Technical field

The present invention relates generally to items of luggage and more specifically to a reconfigurable luggage system.

Background

Many examples of luggage items, such as suitcases and rucksacks, provide a solution for storing and transporting items therein. However, whilst the general form and function of these luggage items has remained substantially the same for some time, it has been found that there is scope for significant improvement over the previously accepted designs. Referring to rucksacks for example, a typical rucksack may comprise two shoulder straps, a sack body for storing items, and some form of closure providing access to an interior of the sack body. However, use of such a rucksack may present a number of problems.

For example, the shoulder straps are typically connected to an outer skin of the sack body. The loads from the weight of items stored in the sack body cause stresses in the outer skin. In many examples the loads may be concentrated at the connection between the straps and the outer skin, and it is a common cause of failure for the outer skin to tear in these locations. In some examples the outer skin may be formed of multiple skin panels connected together, e.g. by sewing, and the loads from items in the sack body may similarly cause tears or other faults at these joints between skin panels. The material of the outer skin, or skin panels, must be sufficiently strong and durable to withstand the loads and stresses in use. These requirements typically result in increased weight and/or cost of the luggage item.

Secondly, access to items within a rucksack is severely limited and typically only possible from above. As such, accessing items stored at the bottom of the sack body typically requires significant searching within the sack body and/or unpacking items from the rucksack. This issue is exacerbated when items are stowed in numerous pockets and storage compartments that may only be accessible in certain orientations for example.

It is against this background that the present invention has been developed. Summary

In a first example there is provided a luggage system comprising an outer skin having a plurality of skin panels, a load transfer arrangement, a handle attached to the load transfer arrangement for lifting the luggage system, and a load carrier. The load carrier is attached to the load transfer arrangement. The outer skin is reconfigurable between a first configuration in which the skin panels are releasably connected to one another to wrap around the load carrier, and a second configuration in which the skin panels are unfurled to expose the load carrier.

Advantageously, the load carrier is directly attached to the load transfer arrangement. As such, loads supported by the load carrier are transferred directly to the load transfer arrangement. In some preferred examples, the load carrier is completely independent of the outer skin, i.e. there may be no direct connection between the load carrier and the outer skin. Because loads are transferred directly from the load carrier to the load transfer arrangement, the outer skin remains unstressed and is not required to support the load of items in the load carrier. Accordingly, the main function of the outer skin may be cosmetic and/or protective, and notably not structural or supporting. The outer skin may therefore be referred to as a cosmetic outer skin and/or a protective outer skin in some examples.

It will be appreciated that the luggage system therefore comprises three key components; the load transfer arrangement, the load carrier attached to the load transfer arrangement, and the outer skin which is independent from the load carrier. As noted previously, the luggage system also comprises a handle attached to the load transfer arrangement for lifting the luggage system. The load transfer arrangement and handle therefore enable the luggage system, and in particular the load supported by the load carrier, to be lifted.

The luggage system preferably comprises plurality of handles. The or each handle may be configured for carrying the luggage system on the shoulders of a person. As such, the or each handle may be a shoulder strap in some examples.

The load carrier may be releasably attached to the load transfer arrangement. This allows the luggage system to be specifically configured for different purposes or functions, and for a different load carrier to be utilised in the luggage system dependent on function. The releasable attachment therefore enables different load carriers to be inserted into the luggage system. For example, the luggage system may comprise one of a plurality of different load carriers, each load carrier being configured for a different purpose, and the load carrier being selected in dependence on a desired function of the luggage system for a specific purpose. The load carrier may therefore be referred to as a reconfigurable, changeable, load carrier in some examples. Releasable attachment of the load carrier to the load transfer arrangement may therefore enable a user to tailor the configuration of the luggage system for a specific function. Further, releasable attachment of the load carrier may facilitate disassembly of the luggage system for storage when not in use.

The load carrier may be releasably strapped to the load transfer arrangement. As such, the load carrier may comprise a plurality of fixing straps configured for attaching the load carrier to the load transfer arrangement. The fixing straps are preferably substantially inextensible to aid efficient load transfer from the load carrier to the load transfer arrangement. In some examples, the fixing straps may comprise cooperating features, such as hook and loop fasteners, for easy attachment and detachment of the load carrier from the load transfer arrangement. Strapping the load carrier to the load transfer arrangement advantageously provides a secure and robust attachment that reliably transfers loads from the load carrier to the load transfer arrangement in use.

The load carrier may be referred to as a load-carrying insert in some examples. The skin panels of the outer skin are releasably connectable to one another to wrap around the load carrier, and the load carrier may therefore be referred to as an internal load carrier in some examples. Regardless of how the load carrier is attached to the load transfer arrangement, the primary function of the load carrier is to carry or support the load, i.e. weight, of any items stowed therein. As such, the load carrier preferably supports the load of all items arranged in the load carrier. In combination with the load carrier being attached to the load transfer arrangement, this advantageously ensures that the outer skin is not stressed because the outer skin is not required to perform the main load carrying function. Instead the load is supported by the load carrier, and transferred to the or each handle via the load transfer arrangement, such that the load paths bypass the outer skin. Accordingly, the load carrier may be regarded as an independent element to the outer skin, i.e. not directly connected or attached to the outer skin. Such a configuration improves the longevity and robustness of the luggage system, whilst also improving load distribution.

The load carrier may comprise a front panel configured such that a storage volume is defined between the front panel and the load transfer arrangement when the load carrier is attached to the load transfer arrangement. The storage volume is preferably configured to facilitate stowing one or more items in therein. The front panel of the load carrier is preferably configured to hold items in the storage volume against the load transfer arrangement. The front panel of the load carrier is therefore preferably configured for attachment to the load transfer arrangement. Preferably, the front panel may be removably attachable to the load transfer arrangement.

Additionally or alternatively, in some examples the load carrier may comprise an adjustable compression system configured to compress the storage volume between the front panel and the load transfer arrangement. In some preferred examples the adjustable compression system may be independent of, i.e. not connected to, the outer skin. The adjustable compression system may comprise one or more adjustable straps connecting the front panel of the load carrier to the load transfer arrangement. As such, the adjustable compression system may be configured to compress items in the storage volume against the load transfer arrangement. It will be appreciated that the examples of the adjustable compressions system described herein are suitably applicable to all examples of the load carrier described herein.

The or each adjustable strap of the compression system may be configured to reduce the relative distance between the front panel of the load carrier and the load transfer arrangement when shortened, such that the storage volume is compressed between the front panel and the load transfer arrangement. The adjustable compression system advantageously facilitates a reduction in volume of the items stowed in the storage volume where such items are compressible. For example, items such as clothing, or other soft/compressible items, may be compressed in the load carrier for storage and/or transportation in the luggage system. In some examples this may facilitate the storage and/or transportation of items which, in an uncompressed state have a total volume greater than an internal volume of the outer skin, but which when compressed in the load carrier by the adjustable compression system, fit inside the outer skin without stressing or stretching the outer skin. The adjustable compression system further aids in securing items within the storage volume and advantageously restrains these against the load transfer arrangement for improved load distribution in use.

In some examples, the adjustable compression system may additionally or alternatively comprise one or more cords which traverse through respective attachment points associated with the front panel of the load carrier and the load transfer arrangement. For example, the front panel of the load carrier may comprise a plurality of eyelets, the load transfer arrangement may comprise a plurality of eyelets, and the cord may be woven successively through eyelets of the load carrier and eyelets of the load transfer arrangement such that pulling the cord pulls the front cover of the load carrier towards the load transfer arrangement, thereby compressing the storage volume. Applying tension to the cord therefore compresses the storage volume. In such an example, the compression system preferably comprises a cord lock, such as a toggle or a ladder slider buckle for example, by means of which the cord may be locked in a tensioned state such that the front panel compresses the storage volume.

In preferable examples, with the luggage system viewed in an upright position, the cord may be fixed to a lower corner of the load carrier or load transfer arrangement, and a loose end of the cord may be at or near an upper portion of the luggage system. Such a configuration facilitates easy access to grasp the cord for tightening and releasing the compression system, even when the outer skin is in the first, wrapped configuration. Such a configuration is further advantageous for tightening the adjustable compression system. For example, the weight of the load carrier itself can be used to apply tension to the cord. By lifting the weight of the load carrier from the free ends of the cord, the weight of the load carrier acts in an opposite direction which effectively pulls the cord taught, pulling the front panel together with the load transfer arrangement and thereby compressing the storage volume. As such, a cord-based adjustable compression system may facilitate simplified operation of the compression system.

In some examples, the load carrier may additionally comprise a back panel opposite to the front panel. As such, the storage volume may be defined between the front and back panels of the load carrier. It will be appreciated that, as part of the load carrier, in preferred examples the back panel of the load carrier may be independent of the outer skin. The inclusion of a back panel may be beneficial in facilitating the arrangement of items within the storage volume whilst the load carrier is separate from the load transfer arrangement, i.e. prior to attaching the load carrier to the load transfer arrangement.

For example, the front panel of the load carrier may be connected to the back panel of the load carrier such that the load carrier forms a cradle around the storage volume. Preferably, the cradle may be substantially U-shaped. Such a configuration may support items in the storage volume from below when the luggage system is arranged in an upright position, whilst still enabling access to items in the storage volume from above. A bottom edge of the front panel may be connected to a bottom edge of the back panel to form the cradle. In some examples, the front and back panels of the load carrier may be front and back portions of a single wrap-around panel. Such a configuration may facilitate efficient manufacture of the load carrier, and may also increase the robustness of the load carrier by reducing the number of seams or joints required between panels. In examples where the load carrier comprises a back panel, the adjustable compression system may additionally or alternatively comprise one or more adjustable straps connecting the front panel to the back panel. In some examples, the load carrier may comprise one or more eyelets for receiving a cord, and said cord may be woven through eyelets of the front panel, eyelets of the back panel and/or eyelets of the load transfer arrangement to provide a cord-based compression system as previously described.

In some examples, the load carrier may comprise a sleeve insert configured to store and retain flat items, such as electronic items (e.g. laptops / tablets) or books/documents, against the back panel of the load carrier, and thereby also against the load transfer arrangement. Preferably, such a sleeve insert may be detachably connected to the back panel of the load carrier. For example, the back panel of the load carrier and the sleeve insert may comprise complimentary fastening means, such as a hook and loop (Velcro) fastener arrangement, to detachably couple the sleeve insert to the load carrier. In some examples, the sleeve may be open ended and may serve simply to hold items against the load carrier and separate them from the remainder of the storage volume

In some examples, the load carrier may comprise one or more side panels connected to the front panel to further define the storage volume and envelope items stored therein. Such side panels may help to contain and restrain items in the storage volume which may further aid load distribution within the luggage system. In some examples, the or each side panel of the load carrier may be padded. In some examples, the front panel of the load carrier may be unwrapped and laid flat, and the padded side panels unfolded and laid flat to collectively provide a padded underlay. The padded underlay may be used for resting an infant during a changing procedure for example.

In some examples, the or each side panel may be connected to the load transfer arrangement. Additionally or alternatively, the or each side panel may be connected to the back panel of the load carrier in some examples.

In some examples, the storage volume may be divided into a plurality of separate compartments for storing separate items in the storage volume. As noted previously the storage volume is defined at least in part by the load carrier, i.e. by at least the front panel of the load carrier. Accordingly it can be said that the storage volume defined by the load carrier may be divided into a plurality of separate compartments in some examples. In examples where the load carrier comprises a back panel, the storage volume may be divided into a plurality of compartments by a plurality of moveable partitions. For example, such movable partitions may be removably connected to the back panel by means of a hook and loop (Velcro) fastening arrangement. Alternatively or additionally, such moveable partitions may be attached to the back panel and/or the front panel of the load carrier by other suitable removable attachment means, such a popper/button connection. As such, the configuration of the partitioned storage volume may be tailored to a specific purpose, such as storing camera equipment, or baby-changing materials for example, and may be reconfigured as required for a different purpose.

In some examples, the load carrier may comprise a collapsible storage unit. In such an example the load carrier may comprise a storage volume partitioned into a plurality of shelves each connected by a flexible i collapsible material such that, when the load carrier is arranged in the luggage system, it may be collapsed and compressed against the load transfer arrangement by the compression system. Conversely, in an expanded, in-use configuration, the storage unit may be expanded in an accordion-like manner to present the items stored therein on a plurality of shelves. The load carrier may be suspended to maintain the storage unit in an expanded configuration to facilitate access to items stored in the shelves. For example, the front panel of the load carrier may comprise attachment means for releasably attaching the front panel to a hook or a rail such that the collapsible storage unit hangs in an expanded configuration. Preferably, the shelves may be formed of a flexible material to facilitate effective compression of the storage volume by the compression system.

The load transfer arrangement may comprise a bracing structure connected to one or more tension elements. The bracing structure may be connected to the or each tension element via a plurality of bracing points. The or each tension element preferably constrains a maximum separation between at least two bracing points. As such, it will be understood that “tension element” refers to a component configured for resisting tensile forces to constrain the separation between the bracing points. Further, it will be understood that “bracing point’ refers to a location at which the bracing structure is connected to a tension element. Some advantageous examples of bracing points will be described by way of example below, but it will be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited to these examples, and that the term “bracing point” simply refers to the location at which the bracing structure is connected to a tension element so as to “brace” the bracing structure between the bracing points.

The bracing structure may be detachably connected to the or each tension element. For example, the bracing points may comprise pockets, and end portions of the bracing structure may extend into the pockets. As such, end portions of the bracing structure may be received by, and housed in, pockets associated with the or each tension element. The combination of the bracing structure connected to the or each tension element and braced between the bracing points may define a substantially rigid frame for supporting the load carrier and transferring the load to the handle in use. Advantageously, such a frame may be at least partially flexible / collapsible for storage when the bracing structure is detached from the or each tension element.

For example, the or each tension element may be substantially flexible. As such, without the bracing structure braced between the bracing points, the load transfer arrangement may be substantially flexible. In some examples, the or each tension element may comprise a substantially inextensible fabric material. For example, the or each tension element may comprise a webbing material, such as polyamide webbing.

In some examples, the load carrier may be attached to the bracing points of the load transfer arrangement. This advantageously provides a short path for loads to be transferred directly from the load carrier to the load transfer arrangement. The bracing structure may extend through a back panel of the load carrier to restrain the load carrier relative to the load transfer arrangement. Such an arrangement may help to secure the load carrier to the load transfer arrangement and may additionally help to reduce relative movement of the load carrier within the outer skin in use.

The back panel of the load carrier may comprise padding. The padding may be arranged between at least a portion of the bracing structure and the outer skin. The padding may improve comfort for a user if the luggage system is carried on the back of a person for example, to help ensure harder components of the luggage system, such as the bracing structure, do not cause discomfort. The padding may comprise foam. For example, the padding may comprise a closed cell polymer foam.

The bracing structure may be braced between at least two upper bracing points and at least two lower bracing points. The upper bracing points may be connected to an upper tension element. Preferably, the lower bracing points may be connected to a separate lower tension element.

The load carrier may be releasably attached to the load transfer arrangement. For example, the load carrier may be releasably attached to the or each tension element. In preferred examples, the load carrier may be releasably attached to the or each tension element of the load transfer arrangement via the bracing points. As such, the bracing points may each comprise means for attaching the load carrier, such as a ring or an eyelet. The load carrier may comprise a plurality of fixing straps configured for fixing the load carrier to the bracing points. The fixing straps may comprise a hook and loop fastening scheme for securing the fixing straps through a respective ring or eyelet.

The bracing structure may comprise two elongate reinforcing members. In examples where the bracing structure is detachably connected to the or each tension element, providing the bracing structure as two separate reinforcing members means that the luggage system can be collapsed down to a particularly small and flexible volume for storage. For example, with the bracing structure detached from the or each tension element, the outer skin and/or load carrier may be rolled, wrapped or folded around the reinforcing members for efficient storage. The reinforcing members may be fibre- reinforced polymer rods. Fibre-reinforced polymer rods advantageously provide rigidity without unduly increasing the weight of the luggage system. In particularly preferred examples, the reinforcing members may comprise carbon fibre reinforced polymer.

The elongate reinforcing members may extend transverse to one another in the luggage system. For example, the bracing structure may be substantially X-shaped. The bracing structure may also be X-shaped in examples wherein the bracing structure does not comprise a plurality of elongate reinforcing members. An X-shaped bracing structure may be braced between diagonally opposed bracing points. An X-shaped configuration is particularly advantageous because, when braced between opposed bracing points, the bracing structure braces against both vertical compressive forces and lateral compressive forces. For example, a diagonally arranged reinforcing member may support a vertical force resulting from the weight of the load carrier, and may resolve part of this load into a lateral force that acts to laterally separate bracing points connected to the or each tension element. The bracing structure may therefore be configured to provide the requisite structural support for the load transfer arrangement using a minimal number of components in a simple configuration.

A tension element preferably constrains a maximum lateral separation between a pair of upper bracing points. A tension element preferably constrains a maximum lateral separation between a pair of lower bracing points. For example, a first tension element preferably constrains a maximum lateral separation between a pair of upper bracing points, and a separate second tension element preferably constrains a maximum lateral separation between a pair of lower bracing points. The or each tension element and the associated bracing points preferably ensure that the bracing structure is braced between the bracing points such that the load transfer arrangement provides a substantially rigid frame for supporting the load carrier. In particular, in examples where the bracing structure is substantially X-shaped, the or each tension element preferably ensures that the lateral component of the load carrier weight resolved in the bracing structure is resisted by the tension element(s) such that the bracing structure may be held under a slight compressive force when braced between the opposed bracing points.

The cross-sectional profile of the reinforcing members may be configured to provide different advantageous structural properties in different directions. For example in some examples the reinforcing members may comprise a rectangular cross-sectional profile. The reinforcing members may therefore comprise anisotropic stiffness. Accordingly, the bracing structure may provide anisotropic rigidity to the load transfer arrangement. In other words, reinforcing members with a rectangular cross-sectional profile may facilitate some out-of-plane flexibility, whilst maintaining in-plane rigidity between the bracing points, where the plane is defined by the bracing points connected to the tension element(s). Out- of-plane flexibility may allow the bracing structure to conform to the contour of a user’s back in examples where the luggage system is carried on the back of a person, thereby improving comfort and load distribution.

Reinforcing members having a rectangular cross-sectional profile may additionally facilitate a load transfer arrangement having a very low thickness, i.e. a thin profile. As such the relative volume of the luggage system taken up by the load transfer arrangement compared to the total volume of the luggage system may be very low. In examples such as airline baggage where total baggage item volume is restricted, such a configuration advantageously maximises the volume available for storing and transporting items within the luggage system.

The load transfer arrangement may comprise an upper crossbar extending between two or more upper bracing points. The upper crossbar may help to further restrain relative movement between the upper bracing points. Accordingly, in some examples the upper crossbar may further restrain relative movement between upper end portions of the bracing structure.

The handle may be connected to the upper crossbar. The handle may be connected to the upper crossbar to enable load transfer to the handle. As noted previously, where included, the upper crossbar is part of the load transfer arrangement. Accordingly, the upper crossbar may be configured to transfer loads to the handle. In preferred examples, the handle may therefore be connected directly to the load transfer arrangement to minimise the length of the load path between the load carrier and the handle. Preferably, in examples where the luggage system comprises a plurality of handles, each of the handles are connected to the upper crossbar to enable load transfer to the handles.

The load transfer arrangement may comprise a crossbar connection arrangement. For example, the load transfer arrangement may comprise one or more loops of fabric or other suitable material. For example, the load transfer arrangement may comprise one or more loops of webbing material, such as polyamide webbing. The upper crossbar may extend through the or each loop. The upper crossbar may be removably inserted through the loops. Such a configuration advantageously facilitates storage of the luggage system, allowing the crossbar to be removed such that the luggage system may be folded or rolled into a convenient shape for storage. Further, such a configuration ensures that rigid components may be removed from the luggage system facilitating machine washing of flexible / fabric components of the luggage system, such as the load carrier and/or washable parts of the load transfer arrangement and/or the outer skin. Such a configuration also facilitates simple replacement of the crossbar in the event of wear or damage.

The load transfer arrangement may comprise a lower crossbar extending between lower bracing points. For example, the load transfer arrangement may comprise a lower crossbar connection arrangement. Such an arrangement may for example comprise one or more additional loops through which the lower crossbar may be removably inserted. The lower crossbar may help to further restrain relative movement between the lower bracing points. In some examples the lower crossbar may therefore further restrain relative movement between lower end portions of the bracing structure.

The handle may be connected to the lower crossbar. For example the handle may be connected directly to the lower crossbar, or may alternatively be connected to a loop, such as a webbing loop, associated with the lower crossbar. This further facilitates connection between the handle and the load transfer arrangement to effectively transfer loads between the load carrier and the handle.

The handle is preferably removably connected to the upper crossbar. For example, an upper end of the handle may comprise one or more loops, such as webbing loops, through which the upper crossbar may extend. Additionally or alternatively, the handle may be removably connected to the lower crossbar or a loop associated with the lower crossbar. For example, a lower end of the handle may comprise one or more webbing loops through which the lower crossbar may extend, or in other examples the lower end of the handle may comprise a hook or clip for engaging a webbing loop. Removably connecting the handle to the upper and/or lower crossbar further facilitates disassembly of the luggage system for efficient storage.

The load transfer arrangement may define a plurality of different positions for receiving the upper crossbar. For example, the load transfer arrangement may comprise a plurality of supplementary loops in a plurality of different positions. A back length of the luggage system may be defined as the length between the upper crossbar and the lower crossbar. The back length of the luggage system may be adjusted by arranging the upper crossbar to extend through one or more of the supplementary loops. As such, the back length of the luggage system may be optimized for different functions and/or for different users and/or dependent on the items stowed therein, for example.

The luggage system may further comprise a waist belt configured to support at least some of the load or weight of the luggage system in use. The waist belt is preferably configured for attachment to, or around, the waist of a person carrying the luggage system. Preferably, the waist belt may be attached to the load transfer arrangement. Such a configuration may help to ensure that load(s) from the load carrier are transferred effectively from the load carrier to the waist belt. For example, the waist belt may be attached to the lower crossbar of the load transfer arrangement in examples including such a lower crossbar. For example, the waist belt may comprise one or more loops, such as webbing loops, through which the lower crossbar may extend to attach the waist belt to the load transfer arrangement.

In some examples, at least part of the load transfer arrangement may be integrated with the outer skin. Advantageously this minimises the number of separate parts of the luggage system, and facilitates a simple deployment of the outer skin to wrap around the load carrier attached to the load transfer arrangement. In examples where at least part of the load transfer arrangement is integrated with the outer skin, any such part is preferably a part configured to transfer load from the load carrier to the or each handle. Notably, even in an example where at least part of the load transfer arrangement is integrated with the outer skin, loads are not transferred to the outer skin and are instead still routed from the load carrier to the load transfer arrangement to the or each handle, entirely bypassing the outer skin such that the outer skin is not stressed or loaded. For example, one or more parts of the load transfer arrangement may be connected to the outer skin. In some examples, the or each tension element may be connected to the outer skin, for example by means of sewing the tension element(s) to the outer skin. The loads transferred to such a part of the load transfer arrangement are subsequently routed to the or each handle or another part of the load transfer arrangement without loading the outer skin.

In some examples, at least part of the load transfer arrangement may be provided outside of the outer skin. More particularly, at least part of the load transfer arrangement may be separate from the outer skin, and the luggage system may be configured such that at least part of the load transfer arrangement is provided outside the outer skin when the outer skin in the first configuration. As such, in some examples the outer skin may be configured to envelop the load carrier, and the load carrier may be attached to the load transfer arrangement through openings provided in the outer skin.

In some examples, the bracing structure may be arranged outside the outer skin. Additionally or alternatively, the tension element(s) may be arranged outside the outer skin in some examples. The bracing structure and/or the tension element(s) may be separate from the outer skin such that the luggage system is an entirely modular luggage system, wherein each main component of the luggage system may be removed or changed. Such a configuration may be advantageous for replacing worn or damaged components, or for reconfiguring the luggage system dependent on intended function.

The outer skin may be configured to lay substantially flat when the skin panels are unfurled in the second configuration. This facilitates unhindered access to the load carrier and the items stowed therein when the outer skin is in the second configuration. Further, this facilitates access to the load carrier and its content from a plurality of directions, such that all items in the load carrier are easily accessible.

In some examples, an interior surface of the outer skin may advantageously provide a clean, dry, and usable surface when unwrapped in the second configuration. For example, the outer skin may be unfurled into the second configuration with the luggage system resting on a damp or dirty surface, and when unfurled, the outer skin may provide a clean, useable upwards-facing interior surface on which to place items removed from the load carrier. The outer skin may comprise a main skin panel having a back portion, a first side skin panel attached to a first edge of the back portion, and a second side skin panel attached to a second edge of the back portion.

The main skin panel may additionally comprise a wrap-around portion attached to the back portion. As such, the main skin panel may be formed of a plurality of separate pieces joined together in some examples. Alternatively, the main skin panel may be a single piece having separately defined portions, reducing complexity during manufacture and reducing the number of joints / seams required. The wrap-around portion may be releasably connectable to the first side skin panel. The wrap-around portion may be releasably connectable to the second side skin panel. An outer skin configured in this way may advantageously maintain an attractive and sleek shape around the load carrier in the first configuration whilst facilitating a substantially flat arrangement of the skin panels in the second configuration. Such a configuration further facilitates fast and simple transition between the first and second configurations of the outer skin.

The wrap-around portion may define a bottom of the outer skin when the outer skin is in the first configuration, wrapped around the load carrier, when the luggage system is viewed in an upright position. The wrap-around portion may additionally define a front portion of the outer skin. The front portion of the outer skin may be arranged substantially opposite to the back portion when the outer skin is in the first configuration.

In some examples, the skin panels may be separate panels fixed together at one edge of each panel. In such examples, edges of the skin panels may be permanently fixed together. Joints between skin panels are preferably waterproof. As such, edges of adjacent skin panels may be joined together using any suitable technique, such as adhesive bonding, thermal welding, or sewing, for example. In examples where panels are sewn together, seams between adjacent panels are preferably French seams such that stitching exposed on the exterior of the outer skin is minimised, this helps to minimise water ingress into the luggage system through the outer skin. In some examples, stitched seams between adjacent panels of the outer skin may be “taped” i.e. covered on at least one side with a polymer-based tape, to further minimise water ingress through the outer skin.

In other examples, two or more of the skin panels may be different portions of a single piece of material. For example, the plurality of skin panels may be integrally formed. Such a configuration avoids joints or seams between adjacent skin panels. It will be understood that the skin panels referenced herein therefore refer to portions of the outer skin and are not necessarily limited to separate panels, or to integrally formed panels.

The skin panels of the outer skin may comprise a waterproof material. In preferred examples, at least the first and second side skin panels, and the wrap-around portion defining the front portion, are formed of a waterproof material. Using such a configuration, the content of the luggage system may be protected from water ingress in use. More preferably, all of the panels of the outer skin may be formed of a waterproof material. For example, the back panel, wrap-around portion, and first and second side skin panels may all be formed of a waterproof material. Such a configuration advantageously protects the content of the luggage system from water ingress from all directions, and for example also protects the content of the luggage system when arranged on the ground in any orientation.

The outer skin may comprise a closure system for releasably connecting edges of two or more adjacent skin panels in the first configuration. As such, the closure system preferably comprises one or more releasable fasteners for releasably connecting the skin panels. In some examples, the closure system may comprise a hook and loop fastener arrangement (such as Velcro) for example. In preferred examples, the closure system may additionally or alternatively comprise a sliding fastener, such as a zip. A sliding fastener provides a simple and efficient means for releasably connecting the skin panels.

Preferably, the wrap-around portion may be releasably connectable to the first side skin panel by means of a first releasable fastener. Preferably, the wrap-around portion may be releasably connectable to the second side skin panel by means of a second releasable fastener. For example, the closure system may comprise a dual fastener configuration, wherein a first sliding fastener releasably connects the wrap-around portion to the first side skin panel, and a second sliding fastener releasably connects the wrap-around portion to the second side skin panel. Such a configuration facilitates a rapid and simple transition between the first and second configurations of the outer skin. Further, such a configuration advantageously facilitates access to an individual side of the load carrier, without fully unwrapping the outer skin to fully expose the load carrier. As such, the outer skin may comprise an intermediate configuration between the first and second configurations, wherein the outer skin is partially unfurled to partially expose the load carrier.

In preferred examples, the first releasable fastener may comprise a first waterproof sliding fastener, and the second releasable fastener may comprise a second waterproof sliding fastener. In such a configuration, teeth of the sliding fastener arrangement associated with each skin panel may be concealed by a flexible waterproof tape. When the teeth of adjacent skin panels mesh to releasably connect the skin panels, the flexible tapes associated with the respective skin panels are brought together to cover the teeth. Such a configuration further blocks water ingress into the luggage system through the outer skin when the outer skin is in the first configuration.

In the first configuration the outer skin may comprise an upper portion defining an opening facilitating access to the load carrier. The opening in the upper portion may therefore facilitate access to the load carrier when the skin panels are releasably connected to one another to wrap around the load carrier in the first configuration.

In the first configuration, the upper portion of the outer skin may define an open-ended tubular structure through which access to the load carrier is facilitated. In some examples, the upper portion of the outer skin may be configured with closing means to form roll-top closure. A roll-top closure may advantageously provide a waterproof seal closing the upper portion of the outer skin, whilst also facilitating a simple means by which to access the load carrier and contents from above when the outer skin is in the first, wrapped, configuration.

The luggage system may comprise an upper handle. The upper handle may be attached to the load transfer arrangement. When carrying the luggage system via the upper handle loads from the load carrier may therefore be transferred to the upper handle via the load transfer arrangement, bypassing the outer skin. In some examples, the upper handle may be defined by a strap configured for securing the roll-top closure.

The outer skin may be provided with a secondary handle. For example, the secondary handle may comprise a hand grip for carrying the luggage system by hand. The secondary handle may be a front or side handle configured to facilitate carrying the luggage system on its front or side, i.e. in a rotated orientation relative to the upright orientation. The load carrier may be configured for attachment to the secondary handle. As such, when the luggage system is carried via the secondary handle, the load of the load carrier is preferably transferred to the secondary handle.

The secondary handle may therefore be connected to a reinforced patch of the outer skin. The load carrier may be configured for attachment to the secondary handle via the reinforced patch. The load carrier may be configured to be coupled directly to the reinforced patch. This minimizes the length of the load path between the load carrier and the secondary handle. The reinforced patch may comprise a substantially rigid reinforcing component. The secondary handle and the load carrier may be attached to the substantially rigid reinforcing component to transfer load from the load carrier to the secondary handle.

The load carrier may comprise a strap configured to couple the load carrier to the secondary handle via the reinforced patch. Preferably, the strap may be an adjustable strap, i.e. the strap may be adjustable in length. As such, the length of the strap may be adjusted such that, when the luggage system is carried via the secondary handle, substantially all of the load of the load carrier may be transferred to the secondary handle, i.e. such that the load carrier is wholly supported via the reinforced patch and the secondary handle. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that in preferred examples, the strap may be adjusted such that the length of the strap is shorter than a distance between the load carrier and the reinforced patch. As such, even when the luggage system is carried via the secondary handle, the outer skin is not loaded or stressed by the weight of the load carrier.

The strap of the load carrier may comprise a releasable coupling for attaching the strap to the reinforced patch. This facilitates simple detachment of the load carrier from the secondary handle when unwrapping the outer skin into the second configuration. In some examples the releasable coupling may be in the form of a hook or clip, which engages with the reinforced patch, for example the hook or clip may engage with the substantially rigid reinforcing component, or an intermediate component connected thereto.

The luggage system may be a rucksack or backpack in some examples. As such, the luggage system may be configured for carrying on a person’s back.

References to the load of the load carrier, or load supported by the load carrier, will be understood to refer to a force resultant from the items stored in the storage volume. As such, the “load” may primarily refer to the weight of the load carrier or the items stored therein.

The modularity of the luggage system described herein provides a plurality of advantages. The luggage system may be reconfigurable for different functions. In some examples the luggage system may be configured for attaching different load carriers to the load transfer arrangement dependent on function. Further, providing the load carrier and outer skin as separate components of the luggage system reduces loading and strain on the outer skin, and facilitates replacement and/or cleaning of the outer skin. Providing the outer skin as a separate component further facilitates customisation of the luggage system, whereby a different outer skin may be used dependent on the desired function or desired aesthetic appeal. In examples including a bracing structure, a removable/detachable bracing structure may facilitate storage and/or cleaning of components such as the load transfer arrangement and the outer skin.

In particular, the modularity of the luggage system provides a sustainable solution to storing and transporting items. For example, due to the modularity of the luggage system, in the event of damage and/or wear to different components, the damaged and/or worn components may be replaced without requiring replacement of the whole luggage system, thereby reducing unnecessary waste. Similarly, the reconfigurability of the luggage system advantageously reduces the requirement of purchasing and storing multiple different luggage items each configured for different functions. Instead, modular components of the luggage system may be interchanged dependent on the desired function of the luggage system.

In some examples, the luggage system may therefore be referred to as a modular luggage system. For example, the modular luggage system may comprise an outer skin having a plurality of skin panels, a load transfer module, a handle attached to the load transfer module for lifting the modular luggage system, and a load carrier module. The load carrier module may be attached to the load transfer module. The outer skin module may be reconfigurable between a first configuration in which the skin panels are releasably connected to one another to wrap around the load carrier module, and a second configuration in which the skin panels are unfurled to expose the load carrier module. It will be appreciated that all references herein to a luggage system, a load transfer arrangement and a load carrier are equally applicable to a modular luggage system, a load transfer module, and a load carrier module respectively.

Brief description of the drawings

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

Figure 1 is a schematic front view of a luggage system comprising an outer skin in a first configuration;

Figure 2 shows the luggage system with the outer skin in a second configuration, in which skin panels of the outer skin are unfurled to expose a load carrier of the luggage system; Figure 3 is a schematic plan view of the outer skin in the second configuration showing an interior surface of the outer skin and part of a load transfer arrangement of the luggage system;

Figures 4a and 4b respectively show examples of upper and lower bracing points of the load transfer arrangement configured to receive upper and lower end portions of a bracing structure;

Figure 5 shows a plan view of a back panel of the load carrier attached to the load transfer arrangement, and a bracing structure of the load transfer arrangement;

Figures 6a and 6b are detail perspective views showing an example of an attachment scheme for attaching the load carrier to the load transfer arrangement;

Figure 7 is a schematic plan view of the outer skin in the second configuration with an example of the load carrier attached to the load transfer arrangement;

Figures 8a, 8b, 8c, and 8d show examples of a load carrier respectively comprising an adjustable compression system, a sleeve insert, a collapsible storage unit, and a partitioned storage volume;

Figure 9 is a schematic back view of the luggage system showing parts of the load transfer arrangement and handles connected to the load transfer arrangement;

Figure 10a shows a schematic front view of an upper portion of the outer skin in the first configuration; and

Figure 10b shows a schematic side view of the luggage system wherein the upper portion of the outer skin forms a roll-top closure.

Detailed description

An example of a luggage system 10 is shown in Figure 1. The luggage system 10 comprises a reconfigurable outer skin 12 comprising a plurality of skin panels 12a-c. In a first configuration, as shown in Figure 1 , the skin panels 12a-c of the outer skin 12 are releasably connected to one another to wrap around a load carrier 14 (shown in Figure 2). As such, the luggage system 10 preferably comprises a closure system 16 for releasably connecting edges 18 of adjacent skin panels 12a-c when the outer skin 12 is in the first configuration. The closure system 16 will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 2 and 3. In some examples, the luggage system 10 may also comprise a roll- top closure 20 configured to facilitate access to the load carrier 14 within the outer skin 12 when the outer skin 12 is in the first, wrapped, configuration. The roll-top closure 20 will be described in more detail later with reference to Figures 10a and 10b.

Referring now to Figure 2, the outer skin 12 of the luggage system 10 may be reconfigured into a second configuration in which the skin panels 12a-c are unfurled to expose the load carrier 14. As such, in preferred examples, the outer skin 12 may be configured to lay substantially flat when the skin panels 12a-c are unfurled. The second configuration of the outer skin 12 advantageously provides unhindered access to the load carrier as shown in Figure 2.

Some examples of load carriers 14 will be described in more detail later with reference to Figures 8a to 8d, however, by way of a brief summary the load carrier 14 defines a storage volume 22 configured to hold one or more items for storage and/or transportation in the luggage system 10. In some examples, such as that shown in Figure 2, the load carrier 14 may comprise a front panel 24 and a back panel 26, and the storage volume 22 may be defined between the front and back panels 24, 26 of the load carrier 14. As shown in Figure 2, in some examples the front panel 24 of the load carrier 14 may be connected to the back panel 26 such that the load carrier 14 forms a cradle around the storage volume 22. Such a configuration advantageously supports items in the storage volume 22 from below when the luggage system 10 is arranged in an upright position, such as that shown in Figure 1.

The luggage system 10 further comprises a load transfer arrangement 28, parts of which are shown more clearly in Figures 3-7 and 9. The load transfer arrangement 28 is configured to transfer loads (e.g. weight) from the load carrier 14 to one or more handles 30 provided for lifting the luggage system 10 (shown most clearly in Figure 9). The load carrier 14 is attached to the load transfer arrangement 28 as will be described in more detail later with reference to Figures 6a to 7. In summary, attaching the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28 ensures that the loads from items stowed in the load carrier 14 are effectively supported by the load carrier 14 and the load transfer arrangement 28, and not by the outer skin 12. As such the outer skin 12 remains unloaded and unstressed, and simply provides a protective cover wrapped around the load carrier 14 without being required to provide structural support to carry the items stowed in the luggage system 10. With reference now to both Figure 2 and Figure 3, in some examples, the outer skin may comprise first and second side skin panels 12a, 12b and a main skin panel 12c. The main skin panel 12c may comprise a back portion 32a and a wrap-around portion 32b attached to the back portion 32a. In examples where the skin panels 12a-c are not all integrally formed, the first side skin panel 12a may be attached to a first edge 34a of the back portion 32a and the second side skin panel 12b may be attached to a second edge 34b of the back portion 32a, as shown most clearly in Figure 3. For example, the side skin panels 12a, 12b may be attached to the main skin panel 12c by adhesive bonding or sewing.

In use, to wrap the load carrier 14 in the outer skin 12, the load carrier 14 may be arranged with the outer skin 12 in the second configuration and attached to the load transfer arrangement 28 as shown in Figure 2. The outer skin 12 may then be reconfigured into the first configuration, for example by laying the wrap-around portion 32b over the load carrier 14 and releasably connecting the first and second side skin panels 12a, 12b to the wrap-around portion 32b such that the load carrier 14 is substantially enclosed within the outer skin 12.

As briefly noted above, the luggage system 10 preferably comprises a closure system 16 for releasably connecting the skin panels 12a-c of the outer skin 12 to one another. For example, the closure system 16 may comprise a first releasable fastener 16a for connecting the first side skin panel 12a and the wrap-around portion 32b of the main skin panel 12c, and a second releasable fastener 16b for connecting the second side skin panel 12b and the wrap-around portion 32b of the main skin panel 12c.

In preferred examples, the releasable fasteners 16a, 16b may comprise zips provided along edges 18 of the skin panels 12a-c. With the outer skin 12 in the second, unwrapped, configuration, sliding members 36a, 36b of the releasable fasteners 16a, 16b are preferably located at intersections between the wrap-around portion 32b and the first and second side skin panels 12a, 12b. As such, the act of closing the releasable fasteners 16 by drawing the sliding members 36 along the edges 18 of adjacent skin panels 12a-c to connect the skin panels 12a-c advantageously wraps the outer skin 12 around the load carrier 14 into the first configuration in a single motion. It follows that the sliding members 36 are preferably located in an upper portion 38 of the outer skin 12 (as shown in Figure 10a), when the outer skin 12 is in the first configuration.

With reference now more particularly to Figure 3, the load transfer arrangement 28may comprise one or more tension elements 42. As shown in Figure 3, the luggage system 10 may comprise an upper tension element 42a and a lower tension element 42b in some examples. As will be described in more detail below, the tension elements 42 are configured to resist lateral separating forces when bracing a bracing structure 44 of the load transfer arrangement 28 between a plurality of bracing points 46.

In some examples, at least part of the load transfer arrangement 28 may be integrated with the outer skin 12 of the luggage system 10. For example, parts of the load transfer arrangement 28 may be joined to the outer skin 12, for example by sewing. As such, still with reference to Figure 3, the or each tension element 42 may be sewn together with the outer skin 12 in some examples.

The load transfer arrangement 28 may additionally comprise a bracing structure 44 (shown in Figure 5) to provide rigidity to the load transfer arrangement 28. The bracing structure 44 may be braced between bracing points 46 connected to the tension elements 42. As shown in Figure 3, the bracing points 46 may be fixed to the tension elements 42, for example the bracing points 46 may be sewn to the tension elements 42. The combination of the bracing structure 44 connected to the tension elements and braced between the bracing points 46 may define a substantially rigid frame for supporting the load carrier 14 and transferring the load to the handle 30 in use.

Referring to Figures 4a and 4b, examples of upper and lower bracing points 46a, 46b are respectively shown in more detail. Referring additionally to Figures 3 and 5, the bracing points 46 are preferably configured to facilitate bracing the bracing structure 44 with the tension elements 42. The bracing points 46 are therefore preferably configured to fix end portions 50 of the bracing structure 44 relative to the tension elements 42. In some examples, the bracing points 46 may be configured to removably fix the bracing structure 44 in position relative to the tension elements 42. As such, the bracing points 46 may comprise pockets configured to receive the end portions 50 of the bracing structure. In such examples, end portions 50 of the bracing structure 44 may be inserted into respective bracing points 46 in the direction of the arrows A and 8 in Figures 4a and 4b to brace the bracing structure 44 between opposed bracing points 46, as shown in Figure 5.

The bracing points 46 may be formed of a fabric material in some examples, for example an inextensible webbing material such as polyamide webbing. In other examples, the bracing points 46 may comprise a more rigid material, such as a polymer or metal body. For example, the bracing points 46 may comprise an injection moulded or printed polymer body configured to receive the end portions 50 of the bracing structure 44. Features of the bracing points 46 described herein are equally applicable to all bracing points 46 irrespective of their material.

Removably fixing the bracing structure 44 relative to the tension elements 42 advantageously facilitates the removal of the bracing structure 44 from the load transfer arrangement 28 when storing the luggage system 10 when not in use. Advantageously, a “substantially rigid” frame defined by the bracing structure 44 connected to the tension elements 42 and braced between the bracing points 46 may be at least partially flexible / collapsible for storage. For example, without the bracing structure 44, such a frame may advantageously comprise mainly soft or flexible parts, such as the tension elements 42, which facilitates reconfiguration of the luggage system 10 for storage when not in use and/or cleaning and/or maintenance of various components of the luggage system 10.

The bracing points 46 provide a defined, reinforced location for attaching the bracing structure 44 to the tension elements 42. In use, when the load carrier 14 is attached to the load transfer arrangement 28 and the bracing structure 44 supports the weight of the load carrier 14, the bracing points 46 together with the tension elements 42 ensure that the bracing structure 44 is fixed in position to support the load.

Referring primarily to Figure 5, carrying the weight of the load carrier 14 using handles 30 attached to the load transfer arrangement 28 (as shown in Figure 9) may provide a generally vertical compressive force Fv on the load transfer arrangement 28 which acts to shorten the distance between the upper and lower bracing points 46a, 46b. This compressive force Fv is resisted by the bracing structure 44 braced between opposed bracing points 46a, 46b.

In some examples, the bracing structure 44 is X-shaped and braced between diagonally opposed bracing points 46a, 46b connected to the tension elements 42a, 42b. Advantageously, an X-shaped bracing structure 44 additionally braces against lateral compressive forces FL that may act to pull the upper bracing points 46a towards one another, and/or to pull the lower bracing points 46b towards one another. Using an X- shaped bracing structure 44, the vertical compressive force Fv from the weight of the load carrier 14 is resolved in the bracing structure 44 to have a lateral component which acts to separate upper end portions 50a of the bracing structure 44 from one another, and similarly acts to separate lower end portions 50b of the bracing structure 44 from one another, thereby resisting the lateral compressive forces F _L . To effectively provide a substantially rigid frame for supporting the load carrier 14 in use, the tension elements 42 are preferably configured to constrain the lateral separation between the end portions 50 of the bracing structure 44, thereby ensuring that the bracing structure 44 is fixed in position in the luggage system 10. As such, the tension elements 42 preferably comprise a substantially inextensible material, such as polyamide webbing for example. With the bracing structure 44 braced between bracing points 46 fixed to the tension elements 42, the inextensible material resists the resolved lateral component of the vertical force in the bracing structure 44 and thereby constrains the separation between the end portions 50 of the bracing structure.

For example, with brief reference again to Figure 3, the tension element 42 preferably constrains the maximum lateral separation Yi between the upper bracing points 46a, and similarly the tension element 42b preferably constrains the maximum lateral separation Ya between the lower bracing points 46b. As such, the load transfer arrangement 28 provides a substantially rigid frame which resists both vertical and lateral compressive forces Fv, F _L , and which is capable of supporting the weight of the load carrier 14, using a simple and lightweight arrangement of the bracing structure 44 and tension elements 42 with bracing points 46.

In preferred examples, the bracing structure 44 may comprise a plurality of elongate reinforcing members 52, as shown in Figure 5. End portions 50 of each elongate reinforcing member 52 may be removably fixed to the tension elements 42 via the bracing points 46 as previously described. Forming the bracing structure 44 of a plurality of elongate reinforcing members 52 advantageously facilitates simple assembly and disassembly of the luggage system 10, and additionally enables greater flexibility for storing the luggage system 10 when not in use. Further, removal of the bracing structure 44, i.e. removal of the reinforcing members 52 may be advantageous for cleaning and/or maintenance of other components of the luggage system 10, such as the outer skin 12 and/or the tension elements 42 of the load transfer arrangement 28.

As shown in Figure 5 for example, the bracing structure 44 may comprise two elongate reinforcing members 52 arranged to extend transverse to one another to form an X-shaped bracing structure 44. Examples wherein the bracing structure 44 comprises separate reinforcing members 52 arranged in an X-shaped configuration are particularly advantageous. Such examples benefit from the flexibility / reconfigurability of providing the bracing structure 44 as a plurality of separate components 52, whilst additionally benefitting from the structural advantages associated with the X-shaped configuration, as described previously. In particular, the reinforcing members 52 triangulate the forces resultant from supporting the load of the load carrier 14, providing a substantially rigid structure for minimal weight.

In some examples the bracing structure 44 may be loaded, or pre-tensioned, such that the bracing structure 44 is bowed. Such a configuration may provide additional comfort to a user/wearer of the luggage system 10 to conform to the shape of the wearer/user’s back, and/or to space the luggage system 10 from the back of the wearer to improve ventilation. In particular, in some examples the bracing structure 44 may be provided outside the outer skin 12. As such, a bowed bracing structure 44 may serve to separate the outer skin 12 from the back of the user/wearer.

In examples where the bracing structure 44 is bowed and also comprises a plurality of reinforcing members 52, the X-shaped configuration, in combination with the tension elements 42, is particularly advantageous for preventing a bowed bracing structure 44 from becoming skewed or incorrectly aligned in the luggage system 10. It will be appreciated that the description provided above with reference to the X-shaped bracing structure 44 is equally applicable here for examples where the bracing structure 44 is formed of reinforcing members 52, and such description will not be repeated here for conciseness.

With reference now also to Figures 6a, and 6b, as previously noted the load carrier 14 may be releasably attached to the load transfer arrangement 28. Figures 6a and 6b show an example of a scheme for attaching the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28. The luggage system 10 in the example shown in Figures 6a and 6b comprises a load carrier 14 having a back panel 26. A plurality of fixing straps 54 may be provided to attach the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28 in some examples. Where the load carrier 14 includes a back panel 26, the fixing straps 54 may be fastened to the back panel 26, for example by sewing each fixing strap 54 to a corner of the back panel 26.

The load carrier 14 is preferably attached to the load transfer arrangement 28 via a system configured for transferring load from the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28. An example of such a system may include the bracing points 46. Attaching the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28 via the bracing points 46 may help to transfer the load directly to the load transfer arrangement 28 via an advantageously short load path. In particular, such a configuration may facilitate transferring load from the load carrier 14 directly to end portions 50 of the bracing structure 44. As such, in some examples the bracing points 46 may comprise additional features to facilitate the attachment of the load carrier 14. For example, as shown in Figure 6a, the bracing points 46 may each comprise an eyelet or ring component 56 configured to receive a fixing strap 54 of the load carrier 14.

With reference still to Figure 6a, to attach the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28 the outer skin 12 may be initially provided in the second, unwrapped configuration. The fixing straps 54 of the load carrier 14 may then be threaded through the eyelets 56 of the bracing points 46 in some examples as shown in Figure 6a, and fastened to secure the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28, as shown in Figure 6b. In some examples, the fixing straps 54 may comprise cooperating features, such as a hook and loop fastener arrangement, for securing parts of each fixing strap 54 together to thereby releasably secure the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28. In some other examples, one or more ends of the fixing straps may be releasably secured to the back panel 26 of the load carrier 14.

As shown in the example of Figure 5 and 6a, in examples where the load carrier 14 comprises a back panel 26 and a bracing structure 44, the back panel 26 may be additionally secured to the load transfer arrangement 28 by the bracing structure 44. For example, the back panel 26 may comprise a plurality of openings 58 through which end portions 50 of the bracing structure 44 may be inserted. Subsequently, the end portions 50 of the bracing structure 44 may be fixed to the tension elements 42, for example via the bracing points 46, as shown in Figure 6a for example. As such, the bracing structure 44 may extend through the back panel 26 of the load carrier 14 to further restrain the load carrier 14 relative to the load transfer arrangement 28.

Figure 7 again shows a plan view of the luggage system 10 with the outer skin 12 in the second, unwrapped configuration. As previously described, a load carrier 14 is attached to the load transfer arrangement 28. In some examples, items may be stowed in the storage volume 22 defined by the load carrier 14 before attaching the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28. In other examples, the load carrier 14 may be attached to the load transfer arrangement 28 prior to stowing items in the storage volume 22.

For example, Figure 7 shows the load carrier 14 laid out flat, prior to storing any items therein. To secure items within the load carrier 14, items may be arranged on the back panel 26 of the load carrier 14 before the front panel 24 is wrapped over the items and secured to the back panel 26 and/or the load transfer arrangement 28. As such, the load carrier 14 may comprise one or more straps or fastening means for securing the front panel 24 of the load carrier 14 to the back panel 26 and/or load transfer arrangement 28. As more clearly shown in Figure 8a, the storage volume 22 may therefore be defined between the front panel 24 and the back panel 26 in such an example.

With reference now to both Figures 7 and 8a, the load carrier 14 may, in some examples, comprise a compression system 60 configured to compress the storage volume 22 between the front and back panels 24, 26 of the load carrier 14. The compression system 60 may comprise one or more adjustable straps 62 or cords, i.e. substantially flexible members having an adjustable length. The or each adjustable strap 62 is preferably attached to the front panel 24 of the load carrier 14, for example by sewing the straps 62 to the front panel 24. Further, as described in more detail below, the or each strap 62 is preferably configured for attachment to the back panel 26 and/or load transfer arrangement 28, such that adjusting the length of the or each strap 62 reduces/extends the distance between the front panel 24 and the load transfer arrangement 28.

It will be appreciated that straps 62 may equally be referred to as cords 62, and straps 62 are referred to herein as merely one possible example of adjustable means for reducing/extending the distance between the front panel 24 and the load transfer arrangement 28. Any references to straps herein, and in the accompanying claims, should therefore be construed as including cords. Further, it will also be appreciated that “adjustable length” refers to the length between points at which the strap/cord 62 is attached to the front panel 24 and the load transfer arrangement 28. As such, the straps/cords 62 are merely flexible members that facilitate the adjustment of the distance between the front panel 24 and the load transfer arrangement 28.

In some preferred examples, as shown in Figures 7 and 8a for example, the compression system 60 may comprise a single strap 62 defining a plurality of adjustable strap portions 62a-d as a result of the attachment of the strap 62 to the front panel 24, e.g. by sewing a plurality of different portions of the strap 62 to the front panel 24. Using a single strap 62 to define a plurality of adjustable strap portions 62a-d advantageously reduces the number of separate parts involved in manufacturing the luggage system 10. Further, with such a configuration, wherein the strap 62 traverses across the front panel 24, the strap itself provides the compressive force on the storage volume 22 without unduly stressing the front panel 24 of the load carrier 14. As noted above, the strap 62, or strap portions 62a-d, is/are preferably configured for attachment to at least one of the back panel 26 of the load carrier 14 or the load transfer arrangement 28. In the most preferred examples, the strap portions 62a-d are configured for attachment to the load transfer arrangement 28 to transfer the compression force directly to the load transfer arrangement 28. Further still, in the most preferred examples, the straps 62 or strap portions 62a-d may be configured for releasable attachment to the load transfer arrangement 28. The load transfer arrangement 28 and adjustable strap portions 62a-d may therefore comprise co-operating releasable attachment means. Such attachment means may comprise a G-hook or clasp 64 associated with the straps 62, and a fixing loop 66 fixed to the load transfer arrangement 28. Examples of fixing loops 66 are shown most clearly in Figures 4a, 4b, 6a and 6b. For example, the fixing loop 66 may be provided with, or fixed to, a bracing point 46 fixed to a tension element 42. With such a configuration, the compressive force from the adjustable straps 62 and front panel 24 may be advantageously transferred directly to the end portions 50 of the bracing structure 44.

Figure 8b shows an example of a load carrier 14 comprising a sleeve insert 68. The sleeve insert 68 may be configured to provide a separate storage region within the storage volume 22, configured for holding flat items such as books or laptops against the load transfer arrangement 28. As such, the sleeve insert 68 may help to stabilise such items within the storage volume 22 for improved load distribution. Preferably, the sleeve insert 68 may be removably connected to the back panel 26 of the load carrier 14, such that it can be removed when not required. For example, the back panel 26 of the load carrier 14 and the sleeve insert 68 may comprise co-operating means for removably attaching the insert 68. In preferred examples, the sleeve insert 68 may be open-ended, at least at an upper end 70, to facilitate access to, and removal of, items restrained by the sleeve insert 68 from above.

As shown in Figure 8c, in some examples the load carrier 14 may comprise a collapsible storage unit 72. For example the load carrier 14 may comprise a plurality of shelves 74 arranged between the front panel 24 and the back panel 26 to partition the storage volume 22. The shelves 74 may be connected to one another by sidewalls 76 of a flexible material configured to collapse when the front panel 24 of the load carrier 14 is pulled towards the load transfer arrangement 28 to compress the storage volume 22. To access items stored in the partitioned storage volume 22, the collapsible storage unit 72 may be expanded by suspending the load carrier 14 such that the weight of the items on the shelves 74 acts to separate the shelves 74 from one another. As such, the storage unit load carrier 14 may vaguely resemble an accordion in the manner in which it is compressed and expanded. The sidewalls 76 are preferably formed of a substantially inextensible material, or at least comprise means for restricting the extension of the sidewalls 76, to ensure that a predetermined maximum separation between the shelves 74 is maintained when the load carrier 14 is suspended in the expanded configuration.

A collapsible storage unit load carrier 14 may be particularly advantageous in examples where the luggage system 10 is used for overnight travel, such as a holiday or business trip for example. In such an example, a collapsible storage unit 72 provides an efficient and organised solution for storing and packing items for a trip. Items may be packed onto shelves 74 in the partitioned storage volume 22 with the storage unit 72 in an expanded configuration. The storage volume 22 may then be compressed inside the luggage system 10 for travel. At a given destination, the storage unit 72 may then be suspended, for example via attachment means 78 provided on the front panel 24, to thereby provide access to the items stored therein. A collapsible storage unit 72 therefore negates the need to unpack and repack items from the luggage system 10 during a trip, instead, items remain organised within the load carrier 14 on the shelves 74. The collapsible storage unit load carrier 14 may be easily attached and detached from the load transfer arrangement 28 as previously described with reference to other examples of load carriers 14.

As shown in Figure 8d, in some further examples the storage volume 22 may be divided into a plurality of separate compartments 80. As such, the separate compartments 80 may be configured for storing separate items in the storage volume 22. For example, the load carrier 14 may comprise one or more partitions 82 configured to divide the storage volume 22 into separate compartments 80. In preferred examples, the storage volume 22 may be partitioned by means of a plurality of moveable partitions 82, such that the storage volume 22 may be reconfigured dependent on a desired function or for storing specific items. Selected from a plurality of possible examples, the partitions 82 may be configured to divide the storage volume 22 into compartments 80 for storing camera equipment, baby changing equipment, or picnic paraphernalia, for example. Moveable partitions 82 may be removably attached to the back panel 26 of the load carrier 14, for example by a hook and loop fastener arrangement, further facilitating flexibility in the configuration of the load carrier 14.

As further shown in Figure 8d, the load carrier 14 in some example may comprise additional features configured for a specific function. For example, the load carrier 14 may comprise one or more side panels 84 connected to the front panel 24 to further define the storage volume 22 and envelope items stored therein. Such side panels 84 may be further configured to provide an additional function. For example, as shown in Figure 8d, the side panels 84 of the load carrier 14 may be padded such that, in combination with a padded front panel 24, the load carrier 14 may provide a padded underlay suitable for resting an infant during a changing procedure.

It will be appreciated that the description provided previously in relation to examples of an adjustable compression system 60 and the various examples of means for attaching the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28 are equally applicable to all examples of load carriers 14 described herein. Similarly, as previously described, the front panel 24 of each example of load carrier 14 described herein is preferably configured for attachment to the load transfer arrangement 28. As such it will be appreciated that even in examples wherein the load carrier 14 does not comprise an adjustable compression system 60, the attachment of the front panel 24 to the load transfer arrangement 28 advantageously restrains items in the storage volume 22 against the load transfer arrangement 28.

Referring now to Figure 9, which is a schematic back view of an example of the luggage system 10, additional features of the load transfer arrangement 28 that may be included in some examples will now be described.

For example, the load transfer arrangement 28 may comprise an upper crossbar 86a extending between the upper bracing points 46a. The crossbar 86a may provide additional rigidity to the load transfer arrangement 28, helping to positionally constrain the upper bracing points 46a relative to one another. Preferably, the upper crossbar 86a may be removably connected to the tension element 42, for example the load transfer arrangement may comprise a plurality of loops 88a through which the upper crossbar 86a may be inserted, as shown in Figure 9. The upper crossbar 86a, and loops 88a, may provide additional stability and support to the outer skin 12.

A lower crossbar 86b also may be included to extend between the lower bracing points 46b to help constrain the lower bracing points 46b relative to one another in some examples. In some examples, the luggage system 10 may comprise a waist belt (not shown) configured to support at least part of the load or weight of the luggage system. The waist belt may be attached to the load transfer arrangement 28, preferably to the lower crossbar 86b of the load transfer arrangement 28, in such an example.

In examples where part of the load transfer arrangement 28 is integrated with the outer skin 12, as shown in Figure 9 for example, a skin panel 12c of the outer skin 12 may be sandwiched between two tension elements 42. For example, a tension element 42 may be provided on an interior surface of the outer skin 12 as shown in Figure 3, and on an exterior surface of the outer skin 12 as shown in Figure 9. Such a configuration provides additional rigidity and may make the luggage system 10 more robust.

Figure 9 most clearly shows the attachment of a handle 30 to the load transfer arrangement 28 for lifting the luggage system 10. In some examples, as shown here, the luggage system 10 may comprise a plurality of handles 30. The or each handle 30 may be a shoulder strap configured to enable carrying the luggage system 10 on a user’s back. As shown in Figure 9, in examples where the load transfer arrangement 28 comprises an upper crossbar 86a, each handle 30 is preferably connected to the upper crossbar 86a, for example by means of a loop 90, such as a webbing loop, provided at an upper end of the handle 30. The upper crossbar 86a may be inserted through the loop 90 at the upper end of the handle 30. A lower end of the handle 30 may also be connected to the load transfer arrangement 28 in preferred examples. As such, the lower end of the handle 30 may be configured with means for directly or indirectly connecting the handle 30 to a lower crossbar 86b in examples wherein the luggage system 10 comprises such a lower crossbar 86b. With reference to the example of Figure 9, such means may comprise a hook or clip 91 configured to releasably engage a loop 88b fixedly associated with the lower crossbar 86b, or alternatively may comprise a loop at the lower end of the handle 30 through which the lower crossbar 86b may be inserted.

Referring now to Figure 10a showing a front view of the upper portion 38 of the outer skin 12 in the first configuration, the upper portion 38 of the outer skin 12 preferably defines an opening 92 that facilitates access to the load carrier 14. For example, the upper portion 38 of the outer skin 12 may define an open-ended tubular structure. Such a configuration facilitates access to the load carrier 14 from above when the outer skin 12 is in the first configuration with the luggage system 10 arranged in an upright orientation.

With reference to both Figures 10a and 10b, the upper portion 38 of the outer skin 12 is preferably configured with closing means to form a roll-top closure 20. A roll top closure 20 advantageously provides a substantially waterproof closure which can be easily and quickly opened to access the load carrier 14 with the outer skin 12 in the first, wrapped, configuration, i.e. without fully exposing the load carrier 14 and content thereof. Closing means to form the roll-top closure 20 may comprise side fasteners 94 and/or a fastening arrangement 96, such as Velcro, for closing the opening 92. Preferably, the closing means may comprise a strap 98 configured to engage with a buckle 100 or other releasable fastening means on the luggage system 10 to secure the upper portion 38 of the outer skin 12 in a rolled configuration. In some examples, the outer skin 12 may further comprise a reinforced, or stiffer, region in the upper portion 38 around which to roll the upper portion 38 of the outer skin 12 when forming the roll top closure 20.

In some examples, the strap 98 may provide an upper handle for carrying the luggage system 10 in a substantially upright orientation. In preferred examples, the strap 98 may therefore be attached to the load transfer arrangement 28. For example, the strap 98 may be attached to the load transfer arrangement 28 via the upper crossbar 86a which may extend through a loop provided on the strap 98 (shown most clearly in Figure 9). As such, when carrying the luggage system 10 via the strap 98, loads from the load carrier 14 may be transferred to the strap 98 via the load transfer arrangement 28, bypassing the outer skin 12.

As shown in Figure 10b, and most clearly in Figures 1 and 9, the outer skin 12 of the luggage system 10 may be provided with a secondary handle 102. For example, the secondary handle 102 may comprise a hand grip configured to facilitate carrying the luggage system 10 by hand. In such examples, the load carrier 14 is preferably additionally configured for attachment to the secondary handle 102. Such a configuration ensures that the weight of the load carrier 14 is transferred to the handle 102 such that the outer skin 12 remains unstressed.

Preferably, in examples including a secondary handle 102, such a secondary handle 102 may be connected to a reinforced patch 104 of the outer skin 12. With reference to Figure 7 for example, which shows the interior surface of the outer skin 12, the reinforced patch 104 may comprise a substantially rigid reinforcing component 106, such as a fibre reinforce polymer rod for example. Preferably, the load carrier 14 may be configured for attachment to the secondary handle 102 via the reinforced patch 104 of the outer skin 12. For example, the secondary handle 102 and the load carrier 14 may both be attached to the reinforcing component 106 to transfer load from the load carrier 14 to the secondary handle 102.

As shown in Figure 7, the load carrier 14 may comprise a strap 108 configured to couple the load carrier 14 to the secondary handle 102 via the reinforced patch 104. The strap 108 may be adjustable such that the length may be varied to ensure that, when the luggage system 10 is carried via the secondary handle 102, substantially all of the load of the load carrier 14 is transferred to the secondary handle 102, and the outer skin 12 remains unloaded and unstressed. In preferred examples, the strap 108 may comprise a releasable coupling 110 configured to releasably attach the strap 108 to the reinforced patch 104, thereby facilitating simple attachment and detachment of the load carrier 14 from the secondary handle 102 when reconfiguring the outer skin 12 between the first and second configurations.

It will be appreciated that many variations may be made to the specific examples described above without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the claims. It follows that the invention is therefore not limited to the specific examples provided above and depicted in the accompanying figures, but may include other examples within the scope of the claims.

For example, whilst the examples of the load carrier 14 shown in the accompanying figures comprise a back panel 26, it will be appreciated that in some examples the load carrier 14 may not comprise a back panel 26. For example, the load carrier 14 may comprise a front panel 24 configured for attachment to the load transfer arrangement 28 such that a storage volume 22 is defined between the front panel 24 and the load transfer arrangement 28 when the load carrier 14 is attached to the load transfer arrangement 28. Items may be arranged on the load transfer arrangement 28 before attaching the front panel 24 of the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28 to define the storage volume 22 housing the items therein.

The load carrier 14 in such examples, and the examples described previously, may comprise fixing straps connected to the front panel 24 to connect said front panel 24 to the load transfer arrangement 28. The interaction between the load carrier 14 and load transfer arrangement 28 has been described in detail previously, and the same description is applicable for an example where the load carrier 14 does not comprise a back panel 26. For example, the fixing straps connected to the front panel may comprise cooperating means for fixing the straps (and therefore the front panel 24) to the load transfer arrangement 28.

Similarly, in examples without a back panel 26, the load carrier 14 may comprise an adjustable compression system 60 as previously described to vary the relative distance between the front panel 24 and the load transfer arrangement 28, thereby facilitating compression of the storage volume 22. The adjustable compression system 60 may connect the front panel 24 of the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28. More detailed description of the adjustable compression system 60 is provided above and is applicable to examples comprising a back panel-less load carrier 14, and such description will not be repeated here for conciseness. The examples of luggage systems 10 shown in the accompanying figures comprise an outer skin 12 having a preferable configuration of a main skin panel 12c (comprising a back portion 32a and a wrap-around portion 32b) and first and second side skin panels 12a, 12b. However, it will be appreciated that whilst this is a preferable configuration, the outer skin 12 may comprise a different configuration in other examples. By way of a brief example, the luggage system 10 may comprise an outer skin 12 having a back skin panel and a front skin panel configured to envelope the load carrier 12 therebetween. The luggage system 10 in such an example may comprise a closure system 16 for releasably connecting the skin panels to one another to wrap around the load carrier 14. For example the closure system 16 may comprise one or more releasable fasteners as previously described. The luggage system 10 may comprise a first releasable fastener to connect first edges of the front and back skin panels. In some example the luggage system 10 may comprise a second releasable fastener to connect second edges of the front and back skin panels. In other examples, the outer skin 12 may comprise a main skin panel 12c comprising a back portion 32a, and first and second side skin panels 12a, 12b connected to the main skin panel 12c, and edges 18 of the side skin panels 12a, 12b may be releasably connected to one another by means of a releasable fastener. As such it is clear that the invention is not limited specifically to the preferred configuration of the outer skin 12 shown in the accompanying figures and described above.

Whilst not shown in the accompanying figures, in some examples the load carrier 14 may comprise a plurality of eyelets or openings associated with the front panel 24 of the load carrier 14, and the load transfer arrangement 28 may similarly comprise a plurality of eyelets or openings. The compression system 60 may comprise one or more cords or straps which may be threaded through the eyelets of the load carrier 14 and the load transfer arrangement 28 such that applying tension to the cord/strap causes the relative distance between the front panel 24 and the load transfer arrangement 28 to decrease, thereby compressing the storage volume 22. In examples where the compression system 60 comprises a cord, a cord lock device is preferably included to facilitate locking the cord in a tensioned state when the storage volume 22 is compressed.

The luggage system 10 described with reference to the examples above may be suitable and advantageous for use in a plurality functional areas. For example, as previously noted, the luggage system 10 may be used as a travel item for a holiday or a business trip, for example as a carry-on bag for air or rail travel. Similarly, the luggage system 10 may be configured for use as a school bag, a gym bag, or may be used to carry baby changing equipment in other examples. The lightweight configuration of the outer skin 12 and the load transfer arrangement 28 also make the luggage system 10 particularly suitable for use in sports activities, such as skiing, or hiking. The reconfigurable luggage system 10 therefore provides a solution for transport and storage of items in a wide range of situations, and can be easily reconfigured dependent on a given purpose or requirement.

As explained in the examples above, the luggage system 10 disclosed herein and defined in the appended claims comprises a number of advantages over previously presented luggage designs. In particular, the inclusion of the load carrier 14 configured to provide the storage volume 22 for stowing items, and the attachment of the load carrier 14 to the load transfer arrangement 28, advantageously ensures the outer skin 12 is not loaded or stressed. The outer skin 12, configured to facilitate ergonomic access to items in the storage volume 22, as well as any joints between skin panels 12a-c, and the releasable connections between adjacent skin panels 12a-c, are all unloaded and unstressed in use, thereby improving the durability and longevity of the luggage system 10.

It will be appreciated that the description provided above serves to demonstrate a plurality of possible examples of the present invention. Features described in relation to any of the examples above may be readily combined with any other features described with reference to different examples without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Further, it will be appreciated that the above description and accompanying figures are provided merely as an example. Many alternatives to the specific examples described above are therefore possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.