Interconnecting luggage system having optional features

Abstract

A novel interconnecting luggage system having optional features such as interconnecting carrying cases, an ID chip, specialized compartments for containment of specialty items such as a laptop computer or a laundry bag, an electrical outlet with extension cord, a blower/vacuum motor assembly, etc. Also, the system may be designed for the specific needs of the end user. For example, the end user may be a patient who has an ostomy and the system is used for ostomy maintenance, or the user may be a caretaker for a baby and the system is used as a baby changing system. Furthermore, one of the carrying cases may be used for containment of the ostomy/baby changing system and the system is removably contained within the case and upon removal there from is then removably mountable upon a wall or the like.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates in general to portable carrying cases such as suitcases, luggage, handbags or the like. However, the invention more particularly pertains to a carrying case that is designed not only for carrying personalized articles in an organized compact manner, but is also of a shape and size to be easily stored within an above passengers storage compartment of an airplane The carrying case includes optional features that may be incorporated depending on the needs of the end user. For example, some options include an electrical outlet for energizing an accessory item such as a hairdryer, a blower/vacuum assembly, or the like. The case may further include an ID chip, a compartment for a laptop computer, a detachable purse, a disposable laundry bag, and/or a combination thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is well known by travelers that carrying luggage can be quite troublesome and cumbersome especially when boarding a plane. Most luggage and/or suitcases are designed specifically for carrying articles therein and many different designs have been proposed yet there still remains a need for an improved luggage system.

For example, most suitcases include multiple compartments, a carrying handle and/or wheels for increased mobility. Unfortunately, most travelers carry more than just one suitcase and multiple suitcases are extremely difficult to carry or transport simultaneously. As a result, one proposed resolution is to provide luggage racks that may be purchased for a fee within most airports, train depots, bus stations and the like. However this is only a remedy while moving about within the specific complex. Once the traveler has transported their luggage to the desired location, the luggage rack is then returned as it is not intended for further transport, such as onto an airplane or the like. Another means for carrying multiple suitcases simultaneously includes use of straps, ropes, etc., each of which must be wrapped about the cases and then tied. This is again most troublesome and time consuming as well.

Still further, luggage or suitcases may include an ID tag that identifies the user and pertinent information related thereto. However, many times these tags may become detached or lost, thus defeating the purpose. As a result, there is a need for an improved means for tracking the luggage and identifying or determining the owner thereof.

Another disadvantage associated with the currently available luggage systems or suitcases is that the main function is to carry clothing and some personal belongings, such as make-up, medications, books, etc. As a result, such items are normally packed one on top of the other and therefore such items are not organized and also tend to shift about when the luggage is moved. This is most frustrating and also many times these items become damaged as a result thereof.

Yet another disadvantage with currently available luggage systems or suitcases is that they do not include any means for separating items so as to eliminate possible contamination there between. For example, while traveling a user may wish to separate items such as soiled clothing from clean clothing or the like. As a result, the user frequently also packs a separate bag for containment of such articles and this is again an additional inconvenience that the current invention recognizes, addresses and resolves in a manner heretofore not taught.

Also another disadvantage of the known prior art is that most suitcases or luggage systems do not provide individual compartments having a specific use for specified items. For example, most suitcases are not functional for carrying a laptop computer or other similar sensitive items. As a result, many travelers must include cushioning means for increased protection such as towels, a pillow, paper, etc. This not only reduces valuable space within the case, but this is again most irritating and time consuming.

It is therefore contended a need exists for an improved luggage system that provides a user with optional features and novel characteristics that have heretofore not been taught within the known prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore a primary object of the present invention to provide an interconnecting luggage system having optional features that includes at least a first carrying case and a second carrying case. The second case being removably attachable onto the first case by appropriate attachment means, such as an attachment clasp or the like. This is very important as this allows the user to conveniently carry both cases when connected but the second case when needed is easily detached. It is to be noted a novel advantage is the attachment clasp system allows the cases to be interconnected when the cases are empty or when filled to their capacity. Also, this further allows for different types and various sized cases to be easily interconnected. The first case is of a size and shape to conveniently fit into the overhead luggage compartment, such as typically used by a passenger while traveling on an airplane or the like and the second case being of a size and shape to easily fit underneath the airplanes passenger seat when not in use.

Also a further object of the present invention is to provide an interconnecting luggage system wherein the first case provides a carrying handle on the top section thereof for ease of movement, while the second case may include the carrying handle being located on a vertical edge thereon. Thus, when the user detaches the first and second cases the second case is easily grasped in a more natural user-friendly position.

Also a further object of the present invention is to provide an interconnecting luggage system wherein the first case provides a typical retractable/extendable handle for increased ease of transport.

Yet another important object of the present invention is to provide an interconnecting luggage system having optional features that may include a specialized storage compartment that is most convenient and functional for containment therein of a laptop computer. This is important as most suitcases do not provide sufficient protection for sensitive equipment and if they do have a suitable compartment they do not provide easy convenient access thereto. It is to be noted this particular compartment may include internal cushioning for increased protection if required.

Still a further object of the present invention is to provide an interconnecting luggage system having optional features that may include a specialized plastic lined sanitary pocket. This is most convenient for storage of items that might contaminate other items positioned within the case. For example, a user may wish to separate soiled clothing from clean clothing or the like. It is to be noted that the specialized plastic lined pocket may further include a replaceable filter for reducing any emitting odors associated with the items when stored therein. For still further sanitation and increased odor protection the user may wish to insert the items into a plastic bag and then position the items and plastic bag within the specialized pocket. Also, the plastic bag may include a replaceable filter as well. With this in mind, the luggage system maybe sold with specialized replacement plastic bags including the filter and a zip-lock closure means.

Yet a further object of the present invention is to provide an interconnecting luggage system having optional features that may include an electrical 110 outlet that is energized via an extension cord when plugged into a remote electrical outlet. For an example, the luggage system may be arranged as a makeup table or the like. In which case it would be advantageous to position the luggage system in close proximity for ease of use and also allow the user to remain in a seated position if desired. Therefore, if the user wishes to use an electrical appliance such as a hair dryer, an electric razor, facial massager, a combination blower/vacuum assembly, a portable ostomy patient assistance system etc, they may easily due so without the need to get up and find an accessible plug in. Also, the user is then not limited in mobility as when restricted by the length of the electrical cord associated with the appliance.

Still a further object of the present invention is to provide an interconnecting luggage system that may be designed for use by caretakers of babies who have specific needs such as changing a diaper while traveling or the like. For example, if the caretaker had accessory items associated with diaper changing and they were contained within the luggage system and easily accessible, this would be most convenient and advantageous. Also, as mentioned above if the interconnecting luggage system included a battery operated hair dryer or the like, this would allow for drying of the baby after cleansing and again would prove most advantageous.

Yet another advantage of the present is to provide an interconnecting luggage system that may contain a removable storage cabinet. For example, as previously noted if the luggage system is used by a patient who has had an ostomy, it would be most convenient if the accessory items needed for ostomy maintenance were easily available within hand reach during the procedures incurred therewith. In many instances while traveling an ostomy patient or the like, after reaching their desired destination would appreciate a portable luggage system that could be removably mounted on a wall for convenient use during their stay. Therefore, if the contents of the luggage system were easily removed and then mountable on a wall so as to function as a medicine cabinet respectively, this would be most advantageous and thus a removable storage cabinet contained within the luggage system is an inherent advantage heretofore not taught.

Still a further object of the present invention is to provide an interconnecting luggage system having optional features that may include wide mounted swivel type wheels. This is important as most luggage currently available, generally mount the wheels approximately 2 inches inwardly from the outer edges of the case. The present invention mounts the wheels as close to the outer edges as possible. This provides increased stability but more importantly reduces the wobbling effect often associated with the prior art.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an interconnecting luggage system that provides internal compartments that are spacious and are easily accessible via appropriate closure means such as a zipper, VELCRO™, or the like. Also, if preferred the noted closure means may further include locking means to secure the contents therein from theft. Although the locking means is not taught herein, it is to be inherent.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide an interconnecting luggage system that may further include an ID chip for identifying the owner of the luggage system. This is important as most luggage systems only provide an external ID tag that can easily become detached and lost. With today's heightened security systems incurred while traveling it would be most advantageous to provide means for the security personal to be able to easily identify the owner of the luggage. Thus, inclusion of an ID chip that would be detected when one passes through the security system, would prove to be most beneficial. This further provides means to identify and locate lost luggage and also further aids security as to the identities associated with the luggage.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is substantially a perspective overview for the preferred embodiment for the present invention.

FIG. 2 is substantially a rear overview of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is substantially a partial cut-a-way taken at 3-3 of FIG. 1 and depicts an internal compartment and the contents therein.

FIG. 4 is substantially a perspective overview of one optional feature of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is substantially an overview of another optional feature of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is substantially an overview of another optional feature of the present invention and depicts a removable cabinet that once removed there from may be easily mounted onto a wall for convenient use such as a medicine cabinet or the like.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring now in detail to the drawings wherein like characters refer to like elements throughout the various views. The preferred embodiment of FIG. 1 substantially teaches the interconnected luggage system (10) of the present invention including all of the noted optional features, each of which will be individually addressed as follows:

Interconnected luggage system (10) substantially consists of a first carrying case such as suitcase (12) and at least a second carrying case such as suitcase (14) in combination. Each carrying case (12 & 14) having a typical internal compartment including appropriate closure means therefore, such as a zipper (15) or the like. The first carrying case (12) and the second carrying case (14) are removably detachable from each other via a quick connect clasp device (16). It is to be noted any suitable attachment/detachment means of engineering choice may be incorporated. For example, VELCRO™, snaps, buttons, etc. Also the attachment/detachment means may be used independently or in multiples, although for clarity purposes only one is shown herein but multiples are to be inherent.

The quick connect clasp device (16) as taught herein is most efficient as it is cost effective, easy to use, and simple in construction. Namely, the quick connect clasp device (16) may consist of an outwardly extending tab member having a downwardly extending limb that may be located on either case, preferably the second case (14). The quick connect clasp device (16) further includes a receptacle that may be located on either case but preferably the first case for receiving downwardly extending limb therein. It is to be noted any suitable type of detachable/retaining means may be incorporated within the receptacle such as a magnet, a friction fit, etc. In the preferred embodiment the quick connect clasp device (16) is adjustable or extendible which provides a novel advantage. Whereby the quick connect clasp device allows the cases to be interconnected when the cases are empty or when filled to their capacity. Also, this further allows for different types and various sized cases to be easily interconnected. It is to be noted different sized second cases may be used in combination. For example, the second case may be in form of a purse, a briefcase, a backpack, etc.

The first carrying case (12) is of a size and shape to conveniently fit into the overhead luggage compartment, such as typically used by a passenger while traveling on an airplane or the like and the second carrying case (14) being of a size and shape to easily fit underneath the airplanes passenger seat when not in use.

The first case (12) provides a carrying handle (18) on the top section thereof for ease of movement, while the second case (14) may include the carrying handle (20) being located on a vertical edge thereon. Thus, when the user detaches the first and second cases the second case is easily grasped in a more natural user-friendly position.

Also a further object of the present invention is to provide an interconnecting luggage system wherein the first case provides a typical retractable/extendable handle (22) for increased ease of transport.

As depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, the interconnecting luggage system (10) provides optional features that may include a specialized storage compartment (24) that is most convenient and functional for containment therein of a laptop computer (not shown). It is to be noted this particular compartment may include internal cushioning (not shown) for increased protection if required. Although the cushioning is not shown herein it is to be inherent.

As depicted in FIG. 2, the optional features may include a specialized plastic lined sanitary pocket (26). This is most convenient for storage of items that might contaminate other items positioned within the case (12). It is to be noted that the specialized plastic lined pocket (26) may further include a replaceable filter (28) for reducing any emitting odors associated with the items when stored therein. For still further sanitation and increased odor protection the user may wish to insert the items into an additional plastic bag (30) and then position the items and plastic bag within the specialized pocket. Also, the plastic bag may include a replaceable filter as well and in the preferred embodiment the additional plastic bag is of the Zip-Lock™ variety. It is to be understood that both the noted filter means is to be of engineering choice, such as that of the charcoal variety or the like. With further reference to the specialized plastic lined pocket (26) it may be desirable to provide suitable closure means as well for further added protection such as a VELCRO™ flap (32) or the like.

Still another novel optional feature of the present invention is to provide an interconnecting luggage system (10) having an electrical 110 outlet (34) that is energized via an extension cord with plug (36) when plugged into a remote electrical outlet (not shown). For convenience, the extension chord with plug (36) may be concealed (when in a coiled position) within an internal compartment (38) that is accessible from a frictionally engaged removable cover (40) with the cover being located on an exterior surface of first case (12) and electrical 110 outlet is positioned within an internal surface of case (12) that is accessible via an internal compartment (42) located within first carrying case (12).

It is to be noted that removable cover (40) may be removably attached by any suitable means of engineering choice and thus the cover as taught herein is only exemplary of one possible embodiment. Furthermore, to reduce possible loss of the cover when removed the cover may be pivotably attached by a suitable pivot means such as a pivot pin (44) or the like. Still further for ease of removal cover (40) may include a removal means such as a finger grip (46) or the like.

Referring now in general to FIG. 4, wherein we depict another optional feature of the present invention. Namely, a combination blower/vacuum assembly (52), that is of a size and shape to easily fit within first case (12), such as within internal compartment (42) or other suitable location therein. There are many instances when a user may wish for a combination blower/vacuum assembly and it would be most convenient to have such an item available while traveling, or when staying in a motel while away from home. For example, a user may wish for a blower assembly for drying their hair, body, clothing, etc, and/or they may wish for a vacuum for removing an item(s), such as for removal of lint from clothing or perhaps hair after having a trim, etc. In some situations there may be a personal need in particular, such as in the case of an ostomy patient who would truly appreciate a safe, portable, easy means to remove any foul odors or the like.

It is therefore contended that there is a need for a lightweight, cost effective portable combination blower/vacuum assembly that will easily fit within a suitcase and this heretofore has not been available. Thus, I herein provide a combination blower/vacuum assembly (52), comprising: a housing (54) for containment of internal components including a blower/vacuum motor (56) interconnected to an air inlet/outlet hose (58) having a first end and a second end, a one-way filter medium (59), a mechanical chamber (60) for controlling reverse air-flow and internal electronics (not shown for clarity purposes) for operation of associated switches (hereafter described).

The combination blower/vacuum assembly (52) further includes a first push button off/on switch (62), a blower/vacuum switch (64) for alternating between a blower mode and a vacuum mode of operation and a second pressure activated off/on switch (66). The first end of air inlet/outlet hose (58) being fixedly attached onto a hose fitting (70) which is removably attached onto one-way filter medium (59) by suitable attachment means such as threads or the like, (not shown). It is to be understood when combination blower/vacuum assembly (52) is in the blower mode of operation, air is not forced into the one-way filter medium (59) and when the combination blower/vacuum assembly (52) is in the vacuum mode of operation, air is forced into the one-way filter medium (59) and is thus filtered and debris as well as odors are captured or contained therein until removed or the filter is replaced. It is to be further understood that any suitable type of one-way filter medium of engineering choice may be incorporated, as there are many suitable variants.

The second end of inlet/outlet hose (58) being partially contained within an in-line primary heating element (72) and affixed in place by an attachment flange (74) and the second end of inlet/outlet hose (58) slightly protrudes upwardly and outwardly there from. The invention further includes an air inlet/outlet extension hose (68) having a first end and a second end. The air inlet/outlet extension hose (68) further provides internal wiring (not shown) for operation of a built-in secondary heater element (87) that is affixed onto the first end of air inlet/outlet extension hose (68) and the second end of air inlet/outlet extension hose (68) being removably attachable onto the second end of inlet/outlet hose (58) by suitable attachment means, such as by a friction fit. The second end of inlet/outlet hose (58) further providing electrical contacts (76) thereon for electrical communication between the built-in secondary heater element (87) and associated circuitry located within housing (54). The second end of air inlet/outlet extension hose (68) further provides an air inlet/outlet nozzle member (80) for directional control of incoming/outgoing forced air. Air inlet/outlet nozzle member (80) directs forced air outwardly there from when in the blower mode and draws air inwardly there through when in the vacuum mode.

As can be further seen in FIG. 4, mechanical chamber (60) further provides an outwardly protruding air intake/outlet (82) that directs forced air outwardly there from when in the vacuum mode and draws air inwardly there through when in the blower mode. It is to be noted previously mentioned switches (62 & 66) are both functional for on/off operation of the combination blower/vacuum assembly (52). However, the second pressure activated off/on switch (66) is mounted in a receptacle (84) and when the nozzle (80) is positioned therein pressure activated off/on switch (66) assumes its off mode and when the nozzle (80) is removed the pressure activated off/on switch (66) assumes its on mode. Therefore, when the nozzle is in place the combination blower/vacuum assembly (52) is off and when the nozzle is removed the combination blower/vacuum assembly (52) is automatically turned on.

As can be further seen in FIG. 4, combination blower/vacuum assembly (52) also provides a removable access plate (86) that allows a user access there through for performing maintenance on the internal components and/or filter servicing. Still further the combination blower/vacuum assembly (52) includes an electrical cord/plug (88) for energizing the assembly when connected to an electrical outlet. It is to be understood any suitable electrical outlet may be used or if preferred the electrical outlet (34) as depicted in FIG. 3 may alternately be used for convenience. Although the present invention teaches use of electrical cord(s) it is to be noted that other means for energizing the assembly are inherent. For example, if desired the assembly may be battery operated or even solar powered depending on the end user and/or engineering preferences.

It can now be seen that when the combination blower/vacuum assembly (52) is in the vacuum mode, neither of the heater elements (72 & 78) are necessary and thus they each remain off. However, when combination blower/vacuum assembly (52) is in the blower mode, each of the heaters (72 & 78) are automatically actuated. Whereby, the present blower assembly is extremely functional for drying items, as the use of both heaters in combination provide much more heat than any standard blower having only one heater.

Yet a further optional alternative for the present invention is to include a portable ostomy patient assistance system (90) that is of a size and shape to easily fit within the first carrying case (12) and is depicted in FIG. 5. It is to be noted that the actual workings of the ostomy patient assistance system are not to be limited to the specific embodiment as taught herein as there are numerous variations possible. However, the preferred embodiment as depicted herein is basically taught within my co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 10/826,462 entitled “A MULTIPURPOSE, SELF-CONTAINED, PORTABLE, AND ODOR-FREE WORKSTATION” which is most adaptable and functional with the current interconnecting luggage system. Whereby, carrying case (12) includes an internal compartment (92) for containment of the ostomy patient assistance system (90) and multiple storage compartments for containment of any items of user choice. For example, such items may include medications, toothbrush/toothpaste, makeup, etc and/or specialty items that may be associated with an ostomy patients personal needs or the like. It is further beneficial for an ostomy patient to have access to a readily accessible waste receptacle (94) for quick and easy disposal of waste products therein. It is to be noted the waste receptacle (94) may further include sanitation and/or odor removal means depending on the end user and/or engineering choices.

Referring now to FIG. 6, wherein the ostomy appliance as taught in FIG. 5 and depicted therein is also slidably removable from within the internal compartment (92). As can be seen therein, the ostomy patient assistance system (90) can then be removed and mounted onto a wall by suitable attachment means of end user choice. For example, as depicted herein the system (90) may be mounted onto studs (91) by mounting screws (93) or the like. Also (although not shown) other mounting means may include loop and pile fasteners, bolts, nuts, nails, Silicone™, glue, etc. Thus the invention is not to be limited to any specific mounting means as numerous mounting means are inherent.

For further convenience when used by an ostomy patient the system (90) also provides specialty compartments (96) for storage of items specifically relating to the patients needs. In particular, such items may include an ostomy pouch storage pocket for containment of disposable type ostomy pouches including ostomy attachment means and the like. It is to be understood the system may also incorporate a filter/filters, odor removal means, appropriate hose(s), a light etc.

As can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, the luggage system (10) includes wide mounted swivel type wheels (48) preferably mounted on first carrying case and provides ease of movement as well as increased stability.

With further reference to FIG. 1, it may be advantageous to provide an interconnecting luggage system (10) that may further include an ID chip (50) for identifying the owner of the luggage system. It is to be noted such as ID chips currently exist and thus any suitable type of engineering choice may be incorporated.

It is to be understood the actual workings of each of the electrical components, such as the motor, switches, heaters etc., are not taught herein as such technologies are well known within the prior art, and thus the present invention is not to be limited to any specific electronics or the like.

It can now be seen I have herein taught and provided a novel interconnecting luggage system having optional features such as interconnecting suitcases, an ID chip, specialized compartments for containment of specialty items, an electrical outlet with extension cord, a blower/vacuum motor assembly, etc. in a manner heretofore not taught within the know prior art.

Although the invention has been herein shown and described in what is conceived to be the most practical and preferred embodiment, it is recognized that departures may be made there from within the scope and spirit of the invention, which is not to be limited

Claims

1. An interconnecting luggage system having optional features comprising: a first carrying case and a second carrying case in combination, each said carrying case having at least one internal compartment with closure means, said first carrying case and said second carrying case being removably attachable/detachable from each other via attachment means, each said carrying case having a carrying handle, said first carrying case having a retractable/extendible handle and said first carrying case having wide mounted swivel wheels.

2. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 1 wherein said first carrying case is in the form of a suitcase and said second carrying case is in the form of either a suitcase, briefcase, purse, or backpack.

3. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 1 wherein said first carrying case in of a size and shape to conveniently fit into an overhead luggage compartment of an airplane and said second carrying case is of a size and shape to conveniently fit under a passengers seat of said airplane.

4. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 1 wherein said attachment means comprising: a quick connect clasp device having an outwardly extending tab member having a downwardly extending limb that is located on said second carrying case, said quick connect clasp device further having a receptacle that is located on said first carrying case for receiving said downwardly extending limb therein and said receptacle having detachable/retaining means therein.

5. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 4 wherein said quick connect clasp device is extendible;

whereby:

said quick connect clasp device allows each said carrying case to be interconnected when each said carrying case is either empty or when filled to their capacity and said quick connect clasp allows for different types or various sized carrying cases to be easily interconnected.

6. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 1 further includes a specialized storage compartment that is functional for containment therein of a laptop computer.

7. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 1 further includes a specialized plastic lined sanitary pocket.

8. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 7 wherein said specialized plastic lined sanitary pocket includes a replaceable filter.

9. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 7 further includes a plastic bag of the ZIP-LOCK™ variety that is removably positionable within said plastic lined sanitary pocket.

10. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 9 wherein said plastic bag further includes a replaceable filter.

11. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 1 further includes an electrical 110 outlet.

12. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 1 further includes an ID chip.

13. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 1 further includes a portable ostomy patient assistance system that is of a size and shape to easily fit within said first carrying case.

14. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 13 wherein said portable ostomy patient assistance system is slidably removable from within said first carrying case and upon removal is then mountable upon a wall.

15. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 1 further includes a combination blower/vacuum motor assembly that is of a size and shape to easily fit within said first carrying case.

16. The interconnecting luggage system of claim 14 wherein said combination blower/vacuum motor assembly comprising: a housing; a blower/vacuum motor; an air inlet/outlet hose; a one-way filter medium; a mechanical chamber; a push button off/on switch; a blower/vacuum switch; a pressure activated off/on switch; an in-line primary heater element; an air inlet/outlet extension hose; a secondary heater element; an inlet/outlet nozzle member; an air intake/outlet; an electrical cord/plug and a removable access plate.