Variable Volume Patents (Class 190/103)
  • Patent number: 11957226
    Abstract: Provided are an expandable container, an expandable frame assembly, and associated components and methods. The expandable frame assembly for an expandable container may expand in at least two dimensions. The assembly may include a plurality of frame members configured to move relative to each other, a plurality of sizing members, and an adjustment mechanism operably coupled to the plurality of sizing members. Each of the plurality of sizing members may be connected to at least one of the plurality of frame members. The adjustment mechanism may be configured to move the plurality of sizing members between a first configuration and a second configuration. The first configuration may define a different distance between the plurality of frame members than the second configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Inventor: John C. Petrolino
  • Patent number: 11819103
    Abstract: A container and a method for storing and consuming a food product are disclosed. The container includes a base. The container includes first accordion-pleated extending from the base and forming an interior with the base. The container includes second accordion-pleated walls extending from the first accordion-pleated walls. The second accordion-pleated walls form an opening. The first accordion-pleated walls and the second accordion-pleated walls expand or collapse under the action of a substantial force. The first accordion-pleated walls receive a food product into the interior through the opening. The first accordion-pleated walls expand or collapse while storing the food product in the interior and the second accordion-pleated walls expand to retain the food product within the interior. The second accordion-pleated walls collapse, and the first accordion-pleated walls collapse under the action of the substantial force to push the food product for consumption by a user through the opening from the interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2022
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2023
    Inventors: Menachem Stern, Benjamin Weber, Michael Nellini
  • Patent number: 11510467
    Abstract: A luggage includes a luggage main body, a partition board stitched with its bottom side to the bottom side of the luggage main body, an inner zip fastener provided between the partition board and the luggage main body so that the partition board can open or close a first storage chamber in the luggage main body, a luggage cover stitched with its bottom side to the bottom side of the luggage main body, and an outer zip fastener provided between the luggage cover and the luggage main body so that the luggage cover can open or close a second storage chamber that is defined between the luggage cover and the luggage main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2022
    Assignee: C & C LUGGAGE MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hsi-Wu Chiang
  • Patent number: 11369512
    Abstract: A heat exchanging pack comprises a substance receiving portion, a first strap receiving portion disposed adjacent a first side of the substance receiving portion, a second strap receiving portion disposed adjacent a second side of the substance receiving portion, and a strap configured for releasably coupling the heat exchanging pack to a portion of a body. The strap includes a first portion extending through the first strap receiving portion, a second portion extending between the first strap receiving portion and the second strap receiving portion, a third portion extending through the second strap receiving portion, and a fourth portion extending out from the first strap receiving portion. The second portion and the fourth portion of the strap are configured to extend at least partially around a portion of a user in need of treatment to releasably couple the heat exchanging pack to the portion of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2022
    Inventors: Marharita-Sophia Tavpash, Andrew J. Szypka
  • Patent number: 11178948
    Abstract: A rolling luggage bag includes a cover coupled to a base, the base including a first side opposite a second side and a bottom face extending there between, a first wheel and a second wheel coupled to the base, the first and second wheels configured to rotate about an axis of rotation and separated by a first distance along the axis of rotation, at least a portion of each of the first and second wheels projecting from the first side and from the bottom face, and a third wheel and a fourth wheel coupled to the bottom face, the third and fourth wheels configured to independently swivel about a respective swivel axis and separated by a second distance extending between the swivel axes. When the rolling luggage is in an upright position, the first, second, third, and fourth wheels all contact a surface the luggage bag stands on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Assignee: Karsten Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Brian J. McGuire, Ryan Bruce
  • Patent number: 11020499
    Abstract: A vehicle comprising: a seating assembly; and a console disposed proximate the seating assembly. The console comprises a disinfection apparatus. The disinfection apparatus comprises a housing to accept items to be disinfected, and a source of ultraviolet radiation configured to emit ultraviolet radiation into the housing. In embodiments, the housing comprises a light guide operably coupled to at least one of a base and a lid, the light guide accepting the ultraviolet radiation from the source of the ultraviolet radiation and guiding the ultraviolet radiation within an interior chamber. In embodiments, the source of ultraviolet radiation is a light emitting diode configured to emit electromagnetic radiation having a peak intensity within a wavelength range of 200 nm to 300 nm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Scott Holmes Dunham, Stuart C. Salter, Daniel Ferretti
  • Patent number: 10722013
    Abstract: An expandable luggage bag including a first bag portion made of a first material that forms a first interior volume. The expandable luggage bag further includes a second bag portion made of a second material that has a first state having a first rigidity and a second state having a second rigidity different than the first rigidity. The expandable luggage bag further includes a solar panel in selective electrical communication with the second bag portion. The second bag portion is in the first state when the second bag portion is not in electrical communication with the solar panel. The second bag portion is in the second state when the second bag portion is in electrical communication with the solar panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Inventors: Jinrong Yang, Ramzi Khalil Maalouf
  • Patent number: 10659578
    Abstract: A data communications backpack apparatus is disclosed having a backpack carrier. A power supply can be positioned in the backpack carrier. A router device can be positioned in the backpack carrier, the router device in electrical communication with the power supply. An antenna array can be positioned in the backpack carrier, the antenna array in electrical communication with the router device, the antenna array including one or more cellular antennas and one or more wireless networking antennas. The backpack carrier can include an upper opening extending into a central storage area, a first side pocket, a second side pocket, and a lower compartment positioned below the central storage area. The power supply can be positioned in the first side pocket, the router device can be positioned in the second side pocket, and the antenna array can be positioned in the lower compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: Plum Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Dawson Lee Williams
  • Patent number: 10653230
    Abstract: A portable container includes a first storage component and a second storage component with each of the first and second storage components having a body with a plurality of sides for defining a periphery. The first and second storage components are connected to each other along one of their sides such that they are pivotally rotatable with respect to one another. A first elongated connector extends along at least a portion of the remaining sides of the first storage component. A second elongated connector extends along at least a portion of the remaining sides of the second storage component and is configured to be selectively matingly engaged with the first elongated connector. At least one of the first and second storage components includes an adjustable storage space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: ROFFE ACCESSORIES, INC.
    Inventor: Zhifeng Wang
  • Patent number: 10555587
    Abstract: An expandable luggage container includes a first compartment; a side cover formed on a side of the first compartment, a first zipping mechanism formed around three sides of the side cover; a second compartment coupled to the first compartment; and a top cover formed on a top side of the second compartment, a second zipping mechanism formed around three sides of the top cover. In the luggage container, a first opening of the first compartment and a second opening of the second compartment are directed to different directions; the second compartment is collapsible by a third zipping mechanism formed between the first compartment and second compartment; and the luggage container is in a compact mode when the second compartment is collapsed and is in an expanded mode when the second compartment is expanded by unzipping of the third zipping mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignee: Travelers Club Luggage, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Yu
  • Patent number: 10433625
    Abstract: A fitted cap case that has a cap cover assembly having a front cover and a rear cover, a cap base assembly having a front base and a rear base, and a bottom base assembly having a front bottom base and a rear bottom base. The front cover closes onto the front base. The rear base and the rear bottom base slide within a cavity defined between the front base and the front bottom base to elongate or reduce a predetermined distance between a cap mount protrusion and a notched edge. The front cover closes onto the front base, and the rear cover closes, whereby rear cover lateral edges are partially positioned onto first and second channels, and lateral edges relatively align with a base edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2019
    Inventor: Ednick Belizaire
  • Patent number: 10390641
    Abstract: An integrated system that includes a container configured to store a consumable liquid and a flexible, expandable straw secured to the inside of the container for consumption of the liquid. The straw can assume a first collapsed position inside the container and a second expanded position (e.g., when pulled) that extends away from the bottom of the container and past an upper rim of the container for consumption of the liquid through the straw. Use of a flexible, expandable straw in the above manner facilitates stackability of a plurality of such containers by allowing the straw to initially be compactly stored adjacent an inside bottom of the container before being pulled outwardly to allow for consumption of the beverage in the container. Securement of the straw to the inside of the container reduces the likelihood of ingestion by animals and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Inventors: Phuc Huynh, Nancy Leung
  • Patent number: 10382602
    Abstract: A data communications backpack apparatus is disclosed having a backpack carrier. A power supply can be positioned in the backpack carrier. A router device can be positioned in the backpack carrier, the router device in electrical communication with the power supply. An antenna array can be positioned in the backpack carrier, the antenna array in electrical communication with the router device, the antenna array including one or more cellular antennas and one or more wireless networking antennas. The backpack carrier can include an upper opening extending into a central storage area, a first side pocket, a second side pocket, and a lower compartment positioned below the central storage area. The power supply can be positioned in the first side pocket, the router device can be positioned in the second side pocket, and the antenna array can be positioned in the lower compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: Plum Laboratories, LLC
    Inventor: Dawson Lee Williams
  • Patent number: 10353427
    Abstract: A laptop carrying case is a hard or semi-hard sided case with padding therein. A video monitor with adjustable stand is resident within the case and is connected to a laptop placed into the opened case. No external power cord or charger adapter is needed for the monitor. A mousepad with wrist rest is resident within the case. Appropriate voids within the padding hold the charging adapter and its cord and the mouse. A closable opening allows the cord to pass through the case and charge the laptop even if the case is closed. The carrying case may be made in a folding two-section or folding four-section configuration. Some configurations have a dividable work space within the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Inventor: William Rabb
  • Patent number: 10349711
    Abstract: An extendable luggage comprises a first shell having a first opening edge, a second shell having a second opening edge, an inner zipper, an outer zipper and an inner strap. The inner zipper has outer teeth located at a first and second distance away from the first and second opening edge, respectively. The outer zipper has two outer tapes and outer teeth. Each outer tape has a straight section, a head section and a tail section. The outer teeth located at distal ends of the two head sections and two tail sections are closed and unable to be opened. The outer teeth located at the two straight sections are located at a third distance away from the first opening edge and a fourth distance away from the second opening edge. The inner strap is connected with two ends of the inner zipper. The luggage looks simple and is extendable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: C & C Luggage Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hsi-Wu Chiang
  • Patent number: 10342309
    Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods relate to an article of luggage having a coupling interface with a plurality of support points to engage a dynamic volume receptacle (DVR). In an illustrative example, the DVR having a predetermined capacity may releasably couple to the plurality of the support points when inserted through an auxiliary aperture to form a barrier between contents inserted into a primary chamber of the luggage and contents inserted into an auxiliary chamber of the DVR. The DVR may include a capacity adjuster to permit a user to modify the predetermined capacity of the DVR. Advantageously, a user may modify the predetermined capacity prior to insertion of the DVR into the primary chamber. In some implementations, the DVR may protect the contents in the primary chamber against moisture from wet contents in the DVR, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: Loominocity, Inc.
    Inventor: Jason Loomis
  • Patent number: 10299551
    Abstract: An expandable luggage includes a first case member, a second case member, and a flexible member with opposite ends connected to the first and the second case members to form a chamber. The expandable luggage further includes a controller, which has a first member fixed to the first case member, a second member fixed to the second case member. The first member is movably connected to the second member to be moved between a first position and a second position. The first member is engaged with the second member when the first member is moved to the first position. The chamber is narrowed when the first case member is moved toward the second case member, and the controller is locked automatically. The controller further includes an unlocking device to be operated to disengage first member with the second member if the chamber is expanded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Inventor: Wei-Hung Lai
  • Patent number: 10279981
    Abstract: A reusable shipping box with a shipping container state and a compacted state is disclosed. The reusable shipping box may comprise a lid that seals the shipping box, a base, and a set of four sidewalls. The shipping box may also comprises a zipper that: (i) zips down from the lid to the base between two adjacent sidewalk in the set of four sidewalls; (ii) is closed in the shipping container state; and (iii) is open in the compacted state. The shipping box may also comprises a cavity that is: (i) surrounded by the set of four sidewalls, the lid, and the base in the shipping container state; (ii) accessible via the lid when the shipping box is open; and (iii) collapsed in the compacted state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: Returnity Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: Mitchell E. Barlas, Thomas Bilodeau
  • Patent number: 10278463
    Abstract: A bag includes a first sidewall, a second opposing sidewall, and a foldable base. The foldable base is coupled to the first sidewall and the second side wall. The foldable base includes a first rigid panel coupled to a second rigid panel such that the foldable base is configured to fold from a generally flat configuration to a folded configuration, thereby converting the bag from an expanded configuration to a collapsed configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Inventor: Rebecca Sax Osnowitz
  • Patent number: 10271625
    Abstract: A double open end zipper for both end positioning-based luggage includes first and second housing members respectively equipped with an N-shaped plastic strip at the rim thereof, and a double open end zipper including first and second zipper tapes respectively stitched to the N-shaped plastic strips at the first and second housing members in reversed directions with the box and pin of the first zipper tape respectively disposed adjacent to the pin and box of the second zipper tape subject to the guidance of a mark line at each N-shaped plastic strip, a seam allowance constraint block located at an outer rear side of the box of each of the first and second zipper tapes, two zipper sliders respectively coupled to first and second zipper tapes, allowing adjustment of the combined storage capacity defined in between the first and second housing members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2019
    Assignee: GENMORE ZIPPER CORPORATION
    Inventor: Lien-Chou Wang
  • Patent number: 10173596
    Abstract: An apparatus for receiving articles in a vehicle cargo area is provided. A collapsible carrier includes at least one locator projection, and a support for supporting the carrier includes a receiver for receiving the locator projection of the carrier to restrict movement of the carrier laterally while allowing the carrier to be separated from the support for removal from the vehicle cargo area. The support may be a platform adapted for raising during movement from a stowed, non-erect position in the vehicle cargo area to an erect, deployed position rearward of the non-erect position to facilitate accessing any articles in the carrier. A related method is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Francisco Javier Ferreira Yanez, Edgardo Fabricio Ortiz Hernandez, Jose Alfredo Peregrina Loera, Carlos Alberto Caballero De Ita
  • Patent number: 10004307
    Abstract: In exemplary embodiments of the present invention, systems and methods for providing foldable duffle bags are presented. Such exemplary collapsible duffles can have two states: (i) a fully extended state in which said luggage is used by a user to hold, for example, clothing and objects, and its wheels fully extended and usable, and (ii) a compressed or folded state in which the luggage has a minimum volume and can be easily and conveniently stored and carried, especially where space is a premium, where the wheels are invisible and out of the way. Various novel technologies are used to obtain maximal compression in the compressed state, and to allow for convenient transformation between the two states. Exemplary duffles of rather significant fully expanded size can be rolled or folded onto themselves, the wheels can be turned inside out, and the article compressed into a small hand held carrying case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: Biaggi USA, LLC a Delaware Limited-Liability Company
    Inventors: Stephen Chi Yueh Chen, Ahron Hersh, Nancy Mei-Hui Hung
  • Patent number: 9894970
    Abstract: A hard-sided luggage bag includes at least one shell portion, and has a front side, a back side, and a bottom side extending between the front and back sides. The least one shell portion encloses a storage compartment and includes an access opening permitting access to the storage compartment. The access opening is formed in at least part of the front side and is spaced apart from the bottom side. At least one lid is releasably coupled to the at least one shell portion to cover the access opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2018
    Assignee: HEYS INTERNATIONAL LTD.
    Inventors: Emran Y. Sheikh, Alden Evangelista
  • Patent number: 9848682
    Abstract: With respect to cases for laptop computers, and the like and, an improvement comprises pair of opposing strap guides through which elastic side retention straps are respectively journaled to prevent the straps from interfering with the closure of the case. A case according to the invention comprises top and bottom covers hinged in the rear of the case, and a closure mechanism such as a zipper is for closing the top and bottom covers. Right and left elastic retaining straps respectively connect the top and bottom portions of the case, and the right and left elastic retaining straps pass through respective strap guides, each attached to the inner surface of the top portion of the case, to prevent the retaining straps from being caught in the hinged portions of the computer or the closure mechanism as the case is closed. Each elastic retaining strap may twist between the bottom cover of the case and each strap guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Inventors: Mark Zadvinskis, Adam Ostroff
  • Patent number: 9763503
    Abstract: Generally suitcases, or other articles of luggage, can be divided into ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ constructions. Both kinds of cases have their advantages, but each has its own disadvantages. An article of luggage is disclosed comprising a first portion and a second portion connected by a hinge arrangement, each of the first and second portions including a lower structural assembly (6,10) comprising a shell and an upper structural assembly (8,12) comprising a framework provided with a covering (50), the lower structural assembly and the upper structural assembly being secured together by stitching. Such an article of luggage has as an advantage that the lower structural assembly (6,10) provides stability for wheel fixings (30) and for location of a retractable towing handle assembly (74), while the upper structural assembly provides for a light-weight construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: IT Luggage Limited
    Inventor: Sedat Selvi
  • Patent number: 9762987
    Abstract: An apparatus includes acoustic equipment and an enclosure to support the acoustic equipment. The enclosure includes a front cover member, a middle cover member, a back cover member, and a hinge to connect the front cover member to the back cover member. The hinge enables the movement of the front cover member and the back cover member between an open position and a closed position. The middle cover member is disposed between the front cover member and the back cover member, with the middle cover member being connected to the hinge to enable movement of the middle cover member and the back cover member between an open position and a closed position. The enclosure further includes a first latch configured to releasably secure the middle cover member to the back cover member, and a second latch configured to releasably secure the front cover member to the back cover member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2017
    Assignee: WILDLIFE ACOUSTICS, INC.
    Inventors: Sherwood Kenneth Snyder, Theodore J. Wright, Thomas A. Hagerty, Ivan Mark Lazich
  • Patent number: 9661904
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a travel bag having an extra storage compartment. The auxiliary storage compartment is formed of a flexible textile material and is attached to top of the travel bag in a folding manner. The auxiliary storage compartment is usually stored to be in close contact with the outside of the main body of the bag. When in use, the auxiliary storage compartment is unfolded upward for assembly so that another auxiliary storage compartment is formed. During travel, belongings such as a handbag, a camera, a cellular phone, etc. can be conveniently stored and kept temporarily during an immigration inspection at an airport or the like. Accordingly, utility of the travel bag can be more improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Inventor: Heecheol Yun
  • Patent number: 9650115
    Abstract: An adjustable carry bag has two end sections for releasable connection together at connecting ends thereof to form an interior space for accommodating therein at least one sport board. Each end section has a first access opening providing access into the interior space and a closed perimeter portion at the connecting end defining a second access opening providing access into the interior space different from the first access opening. In an open state, the first access opening provide access into the interior space for accommodating therein a sport board. In a closed state of the first access opening when the end sections are connected together, the bag completely encloses and securely holds therein the sport board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Inventor: Anthony Coleman
  • Patent number: 9635831
    Abstract: A pet housing includes a top portion having a continuous edge and a bottom portion having a continuous edge. A middle portion is disposed between the top and bottom portions. The middle portion includes a continuous top edge and a continuous bottom edge. A first zipper is operable between an open and closed position to selectively interconnect the top portion continuous edge to the middle portion continuous top edge. A second zipper is operable between an open and closed position to selectively interconnect the bottom portion continuous edge to the middle portion continuous bottom edge. When the zippers are in the closed position, the top, bottom and middle portions form an enclosed area. When the zippers are in the open position, the top and bottom portions are completely detachable from the middle portion to allow the portions to nest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: DOSKOCIL MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: Melaney Northrop, Alex Lin
  • Patent number: 9609929
    Abstract: A luggage case (100, 600, 700, 800, 900) may include opposing sidewalls forming minor faces (105, 106), opposing sidewalls forming major faces (101, 102), and opposing end walls (103, 104) together forming an article defining an enclosed space (109). A line of separation (150) may be formed in said minor faces (105, 160) and end walls (103, 104). A first portion of the line of separation (150) may extend along a first portion of opposing minor faces (105, 106) at a location proximate one of said opposing major faces (101, 102) and corresponding one of said opposing end walls (103, 104) positioned therebetween. A second portion of the line of separation (150) may extend along a second portion of said opposing minor faces (105, 106) in a direction away from said one of said opposing major faces (101, 102) and towards other of said opposing major faces (101, 102).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: Samsonite IP Holdings S.a.r.l.
    Inventor: Sean B. Farrelly
  • Patent number: 9596913
    Abstract: Expandable luggage devices are provided. Included within expandable luggage devices is an expandable backpack that is convertible between at least two positions. An uppermost cover portion of the backpack converts to a side or back portion when the backpack is expanded, and a secondary cover portion is withdrawn from an internal area of the device to enclose or cover the backpack in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: Eddie Bauer LLC
    Inventor: Jesse Brian Thompson
  • Patent number: 9492003
    Abstract: A multi-purpose backpack style bag also referred as Flipper bag herein that can be used alternatively as a backpack, a handbag, or a shoulder bag. Moreover, the Flipper bag can also be converted from the backpack into a handbag without removing the contents of the handbag. The Flipper bag is made of two components, the top flipper body that is reversible, and the bottom handbag body. The bottom handbag body can be independently used as a handbag or a shoulder bag. When the top flipper body is combined with the bottom handbag body, it can be used as a backpack style bag; or the user can fold down the top flipper body over the bottom handbag body so it covers the bottom handbag body and close the flipper cover to use it as a different design of handbag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2016
    Inventor: Hiren Patel
  • Patent number: 9420859
    Abstract: A combination “carry on” and “check in” bag in the shape of a conventional carry-on luggage or backpack and or a larger duffel bag or large luggage made of flexible material and includes handles, storage pockets, a slide handle with storage pocket, backpack straps stored in a rear compartment for use while in the backpack configuration, and various zippers and pleats to achieve the expansion and retraction of the invention. While using it as a carry on bag the zip of the zipper closes and tucks in the extra/additional bag material in its inverted position and when needed for using as a duffel bag, the zip of the zipper opens and expands the material outward to create extra space for luggage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Inventor: Arthur Trey Bourette
  • Patent number: 9394080
    Abstract: An adjustable pouch having a front portion, rear portion, first side portion, and a second side portion that are connected to a bottom portion and collectively defines an interior space that may be configured to receive different sizes of ammunition magazines is disclosed. The front and rear portions include a plurality of straps that extend lengthwise and the first and second side portions include a plurality of channels. The plurality of straps and the plurality of channels are configured to receive an elastic member having free ends that are tied together. In operation, an individual can pull on the tied free ends of the elastic member in order to adjust the volume of the interior space to accommodate ammunition magazines of different sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Assignee: Tyr Tactical, LLC
    Inventor: Jason Beck
  • Patent number: 9321585
    Abstract: The present specification discloses a combined drape and carrying bag unit used in medical and surgical settings with an indicator attached to a drawstring of the unit. Conversion of the unit from a drape or mat configuration involves pulling on exposed drawstring sections and results in deployment of the identifying indicator. The indicator includes preprinted information, a barcode for scanning, and/or space for the inscription of information by medical personnel. The inclusion of an integrated indicator with the combined drape and carrying bag unit informs medical personnel of the contents of the unit when in the bag configuration and obviates the need for opening the bag and discovering its contents, thereby reducing exposure of medical personnel to biohazard waste.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: EndoChoice, Inc.
    Inventor: William Parks
  • Patent number: 9038679
    Abstract: A protective bag, such as for a handbag, has configurable dimensions so that the protective bag can be conformed to the shape and size of the handbag. The width, depth, height and silhouette of the protective bag can be separately configured. The protective bag may have a rim that can be independently configured. Accessory pockets and removable carriers such as a shoulder strap or a pair of handles may be part of the protective bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Inventor: Andrea Marquez-Bottome
  • Publication number: 20150101902
    Abstract: This invention relates to an expandable item of luggage. This enables a luggage item to be expanded to accommodate an increased volume of luggage. The luggage item is defined by a base, front, back, side and top portion. The base and top portions are spaced in a longitudinal axis and define a storage zone therebetween. The luggage item further comprises an expansion arrangement configured to enable expansion of the top portion independently of the front portion in the longitudinal axis between a retracted and expanded configuration to cause an effective increase in the volume of the storage zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Applicant: Amity Luggage and Bags Limited
    Inventor: Udayan Agarwal
  • Patent number: 8978850
    Abstract: A reconfigurable bag is disclosed. The reconfigurable bag has a center expanding section and two bottom expanding sections, all of which may be moved between stored and open configurations. Opening one or more of the expanding sections changes the shape and configuration of the bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Max Mirani Investments, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Bettua, Kiran Joseph
  • Patent number: 8967375
    Abstract: A travel case for elongate items such as skis, golf clubs, snowboards, or the like comprises an elongate bag having a pair of hard sided end sections longitudinally spaced from a hard sided center section. Between each end section and the center section is a respective soft sided intermediate section. The hard sided end and center sections provide protection for the case contents at the vulnerable locations of those contents. The soft sided intermediate sections, made of collapsible and supple material, provide the advantage of reducing the weight of the overall case, and the suppleness permits the end sections to be folded in on the center section when the case is open along its length to educe the length and the required storage space for the case when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Athalon Sportsgear, Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew Nitkin
  • Publication number: 20150041271
    Abstract: A person conveying a laptop computer will frequently need to use this computer in less that ideal circumstances. A saddlebag, unlike ordinary laptop carry cases, functions as a multipurpose tool as well as a safe conveyance so the person carrying it can be more productive in less than ideal circumstances. It's a sleeve, not a bag, allowing for instant laptop access from either side. The inner sides of the sleeve are padded, but each side can unsnap to pull out independently—one functioning as a lap desk and the other as a white board. A briefcase is attached to one side of the saddlebag and two gadget bags to the other side, any of which can unsnap for independent use. It includes a series of quickly accessible pockets to hold the small tools and devices that one would ordinarily keep on his/her regular desk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Inventor: Harvey Reese
  • Publication number: 20150034440
    Abstract: A hard shell luggage case capable of expanding carrying capacity includes a case body, a cover, a case-opening zipper, an expansion layer and an expansion zipper. A case-opening zipper controls the closing and opening of the case body and the cover. An expansion zipper controls the closing and opening the expansion layer and the case. The expansion layer and the expansion zipper will be invisible and hidden in the case-opening zipper when the luggage case is in an expanded state and the case-opening zipper is closed, which enhances the aesthetic quality of the luggage case. Furthermore, the hard shell luggage case capable of expanding carrying capacity requires less sewing operations, which makes the luggage case easier to manufacture and reduces manufacturing cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventor: Wei-Hung LAI
  • Patent number: 8925771
    Abstract: A cover-type containing structure for flexible enclosures primarily includes a front cover sheet, a rear cover sheet and a flexible enclosure. The front cover sheet includes a first joining edge and a cover piece, whereas the rear cover sheet includes a cover assembly corresponding to the cover piece. The flexible enclosure includes a second joining edge and by engaging the first joining edge with the second joining edge, the front cover sheet and the flexible enclosure are fixed. Besides, the containing structure further includes a holding portion. Under a contained state, the holding portion is used to contain smaller objectives; whereas, in an unfolded state, in addition to using the flexible enclosure to contain larger objectives, the holding portion can be also used to contain smaller objectives. The present invention can be also applied to a piece of clothing combined with a bag unit or other flexible enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: Che-Wen Lin
  • Publication number: 20140353103
    Abstract: A piece of luggage is provided. A main body and an expandable body of the luggage are connected to each other by a collapsible portion. The luggage has a cover pivotably connected to the expandable body. A first half of a zipper is fixed to the expandable body and a second half of the zipper is fixed to the cover. The engagement of the first half and the second half closes the cover to the expandable body, and thus a substantially enclosed space is defined by the main body, the expandable body and the cover. The luggage also has multiple rotational wheels mounted to the main body and/or the expandable body. The luggage stands on the rotational wheels and is rotatable with respect to one or more predetermined axes through these wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2014
    Publication date: December 4, 2014
    Applicant: BRIGGS & RILEY TRAVELWARE, LLC
    Inventors: Donald Hogan, Georgene Rada, Jessica LoVerso, Matthew Dierkes, Richard Krulik
  • Publication number: 20140299429
    Abstract: A suitcase structure includes a back case component, a front lid component and a ring-shaped gusset component. The opposite sides of the ring-shaped gusset component are connected with the edge of the back case component and the edge of the front lid component, so as to form an accommodating space. The ring-shaped gusset component has multiple first supporting parts and multiple second supporting parts connected to each other. The first supporting parts are each located at each of the end corners of the back case component. The second supporting parts are each located at each of the lateral edges of the back case component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2013
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: Twinkle Leatherware Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tzu-Wei TSENG, Hung-Sheng LIN, Cheng-Cheng CHEN, Yi-Ju HSIEH, Wai-Ming WONG
  • Publication number: 20140284157
    Abstract: A suitcase includes at least two hard-sided shells forming at least one storage compartment. An expansion portion is positioned between first and second ones of the hard-sided shells at approximately a midpoint of a depth of the suitcase. The expansion portion includes an expansion shell portion and a flexible expansion gusset. An opening zipper is configured to connect the first one of the hard-sided shells to the expansion shell portion and to provide access to the at least one storage compartment. An expansion zipper is configured to connect the expansion shell portion and the second one of the hard-sided shells. When unzipped the flexible expansion gusset connects the expansion shell portion and the second hard-sided shell such that the expansion portion increases a storage capacity of the suitcase. At least one carrying handle is attached to an exterior surface of the expansion shell portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: 2395954 ONTARIO, INC.
    Inventor: Haroon SHEIKH
  • Patent number: 8820498
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention, an expandable suitcase comprises: a front portion; a back portion; a plurality of side panels, each side panel aligning with one of a top, a bottom, a first side, and a second side of the suitcase, and each side panel having a primary board, at least a first side board rotatably connected to the primary board about a common edge therewith, and a first side flap rotatably connected to the first side board about a common edge opposing the common edge with the primary board; and a plurality of hinges disposed at an intersection of two side panels, each hinge comprising a first hinge panel attached to one of the side panels and a second hinge panel connected to the other side panel, wherein the hinge remains in a substantially planar position in a rested state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Tumi, Inc.
    Inventors: Dror Benshetrit, Paul V. Scicluna
  • Publication number: 20140197000
    Abstract: An organizational luggage system includes a main housing having a closed bottom, front, rear, and opposed side walls extending upwardly from the bottom such that the main housing defines an open top and interior area. An outer panel is pivotally coupled to the rear wall and selectively movable between a closed configuration covering the main housing open top and an open configuration enabling access to the interior area. An inner panel is pivotally coupled to the main housing rear wall and situated between the outer panel and the main housing interior area, the inner panel being accessible when the outer panel is at the open configuration, the interior panel being selectively movable between a closed configuration preventing access to the main housing interior area and an open configuration providing access thereto. A plurality of holding pouches is coupled to an inner surface of the outer panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2013
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventor: Renee Joan Harrison
  • Patent number: 8752683
    Abstract: A piece of luggage including at least one section of a stiff shell material is provided. The at least one section of the stiff shell material defines a first face of the piece of luggage and has at least one corner. A portion of the at least one section has been removed to define at least one notch proximate the at least one corner. First and second edges of the at least one section adjacent the notch are folded inward relative an inner surface of the at least one section forming first and second sides. The first and second sides define second and third faces of the piece of luggage. The piece of luggage further includes at least one rigid corner piece secured to the first and second sides proximate the at least one notch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Tumi, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul Scicluna
  • Publication number: 20140116829
    Abstract: An item of luggage, comprising: a plurality of sides sufficient to define a first volumetric space, an expandable section disposed within the space between first and second opposing sides, wherein at least the first opposing side defines a boundary for the volumetric space and provides an exterior surface for the item of luggage; the expandable section having a first configuration wherein it is stored within the space and has an expandable side that is adjacent to the first opposing side, and a second configuration wherein the expandable side extends a predetermined distance from the first opposing side to define a boundary for a second volumetric space that is the same as or different from the first volumetric space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2013
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventor: Mark Davis
  • Publication number: 20140110202
    Abstract: An apparatus for carrying drinks and articles on moving luggage is provided. In an implementation, a carrying device has an elastic body expandable to fit luggage handles of various widths, and to remain at a selected height on the handle when carrying heavy drinks. Expandable pockets on the elastic body secure cups, bottles, and articles of various sizes. A closed bottom on each expandable pocket secures large and small articles, and for stacking, an expanding taper surface on each closed bottom accommodates the tops of cups, bottles, and articles being held by another instance of the apparatus situated below, to provide a stackable plurality of the carrying devices that are stackable on a single luggage handle for many cups, bottles, and articles of multiple travelers, such as a family.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventor: Mark Vesterby