Customizable luggage devices and related methods

Abstract

A luggage device including a frame and at least one container releasably secured to the frame.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/695,322, filed Jun. 30, 2005 and entitled “Customizable Luggage Devices and Related Methods,” which is incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to customizable luggage devices and related methods.

BACKGROUND

Commercial luggage is available in several sizes and styles. Typically, a consumer selects a size and style based on personal preference or need at the time of purchase, and if tastes or needs later change, purchases additional luggage.

SUMMARY

In one aspect of the invention, a luggage device includes a base portion, multiple rotatable wheels secured to one end of the base portion, a handle extending from another end of the base portion, and a shell engaging the base portion to enclose an interior space defined by the shell and the base portion. The shell is releasably secured to the base portion for replacement with any of a number of interchangeable shells of differing size, shape, or texture.

In one aspect of the invention, a luggage device includes a frame having a first side and a second side. A first container is releasably secured to the first side of the frame for replacement with any of a number of interchangeable containers of differing size, shape, or texture. The first container at least partially defines a compartment configured to contain goods.

In another aspect of the invention, a wheeled luggage device is configured to be manually wheeled by a pedestrian user. The luggage device includes a frame having a first side and a second side. A first container is attached to the first side of the frame. The first container includes a retractable handle extending from the first container when the luggage device is in an operative position. The handle is manually graspable by the pedestrian user while walking. At least two wheels are disposed at a lower end of the first container when the luggage device is in an operative position. A second container is releasably attached to the second side of the frame. The second container at least partially defines a compartment for containing goods. The second container is releasably secured to the frame for replacement with any of a number of interchangeable containers of differing size, shape, or texture.

In a further aspect of the invention, a luggage system includes a frame and a plurality of interchangeable containers constructed to releasably attach to the frame. The interchangeable containers are of differing size, shape, or texture.

In yet another aspect of the invention, a method of customizing luggage includes removing a first container from a frame of a piece of luggage and securing a second container to the frame from which the first container was removed, effectively replacing the first container with the second container. Each of the first and second containers at least partially define a compartment for storing goods. The second container is of a different size, shape, or texture than the first container.

In an additional aspect of the invention, a luggage device includes a first structural member and a first container releasably attached to the first structural member for replacement with any of a number of interchangeable containers of differing size, shape, or texture. The first container at least partially defines a compartment for storing goods.

Embodiments may include one or more of the following features.

In some embodiments, the base portion includes a frame and a drive mechanism device.

In certain embodiments, the handle and the wheels are attached to the drive mechanism device.

In some embodiments, the handle is retractable within the drive mechanism device.

In certain embodiments, the drive mechanism device is releasably secured to the frame for replacement with any of a number of interchangeable members of differing size, shape, or texture.

In some embodiments, the frame includes a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The shell is releasably secured to one of the first and second sides, and the drive mechanism device is releasably secured to the other of the first and second sides.

In certain embodiments, the base portion includes a rim. The shell engages the rim of the base portion.

In some embodiments, the frame includes the rim.

In certain embodiments, the shell includes a lip configured to engage the rim.

In some embodiments, he luggage device further includes a drive mechanism device attached to the second side of the frame. The drive mechanism device includes a handle and at least two wheels.

In certain embodiments, the handle is retractable within the drive mechanism device.

In some embodiments, the drive mechanism device is releasably attached to the second side of the frame for replacement with any of a number of interchangeable members of differing size, shape, or texture.

In certain embodiments, the interchangeable members include at least one of the interchangeable containers.

In some embodiments, the drive mechanism device is permanently attached to the second side of the frame.

In certain embodiments, the interchangeable containers are constructed to be attached to either of the first and second sides of the frame.

In some embodiments, the luggage device further includes a second container releasably attached to the luggage device. In certain embodiments, the second container is releasably attached to the first side of the frame.

In some embodiments, the second container is releasably attached to the second side of the frame.

In certain embodiments, the the second container is releasably attached to the first container.

In some embodiments, the first container and the second container cooperate to define the compartment.

In certain embodiments, at least one of the interchangeable containers is constructed to releasably attach to the first container. In some embodiments, the first container includes an outer shell and a garment bag adapted to be stored within the outer shell.

In certain embodiments, the garment bag comprises a one-way valve configured to release air from the garment bag.

In some embodiments, the outer shell is durable relative to the garment bag.

In certain embodiments, the outer shell is hard relative to the garment bag.

In some embodiments, the garment bag includes a slidable bar and a vent hole. The slidable bar is configured to slide along an outer surface of the garment bag to expel air through the vent hole.

In certain embodiments, the frame defines slots therethrough, into which tabs of the first container are releasably secured.

In some embodiments, the container tabs define apertures therethrough. The apertures are sized to accept respective fastening clips disposed on a side of the frame opposite the container.

In certain embodiments, the fastening clips include springs compressed between an inner surface of the frame and an opposing surface of their respective tabs.

In some embodiments, each spring defines a recess sized to receive a feature of the tab therein when the clip is fully engaged.

In certain embodiments, each spring clip includes a pair of spring fingers with outer, oppositely directed cam surfaces for engagement with the tab as the spring fingers are inserted through the apertured tab.

In some embodiments, each spring clip further includes an inclined surface that progressively engages the tab as the spring clip is pressed into full engagement, to draw the container against the frame.

In certain embodiments, the container has projections extending from an inner side thereof, and the frame defines respective holes arranged to receive the container projections.

In some embodiments, the luggage device further includes removable clips releasably engaging the container projections with the container projections extending through the frame holes, to secure the container to the frame.

In certain embodiments, each projection is mushroom-shaped, and each clip includes a pair of spring fingers with opposing cam surfaces configured for engagement with a stem portion of its respective projection.

In some embodiments, each clip further includes a third spring finger resiliently deflectable in a direction perpendicular to a normal deflection direction of the pair of spring fingers and arranged to engage an upper surface of a head of the mushroom-shaped projection.

In certain embodiments, the third spring finger includes a nib projecting toward the pair of spring fingers and arranged to be received in a recess defined in the upper surface of the projection head.

In some embodiments, each clip comprises a cap pressed over a distal end of its corresponding projection.

In certain embodiments, each projection includes an outer lip extending radially from an outer surface of the projection, and the projection defines a slot along one side thereof, enabling resilient collapse of the projection.

In some embodiments, the frame holes are sized to require temporary collapse of the container projections during attachment of the container to the frame.

In certain embodiments, the cap defines an inwardly extending rim therein. The rim is positioned for engagement with the outer lip of the projection when the cap is secured thereto.

In some embodiments, the cap includes a central nib extending from an inner surface thereof. The nib is of a size selected to cause the outer lip of the projection to be forced outward into secure engagement with the rim of the cap as the cap is pressed onto the projection.

In certain embodiments, the container is releasably secured to the frame by fasteners accessible from inside the luggage device.

In some embodiments, the first container completely defines the compartment.

In certain embodiments, the first container and the frame cooperate to define the compartment.

In some embodiments, the first container and a second container releasably secured thereto cooperate to define the compartment.

In certain embodiments, the first structural member includes a frame.

In some embodiments, the first structural member includes a drive mechanism assembly including at least two wheels and a handle.

In certain embodiments, the first structural member includes a second container.

Other features and advantages will be apparent from the description, the drawings, and the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a luggage device.

FIG. 2 is an exploded view of the luggage device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view through an edge region of an embodiment of a luggage device, with an interchangeable container secured to a frame of the luggage device.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a fastening arrangement including a spring clip for securing the interchangeable container to the frame.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are cross-sectional views through the spring clip of FIG. 4, during and after engagement, respectively.

FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a luggage device, with a suit-holder container secured to a frame of the luggage device.

FIG. 8 is an interior view of the suit-holder container of FIG. 7 in a folded state.

FIG. 9 is an interior view of the suit-holder container of FIG. 7 in an unfolded state.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a fastening arrangement including a spring clip for securing the interchangeable container to the frame.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view through the spring clip of FIG. 10, after engagement.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a spring clip.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view through the spring clip of FIG. 12, after engagement.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a spring clip.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a container projection configured to engage the spring clip of FIG. 14.

FIGS. 16 and 17 are cross-sectional views through the spring clip of FIG. 14, during and after engagement, respectively.

Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a suitcase 100 includes a frame 102, a shell or container 104 releasably secured to a first side (e.g., a top side) of frame 102, and a drive mechanism device 105 permanently secured to a second side (e.g., a bottom side) of frame 102. Container 104 is one of a set of containers of different sizes, shapes, and/or textures, any one of which may be selectively secured to frame 102 to alter the utility and/or appearance of suitcase 100. Although only one container is illustrated, it will be understood that multiple containers of different or similar sizes, shapes, and/or textures can be attached to frame 102.

Frame 102 can be any structure capable of supporting container 104, including its contents, and drive mechanism device 105. Frame 102 can include an outer wall that forms a perimeter around an area of a desired size and shape. The perimeter of frame 102 can, for example, correspond (e.g., be of similar size and shape) to the perimeter of container 104. In certain embodiments, frame 102 includes cross members (e.g., members extending between and attached to two or more sides of the outer wall) to provide added support and/or stability to luggage device 100. Frame 102 can be formed of any of various materials, such as thermoplastic(s) and/or metal(s). Frame 102 can include any of various fastening features that help to secure container 104 and/or drive mechanism device 105 to frame 102. In some embodiments, for example, frame 102 includes clips (e.g., snap clips) and/or other features configured to engage with clips. Alternatively or additionally, frame 102 can include any of various other fastening features capable of helping to secure container 104 and/or device mechanism device 105 to frame 102. Examples of other fastening features include snaps, zippers, and hook and loop fasteners.

Container 104 defines a compartment in which goods (e.g., clothes) can be stored and/or transported. The compartment can, for example, be a substantially unitary cavity, as is common with many traditional suitcases. Container 104 can include any of various fastening features that allow container 104 to be secured to frame 102. As shown in FIG. 3, for example, container 104 has integral, apertured tabs 106 that protrude through associated slots 108 in frame 102, and are secured by fastener clips 110 inserted through the apertures in the tabs on an opposite side of frame 102.

Referring to FIG. 4, fastener clip 110 is a spring clip of plastic or other material molded, extruded, or otherwise formed in an arc. Clip 110 defines a ribbed recess 112 for thumb engagement, and a slot 114 in the outer surface of the clip at the top of the arc that receives an inner surface of the apertured tab 106 of the container as the clip is slid through the aperture of the tab on an inner side of frame 102, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. Clip 110 is formed to engage the inner surface of the frame at relatively wide, planar contact areas so as to provide a substantial clip retention force without overly stressing the frame. In this example, frame 102 includes a raised rib segment 116 (FIG. 4) adjacent and perpendicular to slot 114, to help block the spring clip from inadvertent compression by forces applied, for example, by shifting suitcase contents.

Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, drive mechanism device 105 is secured to a bottom side of frame 102. Drive mechanism device 105 generally includes a shell that houses or secures components that allow the luggage device to be wheeled by the user. Drive mechanism device 105 can, for example, include wheels 109, extending from opposite sides of the drive mechanism device. Wheels 109 can be attached to drive mechanism device 105 using any of various arrangement that permit luggage device 100 to be moved as wheels 109 roll along a surface. A handle 107 extends from a top region of drive mechanism device 105. Handle 107, when not in use, can be retracted into drive mechanism device 105 (FIG. 7). Drive mechanism device 105 can be attached (e.g., permanently attached) to frame 102 using any of various techniques. For example, drive mechanism device 105 can be bonded, welded, and/or adhesively attached to frame 102.

Container 104, as noted above, can be interchanged (e.g., replaced or supplemented) with any of various other containers having differing size, shape, and/or texture. For example, while container 104 has been described as having a large cavity for storing goods, it may be desired, in some circumstances, to tote a container adapted to maintain clothing (e.g., a suit) in a relatively unwrinkled state. In such circumstances, container 104 can, for example, be replaced with a suit holder adapted for such a purpose. Referring to FIG. 7, a luggage device 200 includes a suit holder 204, which is releasably attached to frame 102. Suit holder 204 includes an outer shell 210 that contains a garment bag 212. Outer shell 210 can be either soft or hard. For example, outer shell 210 can be formed of one or more relatively hard materials, such as thermoplastic(s) and/or metal(s), or outer shell 210 can formed of one or more relatively soft materials, such as fabrics. Garment bag 212 can be sized to contain any of various types of garments (e.g., suits, dresses, etc.). In certain embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7, garment bag 212 includes a one-way valve 214. In such embodiments, after the garment or garments have been positioned within garment bag 212, one-way valve 214 can be activated to release air from garment bag 212. The user can, for example, compress garment bag 212 in a manner that directs air therein toward one-way valve 214. Releasing the air from garment bag 212 can help to prevent the garment(s) contained therein from becoming wrinkled when garment bag 212 is folded. Alternatively or additionally, the garment bag can be equipped with a slidable bar (not shown) extending across its width. After placing the garment(s) within the garment bag, the user can slide the bar along the garment bag (e.g., from top to bottom) release air through a vent (e.g., hole) formed in the bag (e.g., formed near the bottom of the bag). Suit holder 204, like container 104, includes spring clips that cooperate with the apertured tabs 106 of frame 102 to allow suit holder 204 to be releasably secured to frame 102.

To use luggage device 200, the user can place one or more garments into garment bag 212 and release the air within the bag through one-way valve 214, as described above. Garment bag 212 can then be folded (e.g., into halves or thirds), and positioned within the cavity defined by outer shell 210, as shown in FIG. 8. Suit holder 204 can then be secured to frame 102 in accordance with the description above with respect to container 104, and luggage device 200 can be transported by the user.

While the embodiments above describe interchanging container 104 with suit holder 204, container 104 can alternatively or additionally be interchanged with any of various other types of containers. In some embodiments, container 104 can be interchanged with one or more containers of different size. Where more or less storage space is needed, for example, container 104 can be replaced with a container that is larger or smaller respectively. Alternatively or additionally, container 104 can be supplemented with an additional container. For example, a second container can be attached frame 102 along with container 104.

In certain embodiments, container 104 can be replaced or supplemented with a container that has a different style or arrangement. For example, while container 104 has been described as including a cavity that is configured to contain clothing, it may be beneficial, in some embodiments, to use a container that is configured for a different purpose (e.g., to contain a laptop computer and/or documents). Thus, in some embodiments, as an alternative to or in addition to container 104, a container adapted for a different purpose can be attached to frame 102 in certain embodiments.

In some embodiments, container 104 can be replaced or supplemented with a container that has a different texture. For example, containers can range from being heavy and durable (e.g., hard) to being lightweight and delicate (e.g., soft). Thus, when it is desired to use a luggage device that is more durable than container 104, container 104 can, for example, be replaced or supplemented with a harder container. Similarly, where it is desirable to use a luggage device that is lighter in weight than container 104, container 104 can, for example, be replaced or supplemented with a softer container.

In certain embodiments, it may be desired to change the appearance (e.g., color or pattern) of container 104. In such embodiments, container 104 can be replaced or supplemented with a container of a different color and/or pattern.

In some embodiments, the type of container to be attached to frame 102 can be selected by the user (e.g., by the consumer). For example, a luggage system including multiple interchangeable containers can be purchased by the consumer. As the needs and/or tastes of the consumer change, the luggage device can be customized to meet those needs and/or tastes. Thus, the luggage system can be a relatively low cost and convenient alternative to purchasing entirely new luggage devices for changing needs and/or tastes.

The above-described luggage system can alternatively or additionally be used by manufacturers. In certain embodiments, for example, the consumer can customize a luggage device by choosing a particular combination of containers, and then the manufacturer can assemble the luggage device desired. As discussed above, many different types of containers can be secured to the frame. Therefore, with this process, the manufacturer can make customized luggage devices using a small number of different types of frames (e.g., only one type of frame). This can improve efficiency of the manufacturing process.

While several embodiments have been described above, other embodiments are possible.

As an example, while the interchangeable containers have been described as being secured to the frame with a fastener clip, any of various other types of fasteners can alternatively or additionally be used to secure the containers to frame 102. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, a three prong snap fastener 210 that both snaps and wedges in place within the apertured tab 106 of container 104 is used to secure the container to frame 102. Clip 210 can, for example, be injection-molded plastic, with two outer spring fingers 218 defining lateral cam surfaces that engage opposing inner surfaces of tab 106, resiliently deflecting fingers 218 toward wedge finger 220 as the clip is pressed into place. When fully engaged, spring fingers 218 snap outwardly to secure the clip to the tab. A sloped upper surface 222 of wedge finger 220 progressively engages an underside of tab 106 to draw the container securely against the frame. Clip 210 is released by manually pinching the distal end of the clip to compress spring fingers 218 toward one another until their cam surfaces clear the sides of tab 106.

In certain embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, a two stage snap clip 310 with two opposing lateral spring fingers 324 and an elevated spring finger 326 that deflects in a direction perpendicular to the deflection direction of lateral spring fingers 324 is used to secure the container to frame 102. Elevated finger 326 has a downwardly projecting nib 328 near its distal end. Clip 310 is configured to releasably engage a mushroom-shaped projection 330 extending from the inner surface of the container, as shown in FIG. 10. As the clip is forcibly slid into place along the inner surface of the frame, inner cam surfaces of spring fingers 324 variably engage the stem of projection 330 while upper surfaces of spring fingers 324 engage the underside of the head 331 of projection 330 to secure the container to the frame. As clip 310 is pushed into full engagement, nib 328 of the elevated spring finger 326 is received within a recess 332 defined in the upper surface of the container projection 330, providing additional clip retention.

Another releasable fastener clip 410 and mating projection 434 are shown in FIGS. 11-14. Clip 410 is in the form of a hollow molded cap with an inwardly projecting inner lip 436 that snaps over an outer lip 438 of projection 434. Clip 410 is axisymmetric about the vertical axis of projection 434, while projection 434 is split along one side to allow the projection to resiliently collapse as the cap is pressed through a corresponding hole in frame 102. As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, during engagement of the cap onto the projection 434, a downwardly projecting, conical nib 440 at the center of the inner surface of clip 410 forces the outer lip 430 of projection 434 outward into secure engagement under the inner lip 436 of the cap. To remove container 104, the caps 410 are pried, pulled or otherwise released from their projections 434, which are then manually compressed, such as by pinching between fingers, for withdrawal through the holes in the sub-panel.

As another example, in some embodiments, the interchangeable containers can be constructed to releasably attach to one another. For example, in addition to including the fastener features described above, the containers can include one or more fastener features that are similar to those discussed above with respect to frame 102.

As a further example, while drive mechanism device 105 has been described as being permanently attached to frame 102, drive mechanism device 105 can alternatively or additionally be releasably attached to frame 102. For example, drive mechanism device 105 can be secured to frame 102 using any of the various fastening techniques described above with respect to container 104. In certain embodiments, drive mechanism device 105 can be detached from frame 102 and replaced with a different component. For example, it can be replaced with a component that allows the luggage device to be more easily carried, rather than rolled. In some embodiments, drive mechanism assembly 106 is interchangeable with any of the various containers described herein.

As another example, while the luggage devices of the embodiments above have been described as including frames, in some embodiments, the luggage devices include no frame. In such embodiments, for example, multiple containers can be attached directly to one another to form the luggage device adapted to be carried by the user. Alternatively or additionally, one or more containers can be attached to drive mechanism device 105 to form a luggage device adapted to be wheeled by the user.

As an additional example, while the embodiments above involve human-powered luggage devices, the luggage devices can alternatively or additionally be machine-powered. In some embodiments, for example, drive mechanism device 105 also includes an electric motor and a power source (e.g., a battery, a fuel cell, a fly wheel). Power can be transferred from the power source to the motor where it can be used to rotate the wheels. Alternatively or additionally, the power source can be used to provide power to any of various other electronic devices of the luggage device. In certain embodiments, the drive mechanism device further includes a generator connected to the power source. The generator can be configured to charge the power source as the luggage device is rolled. The generator can, for example, be connected to the wheels of the luggage device such that the wheels provide the generator, and thus the power source, with energy as the wheels are rotated. Examples of luggage devices including power sources and/or generators are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 60/599,360, filed Aug. 6, 2004, and entitled “Electrical Power Generation,” which is incorporated by reference herein.

While the luggage devices of the embodiments above have been describe as rolling suitcases, the luggage devices can alternatively be configured to be carried by the user.

The interchangeable containers described herein can either be provided with the luggage or as after-market accessories sold separately.

Other embodiments are in the claims.

Claims

1. A luggage device comprising:

a base portion;

a plurality of rotatable wheels secured to one end of the base portion;

a handle extending from another end of the base portion; and

a shell engaging the base portion to enclose an interior space defined by the shell and the base portion, the shell being releasably secured to the base portion for replacement with any of a number of interchangeable shells of differing size, shape, or texture.

2. The luggage device of claim 1, wherein the base portion comprises a frame and a drive mechanism device.

3. The luggage device of claim 2, wherein the handle and the wheels are attached to the drive mechanism device.

4. The luggage device of claim 2, wherein the handle is retractable within the drive mechanism device.

5. The luggage device of claim 2, wherein the drive mechanism device is releasably secured to the frame for replacement with any of a number of interchangeable members of differing size, shape, or texture.

6. The luggage device of claim 5, wherein the frame comprises a first side and a second side opposite the first side, the shell being releasably secured to one of the first and second sides, and the drive mechanism device being releasably secured to the other of the first and second sides.

7. The luggage device of claim 2, wherein the base portion comprises a rim, the shell engaging the rim of the base portion.

8. The luggage device of claim 7, wherein the frame comprises the rim.

9. The luggage device of claim 7, wherein the shell comprises a lip configured to engage the rim.

10. A luggage device comprising:

a frame comprising a first side and a second side; and

a first container releasably secured to at least one of the first and second sides of the frame for replacement with any of a number of interchangeable containers of differing size, shape, or texture, the first container cooperating with the frame to at least partially define an enclosed compartment configured to contain goods.

11. The luggage device of claim 10, wherein the interchangeable containers are constructed to be attached to either of the first and second sides of the frame.

12. The luggage device of claim 10, further comprising a second container releasably attached to the luggage device.

13. The luggage device of claim 12, wherein the first container is configured to be releasably attached to the first side of the frame and the second container is configured to be releasably attached to the second side of the frame.

14. The luggage device of claim 12, wherein the second container is releasably attached to the first container.

15. The luggage device of claim 14, wherein the first container and the second container cooperate to at least partially define the enclosed compartment therebetween.

16. The luggage device of claim 10, wherein the first container comprises an outer shell and a garment bag adapted to be stored within the outer shell.

17. The luggage device of claim 16, wherein the garment bag comprises a one-way valve configured to release air from the garment bag.

18. The luggage device of claim 16, wherein the outer shell has a hardness that is greater than a hardness of the garment bag.

19. The luggage device of claim 16, wherein the garment bag comprises a slidable bar and a vent hole, the slidable bar being configured to slide along an outer surface of the garment bag to expel air through the vent hole.

20. The luggage device of claim 10, further comprising a drive mechanism device attached to at least one of the first and second sides of the frame, the drive mechanism device comprising a handle extending from one end of the drive mechanism device and at least two wheels disposed on another end of the drive mechanism device.

21. The luggage device of claim 20, wherein the handle is retractable within the drive mechanism device.

22. The luggage device of claim 20, wherein the drive mechanism device is releasably attached to the frame for replacement with any of a number of the interchangeable containers.

23. The luggage device of claim 10, wherein the frame defines slots therethrough, into which tabs of the first container are releasably secured.

24. The luggage device of claim 23, wherein the container tabs define apertures therethrough, the apertures sized to accept respective fastening clips disposed on a side of the frame opposite the container.

25. The luggage device of claim 24, wherein the fastening clips comprise springs compressed between an inner surface of the frame and an opposing surface of their respective tabs.

26. The luggage device of claim 25, wherein each spring defines a recess sized to receive a feature of the tab therein when the clip is fully engaged.

27. The luggage device of claim 10, wherein the first container has projections extending from an inner side thereof, and wherein the frame defines respective holes arranged to receive the container projections.

28. The luggage device of claim 27, further comprising removable clips releasably engaging the container projections with the container projections extending through the frame holes, to secure the first container to the frame.

29. The luggage device of claim 27, wherein each projection includes an outer lip extending radially from an outer surface of the projection, and wherein the projection defines a slot along one side thereof, enabling resilient collapse of the projection.

30. The luggage device of claim 29, wherein the frame holes are sized to require temporary collapse of the container projections during attachment of the container to the frame.

31. The luggage device of claim 10, wherein the container is releasably secured to the frame by fasteners accessible from inside the luggage device.

32. A luggage system comprising:

a frame;

a member constructed to be releasably secured to the frame, the member comprising a handle and at least two wheels; and

a plurality of interchangeable members constructed to releasably attach to the frame, the interchangeable members being of differing size, shape, or texture.

33. A method of customizing luggage, comprising:

removing a first member from a frame of a piece of luggage; and

securing a second member to the frame from which the first member was removed, effectively replacing the first member with the second member, each of the first and second members at least partially defining a compartment for storing goods;

wherein the second member is of a different size, shape, or texture than the first container.