Samsonite Corporation

Samsonite IP Holdings S.a.r.l.

Willy Van Hoye

Erik Josef Sijmons

Ian Ferris

Henri Morel

Renato P Castelli

Jean M Nowacki

Eric Sijmons

Tobias Ackerman

Dirk Broekaert

Rudi Boudry

Erik Wijnen

Dirk Cnockaert

Disclosed is a method and system for providing several stages of closure of a luggage case (), including an open stage, a pre-close stage in which one or more latching mechanisms are engaged, and a secure stage in which a drawing action pulls both shells of the luggage case () further together. Also disclosed is a method and system for automatically ensuring proper latching of the multiple latching mechanisms around the perimeter of a luggage case (). The latching mechanisms may be aligned by use of a single operative mechanism (). The present invention comprises a low-friction, durable system. The present invention ensures security of a user's belongings by providing the extra measurement of closure. The user enjoys a single operative mechanism (), and needs to exert only a minimal amount of pressure to latch the case (), thanks to a clever design of the single operative mechanism (). The user needs not worry about their suitcase () popping open due to a failed latching mechanism.

Three stage multi-point closure system for luggage

Luggage case

The invention is a device for locking the closure mechanism on an item of luggage. The device includes a movable rod which drives a movable clasp bolt on one part of the luggage. The clasp bolt interacts with an opening in another part of the luggage, which opening serves as the strike for the clasp bolt. A movable latch may be interposed in the path of the rod, so that in an active position the latch blocks the movement of the rod, thus locking the case, but when the latch is in a retracted position the rod is released. The latch is moved by an electric motor connected to the latch by a gear reduction unit which amplifies the output torque of the motor. The latch may remain in its blocking position when motor torque is not supplied. A control signal generator actuates the motor in response to the reception of an access code input by the user.

Device for locking a closure mechanism for luggage

The straps connecting the lid of a brief case and the outer panel of an expansible portfolio are adjustably connected to the outer panel through a track and buckle arrangement. The buckle is ordinarily locked in place on the track by a locking element spring urged into engagement with a complementary locking element on the track. A button connected to the buckle locking element allows the user to overcome the force of the spring and slide the buckle along the track to adjust the associated strap. The locking element and the spring are integrally formed components from a unitary molded plastic part which is carried by the buckle casing.

Adjustable portfolio strap arrangement

Growing community of inventors

Zwijnaarde, Belgium

Willy Van Hoye