ITEM OF LUGGAGE

[0001] The present invention relates to an item of luggage. More particularly, the present invention relates to an expandable item of luggage.

[0002] An item of luggage may be used to transport items, such as clothes and toiletries, in greater volumes than can be carried otherwise. An item of luggage, such as a suitcase, often comprises a housing having a top wall, a bottom wall, a back wall, and two side walls, and a cover hingeably attached to an edge of one of the side walls.

[0003] The stored items are typically unpacked from the luggage once a destination has been reached. During unpacking, the cover is typically moved from a closed position to an open position. When the item of luggage is on the floor and the cover is in the open position, the area of floor space occupied is greater than when the cover is in the closed position. In areas with little space, it is disadvantageous for the item of luggage to occupy a greater portion of space than is necessary.

[0004] Additionally, when the stored items are unpacked, they are typically stored elsewhere and as such, the unpacked items take up space in addition to the suitcase.

[0005] The present invention has been devised to mitigate at least some of the above-mentioned problems.

[0006] In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an extension means; a lower module engaged with a lower section of the extension means via a lower connection means; an upper module engaged with an upper section of the extension means via an upper connection means; and at least one central module engaged with a central section of the extension means via a central connection means; wherein the extension means is configured to create a separation between at least two of the lower module, the upper module, and the at least one central module; and wherein an outer shell of the item of luggage is formed by a floor of the lower module, an upper surface of the upper module, and perimeter walls of each of the lower module, the upper module, and the at least one central modules.

[0007] The item of luggage may alternate between a first, collapsed, position and a second, extended position. The extension means may facilitate the alternation between the first position and the second position but facilitating an extension or separation between two modules. Separating two modules may advantageously provide a way for the user to access the set of items stored in at least one of the modules, without having to move a cover from a closed position to an open position. Providing access in this manner may advantageously reduce the amount of space required for a user to access the items stored in the item of luggage, because a footprint of the item of luggage remains the same.

[0008] In some embodiments, the extension means is one or more ropes interconnecting the modules.

[0009] In some embodiments, the extension means is an extendable rail guide and the at least one central module is configure to move along the rail guide so as to create the separation The extendable rail guide may be understood as a rail guide that is arranged to alternate between a first, collapsed, position, and a second, extended position.

[0010] In some embodiments, the rail guide comprises an upper rail slidably engaged with a lower rail; the lower module is fixedly engaged with the lower rail; the upper module is fixedly engaged with the upper rail; and the at least one central module is slidably engaged with the upper rail. In this way, separation of the upper rail from the lower rail may be achieved by sliding the upper rail with respect to the lower rail due to the lower module and the upper module being fixedly engaged with the lower rail and the upper rail, respectively. Additionally, separation between the at least one central module and the upper and lower modules may be achieved by the at least one central module slidably moving along the upper rail.

[0011] In some embodiments, the upper rail comprises a catch located at a catch point below the at least one central module, configured to stop the at least one central module from passing the catch point. In this way, the catch may provide a point at which the at least one central module cannot pass. Advantageously, the catch may prevent the at least one central module sliding off the upper rail.

[0012] In some embodiments, the item of luggage further comprises: an outer rail guide comprising: an outer rail fixedly engaged with the upper module and comprising an actuatable latch adjacent the lower rail; and a handlebar rail slidably engaged with the outer rail, configured to actuate the latch located adjacent the lower rail; wherein the latch is configured to prevent downwards movement of the outer rail when in a closed position. The user may therefore actuate the latch so as to put it in the closed position. When the latch is in the closed position, the upper rail may be moved relative to the lower rail and a corresponding movement may occur with the outer rail. The latch may prevent the outer rail from moving downwards, thereby locking the item of luggage in an expanded position. The user may then actuate the latch to put it in an open position, allowing the outer rail to move down and providing a means for the item of luggage to return to a collapsed position.

[0013] In some embodiments, the extendable rail guide is telescopic. The extendable rail guide may function as a linear motion rail for the one or more connection means, which may be runner components. Accordingly, at least the at least one central module, which may be attached via a runner component, may slidably move along the rail guide. Therefore, separation between at least two of the lower, upper, and central modules may be achieved by sliding the modules along the rail guide. Preferably, the lower connection means is a lower runner component, the upper connection means is an upper runner component, and the central connection means is a central runner component. In this way, each of the modules may move along the rail guide via the respective runner component.

[0014] In some embodiments, the one or more runner components form a telescopic runner unit. In this way, the one or more runner components can provide a means for the item of luggage to alternate between a first, collapsed, configuration and a second, extended configuration. In particular, when the telescopic runner unit is completely collapsed, the modules, each being attached to a respective runner component of the telescopic runner unit, may be similarly collapsed, such that the item of luggage is in the collapsed configuration. When the telescopic runner unit is in the extended position, the modules may be at a maximum separation from each other, due the runner components being at a maximum extension, and the item of luggage is in an extended configuration.

[0015] Preferably, the central runner components enclose the lower runner component and the upper runner component. In this way, the lower runner component and the upper runner component may be extended from the at least one central runner components, and the upper and lower modules may correspondingly separate from the one or more central modules.

[0016] Preferably, at least one runner component of the one or more runner components is connected to a driving means arranged to facilitate movement of the one or more runner components along the rail guide. The driving means may be a means for causing separation of the one or more runner components following an outside interaction. The driving means may advantageously provide a means for more easily separating the modules.

[0017] Preferably, the driving means is a gear connected to the at least one runner component via a respective arm. In this way, a rotation of the gear may cause a corresponding linear movement of the at least one runner component via the arm. The gear may be rotated manually by the user. Alternatively, the gear itself may be connected to a motor, such that the gear is rotated when the motor is switched on, for example following an actuation by a user. Advantageously, the gear may provide a means for more easily separating the modules.

[0018] Preferably, the gear is connected to at least two runner components via respective arms. In this way, a movement of one runner component may cause a rotation of the gear, which in turn may cause a corresponding movement in another runner component. In this way, separation of modules may be performed by the user moving a module connected to the gear, such that the gear correspondingly moves another module. Advantageously, the modules may be more easily separated.

[0019] Preferably, the at least one central module comprises a removable floor component. The upper module may also comprise a removable floor component, such that each of the lower, upper, and central modules may each comprise a respective floor component or floor. Each module may be used to store a respective set of items.

[0020] Preferably, each central module comprises a connection portion arranged to facilitate connection of the removable floor component. In this way, the user may customise the item of luggage by selecting which modules comprise a floor component. This may find particular use when larger items are to be transported, that may not fit in a single module, and may extend across multiple modules.

[0021] Preferably, the connection portion is a plurality of hook apertures distributed about a lower edge of a perimeter wall of the central module, arranged to receive respective hooks arranged about a perimeter edge of the floor component. In this way, connection of the floor component may be achieved by hooking the hooks into respective hook apertures. Advantageously, the floor components may be more easily removed and connected.

[0022] Preferably, the upper surface of the upper module comprises a handle. In some embodiments, the upper surface comprises a handle indent occupying a central portion of an exterior face of the upper surface. The handle may occupy the handle indent. The handle may provide a means for the user to carry the item of luggage during use. The handle may also provide a means for the user to impart a force to the gear. In particular, the user may apply an upwards force to the handle, which may in turn apply an upwards force to the upper module. The upwards force may then be applied to an arm connected to the gear via the upper runner component, causing the arm to move vertically upwards, thereby rotating the gear. Advantageously, the user may more easily separate the modules using the handle.

[0023] In some embodiments, a perimeter wall of each module, the floor of the lower module, and the upper surface of the upper module are all formed of a rigid material. Alternatively, the perimeter wall of each module, the floor of the lower module, and the upper surface of the upper module are all formed of a non-rigid material.

[0024] Preferably, the upper surface of the upper module is hingeably attached to an edge of a perimeter wall of the upper module. In this way, the upper module may be more easily accessed.

[0025] Preferably, the item of luggage further comprises a handlebar affixed to a distal end of the rail guide. The handlebar may provide a means for the user to pull the item of luggage during use. Furthermore, the handlebar may provide a means for the user to more easily extend the extendable rail guide. In particular, the user may apply an upward force to the handlebar, which in turn imparts an upwards force to the extendable rail guide, thereby causing the rail guide to extend. Furthermore, the user may apply a downward force the handlebar, which in turn imparts an upwards force to the rail guide, cause the rail guide to collapse. Accordingly, the handlebar may advantageously provide a means for more easily collapsing the item of luggage.

[0026] Preferably, the handlebar is extendable across a lateral axis of the item of luggage. In this way, the handlebar may be used to hang items of luggage, such as clothes. This may advantageously further reduce the area that would otherwise be occupied by an item of luggage, because clothing that would otherwise occupy storage space in, for example a cupboard, may instead by hung from the handlebar.

[0027] In some embodiments, the handlebar comprises an extendable rod housed within an interior of the handlebar. In this way, the handlebar may easily be extended across the lateral axis of the item of luggage.

[0028] In some embodiments, the handlebar houses a first extendable rod and a second extendable rod, each arranged to extend from a respective end of the handlebar. In this way, the handlebar may advantageously extend along the lateral axis in two separate directions, thereby increasing the area on which clothes may be hung.

[0029] Preferably, handlebar comprises an illumination means. The illumination means may be an LED strip extending along an underside of the handlebar. The illumination means may advantageously provide a means for illumination the item of luggage. Further advantageously, the illumination means may provide a means for illuminating the contents of the item of luggage in embodiments where the upper surface of the upper module is hingeably attached to an edge of the perimeter wall.

[0030] Preferably, the item of luggage further comprises a rail locking means arranged to lock the rail guide in a fixed position. In this way, the user may advantageously fix the rail guide in a desired position.

[0031] Preferably, the item of luggage further comprises a plurality of vertically oriented grooves. Advantageously, the plurality of vertically oriented grooves may reinforce the perimeter walls of each of the modules, reducing a risk of damage to the item of luggage.

[0032] Preferably, the item of luggage further comprises comprising a plurality of corner caps. The plurality of corner caps may advantageously reinforce the edges of the item of luggage that receive the most wear, thereby increasing a longevity of the item of luggage.

[0033] Preferably, the item of luggage further comprises a plurality of wheels. The plurality of wheels may advantageously provide a means for the user to more easily manoeuver the item of luggage.

[0034] It will be appreciated that any features described herein as being suitable for incorporation into one or more aspects or embodiments of the present invention are intended to be generalizable across any and all aspects and embodiments of the present invention. Other aspects of the present invention can be understood by those skilled in the art in light of the description, the claims, and the drawings of the present invention. The foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the claims

[0049] FIG. 1A shows a perspective view of an item of luggage 100. The item of luggage 100 comprises: an extendable rail guide 102; a lower module 106 engaged with a lower section of the rail guide 102 via a lower connection means; an upper module 110 engaged with an upper section of the rail guide 102 via an upper connection means; and at least one central module 114A, 114B engaged with a central section of the rail guide 102 via a central connection means; wherein the at least one central module 114A, 114B is arranged to move along the rail guide 102 so as to create a separation between at least two of the lower module 106, the upper module 110, and the at least one central module 114A, 114B.

[0050] In the present example, the at least one central module 114A, 114B comprises a first central module 114A and a second central module 114B. It will be appreciated that any number of central modules may be included.

[0051] The lower module 106 comprises a floor 108. The upper module 110 comprises an upper surface 112. Each central module 114A, 114B comprises a removable floor component 116.

[0052] The following description of the rail guide 102 is with respect to a first rail guide 102 located on a first minor side of the item of luggage 100. As can be seen in FIG. 1, a corresponding second rail guide is located on a second minor side of the item of luggage 100, and is substantially similar to the first rail guide 102.

[0053] The rail guide 102 comprises an upper rail 102B and a lower rail 102A. The item of luggage 100 further comprises an outer rail guide 130. The outer rail guide 102B comprises a handlebar rail 130B and an outer rail 130A.

[0054] The lower module 106 is fixedly engaged with the lower rail 102A via the lower connection means, such as a bracket. The lower module 106 comprises a perimeter wall 140 and the floor 108 which serves as barrier between the item of luggage 100 and the ground.

[0055] The upper module 110 is fixedly engaged with the upper rail 102B via the upper connection means, such as a bracket. The upper module 110 is also fixedly engaged with the outer rail 130A via a connection means, such as a bracket. The upper module 110 comprises a perimeter wall 150 and the upper surface 112.

[0056] The first central module 114A is slidably engaged with the central section of the rail guide 102 via the connection means, such as a runner. In the present embodiment, the first central module 114A is connected to the upper rail 102B, below the upper module 110. The first central module 114A comprises a perimeter wall 160 and the removable floor component 116.

[0057] The second central module 114B is slidably engaged with the central section of the rail guide 102 via the connection means, such as a runner. In the present embodiment, the second central module 114B is connected to the upper rail 102B, below the upper module 110 and above the first central module 114A. The second central module114B is substantially similar to the first central module 114A.

[0058] Accordingly, in the present embodiment, the lower section of the rail guide 102 is the lower rail 102A, the upper section of the rail guide 102 is the upper rail 102B, and the central section of the rail guide 102 is any section of the rail guide 102 between the points at which the lower module 106 and the upper module 110 are engaged with the lower rail 102A and the upper rail 102B, respectively. Therefore, it will be appreciated that the at least one central module 114A, 114B can be engaged with the either the lower rail 102A or the upper rail 102B.

[0059] The lower rail 102A and the upper rail 102B are slidably engaged with each other, such that they are able extend along a vertical axis with respect to each other. The rails 102A, 102B are substantially U-shaped in cross section, comprising a base and a pair of wings extending away from the base. The rails 102A, 102B are of different cross-sectional size, and one component encloses the other component such that the wings contact, thereby preventing lateral movement along a first lateral axis. The inner rail, for example the upper rail 102B in FIG. 1B comprises a pair of flanges extending along the free ends of the wings, configured to occupy respective tracks located along an inner side of the outer component wings, such as the lower rail 102A. The flanges and tracks prevent lateral movement along a second lateral axis, such that movement is entirely restricted to the vertical axis.

[0060] The handlebar rail 130B and the outer rail 130A are also slidably engaged with each other in substantially the same way as the upper and lower components of the rail guide 102. The outer rail 130A encloses the handlebar rail 130B. The outer rail 130A is affixed to the upper module 110, whilst the handlebar rail 130B moves freely along the outer rail 130A. The outer rail 130A is also slidably engaged with the lower rail 102A.

[0061] The outer rail 130A comprises an actuatable latch 132 located adjacent the lower rail 102A. The latch 132 is configured to alternate between a closed position and an open position. The latch 132 comprises a button on an upper surface, which causes the latch 132 to open when contacted by the handlebar rail 130B. In the open position, the lower rail 102A is able to move freely with respect to the upper rail 102B. In the closed position, the lower rail 102A is able to move down relative to the latch 132 until a threshold is met. When the threshold is met (for example, when an upper edge of the lower rail 102A moves past the latch 132), the lower rail 102A is unable to move past the latch 132 and the outer rail 130A′ is unable to move downwards.

[0062] The item of luggage 100 is configured to alternate between a collapsed first configuration and an extended second configuration. In the first configuration, the item of luggage 100 is collapsed, and in the second configuration the item of luggage 100 is extended. FIG. 1 shows the item of luggage 100 in the second configuration, whilst FIG. 3B shows the item of luggage 100 in the first configuration.

[0063] When the item of luggage 100 is in the first configuration, the upper module 110, the second central module 114B, the first central module 114A, and the lower module 106 are stacked on top of each other respectively.

[0064] The upper rail 102B further comprises a first catch 115 located at a first catch point below the first central module 114A. In the present example, the first catch 115 is located at the bottom end of the upper rail 102B. In use, as the item of luggage 100 alternates between the first configuration and the second configuration, gravity pulls the first central module 114A down the upper rail 102B. The first catch 115 stops the first central module from passing the first catch point. In particular, the first catch 115 blocks the runner and prevents the first central module 114A from sliding off the upper rail 102B.

[0065] The upper rail 102B further comprises a second catch 117, located at a second catch point, below the second central module 114B. The second catch point is between the first catch point and the runner of the second central module 114B. The second catch 117 is preferably located halfway along the upper rail 102B. In use, as the item of luggage 100 alternates between the first configuration and the second configuration, gravity pulls the second central module 114B down the upper rail 102B. The second catch 117 stops the second central module from passing the second catch point. In particular, the second catch 117 prevents the second central module 114B from sliding past the second catch point by engaging the runner of the second central module 114B.

[0066] The item of luggage 100 further comprises a handlebar 120 affixed to a distal end of the handlebar rail 130B. The handlebar 120 provides a means for extending the handlebar rail 130B from a first position to a second position. In particular, in use, a user may apply a substantially upwards force to the handlebar 120. This handlebar 120 in turn applies the upwards force to the handlebar rail 130B, causing the handlebar rail 130B to move along the outer rail 130A and extend until it reaches the second position, or any position between the first and second positions. Furthermore, the user may apply a substantially downwards force to the handlebar 120. The handlebar 120 in turn applies the downwards force to the handlebar rail 130B, causing the handlebar rail 130B to collapse until it reaches the first position, or any position between the first and second positions.

[0067] The item of luggage 200 further comprises a locking means 124 arranged to block movement of the lower rail 102A and the upper rail 102B. The locking means 124 is a rotatable lock 124 positioned on the upper surface 112 of the upper module 110. The lock 124 is rotatable between a closed position and an open position. The lock 124 is in mechanical communication with a locking rail 125 shown in FIG. 1B. When the lock 124 is in the closed position, it locks the lower rail 102A and the upper rail 102B, whilst when it is in the open position, the lower rail 102A and the upper rail 102B can move freely. Accordingly, a user can lock the item of luggage 100 in a preferred configuration according to their present objective. For example, the user can activate the lock 124 when the item of luggage 100 is in the first configuration, such that the lower rail 102A and the upper rail 102B cannot extend. When an upwards force is applied to the upper module 110, the item of luggage 100 lifts without expanding.

[0068] In use, to alternate between the first configuration and the second configuration of the item of luggage 100, the user can deactivate the lock 124 such that the handlebar rail 130B is free to extend. The user can apply an upwards force applied to the upper module 110, causing the outer rail 130A and the upper rail 102B to move upwards in parallel. As the upper rail 102B moves upwards, a separation is created between the upper module 110 and the second central module 114B until the second catch 11B engages the runner of the second central module 114B. As the upper rail 102B continues upwards, a further separation is created between the second central module 114B and the first central module 114A until the first catch 115 engages the runner of the first central module 114A. The first central module 114A also moves upwards with the upper rail 102B, creating a further separation between the first central module 114A and the lower module 106. During this upwards movement of the upper rail 102B, the outer rail 130A′ also moves upwards until the latch 132 moves past the upper edge of the lower rail 102A. At this point, the outer rail 130A′ is unable to move downwards due to the latch 132. Therefore, at this point the item of luggage 100 is fixed in the second configuration.

[0069] To return to the first configuration, the user may apply a downwards force to the handlebar 120 to actuate latch 132, such that the outer rail 130A′ can move downwards. The outer rail 130A′ moves downwards to the floor 108 and the upper module 110 similarly moves downwards. The upper rail 102B also moves downwards, along with the central modules 114A, 114B and the upper module 110 until the item of luggage 100 returns to the first configuration.

[0070] The upper surface 112 is hingeably attached to an edge of the perimeter wall 150, such that the upper module 110 is switchable between a closed position and an open position. The upper surface 152 therefore functions as a lid. Accordingly, the upper module 110 can be opened by moving the upper surface 152 from the closed position to an open position, thereby providing easy access to the contents of the upper module during travel.

[0071] The locking means 124 may further comprise an intermediate position, in which the locking rail 125 prevents the upper surface 112 from opening, whilst allowing the handlebar rail 130B to move freely.

[0072] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of an item of luggage 200 according to an alternative embodiment. The item of luggage 200 comprises: an extendable rail guide 202; a lower module 206 engaged with a lower section of the rail guide 202 via a lower connection means; an upper module 210 engaged with an upper section of the rail guide 202 via an upper connection means; and at least one central module 214A, 214B engaged with a central section of the rail guide 202 via a central connection means; wherein the at least one central module 214A, 214B is arranged to move along the rail guide 202 so as to create a separation between at least two of the lower module 206, the upper module 210, and the at least one central module 214A, 214B.

[0073] In the present example, the at least one central module 214A, 214B comprises a first central module 214A and a second central module 214B. It will be appreciated that any number of central modules may be included.

[0074] The lower module 206 comprises a floor 208. The upper module 210 comprises an upper surface 212. Each central module 214A, 214B comprises a removable floor component 216. The following description of the rail guide 202 is with respect to a first rail guide 202 located on a first minor side of the item of luggage 200. As can be seen in FIG. 5, a corresponding second rail guide is located on a second minor side of the item of luggage 200, and is substantially similar to the first rail guide 202.

[0075] The rail guide 202 is extendable such that it is arranged to alternate between a collapsed first position and an extended second position. In the first position, the rail guide 202 is collapsed, and in the second position the rail guide 202 is extended. In the present example, the rail guide 202 is telescopic, such that it can be extended by movement of a first rail guide section with respect to a second rail guide section, wherein the second rail guide section substantially encloses the first rail guide section. When the rail guide 202 is in the first position, it is substantially housed within a rail compartment 218. When the rail guide 202 is in the second position, such that it is at a maximum extension, it is not fully housed within the rail compartment 218.

[0076] FIG. 6A shows a front view of the item of luggage 200 with the rail guide (not shown in FIG. 6A) in the first, collapsed, position, whilst FIG. 6B shows a front view of the item of luggage 200 with the rail guide 202 in the second, extended, position. FIG. 7A shows a perspective view of the item of luggage 200 with the rail guide 202 in the first, collapsed, position, whilst FIG. 7B shows a perspective view of the item of luggage 200 with the rail guide 202 in the second, extended, position.

[0077] The rail guide 202 is configured to guide one or more runner components along a length of the rail guide 202, whilst restricting lateral motion of the one or more rail runner components. The one or more runner components are configured to cause the item of luggage 200 to alternate between a collapsed first configuration and an extended second configuration. In the first configuration, the item of luggage 200 is collapsed, and in the second configuration the item of luggage 200 is extended. FIG. 5 shows the item of luggage 200 in the second configuration, whilst FIG. 7B shows the item of luggage 200 in the first configuration.

[0078] The one or more runner components form a telescopic runner unit which can be extended by movement of one runner component with respect to another runner component. In the present embodiment, the one or more runner components comprises a central section (not shown), a lower central section (i.e., a lower central runner component connected to the first central module 2014A), a lower section 204A (i.e., a lower runner component 204A connected to the lower module 206), an upper central section (i.e., an upper central runner component connected to the second central module 2014B), and an upper section 204B (i.e., an upper runner component 204B connected to the upper module 210). In this way, each other the one or more runner components are coupled. The central section, the upper central section, and the lower central section are depicted in the figures as being housed in the rail compartment 218. The central section encloses the upper and lower central sections. The lower central section encloses the lower section 204A, and the upper central section encloses the upper section 204B.

[0079] The lower module 206 is engaged with the lower runner component 204A via a bracket 230. The first central module 214A is engaged with the lower central section via a bracket (not shown). The second central module 214B is engaged with the upper central section via a bracket (not shown). The upper module 210 is engaged with the upper section 204B via a bracket 232.

[0080] The lower module 206 comprises a perimeter wall 240 and the floor 208 which serves as barrier between the item of luggage 200 and the ground. The central modules 214A, 214B comprise a perimeter wall 260 and a removable floor component 216. The upper module 210 comprises a perimeter wall 250 and the upper surface 212.

[0081] The lower section 204A and the upper section 204B are each connected to a driving means. In the present example, the driving means is a gear (not shown) connected to the sections 204A, 204B via respective arms (not shown). The gear is housed between the sections 204A, 204B, within the rail compartment 218. The arms are configured to convert rotational motion of the gear to linear motion of the respective sections 204A, 204B. In particular, when the item of luggage 200 is in the first configuration, the gear can be rotated by a user, and the arms covert the rotational motion of the gear to linear motion of the sections 204A, 204B. In particular, the arms cause the sections 204A, 204B to move along the rail guide 202 in opposing directions relative to the central section. The lower section 204A moves downwards relative to the central section, whilst the upper section 204B moves upwards relative to the central section.

[0082] Once the sections 204A, 204B have moved a sufficient distance along the rail guide 202, they cause the lower central section and the upper central sections to move corresponding directions along the rail guide, respectively. That is, once the lower section 204A has moved a sufficient distance such that no more extension along the lower central section is possible, it causes the lower central section to move along the same direction, extending downwards from the central section. Similarly, once the upper section 204B has moved a sufficient distance such that no more extension along the upper central section is possible, it causes the upper central section to move along the same direction, extending upwards from the central section.

[0083] When the user rotates the gear and the sections 204A, 204B move along the rail guide 202 in opposing directions, the lower module 206 and the upper module 210 similarly move in opposing directions. Additionally, when the lower and upper central sections move along the rail guide 202, the first central module 214A and the second central module 214B similarly move along the rail guide 202. In this way, each of the modules 206, 210, 214A, 214B may be separated.

[0084] In the present example, the modules 206, 210, 214A, 214B are coupled such that separation is mirrored. That is, the lower module 206 and the upper module 210 each move along the rail simultaneously due to the gear imparting linear motion to the respective runner components. Additionally, the first central module 214A and the second central module 214B also move along the rail simultaneously due to the lower and upper runner components 204, 204B each imparting linear motion to the respective runner components connected to the first and second central modules 214A, 214B. However, it will be appreciated that in some embodiments, each of the modules 206, 210, 214A, 214B are not coupled, such that movement of one module is independent to movement of another module. This may be achieved by, for example, excluding the gear and using runner components that are unconnected.

[0085] The item of luggage 200 further comprises a gear locking means arranged to block rotation of the gear. The gear locking means is a lock 224 (shown in FIG. 5 only), configured to stop the gear from rotating. Accordingly, a user can lock the item of luggage 200 in a preferred configuration according to their present objective. For example, the user can activate the lock 224 when the item of luggage 200 is collapsed, such that the item of luggage 200 is secured in the collapsed configuration during, for example, transit. Furthermore, the user can deactivate the lock 224 when they have arrived at their destination, extend the item of luggage 200 to the extended configuration, and active the lock 224 such that the item of luggage 200 is secured in the extended configuration, thereby providing the user with easy access to the contents of the item of luggage.

[0086] The item of luggage 200 further comprises a handlebar 220 affixed to a distal end of the rail guide 202. The handlebar 220 provides a means for extending the rail guide 202 from the first position to the second position. In particular, in use, a user may apply a substantially upwards force to the handlebar 220. This handlebar 220 in turn applies the upwards force to the rail guide 202, causing the rail guide 202 to extend until it reaches the second position, or any 21 position between the first and second positions. Furthermore, the user may apply a substantially downwards force to the handlebar 220. The handlebar 220 in turn applies the downwards force to the rail guide 202, causing the rail guide 202 to collapse until it reaches the first position, or any position between the first and second positions. The item of luggage may further comprise a rail locking means (not shown) arranged to lock the rail guide 202 in a fixed position between the first and second positions. This rail locking means may prevent undesired movement of the handlebar 220 and/or rail guide 202, for example during transportation.

[0087] The following features may be present in both embodiments of the item of luggage 100, 200.

[0088] In both embodiments of the item of luggage 100, 200, the perimeter wall 140, 150, 160, 240, 250, 260 of each module, the floor 108, 208 of the lower module 106, 206, and the upper surface 112, 212 of the upper module 110, 210 are all formed of a rigid material. Alternatively, the perimeter wall 140, 150, 160, 240, 250, 260 of each module, the floor 108, 208 of the lower module 106, 206, and the upper surface 112, 212 of the upper module 110, 210 are all formed of a non-rigid material, such as woven nylon.

[0089] The first central module 114A, 214A and the second central module 114B, 214B each comprise a connection portion 162, 262 arranged to facilitate connection of the respective removable floor component 116, 216. In the present example, and with respect to the first central module 114A 214A, the connection portion is a plurality of hook apertures distributed about a lower edge of the perimeter wall 160, 260 of the first central module 114A, 214A, arranged to receive respective hooks distributed about a perimeter edge of the floor component 116, 216. In the present example, the hooks are evenly distributed about the whole of the perimeter edge of the floor component 116, 216. However, it will be understood that the hooks may be distributed about a portion of the perimeter edge, for example along two opposing edges of the perimeter edge.

[0090] The upper module 110, 210 also comprises a removable floor component, similar to the removable floor component 116, 216. The upper module 110, 210 similarly comprises a connection portion arranged to facilitate connection of the removable floor component.

[0091] The handlebar 120, 220 is extendable across a lateral axis of the item of luggage 100, 200. That is, the handlebar 120, 220 is extendable along an axis that is perpendicular to major axis of the item of luggage 100, 200. In the present embodiment, the handlebar 120, 220 comprises at least one extendable rod 122, 222 housed within an interior of the handlebar 120, 220. The rod 122, 222 is extendable along the lateral axis, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 8 which depict a perspective view of the item of luggage 100, 200 with the handlebar 120, 220 extended. In FIGS. 4 and 8, the rod 122, 222 is depicted as being extended along a portion of a maximum extension length along the lateral axis, and can extend up to a maximum of a full length of the handlebar 120, 220, thereby effectively doubling a length of the handlebar. It is preferable that the handlebar 120, 220 houses a first extendable rod (such as the extendable rod 122, 222) and a second extendable rod (not shown), each arranged to extend from a respective end of the handlebar 120, 220 in a mirrored fashion, such that the second rod extends from along the lateral axis in an opposing direction to the first rod 122, 222. When two rods are used, each rod is preferably about a half of the length of the handlebar 120, 220. It will be appreciated that the handlebar 120, 220 may be extended by any suitable means, for example by comprising telescopic portions.

[0092] The handlebar 120, 220 may be used as a clothes rack when the rail guide 102, 202 is in the second position. In particular, an item of clothing attached to a hangar may be hung from the handlebar. Furthermore, the handlebar 120, 220 may be extended along the lateral axis (e.g., via the rod 122, 222), thereby providing additional space for hanging clothing. In this way, the item of luggage 100, 200 may function as a clothes hanging means in addition to being a means for transporting clothing.

[0093] A mirror 152, 252 is affixed to an interior face of the upper surface 150, 250, such that the item of luggage 100, 200 can function as a dressing table when the upper surface is in the open position.

[0094] A handlebar indent 154, 254 extends across an exterior face of the upper surface 150, 250, for receiving the handlebar 120, 220 when the rail guide 102, 202 is in the first position (i.e., the collapsed position).

[0095] The upper module 110, 210 comprises a handle 156, 256. In particular, a handle indent 158, 258 occupies a central portion of the exterior face of the upper surface 150, 250, and comprises the handle 156, 256. It will be appreciated that the handle indent 158, 258 need not be present. The handle 156, 256 provides a means for applying an upwards force to the upper module 110, 210.

[0096] In the second embodiment, the handle 256 provides a means for applying a force to the gear. In particular, the user may apply an upwards force to the handle 256, which in turn applies an upwards force to the arm connected to the upper section 204A via the upper module 210 and the upper section 204A. The arm causes the gear to rotate, which translates to reciprocal linear motion of the arm connected to the lower section 204B at substantially the same time. Accordingly, the upwards force applied to the handle 256 causes the runner to extend. The handle 256 also provides a means for the user to carry the item of luggage 200, for example during transit.

[0097] The handlebar 120, 220 further comprises an illumination means (not shown), arranged on an underside of the handlebar 120, 220. The illumination means is an LED strip extending along the underside of the handlebar 120, 220. The illumination means provides illumination of the item of luggage 100, 200, which may advantageously provide a means for the user to illuminate the contents of the item of luggage 100, 200 when the upper surface 150, 250 is open.

[0098] The item of luggage 100, 200 further comprises a plurality of grooves for providing wall reinforcement. In particular, each of the perimeter walls 140, 150, 160, 240, 250, 260 comprise a plurality of vertically oriented grooves 170, 270 distributed across both major sides. When the item of luggage is in the first position, the grooves 170, 270 are contiguous.

[0099] The item of luggage 100, 200 further comprises a plurality of corner caps for reinforcing the edges which receive the most wear. In particular, the upper module 110, 210 comprises four corner caps 190, 290, each placed at an upper corner of the perimeter wall 150, 250. Furthermore, the lower module 106, 206 comprises four corner caps 192, 292, each placed at a lower corner of the perimeter wall 140, 240. The corner caps 190, 192, 290, 292 are attached via screws to the respective perimeter walls 190, 192, 290, 292 and are thus easily detachable for replacement when they are worn.

[0100] The item of luggage 100, 200 further comprises a plurality of wheels protruding from a bottom side of the floor 108, 208. In particular, the item of luggage 100, 200 comprises four wheels 180, 280, each attached proximate a respective corner of the bottom side of the floor 108, 208. The wheels 180, 280 provide a means for the user to easily move the item of luggage 100, 200 across a surface.

[0101] The item of luggage 100, 200 further comprises a power storage means, and a charging port. In particular, the rail compartment 118, 218 further houses a battery (not shown), and a charging port (not shown). In this way, the user may charge a device, such as a mobile phone, during travel. The rail compartment 118, 218 further houses a power input for charging the battery.

[0102] Each component of the item of luggage 100, 200 is manufactured using an additive manufacturing process. Each component is secured together via securing means such as a screw. Accordingly, each component may be easily removed and swapped so as to assist in easy repair. For example, if the perimeter wall 140, 240 of the lower component 106, 206 is dented, it may be easily detached from the lower section 104A, 204A, and a new lower component 106, 206 may be attached to the lower section 104A, 204A such that the dent is removed from the item of luggage 100, 200.

[0103] An outer shell of the item of luggage 100, 200 is formed by the floor 108, 208 of the lower module 106, 106, the upper surface 112, 112 of the upper module 110, 210, and perimeter walls 140, 150, 160, 240, 250, 260 of each of the lower module 106, 206, the upper module 110, 210, and the at least one central modules 114A, 114B, 214A, 214B.

[0104] The description provided herein may be directed to specific implementations. It should be understood that the discussion provided herein is provided for the purpose of enabling a person with ordinary skill in the art to make and use any subject matter defined herein by the subject matter of the claims.

[0105] It should be intended that the subject matter of the claims not be limited to the implementations and illustrations provided herein, but include modified forms of those implementations including portions of implementations and combinations of elements of different implementations in accordance with the claims. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions should be made to achieve a developers' specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort may be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having benefit of this invention.

[0106] Reference has been made in detail to various implementations, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and figures. In the detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the invention provided herein. However, the invention provided herein may be practiced without these specific details. In some other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, circuits, and networks have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure details of the embodiments.

[0107] It should also be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element. The first element and the second element are both elements, respectively, but they are not to be considered the same element.

[0108] The terminology used in the description of the invention provided herein is for the purpose of describing particular implementations and is not intended to limit the invention provided herein. As used in the description of the invention provided herein and appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The term “and/or” as used herein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify a presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components and/or groups thereof.

[0109] While the foregoing is directed to implementations of various techniques described herein, other and further implementations may be devised in accordance with the invention herein, which may be determined by the claims that follow. Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.