Abstract: Apparatus (10) for aiding the layout and editing of items of sheet material, comprising a portable case (12) composed of a plurality of panel units (14,15,16) hingedly coupled to one another such as to form, when folded together, a closed container. The closed case (12) contains a plurality of tabular elements (24,25,26), at least one of which is co-operable with a panel unit (14,15) such as to be erectable into an easel-like state when the case (12) is open with a panel unit (14,15) providing support for the tabular element (24,25) in an inclined position. This or another one of the tabular elements (25) may be provided with a repeatably adherent adhesive substance (54) of low adhesion to permit peeling off therefrom of items of sheet material temporarily mounted thereon. Another one of the tabular elements (26) supports, when the case is open, a cutting device (62) for trimming the items of sheet material to desired sizes.

Abstract: A travel bag is disclosed that includes a pair of flaps. The flaps fold with respect to each other to lay flat or can be positioned to lie adjacent with respect to each other as would be used in a travel bag. Each flap also has at least one sub-flap that enables similar orientation with respect to its respective flap. This combination enables the bag to be positioned flat as it would be if hung open, folded in half as a travel/garment bag or folded to one-quarter size as a travel carryon item or even smaller with additional sub-flaps. The bag can also include a series of pockets, at least some of which are in the form of modules, each may contain several receptacles or individual pockets.

Abstract: A design of a composite suitcase having an ‘n’ shape body and a triple-fold extensible member. The triple-fold extensible member being attached to one side of the ‘n’ shape body. On the periphery of the triple-fold extensible member is provided a zipper chain which is complemented by a counter zipper chain furnished on the edge rim of the ‘n’ shape body with an opening provided centrally to the middle fold segment of the triple-fold member, overlapped by a liftable lid. The zipper may be sealed to close such that, once the triple-fold member is folded up, the closure by the zipper pair will form a suitcase completed together with the ‘n’ shape body, whereupon the suitcase may be deployed to store a suit. The suitcase may be opened by opening the lid externally, the opening allowing for the storage of objects therein.

Abstract: A containment article, such as a luggage article, is provided which comprises a pair of substantially identical plastic shells which are hingedly connected to each other. The invention also includes an improved telescoping handle assembly for an article, such as wheeled luggage as well as a unique and novel safety latch for a containment article.

Abstract: A containment article, such as a luggage article, is provided which comprises a pair of substantially identical plastic shells which are hingedly connected to each other. The invention also includes an improved telescoping handle assembly for an article, such as wheeled luggage as well as a unique and novel safety latch for a containment article.

Abstract: A bag assembly for saving time in the organization, storage, and transportation of sporting equipment. The bag assembly includes a frame assembly with a pivotable upper frame member, a cover member, and a pair of strap members.

Abstract: A collapsible case comprises a closed loop of flexible sheet material for forming the top, bottom and sidewalls of the case, the loop having front and rear edges defining front and rear openings into the interior of the loop. A pair of similar panels form the front and rear walls of the case, each panel including a sheet of flexible material having a perimeter, stiffeners attached to the sheet so as to tension and stiffen the sheet into a selected shape and fasteners for fastening the perimeter of the sheet to the corresponding edge of the loop so that when the panels are fastened to the loop, the loop assumes the selected shape and when said panels are unfastened from the loop and the stiffeners are detached from the sheets, the loop and sheets may be collapsed and consolidated.

Abstract: A carry container constructed and adapted to be rolled-up into a compact generally cylindrical shape includes a bag and a wrapping band having a front face, a back face, a fixed end and a free end. The back face proximate the fixed end is attached to a back and near a top of the bag. A fastening device is attached to the front face proximate the fixed end and to the back face proximate the free end for releasably fastening the free end to the fixed end after wrapping, around the bag when the bag has been folded and rolled-up.

Abstract: A generally-rectangular duffle bag is provided which includes a front panel, a rear panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, a top panel, and a rear panel. The front panel is connected and spaced from the rear panel by the top, bottom, first side and second side panels. Support structures are also provided for supporting the body in two orientations, such orientations being substantially 90° apart.

Abstract: A travel and storage bag includes two side sections releasably fastened to an intermediate center section to form the bag into a travel bag. Unfastening the side sections from the center section allows the center section to be folded and stored, reveals pockets and compartments, and allows the bag to be used as a hanging bag and organizer.

Abstract: The sports bag of the present invention is preferably used for the transport and storage of hockey equipment. The bag comprises a base to which side walls and end walls are hingedly connected. The bag can occupy a planar configuration, when the base, side walls and end walls are co-planar, or in a closed configuration, when the walls are hinged upwardly from the base and connected to each other, preferably by zippers, at adjacent edges to define an interior space. Pockets disposed on the interior surfaces of the bag are made of material, such as nylon mesh, which allows air to circulate through the pockets, expediting evaporation of moisture from an item of sports equipment or clothing inside a respective pocket. In the planar configuration, the bag may be suspended vertically from a hanger to minimize the space required for air-drying of the sports equipment items in the pockets.

Abstract: Luggage for a sports vehicle, such as a snowmobile, is provided with a collapsible beverage compartment to provide more convenient access to stored beverages, without detracting from the functional and esthetic aspects of the luggage when beverages are not being stored. The luggage includes a bag having a plurality of panels defining an enclosed space, at least one strap connected to the bag for securing the bag to a sports vehicle, a collapsible beverage compartment projecting from one of the panels of the bag, and a foam insert disposed within the collapsible beverage compartment, the foam insert defining at least one cylindrical storage space for holding a beverage can.

Abstract: A foldable suitcase has an upper shell and a retractable support secured to the suitcase for supporting the suitcase at a working position and a folded position. The support is pivotally secured to the suitcase for allowing the support to be folded between an upright position and a lay down position and to be folded toward the suitcase to a compact folding structure. A handle may be fixed to the upper shell or may be extended outward of the upper shell for carrying the suitcase. The support may be folded relative to the suitcase by the actuation of the handle.

Abstract: A utility bag is provided, comprising a flexible base having two opposing outer edges and two upwardly extending end panels; a pair of opposing flexible side panels attached to and extending upwardly from the opposing outer edges of the base, each of the side panels having a top edge and opposing side edges, and wherein each of the end panels of the base are attached to a lower portion of adjacent side edges of the opposing side panels; a pair of flexible upper panels attached to and extending substantially perpendicular from the top edges of the side panels, each of the upper panels including two downwardly extending end panels, wherein each of the downwardly extending end panels is attached to the end panel ofthe base and to an upper portion of an adjacent side edge of the side panels; flexible closing device, such as a zipper, cooperating between the upper panels and extending between the end panels of the base for closing and opening the bag; and wherein at least one of the side panels includes a first st

Abstract: Luggage includes first and second separate pouches connected by a web and is adapted to be positioned over the handle of separate carrier luggage whereby the luggage may be utilized in a saddle bag type configuration or in an assembled configuration as a garment or other type bag.

Abstract: A collapsible pet carrier of lightweight construction is disclosed. The endwalls are foldable onto the bottom, with the sidewalls foldable around the endwalls, allowing the straps to hold the bundle together when not in use. The carrier can be quickly assembled by pivoting the endwalls upwardly and fastening them to the sidewalls and securing the handles to each other. An optional storage pouch can be incorporated into the handle system and various windows in the side or endwalls can be provided to facilitate ventilation.

Abstract: An expandable bag movable between a contracted position and an expanded position. The expandable bag comprises a body enclosing a space. The body has top and bottom walls, front and rear walls and left and right walls. A handle is mounted on the body. At least one of the top and bottom and left and right walls includes first and second substantially rigid frame members movable toward and away from each other during contraction and expansion of the bag. A rigid plate and one or more fasteners for mounting the plate on one of the first and second frame members are provided. The plate slidably overlies the other of the first and second frame members to provide a rigid framework for the bag when the bag is in the expanded position.

Abstract: An expandable bag movable between a contracted position and an expanded position. The expandable bag comprises a body enclosing a space. The body has top and bottom walls, front and rear walls and left and right walls. A handle is mounted on the body. At least one of the top and bottom and left and right walls includes first and second substantially rigid frame members movable toward and away from each other during contraction and expansion of the bag. A rigid plate and one or more fasteners for hingedly securing the plate to one of the first and second frame members are provided. The plate slidably engages the other of the first and second frame members to provide a substantially rigid framework for the bag when the bag is in the expanded position.

Abstract: A travel and storage bag is described herein having two side sections releasably fastened to an intermediate center section to form the bag into a travel bag. Unfastening the side sections from of the center section allows the center section to be stored, reveals pockets and compartments, and allows the bag to be used as an organizer.

Abstract: A foldable container including a sheet of material is laid out in bottom, side, end, foldable gusset, and top panels. The panels are folded to form a seamless container having a lid that is selectively opened and closed by a zipper. The assembly container is essentially waterproof since the only seam is at the zipper. The sheet may be made of thermal insulating material resulting in a container that may be used to carry hot or cold foods and beverages. When not in use, the container may be unfolded and the panels may be refolded into a compact storage mode secured by elastic straps.

Abstract: A stowage system particularly for space applications comprises a flight bag (10), a backpack (66), a backpack adapter plate (96), and a pressurized stowage rack (104). The flight bag (10) is fabricated of a Kevlar/Nomex fabric, and its lid (18) includes an integral transparent panel (22) so that the contents of the bag may be readily identifiable without opening the bag. Beneath the lid (18) is a payload restraint net (24) which is removably attached to the interior liner of the bag to restrain small stowage items. The mesh comprising the net preferably includes one or more access slits (28) for accessing the interior of the case without removing the net and thereby risking loss of contents from the bag. The flight bag (10) also includes a plurality of hook and loop (VELCRO.RTM.) patches (30) about its periphery so that it may be collapsed upon itself for storage when not in use, and may additionally be rafted or trained to other flight bags if desired.

Abstract: A convertible blanket and carrier having a rectangular main section and a pocket applied to one side of the main section along one end. A pair of handles are attached to one side of the main section and a blanket fastener is attached to the end opposite the pocket end for securing the carrier formed by double folding the main section.

Abstract: A backpack which is convertible to a totebag and to a fanny pack, the backpack comprising parallel front and rear panels each having upper and lower edges, means for joining peripheries of said panels to form a compartment therebetween, at least one closeable opening in said front panel to allow access to said compartment, first fastening means disposed along the upper edge of said rear panel, second fastening means disposed along the lower edge of said front panel, third fastening means disposed along the upper edge of said front panel and fourth fastening means disposed on said front panel intermediate said second and third fastening means, wherein said backpack is converted to said totebag when said first and second fastening means are fastened together proximate a midline of said rear panel, and further converted to said fanny pack when said totebag is folded in half and said third and fourth fastening means are fastened together.

Abstract: A suitcase which is constructed of individual panels joined to each other by hinge mechanisms. The hinge mechanisms allow the panels to selectively form right angles so that the panels form a suitcase shell in the shape of a rectangular prism having a storage space, or selectively allow the panels to be folded against each other so that the suitcase may be stored flat. The suitcase has wheel assemblies, and straps which help hold the suitcase together, and hold the wheel assemblies against the suitcase shell.

Abstract: A collapsible luggage piece is provided. The luggage piece has a collapsed configuration and an erect configuration and includes a front panel, a rear panel and a collapsible wall structure disposed between the front and rear panels for cooperation therewith to define an expandable compartment. The wall structure has a first aperture therethrough and a first erecting panel is connected to the collapsible wall structure. The first erecting panel has a first locking element disposed thereon, wherein in the erect configuration the first erecting panel is substantially perpendicular to the rear panel and the first locking element is disposed through the aperture to rigidly attach the first erecting panel to the collapsible wall structure to maintain the luggage piece in the erect configuration and wherein in the collapsed configuration the first erecting panel is moved to a position not perpendicular to the rear panel to allow the luggage piece to collapse.

Abstract: A framed duffel bag has a fabric shell having a box shape with four sides joined by a bottom and a zip-open top. Three framing members made from strips of resilient material hold the four sides erect. Each of the strips is formed with two bends that separate a base from two arms that extend perpendicular to the base. The strips are threaded into channels formed along the bottom and two sides. The two sides are foldable toward the bottom against resilient torques generated by the strips, and the bottom is foldable in half to further compact the bag.

Abstract: A baseball equipment bag having an elongated bag portion of flexible material and a substantially planar interior shelf within the elongated bag portion. The interior shelf is permanently secured to the elongated bag portion. A removable panel is capable of being removed to substantially fully expose the interior shelf. The removable panel can be removed from the bag to facilitate the application of commercial printing thereon. The equipment bag includes a bat compartment which allows a bat to be accessed from either of two openings. The equipment bag is capable of collapsing to a substantially flat configuration when not in use.

Abstract: A luggage case has a generally rectangular prismatic configuration of a size and shape similar to a flight bag when in the closed position, and presents a garment bag when in the expanded or open position. The luggage case comprises a support structure and a flexible panel connected to the support structure which extends laterally from the support structure to expose the interior of both the panel and the support structure. A selective attachment device connects the panel to the support structure to close the luggage case, forming the prismatic configuration. A support piece is connected to the interior of the panel to hold packed articles in the appropriate position. A packing pouch is connected to the support structure to extend from the interior of the case opposite of the panel when the case is opened. The packing pouch folds into the interior of the case and overlaps the packed articles when the case is in the closed position.

Abstract: A convertible tote bag includes a first collapsible side, a second collapsible side, and a collapsible sheath connecting the first and second collapsible sides. At least one closable opening is provided in at least one of the collapsible sides and sheath. A foldable base connects the first and second collapsible sides and the collapsible sheath. The foldable base comprises a first portion foldably connected to a second portion and a fastener for securing the first and second portions in folded relation whereby the first and second collapsible sides and the collapsible sheath may be secured therebetween. The foldable base further includes a closable pouch and strapping whose positioning, length, and configuration is defined by the type of bag desired to be converted to.

Abstract: A duffel bag including an insert which comprises a rigid base upon which are pivotally supported a pair of struts which can be raised into generally vertical operative positions for supporting the side walls of the bag to prevent them from collapsing. Detents are provided for holding the struts in operative position. The struts are movable into generally horizontal, inoperative positions in which they have been folded down to positions adjacent the base.

Abstract: A carrier is provided for converting from a duffle-type bag to a folding, garment bag and vice versa. The duffle-type bag includes an oblong, soft-sided, expansible central compartment having an access through the top thereof. The garment bag includes a cover portion having a closure for receiving into a central compartment one or more garments such as suits, dresses, and the like. At least one hook may be provided for receiving a hanger holding the garments. The bag may be readily converted by a user from the duffle-type bag to the garment bag for the particular mode of transport and uses desired.

Abstract: A carrying case (10) for electronic components such as a lap top computer, printer, CD ROM, and the like, the case (10) having a first shell half (14) and a second shell half (16) connected along a hinged edge. The first shell half (14) has shelves (20) and (22) foldable from a stowed position laying parallel to the plane of the first shell (14) to a use position in a plane perpendicular thereto, the shelves (20) and (22) lockable in said use position.

Abstract: A case with a collapsible frame. The collapsible frame has four straight walls and four connectors. Any two continuous straight walls are connected to each other by means of a connector. Each connector has a link assembly and a buckle assembly which consists of a female buckle and a male buckle. A straight wall is linked to the link assembly which is further linked to the male buckle which is engaged with the female buckle which is linked to another straight wall. The link assembly has several links. Any two continuous links have a first relative position so that they are allowed to pivot relative to each other and a second position so that they are kept from pivoting with respect to each other. The frame is collapsible when the links are in the first relative position and the female buckle is disengaged from the male buckle. The case occupies small space when the frame is folded. A frame is formed when the links are in the second relative position and the female buckle is engaged with the male buckle.

Abstract: A carrier is provided for converting from a duffle-type bag to a folding, garment bag and vice versa. The duffle-type bag includes an oblong, soft-sided, expansible central compartment having an access through the top thereof. The garment bag includes a cover portion having a closure for receiving into a central compartment one or more garments such as suits, dresses, and the like. At least one hook may be provided for receiving a hanger holding the garments. The bag may be readily converted by a user from the duffle-type bag to the garment bag for the particular mode of transport and uses desired.

Abstract: In a case for receiving and transporting articles, in particular tools and working material, comprising at least one lower part (28a) with a base (28a) and a lid, which are jointedly connected to one another by a hinge and have a locking device, the case is of a unitised construction. The lower part forms a module which can be connected to further modules by hinges.

Abstract: This invention relates to a flexible garment and accessory case having a detachable briefcase having a main panel member preferably made of nylon and having a plurality of snap fasteners disposed on the front side thereof for detachably fastening three closeable pouch members thereupon for storing personal belongings such as toiletry products and the like. The flexible garment and accessory case having a detachable briefcase further has a second panel member which is removeably fastened about the main panel member and which is foldable onto itself to form a separate briefcase having separate compartments for storing documents as such and having a pocket ideal for carrying writing utensils as such.

Abstract: The luggage case is supplied in a pack for assembly by a customer. The pack includes a base shell 12 and a lid shell 14 nested together one within the other. The pack also includes a package containing feet and wheels for attachment to the outside of the case to support the case on the ground when it has been assembled, and hinge pins for securing the shells together. The package may be located between the shells. The pack is adapted to nest with a similar pack so that several packs can be stacked together for storage.

Abstract: A protective cover is foldable into a first configuration as a carrying case, and into a second configuration as an easel. Unfolded, the cover assumes a "T" shape, with first and second surfaces respectively defining the outer and inner surfaces of the carrying case. The cover has a longitudinal portion comprising first and second end sections and a central section, and a "cross-bar" portion comprising the first end section and a pair of flap portions extending laterally therefrom. Hook-and-loop fasteners are disposed on the cover so as to allow the first surface of the second end section to be folded onto and removably fastened to the second surface of the first end section, and the flap portions to be folded onto and removably fastened to the first surface of the central section, thereby forming the carrying case.

Abstract: A compactable thermally insulated carrier includes a Peltier effect thermal control device mounted in a rectangular block of rigid polymeric foam, a first thermally insulative wall panel adapted to fold about the block, and a second insulative panel adapted to fold upon the first panel. When completely assembled, a rectangular enclosure is formed which is elongated between front and rear extremities. The block is positioned at the rear of the enclosure. A flap, integral with one of the panels, serves as a door for the front extremity. An electric fan causes air to move across vanes to the Peltier device, through a portal in the block, and into the enclosure.

Abstract: A blank is provided which is adapted to be folded into a carrier for holding a doll and related accessories. The carrier is preferably formed from any desired fabric which is soft, lightweight and durable, and corrugated board inserts can be placed within panels forming the carrier in order to reinforce them and provide a desired strength. When assembled, each of the carriers of the present invention resembles a mailbox in appearance, with a first carrier including a pivotable flag, and with other carriers having simulated mail slots on their exterior surfaces. Additionally, retaining structure is provided for detachably retaining a doll, a writing implement and various writing accessories on the interior of the carrier.

Abstract: An improved luggage bag includes an internal rigidifying frame which can be actuated quickly and easily to shift the luggage bag between relatively rigid and relative flexible states. The internal frame comprises tension cables threaded through an interlocking succession of lock segments or links, in combination with an externally mounted actuator handle movable to apply tension to the cable and thereby draw the lock segments into an interlocking, relatively rigid configuration. Alternately, the actuator handle is movable to relax the cable tension and thereby permit the lock segments to assume a loose or flexible configuration.

Abstract: A folding bag has a sack of a soft yielding material. The bottom of the sack is fastened to two half-shells of a semirigid material, connected through hinges of the film-type and a junction plate also in a semirigid material and is provided with a zipper. The half-shells can be arranged side by side to form a reinforced base for the sack and can close one over the other to form a case that can hold the sack when folded.

Abstract: A plurality of upwardly converging wall panels some of which are permanently connected at their lower edges to corresponding edges of a floor panel define an enclosure for transporting objects. Oppositely positioned external sleeves lying in the same plane receive resiliently bendable rods which, due to their resiliency, retain the sleeves stretched away from each other. The rods extend in an arc above the joined-together upper edges of the wall panels to define at their apices a handle for the valise. One of the wall panels has a slit therein to define flaps similar in appearance to tent flaps whereby the valise, when not in use as such, may be used as a toy tent.

Abstract: A collapsible suitcase is provided which consists of a housing having a top portion, a bottom portion and a peripheral accordion wall thereabout. A mechanism within the housing can be manipulated, for supporting the housing in an expanded condition for use and in a compressed condition for storage.

Abstract: Handbags, particularly an expandable valise having an expandable body portion so as to accommodate variously sized contents. The valise includes the combination of a rigid batten adjustably supported on its top and pairs of inner and outer adjusting-reinforcing straps which encircle the entire valise, as well as the batten so as to contain or stabilize the body portion and its contents.

Abstract: This invention relates to a collapsible article of luggage or bag in which a plurality of pivotally mounted reinforcing panels and corner insertions permit the luggage to assume either a rigid or semi-rigid configuration or collapsed space-saving shape. Additionally, the top and bottom enclosure are secured to each other by a continuous zipper or slide fastener. This provides for ease of assembly by the manufacturer by merely zippering or fastening these elements together and welding the zipper at two points along its length to provide for permanent attachment of the top member to the bottom enclosure.

Abstract: A tool box for a pickup bed has separate upper and lower compartments. The lower compartment collapses into a flat configuration for storage in the upper compartment during shipping. The tool box has wheels on its bottom for rolling on the bed of the pickup. The spacing between the wheels can be adjusted so as to locate the wheels for alignment with grooves formed in the pickup bed floor.

Abstract: A collapsible suitcase consists of a collapsible shell (10) and stiffening frames (23) in the form of resilient loops having a shape corresponding to the lateral cross-sectional shape of the suitcase. The frames may be retained in end compartments (19), or may be located within the central compartment of the case by means of tabs (24) or pockets (25).

Abstract: An inflatable garment bag having an annular air-chamber formed by two interior layers. An air pump is secured to the inner, interior layer for inflating the bag. The two interior layers are clamped together at upper portions thereof by means of a pair of clamping blocks, which blocks also mount the hanger element of the bag by which the bag may be hung in a closet, on a rack, and the like. The lower block also mounts a horizontal bar by which garments may be hung in the bag.

Abstract: There is provided a carrier, primarily for use with oversize documents. The carrier is of flexible construction, made of a flexible waterproof material such as canvas, nylon or the like, so that the carrier and its contents can be rolled as a unit, and held in rolled position by a fastener such as a pair of string ties, for ease of handling and transportation. When empty, the case can be folded into an integral pocket, to provide a small bulk for ease of storage.