1630. The U bars 1620 and 1630 may be constructed of metal, plastic or other material for connecting the two crossbars 1650 and 1660. The handle assembly cross bars 1650 and 1660 may be secured to the U bars 1620 and 1630. For example the handle assembly cross bars 1650 and 1660 may be secured to the U bars 1620 and 1630 by a screw or roll pin assembly.

While the invention has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1) A system for transporting wheeled luggage using an adaptable handle, said system comprising:

a first retractable shaft having a first end and a second end, said first end being attached to said wheeled luggage;

a second retractable shaft having a first end and a second end, said first end being attached to said wheeled luggage; and

a cross bar, said cross bar being pivotably connected to the second end of said first retractable shaft and the second end of said second retractable shaft.

a handle assembly, said handle assembly being rotatably connected to the cross bar for allowing the adaptable handle to rotate.

2) The system of claim 1, wherein said cross bar is pivotably connected to the second end of said first retractable shaft by inserting the second end of said first retractable shaft into a first end of said cross bar, and said cross bar is pivotably connected to the second end of said second retractable shaft by inserting the second end of said second retractable shaft into a second end of said cross bar.

3) The system of claim 1, wherein said cross bar is pivotably connected to the second end of said first retractable shaft by inserting a first end of said cross bar into the second end of said first retractable shaft, and said cross bar is pivotably connected to the second end of said second retractable shaft by inserting a second end of said cross bar into the second end of said second retractable shaft.

4) The system of claim 1, wherein said cross bar has a plurality of pivot slots.

5) The system of claim 4, further comprising a plurality of roll pins passing through said pivot slots and said retractable shafts to restrict said pivot movement of said adaptable handle to less than 360 degrees.

6) The system of claim 5, wherein in said pivot movement is restricted to approximately 180 degrees.

7) The system of claim 1, wherein said handle assembly is rotatably connected to said cross bar by a shoulder screw.

8) The system of claim 1, wherein said handle assembly comprises two U bars being partially inserted into a plurality of handle assembly cross bars.

9) A system for transporting wheeled luggage using an adaptable handle, said system comprising:

a cross bar for allowing the adaptable handle to pivot, said cross bar having a first end and a second end;

a first retractable shaft, a portion of said first retractable shaft being inserted into said first end of said cross bar;

a second retractable shaft, a portion of said second retractable shaft inserted into said second end of said cross bar; and

a handle assembly, said handle assembly being rotatably connected to the cross bar for allowing the adaptable handle to rotate.

10) The system of claim 9, wherein said cross bar has a plurality of pivot slots.

11) The system of claim 10, further comprising a plurality of roll pins passing through said pivot slots and said retractable shafts to restrict said pivot movement of said adaptable handle to less than 360 degrees.

12) The system of claim 11, wherein in said pivot movement is restricted to approximately 180 degrees.

13) The system of claim 9, wherein said handle assembly is rotatably connected to said cross bar by a shoulder screw.

14) The system of claim 9, wherein said handle assembly comprises two U bars being partially inserted into a plurality of handle assembly cross bars.

15) A system for transporting wheeled luggage using an adaptable handle, said system comprising:

a first retractable shaft having a first end and a second end, said first end being attached to said wheeled luggage;

a second retractable shaft having a first end and a second end, said first end being attached to said wheeled luggage; and

a cross bar, said cross bar being pivotably connected to the second end of said first retractable shaft and the second end of said second retractable shaft, said connection allowing pivot movement of said adaptable handle.

16) The system of claim 15, further comprising a handle assembly, said handle assembly being rotatably connected to the cross bar for allowing the adaptable handle to rotate.

17) The system of claim 15, wherein said cross bar has a plurality of pivot slots.

18) The system of claim 17, further comprising a plurality of roll pins passing through said pivot slots and said retractable shafts to restrict said pivot movement of said adaptable handle to less than 360 degrees.

19) The system of claim 18, wherein in said pivot movement is restricted to approximately 180 degrees.

20) The system of claim 15, wherein said handle assembly is rotatably connected to said cross bar by a shoulder screw.