Mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels

Abstract

A mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels, designed to enhance durability and functionality. The system integrates a telescopic handle, a transmission mechanism, and pivoting wheel platforms to convert the vertical movement of the handle into a rotational motion that deploys or retracts the wheels. A spring mechanism ensures automatic retraction when the handle is lowered. The system is housed within a lower compartment of the suitcase, which includes an open floor allowing the wheels to extend outward when deployed and to remain concealed when retracted. This modular design is adaptable to various suitcase configurations, providing a compact, durable, and user-friendly solution for improving luggage maneuverability. The invention allows for compatibility with different transmission methods ensuring versatility and customization for different suitcase models.

Claims

1. A mechanical system comprising: a) a telescopic handle operable in an up-and-down motion; b) at least four wheels; c) at least two pivotable rotating platforms wherein two wheels are mounted on each of the two rotating platforms, such that each rotating platform pivots to fold or unfold its corresponding pair of wheels; d) a transmission mechanism configured to convert the vertical motion of the telescopic handle into a rotational motion of the rotating platforms; e) a frame to support the wheels, the rotating platforms and the transmission mechanism; and f) a spring system configured to return the rotating platforms and wheels to a folded position when the telescopic handle is lowered; wherein the transmission mechanism enables the folding and unfolding of the wheels in response to the up-and-down motion of the telescopic handle; and wherein said transmission mechanism comprises: a) two ascending tubes, each connected to the telescopic handle; b) two horizontal tubes forming two L-shaped modules with the ascending tubes; c) two ascending shafts connecting both L-shaped modules on both ends of the horizontal tubes; and d) two rods acting as guides for the horizontal tubes to ensure a controlled vertical motion; and wherein the ascending tube, upon lifting, pivots the rotating platforms to rotate the wheels into an unfolded position, and upon lowering, the spring system facilitates their return to a folded position.

2. A suitcase comprising: a) a main body; b) a lower compartment separated from the main compartment by a separation wall, the lower compartment having an open floor and said separation wall having two holes; c) a telescopic handle operable in an up-and-down motion, airtightly traversing the separation wall holes; d) a mechanical system comprising four wheels and two rotating platforms, with two wheels mounted on each of the two rotating platforms, such that each rotating platform pivots to fold or unfold its corresponding pair of wheels, two ascending tubes, each connected to the telescopic handle, two horizontal tubes forming two L-shaped modules with the ascending tubes, two ascending shafts connecting both L-shaped modules on both ends of the horizontal tubes, two rods acting as guides for the horizontal tubes to ensure a controlled vertical motion, a frame to support the wheels, the rotating platforms, the L-shaped modules and the rods, and a spring system configured to return the rotating platforms and wheels to a folded position when the telescopic handle is lowered; wherein the mechanical system is fully housed within the lower compartment of the suitcase, such that when the wheels are folded, said wheels remain concealed inside the lower compartment, and when unfolded, said wheels extend outward through the open floor of the lower compartment to make contact with ground; and wherein the mechanical system enables the folding and unfolding of the wheels in response to the up-and-down motion of the telescopic handle.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels in accordance with the present invention, where the wheels are folded.

(2) FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels in accordance with the present invention, where the wheels are unfolded.

(3) FIG. 3 is a side view of a mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels in accordance with the present invention, where the wheels are folded.

(4) FIG. 4 is a side view of a mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels in accordance with the present invention, where the wheels are unfolded.

(5) FIG. 5 is a front view of a mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels in accordance with the present invention, where the wheels are folded.

(6) FIG. 6 is a front view of a mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels in accordance with the present invention, where the wheels are unfolded.

(7) FIG. 7 is a more detailed perspective view of a mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels in accordance with the present invention, where the wheels are unfolded.

(8) FIG. 8 is a schematic front view of a suitcase in accordance with the present invention.

(9) FIG. 9 is a schematic front view of a suitcase in accordance with the present invention showing inside a mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels in accordance with the present invention, where the wheels are folded.

(10) FIG. 10 is a schematic front view of a suitcase in accordance with the present invention showing inside a mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels in accordance with the present invention, where the wheels are unfolded.

(11) FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the lower compartment of a suitcase in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(12) Disclosed is a mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels, activated by the up and down movement of the suitcase's telescopic handle. The system focuses on the design of a retractable wheel system that can be incorporated into specific suitcases prepared for it. It is a system that, although adaptable to a wide range of suitcases, will always require an adaptation phase for both the mechanism itself and the suitcase to ensure that both parts function efficiently. Although a model of suitcases with a lower compartment specially designed to incorporate the mechanism is hereby disclosed, it must be noted that other designs and integrations are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The design focuses on a module installed at the base of the suitcase, which allows the wheels to deploy and retract automatically with the help of the telescopic handle.

(13) The system operates simply: by fully extending the telescopic handle, the user makes a small motion to lift the suitcase and activate the deployment of the wheels. This ensures that all four wheels are fully extended, allowing the user to move the suitcase effortlessly. To retract the wheels, the user simply releases the handle's click and lowers it. A torsion spring mechanism ensures that the wheels return to their original position in a controlled manner without the need for additional intervention. This efficient and streamlined process aims to maximize user comfort when using the system, optimizing both the functionality and durability of the retractable wheel mechanism.

(14) The mechanism integrates without interfering too much with the usable space of the suitcase. Despite incorporating an advanced mechanical solution, the design is simple and free of electronic parts, making it accessible both from a production and maintenance perspective. Being a mechanical system based on springs and rods, the chances of failure are reduced, which increases the product's reliability in situations of intensive use.

(15) FIG. 1 shows a view of the mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels, isolated from the suitcase. This figure provides a detailed view of the mechanism that controls the deployment of the wheels.

(16) A frame 1 acts as support of the mechanism, facilitating the integration of the wheels 2 to the rest of the structure, so that they can be folded and unfolded while maintaining a firm position when applied to a suitcase. The wheels 2 in some embodiments are swivel wheels, which can rotate three-hundred-and-sixty degrees, providing superior maneuverability. These wheels are designed to move easily in any direction, which is especially useful for travelers who need to navigate quickly in confined spaces, such as airports. Additionally, the mechanism is compatible with different suitcase sizes and wheels, allowing it to adapt to various suitcase configurations, both large and small. This compatibility also enhances the system's modularity, ensuring that it can be customized according to user preferences. The system has two rotating platforms 3, screwed directly onto the wheels. Although four is the most normal number of wheels for luggage nowadays, other embodiments have a different number of wheels, for example two wheels, and may use individual rotating platforms for each wheel. Each of these rotating platforms are connected to a horizontal tube 8 which forms an L-shaped module with the ascending tube 6, that is attached to the telescopic handle 5 of the suitcase, which slides between two rods 4. When these ascending tubes 6 are lifted, the rotating platforms 3 pivot, allowing the wheels 2 to extend or retract. In this figure, only one of the sides of the telescopic handle 5 is shown so that the ascending tube 6 can be better appreciated. The horizontal tubes 8 are not seen here as it is hidden below the rotating platforms 3 in this view. However, it is shown in other figures and it must be understood that each of them connects to the corresponding ascending tube 6 forming an L shape so that when this horizontal tubes 8 are lifted, they raise the loose part of rotating platform 3, which is attached on the other side to an axis that allows it to pivot, thereby rotating the rotating platform 3 so the wheels 2 are in the deployed position. In the shown embodiment there are two rotating platforms 3, each attached to a pair of wheels 2 (four wheels total), there are two telescopic handles 5, two L-shaped modules (6, 8) united by two ascending shafts 7, and four rods 4, two for each horizontal tube 8. When the tubes 6 are lowered, a spring system 9 causes the rotating platforms 3 and wheels 2 to return to their original position, as we will show in FIG. 7. It is also worth noting that two ascending shafts 7, one for each end of the horizontal tubes 8, keep these horizontal tubes 8 together, so that when they are lifted, they do it simultaneously, and following the vertical path allowed by the rods 4 that act as guides.

(17) The overall structure of the system includes a base that houses all these components: the rotating platforms 3, the L-shaped modules (6, 7 and 8), and the complete mechanism that enables the movement of the wheels 2. This design ensures that the wheels 2 can be deployed and retracted in a controlled manner through the movement of the telescopic handle 5, making the mechanism functional and efficient for use in retractable suitcases.

(18) FIG. 2 shows the mechanism when the telescopic handles have been raised, moving up the ascending tubes 6, which are attached by the ascending shafts 7 to the horizontal tubes 8 and this whole structure is now visible on its upper position as allowed by the rods 4. Now the horizontal tubes 8 can be seen in the upper section of the rods 4, and this has raised the loose part of the rotating platforms 3, pivoting it to a vertical position and therefore unfolding the wheels 2. Here, it can be seen how the wheels 2 have pivoted into their final position thanks to the rotating platforms 3 on which they are mounted. Additionally, the L-shaped system is clearly shown in action, demonstrating how, as the handle 5 is lowered, the wheels 2 smoothly and controllably return to their storage position, aided by the torsion spring as will be shown in FIG. 7.

(19) FIG. 3 and FIG. 5 show different angles of the mechanism shown in its most compact state, with the wheels 2 folded. These views highlight how the mechanism has been designed to be as flat as possible, minimizing its impact on the suitcase's interior space. This is crucial to guarantee that the storage of the wheels does not compromise load capacity, a fundamental aspect for travelers seeking functionality without sacrificing space.

(20) Here, it is shown how the system remains within the thickness of the wheels 2, which ensures that there are no significant protrusions when the wheels are concealed. The system activates with the telescopic handle's travel, meaning that even with minimal effort by the user when extending the handle, the wheels will automatically deploy. In this way, the closing system of the handle itself is utilized, which locks into the extended position with a click. This system is quite strong, and it is relied upon to prevent the travel from reversing. Thus, for the wheels 2 to return to their folded position, the user only needs to release this click system using the handle's trigger, and, as the handle 5 begins to lower, the wheels 2 will fold back. This design is particularly efficient, as it is not only easy to use, but also ensures durability by avoiding complex or electronic systems that could fail.

(21) FIG. 4 and FIG. 6, on the other hand, show the same two angles of the mechanism shown with the wheels unfolded (side view and front view respectively). Comparing the figures side by side, it is easy to understand how the system works, by rotating the rotating platforms 3 with the lifting of the L-shaped module as guided by the rods 4. The ascending shafts 7 are attached to the horizontal tubes 8 and to the ascending tubes 6. All this together goes up when the telescopic handle goes up, thus generating the pivoting of the rotating platforms 3 and the consequent deployment of the wheels 2.

(22) FIG. 7 shows another perspective of the mechanism with unfolded wheels, which excellently showcases the intervening parts. This figure highlights the role of the torsion spring 9, which ensures that the wheels 2 return to their folded position when the handle 5 begins to lower. This spring 9 not only keeps the wheels 2 stable during use; it also facilitates the storage process by ensuring that the wheels 2 retract efficiently. Regular springs, elastics and other methods can be used in other embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Similarly, a different form of transmission can be used to convert the vertical movement of the ascending tube 6 (activated by the telescopic handle 5) into the rotating movement of the wheel rotating platform 3. This wheel rotating platform 3 does not necessarily need to have the shape of a wing in fact, in some embodiments, the wheels can be directly fixed to the horizontal tubes 8. In such a case, the rotation of this tube could be activated directly from the up and down movement of the ascending tube 6, for example with a pinion and rack mechanism. This modification and other possible configurations are encompassed within the spirit and scope of the invention which aims to provide a mechanical system for the folding and unfolding of the wheels with a firm and slim structure, and many variations allow for the same result.

(23) FIG. 8 is a schematic front view of a suitcase 10 modified to include the mechanism. The main compartment of the suitcase 11 is separated from the lower compartment 12 by a separation wall 13. The lower compartment 12 has an open floor 14 which allows the wheels to touch the floor when the mechanism is housed within the lower compartment 12, as will be shown in the following images. In other embodiments, the open floor 14 can be equipped with a cover, provided that the cover includes openings to allow the wheels to emerge when deployed. The lower compartment 12 is designed to protect the mechanism when the wheels are not in use, ensuring that the wheels 2 remain hidden and safeguarded during suitcase handling. This feature ensures that the wheels 2 can be stored and deployed without compromising the suitcase's internal space. The system adapts to different types of suitcases, although, a priori, the system is compatible with a wide rangefrom hard-shell models to fabric suitcasesregardless of whether they are wider or narrower. The idea is that the mechanism can be adjusted to any model, though certain specific adaptations may be needed depending on the type of suitcase. For example, some suitcases have more rounded shapes or are made from different materials, which may require adjustments to ensure functionality.

(24) A key aspect of the invention is that the suitcases must have a one-piece base, meaning that one side of the suitcase will be solid to provide support and conceal the mechanism, thereby ensuring that the system is not visible from the interior. Additionally, the suitcase will need to open in the middle, which is a design requirement to accommodate the retractable wheel system.

(25) The need to keep the main body of the suitcase hermetic is essential, as there can be no holes that compromise its integrity. This aspect of the design is crucial for protecting the internal mechanism and ensuring that the suitcase maintains its storage and security properties. On the other hand, for the mechanical module to be fully functional, the suitcases will need to be designed with a lower compartment 12 where the mechanism will be installed. In this regard, suitcase manufacturers will need to adapt their models in the future to include this specific space for the mechanism. This means that the suitcases will not only have to integrate with the system but will also need to be designed from the outset with this compatibility in mind. In summary, the mechanism is versatile, but suitcase design must evolve to accommodate and function effectively with this innovative system.

(26) Additionally, the mechanism is synchronized with the extension of the telescopic handle 5, in such a way that the wheels 2 activate automatically when the handle 5 is extended. This mechanism is closely tied to the modular concept of the system, where each component has a specific function that contributes to its durability and efficiency.

(27) FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 show schematic front views of the modified suitcase, showing inside of them the mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels to better understand how it is integrated. For clarity in the illustrations, the drawings depict the suitcases as if they were transparent, allowing the internal components to be visible. In FIG. 9 the wheels are folded whereas in FIG. 10 the wheels are unfolded, allowing for side-to-side comparison of both states. As can be seen in FIG. 9, when the wheels 2 are folded, the mechanism is fully integrated within the lower compartment 12 of the suitcase 10. We can see the suitcase in its fully compact state, with the wheels stored inside the lower compartment 12. The primary function of this design is to protect the wheels during transport and storage, ensuring they do not suffer damage when the suitcase is handled in environments such as airplane compartments or during airport handling. This feature not only extends the lifespan of the wheels but also enhances the overall durability of the suitcase. The system allows the wheels 2 to automatically position themselves when the telescopic handle 5 is extended, ensuring a smooth transition between folded and unfolded states. Additionally, the three-hundred-and-sixty degrees wheels enable agile and multidirectional movement, which is especially useful for navigating uneven surfaces or small spaces. Although the system is designed to be automatic, in some cases, the user may slightly lift the suitcase to facilitate the unfolding process. This figure shows how the wheel mechanism remains hidden, and how it activates simply and efficiently, making it easy for the user to deploy the wheels without complications.

(28) FIG. 10, as said before, shows a schematic front view of the modified suitcase, showing inside of it the mechanical system for folding and unfolding suitcase wheels with the wheels unfolded. In it, arrows 16, 17, 18 and 19 have been added to represent the motions of the parts. When the handle 15 is raised, as shown by arrow 16, the telescopic handle 5 is raised too, activating the movement of the ascending tube 6, as shown by arrow 17. This movement pivots the rotating platform 3, in a rotating movement represented by arrow 18, and this at the same time rotates the wheels 2 positioning them in their unfolded position as represented by arrow 19. As can be seen in this figure, the wheels 2, now unfolded, are outside of the lower compartment 12, extending outward through the open floor 14 of the lower compartment 12. This figure highlights the importance of adjusting the distance between the wheels for each type of suitcase. This feature is essential to ensure that the system remains functional and stable in suitcases of different sizes and shapes.

(29) In the modular design of the present invention, the wheel mechanism deploys simultaneously on both sides, ensuring that the wheels align correctly without the need for additional adjustments by the user. This not only improves the functionality of the system but also makes it easier to use, as the user does not need to worry about activating each wheel individually. The flexibility of this design is essential for the system to be integrated into a wide variety of suitcases, as mentioned before.

(30) Lastly, FIG. 11 shows the lower compartment 12 of a suitcase in accordance with the present invention. As it can be seen in the image, the separating wall 13 divides this compartment from the main body 11 of the suitcase, but it has two holes 20 so that the telescopic handles 5 can fit though them. It is essential to ensure that these telescopic handles 5 fit tightly inside the holes 20 so that there are no gaps allowing small objects to fall from the main body 11 to the lower compartment 12 and eventually to the floor.

(31) The description as set forth is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the teachings above without departing from the spirit and scope of the forthcoming claims.