EP4175885A1 - Travel bags having an integrated vacuum compression system - Google Patents
Travel bags having an integrated vacuum compression systemInfo
- Publication number
- EP4175885A1 EP4175885A1 EP21838149.9A EP21838149A EP4175885A1 EP 4175885 A1 EP4175885 A1 EP 4175885A1 EP 21838149 A EP21838149 A EP 21838149A EP 4175885 A1 EP4175885 A1 EP 4175885A1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- vacuum
- bag
- compression
- vacuum pump
- compression system
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 title claims abstract description 309
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 309
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims description 10
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 11
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 11
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 7
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 6
- 238000012856 packing Methods 0.000 description 6
- 241000238367 Mya arenaria Species 0.000 description 4
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 3
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920002457 flexible plastic Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000007493 shaping process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 210000000038 chest Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920003023 plastic Polymers 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B31/00—Packaging articles or materials under special atmospheric or gaseous conditions; Adding propellants to aerosol containers
- B65B31/04—Evacuating, pressurising or gasifying filled containers or wrappers by means of nozzles through which air or other gas, e.g. an inert gas, is withdrawn or supplied
- B65B31/046—Evacuating, pressurising or gasifying filled containers or wrappers by means of nozzles through which air or other gas, e.g. an inert gas, is withdrawn or supplied the nozzles co-operating, or being combined, with a device for opening or closing the container or wrapper
- B65B31/047—Evacuating, pressurising or gasifying filled containers or wrappers by means of nozzles through which air or other gas, e.g. an inert gas, is withdrawn or supplied the nozzles co-operating, or being combined, with a device for opening or closing the container or wrapper the nozzles co-operating with a check valve in the opening of the container or wrapper
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/02—Interior fittings; Means, e.g. inserts, for holding and packing articles
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/02—Interior fittings; Means, e.g. inserts, for holding and packing articles
- A45C13/03—Means for holding garments
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B25/00—Packaging other articles presenting special problems
- B65B25/20—Packaging garments, e.g. socks, stockings, shirts
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
- B65B7/00—Closing containers or receptacles after filling
- B65B7/02—Closing containers or receptacles deformed by, or taking-up shape, of, contents, e.g. bags, sacks
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
- F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
- F04B35/00—Piston pumps specially adapted for elastic fluids and characterised by the driving means to their working members, or by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors, not otherwise provided for
- F04B35/06—Mobile combinations
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/001—Accessories
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
- A45C—PURSES; LUGGAGE; HAND CARRIED BAGS
- A45C13/00—Details; Accessories
- A45C13/02—Interior fittings; Means, e.g. inserts, for holding and packing articles
- A45C2013/028—Interior fittings; Means, e.g. inserts, for holding and packing articles for holding or compacting items by creating vacuum
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F04—POSITIVE - DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS FOR LIQUIDS OR ELASTIC FLUIDS
- F04B—POSITIVE-DISPLACEMENT MACHINES FOR LIQUIDS; PUMPS
- F04B35/00—Piston pumps specially adapted for elastic fluids and characterised by the driving means to their working members, or by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors, not otherwise provided for
- F04B35/04—Piston pumps specially adapted for elastic fluids and characterised by the driving means to their working members, or by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors, not otherwise provided for the means being electric
Definitions
- the disclosure relates generally to travel bags of all descriptions and more particularly to a novel travel bag having a portable integrated vacuum compression system with rechargeable battery which may be removable.
- travelling containers For centuries travelers have used a variety of cases, steamer trunks, chests, wardrobes, and suitcases to transport clothing and goods on their travels. In the last century new products and techniques have been refined to the point where the modem traveler has hundreds of styles of suitcases, luggage, duffle bags, travel bags, backpacks, or other similar portable containers (collectively “travel containers”).
- Any travel container incorporating these external clothing compression bags packing techniques suffer from one or more problems, including but not limited to: 1) the limitation of one time use when there is no vacuum available for use of the compression bag on the subsequent legs or return leg of the trip, 2) the fact that once the vacuum of the separate compression bag is released when the bag is opened and unpacked the vacuum compression space saving features are no longer obtainable, 3) the grief of not having enough space to bring home the clothing or accessories acquired on the trip, 4) the impracticality of carrying vacuums not designed to be light or small or self-contained which defeat the purpose of weight and space limitations, and 5) the added costs of added luggage fees from the purchase of additional luggage on the return trip home.
- novel device embodiments described below and shown in the accompanying drawings are designed to improve and extend the functional capacity of a travel container or travel bag (as defined below) by providing the ability to carry more clothing or objects in the travel bag via a self-contained, convenient and efficient internal, portable and reusable integrated vacuum compression system.
- the disclosed travel container or travel bag generally can be provided with a novel portable integrated compression system, preferably comprising: 1) a vacuum motor with an intake port for suction and evacuation of air from the compression bag and an exhaust port for expelled air (hereafter “vacuum”) which can be preferably powered by a rechargeable battery (hereafter “battery”) which may be removed from the travel bag, such as when transporting the travel bag, 2) a reusable vacuum compression bag (hereafter “compression bag”) which is used to hold packed clothing or other goods, to vacuum compress, and to transport the compressed clothing or goods within the travel bag, and 3) one or more connecting interface systems preferably utilizing one or more back check valves and one or more air tight connections between the vacuum and the compression bag which holds the compression bag in a fixed and airtight manner while connected to the vacuum intake port and which can also be removed or disconnected or detached at the time the compression bag is to be replaced (the entire interface system connection being referred to hereafter as the “compression connection system”.)
- vacuum a vacuum motor with an intake port for
- Travel bags of all types including without limitation hard shell and soft shell travel bag of all sizes, luggage of all sizes, suitcases of all sizes, duffle bags of all sizes, travel bags of all sizes, backpacks of all sizes, travel containers of all sizes, tote or carry bags of all sizes, garment bags and foldable garment bags of all sizes and other portable hard shell or soft shell containers of all sizes (collectively hereafter: “travel bag” or “travel bags”) are preferably provided with at least one “portable self-contained vacuum compression system” comprising 1) the above-referenced portable vacuum pump powered by a portable rechargeable battery, 2) a compression connection system, and 3) a preferably custom sized vacuum compression bag secured within the interior space of the travel bag.
- portable self-contained vacuum compression system comprising 1) the above-referenced portable vacuum pump powered by a portable rechargeable battery, 2) a compression connection system, and 3) a preferably custom sized vacuum compression bag secured within the interior space of the travel bag.
- the portable self-contained vacuum compression system allows the user to pack more clothing or compressible goods into their travel bag via vacuum compression.
- the air inside the compression bag can be evacuated by an attached self-contained vacuum pump assembly which is secured within the travel bag in a manner to hold the self-contained vacuum system within the travel bag’s internal dimensions.
- At least one vacuum compression system can be held in place via a removable or a fixed frame that preferably permits operation of the vacuum compression system within the internal dimensions of the travel bag.
- the vacuum pump can exhaust vented air either to the atmosphere within the travel bag or via an exhaust vent built into the travel bag.
- the compression bag can be preferably attached to the vacuum system by a compression connection system or fastener preferably provided with one or more back flow check valves that can control the one way flow of air from the compression bag into the vacuum pump system.
- the compression connection system can also provide a seating and sealing function of the compression bag connected with the vacuum pump which can maintain the air tightness between the vacuum compression bag and the vacuum pump system.
- any compression bag can be removable from the vacuum pump system and the travel bag for replacement at such time that the compression bag needs replacement.
- the described novel self-contained vacuum system allows the use of an oversized compression bag as compared to the size of the travel bag.
- the clothing or other compressed goods can remain in their compressed state within the closed or partially closed travel bag until such time that the user opens the compression bag which releases the vacuum seal and permits the user to access the contents of the vacuum compression bag.
- the rechargeable battery for powering the vacuum assembly can be removable while the travel bag is partially or fully closed and can also be used to charge other electronic devices.
- the fully portable and reusable characteristics of the self-contained vacuum compression system will permit the user to remove some or all of the travel bag contents and to recompress the remaining or replaced travel bag contents.
- Figure 1A illustrates a non- limiting embodiment of at least the main components for a self- contained portable vacuum compression system shown in a non-limiting internally integrated configuration in accordance with the present disclosure
- Figure IB illustrates a non-limiting embodiment of at least the main components for a self- contained portable vacuum compression system shown in a non-limiting external configuration in accordance with the present disclosure
- Figure 1C illustrates a non-limiting embodiment of at least the main components for a self- contained portable vacuum compression system shown in a non-limiting external modular configuration in accordance with the present disclosure
- Figure 2 A is a perspective view of a representative sample for a soft shell or hard shell luggage having a retractable handle and two or more wheels on its bottom and with a self-contained internal compression system preferably mounted within the interior base of the luggage in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;
- Figure 2B is a perspective view of the luggage of Figure 2A in an opened position and showing a vacuum bag opened and about to receive a plurality of clothing
- Figure 2C is a perspective view of the clothing received and packed within the vacuum bag of Figure 2B and protruding outward of the opened luggage prior to compression using the novel internal compression system;
- Figure 2D is a perspective view of the vacuum bag and packed clothing having a reduced size and fitting within the dimensions of the luggage after use of the internal compression system in accordance with the present disclosure
- Figure 3A is a perspective view of a representative sample for a wheeled duffle bag (i.e. two or more wheels) and having a retractable handle and with a self-contained internal compression system preferably mounted within the interior of the wheeled duffle bag or a self-contained external compression system in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;
- Figure 3B is a perspective view of the duffle bag of Figure 3A in an opened position and showing a vacuum bag opened and about to receive a plurality of clothing;
- Figure 3C is a perspective view of the clothing received and packed within the vacuum bag of Figure 3B and protruding outward of the opened duffle bag prior to compression using the novel internal or external compression system;
- Figure 3D is a perspective view of the vacuum bag and packed clothing having a reduced size and fitting within the dimensions of the duffle bag after use of the internal or external compression system in accordance with the present disclosure
- Figure 4A is a perspective view of a representative sample for a hand-carried duffle bag/gym bag and with a self-contained internal compression system preferably mounted within the interior of the duffle bag/gym bag or a self-contained external compression system in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;
- Figure 4B is a perspective view of the duffle bag/gym bag of Figure 4A in an opened position and showing a vacuum bag opened and about to receive a plurality of clothing;
- Figure 4C is a perspective view of the clothing received and packed within the vacuum bag of Figure 4B and protruding outward of the opened duffle bag/gym bag prior to compression using the novel internal or external compression system;
- Figure 4D is a perspective view of the vacuum bag and packed clothing having a reduced size and fitting within the dimensions of the duffle bag/gym bag after use of the internal or external compression system in accordance with the present disclosure
- Figure 5A is a perspective view of a representative sample for a back pack having carrying straps and with a self-contained internal compression system preferably mounted within the interior of the backpack such as, without limitation, against the carrying straps portion/interior wall or other interior wall of the back pack in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;
- Figure 5B is a perspective view of the back pack of Figure 5A in an opened position and showing a vacuum bag opened and about to receive a plurality of clothing;
- Figure 5C is a perspective view of the clothing received and packed within the vacuum bag of Figure 5B and protruding outward of the opened duffle back pack prior to compression using the novel internal compression system;
- Figure 5D is a perspective view of the vacuum bag and packed clothing having a reduced size and fitting within the dimensions of the back pack after use of the internal compression system in accordance with the present disclosure
- Figure 6A is a perspective view of a representative sample for a carry bag/tote bag and having a self-contained internal, external or modular compression system which can be preferably mounted or disposed externally or internally at the bottom of the carry bag or within an outer compartment for the carry bag/tote bag in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;
- Figure 6B is a perspective view of the carry bag/tote bag of Figure 6A in an opened position and showing a vacuum bag opened and about to receive a plurality of clothing;
- Figure 6C is a perspective view of the clothing received and packed within the vacuum bag of Figure 6B and protruding outward of the opened carry bag/tote bag prior to compression using the novel internal, external or modular compression system;
- Figure 6D is a perspective view of the vacuum bag and packed clothing having a reduced size and fitting within the dimensions of the carry bag/tote bag after use of the internal, external or modular compression system in accordance with the present disclosure
- Figure 7A is a perspective view of a representative sample for a container having a self- contained internal, external or modular compression system which can be preferably mounted or disposed externally or internally within the container or within an outer compartment for the container in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;
- Figure 7B is a perspective view of the container of Figure 7 A in an opened position and showing a vacuum bag opened and about to receive a plurality of clothing
- Figure 7C is a perspective view of the clothing received and packed within the vacuum bag of Figure 7B and protruding outward of the opened container prior to compression using the novel internal, external or modular compression system;
- Figure 7D is a perspective view of the vacuum bag and packed clothing having a reduced size and fitting within the dimensions of the container after use of the internal, external or modular compression system in accordance with the present disclosure
- Figure 8A is a perspective view of a representative sample for an insert sleeve for use with a modular compression system which can be preferably mounted or disposed externally with respect to the insert sleeve in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure and with the insert sleeve in an opened position and showing a vacuum bag opened and about to receive a plurality of clothing;
- Figure 8B is a perspective view of the clothing received and packed within the vacuum bag of Figure 8A and protruding outward of the opened insert sleeve prior to compression using the novel modular compression system;
- Figure 8C is a perspective view of the vacuum bag and packed clothing having a reduced size and fitting within the dimensions of the insert sleeve after use of the modular compression system in accordance with the present disclosure
- Figure 8D is a perspective view showing the packed and closed insert sleeve being disposed within a travel bag
- Figure 9A is a perspective view of a representative sample for a garment bag/foldable garment bag and with a self-contained internal compression system preferably mounted within the interior of the garment bag or a self-contained external or modular compression system in accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure;
- Figure 9B is a perspective view of the garment bag/foldable garment bag of Figure 9A in an opened position and showing a vacuum bag opened and about to receive a plurality of clothing;
- Figure 9C is a perspective view of the clothing received and packed within the vacuum bag of Figure 9B and protruding outward of the opened garment bag/foldable garment bag prior to compression using the novel internal, external or modular compression system;
- Figure 9D is a perspective view of the vacuum bag and packed clothing having a reduced size and fitting within the dimensions of the garment bag/foldable garment bag after use of the internal, external or modular compression system in accordance with the present disclosure.
- a first non-limiting embodiment for an internally integrated self-contained vacuum compression system is disclosed which is generally designated as vacuum compression system 20.
- System 20 is shown internally integrated within a first non-limiting travel bag embodiment generally designated as first travel bag 500, which, without limitation, can have a hard, semi soft or soft outer structure of any size or shape.
- System 20 preferably comprises a vacuum pump 30 and rechargeable battery 50.
- vacuum pump 30 and removable rechargeable battery 50 are both removable from within first travel bag 500 after use to compress a compression bag 300.
- Power for operating vacuum pump 30 i.e. power to pump
- the power cord can be plugged into a conventional outlet for powering vacuum pump 30 or that power to pump 30 can be provided by battery(ies) or rechargeable battery(ies).
- Vacuum pump can be provided with an intake port 34 and exhaust port which receives the air withdrawn from a vacuum bag 300.
- connection conduit 36 can be provided and is connected at one end to the intake port 34 and at a second end to a vacuum bag valve 310 (preferably one-way valve) to provided communication between vacuum bag valve 310 and intake port 34 such that when vacuum pump 30 is “on” air is withdrawn from within vacuum bag 300 causing bag 300 to compress and reduce in size.
- vacuum bag valve 310 is preferably a one-way valve, when connection conduit 36 is removed from connection to valve 310, air is prevented from reentering vacuum bag 300 through valve 310.
- Vacuum bag 300 can be made or virtually made air-tight in use.
- a front access area 320 which can be achieved through a top zip lock configuration 322 (or other sealing mechanism) can be provided for packing clothes and other items withing compression bag 300.
- Vacuum bag 300 can be removable and replaceable with respect to travel bag 500.
- Rechargeable battery 50 can be provided with an outlet/port/USB port, etc. for plugging or otherwise electronically connecting cord 32 to rechargeable battery 50 for powering vacuum pump 30.
- an outlet/port/USB port etc. for plugging or otherwise electronically connecting cord 32 to rechargeable battery 50 for powering vacuum pump 30.
- Rechargeable battery 50 can also contain one or more other outlets/ports/USB ports for powering and charging other electronic devices, such as, without limitation, the user’s cellphone, smart phone, electronic tablet, portable electric shaver, portable electric toothbrush, etc. as well as for use in recharging rechargeable battery 50 when it becomes low on power.
- Rechargeable battery can also be provided with a switch 52 which is used to control the operation (“off’ and “on”) of vacuum pump 30 when cord 32 is electrically connected to battery 50.
- switch 52 When switch 52 in an “off’ position, power/energy is prevented from being transferred to vacuum pump 30 so that it remains off.
- switch 52 When switch 52 is in an “on” position, energy can flow to vacuum pump 30 to cause it to operate.
- Figure IB illustrates the vacuum compression system 20 in a non- limiting external embodiment with respect to travel bag 500.
- travel bag 500 is preferably provided with an outer/external compartment 510 for storing/housing and operating vacuum compression system 20.
- both vacuum pump 30 and rechargeable battery 50 can be stored within compartment 510.
- vacuum pump 30 and rechargeable battery can still both be removable after use.
- the vacuum pump 30 preferably remains stored/housed within compartment 510 (whether or not permanently stored within compartment 510) and only rechargeable battery is preferably removable from compartment during travels with travel bag 500.
- Vacuum pump 30 electrically connects to rechargeable battery 50 and the operation of vacuum pump 30 is controlled by switch 52 of rechargeable battery 50 similar to as described for Figure 1A, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- an opening or passthrough is provided in the adjacent wall/side of travel bag 500 that borders both the main intemal/storage area of travel bag 500 and the intemal/storage area within compartment 510 to allow either a portion of one-way vacuum bag valve 310 (i.e. stem/tube portion 311) or a portion of connection conduit 36 to pass through in order to connect vacuum pump 30 with compression bag 300.
- the operation of vacuum compression system 20 remains the same as described for the embodiment of Figure 1A which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- Figure 1C illustrates the vacuum compression system 20 in a non- limiting external embodiment with respect to travel bag 500 where system 20 is provided as a modular cartridge 22 containing both vacuum pump 30 (i.e. self-contained modular pump) and rechargeable battery 50.
- modular cartridge is preferably used externally, it is also within the scope of the disclosure to use the modular cartridge embodiment as an internal vacuum compression system.
- Cartridge 22 is preferably received or housed within outer/external component 510 of travel bag 500.
- a USB port can be also provided on cartridge 22 in addition to providing one or more USB charge ports/ports on battery 50.
- Battery 50 can be preferably removable from cartridge 22.
- connection pins for the electrical cord for pump 30 can be aligned with the outlet/port/pin openings, etc. for battery 50.
- One way valve 310 can be provided with an extended tubing/conduit section 313 (i.e. preferably flexible, which can be connected at its outer end to an inlet connector 37 for vacuum pump 30 that extends out of modular cartridge 22 when cartridge 22 is disposed within external component 510.
- vacuum pump 30 remains within cartridge 22 at all times and that only battery 50 is removable. Similar to the other embodiments, described above, vacuum pump 30 electrically connects to rechargeable battery 50 and the operation of vacuum pump 30 is controlled by switch 52 of rechargeable battery 50.
- an opening or passthrough is provided in the adjacent wall/side of travel bag 500 that borders both the main internal/storage area of travel bag 500 and the intemal/storage area within compartment 510 to allow tubing/conduit 313 to pass through in order to connect vacuum pump 30 with compression bag 300.
- the operation of vacuum compression system 20 remains the same as described for the embodiments of Figure 1A and/or Figure IB which are incorporated by reference in their entireties. i. Vacuum Description:
- the vacuum for vacuum compression system 20 can preferably be a portable vacuum pump 30 which can be installed in travel bag 500 and can be designed to attend travel bag 500 to perform its intended vacuum compression functions.
- Vacuum pump 30 performs the function of evacuating air out of compression/vacuum bag 300 via intake port 34 and exhausting that air via an exhaust port into the atmosphere on the outside of the compression bag.
- Vacuum pump 30 can be preferably powered by attached rechargeable battery 50 which may be removable from travel bag 500.
- Vacuum pump 30 can be activated by the user switching on on/off switch 52 preferably provided with battery 50. Vacuum pump preferably ceases its operation when interior sensors no longer detect the flow of air through the vacuum or when the user manually shuts off on/off switch 52.
- Intake port 34 and/or the exhaust port may have a back check valve to prevent the back flow of air from the outside atmosphere back through the exhaust port or the intake port which could compromise the integrity of the existing low pressure environment with the substantially air tight conditions inside compression bag 300.
- Vacuum pump 30 may be of sufficient power to evacuate enough air from compression bag 300 to accomplish the desired amount of compression of the clothing or other goods packed in compression bag 300.
- vacuum pump 30 and battery 50 may be mounted on internal structural components of travel bag 500 (such as luggage handle sleeves or similar fixed components for rigid luggage) or fastened to a frame which can be attached to the interior of travel bag 500 (such as snaps sewn into travel bag interiors, insertion of frame ends into sewn holders, or hook and loop fasteners (VELCRO) or similar attachment systems and mechanisms).
- the manner of placement and attachment of vacuum pump 30 and battery 50 can be dependent upon the characteristics of travel bag 500.
- the compression connection system can be a separate component which can accomplish several novel functions within vacuum compression system 20.
- the compression connection system can be fastened to a valve which can be integrated into vacuum/compression bag 300 at an appropriate location relative to the intake valve 34 of vacuum pump 30.
- the compression connection system can convey air via an airtight tube from compression bag valve 310 to vacuum pump intake valve 34. All connections can be sufficiently airtight to maintain the vacuum compression of compression bag 300 when vacuum pump 30 has evacuated excess air from within vacuum compression bag 300.
- One or more back check valves can be provided in the compression connection system and may also be a part of vacuum pump 30 or part of intake valve 34, valve 310 at compression bag 300, or a part of compression connection tube between the two ends of the tube.
- any of the means of connection of compression bag 300 to vacuum intake port 34 can be preferably able to be reversed to unlock and remove compression bag 300 at the time it needs replacement.
- the bottom of the compression connection system can press evenly upon the flat surface of the vacuum or the outer shell of the vacuum and is of sufficient area to press against the portion of compression bag 300 which is positioned near vacuum intake port 34 and to preferably keep that portion of compression bag 300 in immovable contact with vacuum intake port 34 and further to create an air tight seal between the compression connection system and vacuum intake port 34.
- the valve end of the compression connection system can be firm and non-compressible and to prevent any clogging or blockage or closure of valve 310 of compression bag 300 or vacuum intake port 34.
- the connecting end of the compression connection system can be held above the base of the interface valve connection with dividers or fins or other supporting structures which can provide for the free flow of air from all or most open sides of the compression connection system from the interior of compression bag 300 through valve 310 and into vacuum intake port 34.
- the fastening features of the compression connection system can permit the compression connection system to be fastened by hand and removed by hand from the vacuum at such times that compression bag 300 needs replacement.
- Compression/vacuum bag 300 can be a three-dimensional shape made of flexible plastic or an airtight fabric or a combination thereof, or any other material that will provide for airtight characteristics, which may be clear or transparent or translucent or opaque (though not limiting) and which may be folded or creased and preferably reused for compression purposes multiple times.
- the internal space of vacuum bag 300 can be accessed, preferably at a front bag area 320, preferably using a zip lock or similar sealing function 322 which may seal the access point of compression bag 300.
- a sliding lock or hand locking of zip lock portion 322 of compression bag 300 can close and seal compression bag 300.
- the body of compression bag 300 can be made or constructed of airtight fabric or plastic or a combination thereof which can be custom sized and engineered to fit into the dimensions and internal shape of the specific travel bag 500 that it is being used with.
- Compression bag 300 may be provided with a folding support system to facilitate the holding of an open compression bag shape for the packing or unpacking of clothing or other goods in compression bag 300.
- a valve 310 which can be integrated at the appropriate location in compression bag 300 can serve as one connecting point of the compression system.
- the body of compression bag 300 can permit the evacuation or partial evacuation of air from the inside of/within compression bag 300 by hand folding and manual compression of compression bag 300 with or without the use of vacuum pump 30 (i.e. preferably in connection with the compression connect system).
- compression bag 300 Since the purpose of compression bag 300 is to vacuum compress clothing or other compressible goods to be stored and carried in travel bag 500 and since the amount of compression can vary based upon the characteristics of those goods being compressed, compression bag 300 can accommodate such variations.
- the size of the empty and open compression bag 300 may be larger than the internal dimensions of the specific associated travel bag 500.
- Compression bag 300 When compression bag 300 is open and empty, the compression bag is likely to extend through the openings of travel bag 500 where the user can obtain access to the interior of compression bag 300 and load the clothing or other goods to be compressed into compression bag 300.
- Compression bag 300 preferably has an opening at its front area 320 and closing zip locked type system 322 or other sealing mechanism which connects and locks the open access to the interior of compression bag 300.
- compression bag 300 When compression bag 300 is locked closed this can preferably create a substantially or virtually airtight environment within compression bag 300.
- the vacuum evacuates the air from the inside of locked compression bag 300 the clothing or other goods within compression bag 300 can be compressed and will occupy a smaller space than existed before the vacuum process.
- the substantially or virtually airtight environment inside compression bag 300 may maintain the compressed dimensions of the compressed clothing or other goods for many hours.
- compression bag 300 may be held in place within travel bag 500 by a removable or adjustable method of fixation within the travel bag.
- Compression bag 300 may be reusable for numerous compression events and may have the characteristics to permit the folding or shaping of compression bag 300 by the user to accomplish the packing of travel bag 500 in a manner desired by the user. There may be additional support or folding or joined scissor type structures provided to facilitate the open shape of compression bag 300.
- Compression bag 300 can be preferably removable from the integrated vacuum system 20 including detachment from vacuum pump 30 via the unfastening or unscrewing (or otherwise detaching/disconnecting) of the compression connection system when compression bag 300 needs replacement.
- Figures 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D illustrate use of vacuum compression system 20 with a hard or soft shell luggage type travel bag 500 and preferably using an internal vacuum compression system embodiment.
- FIGS 3 A, 3B, 3C and 3D illustrate use of vacuum compression system 20 with a wheeled/retractable handled duffle bag type travel bag 500 and preferably using either an internal or external vacuum compression system embodiment.
- Figures 4 A, 4B, 4C and 4D illustrate use of vacuum compression system 20 with a hand carried duffle bag/gym bag type travel bag 500 and preferably using either an internal or external vacuum compression system embodiment.
- Figures 5 A, 5B, 5C and 5D illustrate use of vacuum compression system 20 with a back pack type travel bag 500 and preferably using an internal vacuum compression system embodiment.
- FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C and 6D illustrate use of vacuum compression system 20 with a carry bag or tote bag type travel bag 500 and preferably using an external or modular vacuum compression system embodiment.
- Figures 7A, 7B, 7C and 7D illustrate use of vacuum compression system 20 with a container type travel bag 500 and preferably using an internal, external or modular vacuum compression system embodiment. Additionally, though not shown, the container can also have at least two wheels and/or a retractable handle.
- Figures 8 A, 8B, 8C and 8D illustrate use of vacuum compression system 20 with an insert sleeve 550 for use with a travel bag 500 and preferably using a modular vacuum compression system embodiment.
- Figures 9 A, 9B, 9C and 9D illustrate use of vacuum compression system 20 with a foldable garment bag type travel bag 500 and preferably using either an internal or external vacuum compression system embodiment.
- a portable and integrated and reusable vacuum compression system with rechargeable removable battery for use with a travel bag can be disposed within the interior space of the travel bag and a rechargeable battery can be attached to the vacuum pump assembly to power the vacuum.
- the rechargeable battery can also be disposed within the interior space of the travel bag and can be in electrical communication with the vacuum pump assembly to provide power for the vacuum pump assembly.
- the compression/vacuum bag can be secured within the interior space of the travel bag.
- the compression bag can have a first closeable opening wherein clothes and other items can be inserted within the compression bag and a second opening where the compression bag is connected to the removable pump assembly for withdrawing air out of the closed/sealed-virtually sealed compression bag through the second opening and into the vacuum pump assembly through it intake port.
- the compression connection system can preferably hold the compression bag onto the vacuum pump assembly in a manner that also secures the positioning of the compression bag.
- the compression connection system can provide for an airtight connection between the compression bag and the vacuum pump assembly and can permit the free flow of air from the interior of the compression bag through the input/intake port of the vacuum pump assembly.
- air can be evacuated out of the air compression bag through the second opening by the removable vacuum pump assembly.
- the pump assembly can also be located within a portion of the travel bag.
- the intake port of the vacuum pump assembly can protrude into the interior of the vacuum compression bag and can be mated with a compression connection system wherein air can be withdrawn from the compression bag by the removable pump assembly. The withdrawn air can be exhausted out of the pump assembly into the interior space of the travel bag shell.
- the intake port of the vacuum pump disposed within the compression bag in a sealed connection between the intake port and compression bag, such that, the compression connection system may be eliminated and air is withdrawn from within the closed compression bag directly into the intake port and associated vacuum pump.
- the vacuum can be provided with an exhaust port to exhaust air evacuated from the compression bag into the atmosphere outside of the compression bag.
- the vacuum can be provided with at least one back check valve to prevent the back flow of evacuated air back into the compression bag.
- the vacuum can be provided with an automatic shut off feature which discontinues pump operation when there is stoppage of the flow of air out of the compression bag.
- the vacuum can be provided with a user activated on/off switch to initiate or to stop the operation of the vacuum pump assembly.
- the switch can be provided on the vacuum and/or on the rechargeable battery /battery.
- the system can also comprise a micro controller and a sensor in electrical communication with the micro controller.
- the sensor can be in communication with an internal passageway of the vacuum hose.
- the internal passageway can be in communication with the intake port and the exhaust port.
- the micro controller can programmed to automatically determine when all or a sufficient amount of air has been withdrawn from the compression bag and in such instance the micro controller can be programmed to automatically send a signal to the pump to automatically turn the pump off.
- the sensor can be a pressure sensor.
- a frame or other holding assembly can be provided to preferably secure the vacuum pump assembly with the rechargeable battery which powers the pump assembly.
- the frame/holding assembly can be custom designed to fit within the travel bag’s interior dimensions.
- the novel vacuum assembly can be removably secured to the travel bag (e.g. hard shell travel bag, etc.) by a plurality of boss/screw connections.
- the vacuum assembly can be a self-contained vacuum preferably having an outer box or housing.
- the rechargeable battery can be located within a portion of the travel bag and can be removable after use.
- the power source for the vacuum compression system can be a power pack removably inserted and secured within a power pack receiving cavity located within the interior space of the travel bag in one embodiment.
- the cavity opening can be located in an upper wall portion for inserting and removing the power pack into and out of the cavity.
- the compression bag can be preferably located within a portion of the travel bag. In an uncompressed state the compression/vacuum bag can extend beyond the dimensions of the interior of the travel bag.
- the compression bag can be preferably removably connected to the shell of a travel bag by a plurality of clips or other functional connection methods including, but not limited, hook and loop (VELCRO) fasteners. Each clip of the plurality of clips or similar fastening methods can be located in a corresponding comer of the interior space of the travel bag.
- the compression bag can be made of flexible plastic or air tight fabric or a combination thereof which also may be clear or transparent or translucent or opaque and which may be folded or creased and reused for compression purposes multiple times.
- the compression bag can be custom sized and engineered/designed to fit into the dimensions and internal shape of the travel bag.
- the body of the compression bag may be attached to one or more flexible or movable structures which may include a scissor lift function where the attached structures are to facilitate the maintenance of the open shape of the compression bag, and which permit the folding or other movements to permit the folding of the compression bag when the air inside the compression bag is being evacuated by the vacuum or by hand compression of the compression bag.
- the compression bag can also preferably permit the evacuation or partial evacuation of air from the inside of the compression bag by hand folding and manual compressing of the compression bag with or without the use of the vacuum.
- the compression bag can be provided with a valve or hole or reinforced hole preferably located in or at the bottom of the compression bag which can be placed over the vacuum intake port and the compression bag can be held in place with an airtight seal against the vacuum by the compression connection system.
- the compression bag One purpose of the compression bag is to vacuum compress clothing or other compressible goods to be stored and carried in the travel bag and since the amount of compression can vary based upon the characteristics of those goods being compressed, the compression bag can be engineered or designed to accommodate those variations.
- the size of the empty and open compression bag can be several times larger than the internal dimensions of the travel bag, though such ratio is not considered limiting.
- the compression bag When the compression bag is open and empty, the compression bag preferably extends through the openings of the travel bag where the user can obtain access to the interior of the compression bag and load the clothing or other goods to be compressed into the compression bag.
- the compression bag can be preferably provided with an opening and closing zip locked type system which connects and locks the open sides of the compression bag.
- Other locking mechanisms that can perform the locking/closing/sealing of the open sides of the compression bag can also be used and are considered within the scope of the disclosure.
- the vacuum assembly When the vacuum assembly is employed to evacuate the air from the inside of the locked compression bag, the clothing or other goods within the compression bag will be compressed and will occupy a smaller space than existed before the vacuum process.
- the substantially/virtually air tight environment inside the compression bag can maintain the compressed dimensions of the compressed clothing or other goods for many hours.
- the compression bag may be held in place within the travel bag by a removable or adjustable method of fixation within the travel bag.
- the opening of the zip locked portion of the compression bag releases the vacuum and the clothing or other goods may be removed through the top opening of the compression bag.
- the compression bag may be reusable for numerous compression events and may have the characteristics to permit the folding or shaping of the compression bag by the user to accomplish the packing of the travel bag in a manner desired by the user.
- the compression bag can be removable from the integrated vacuum system including, in one non-limiting embodiment, detachment from the vacuum via the unscrewing of the compression connection system when the compression bag needs replacement.
- the valve preferably located in the compression bag can be held above the base of the compression connection system with dividers or fins or similar supporting structures which can be engineered or designed to provide for the free flow of air from the open sides of the compression connection system from the interior of the compression bag into the vacuum intake port.
- the compression connection system is located within a portion of the travel bag.
- the compression bag can also be directly or indirectly secured to or in communication with the exhaust port to allow air to be drawn through out of the compression bag through the second opening and through the exhaust port of the vacuum.
- the compression connection system can fasten to the vacuum via a connecting interface which may, without limitation, be a threaded screw type of connection and which can permit the compression connection system to be hand fastened or hand screwed onto the vacuum intake port with sufficient tightness to maintain air tightness and to hold the compression bag in place on the vacuum.
- the compression connection system can be engineered/designed to preferably press evenly upon the flat surface of the vacuum and can be of sufficient area to press against the portion of the compression bag which is positioned over the vacuum intake port in order to keep that portion of the compression bag preferably in immovable contact with the vacuum intake port. In use, an air tight or virtually air tight seal between the compression connection system and the vacuum intake port can be created.
- the top of the compression connection system can be firm and preferably non- compressible in order to prevent clogging or blockage or closure of the vacuum intake port.
- the compression connection system can also be installed within the inside of the Travel Bag to connect the compression bag to the vacuum intake port. The preferred screw on features of the compression connection system permit the compression connection system to be unscrewed by hand and removed from the vacuum at such times that the compression bag needs replacement.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Dispersion Chemistry (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Packages (AREA)
- Purses, Travelling Bags, Baskets, Or Suitcases (AREA)
Abstract
Description
Claims
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US202063048100P | 2020-07-04 | 2020-07-04 | |
PCT/US2021/039925 WO2022010713A1 (en) | 2020-07-04 | 2021-06-30 | Travel bags having an integrated vacuum compression system |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP4175885A1 true EP4175885A1 (en) | 2023-05-10 |
Family
ID=79552670
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP21838149.9A Pending EP4175885A1 (en) | 2020-07-04 | 2021-06-30 | Travel bags having an integrated vacuum compression system |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP4175885A1 (en) |
KR (1) | KR20230031368A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2022010713A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN114655498B (en) * | 2022-04-06 | 2023-07-14 | 安徽恒益智能科技股份有限公司 | Air extraction flattening device for medical clothing |
Family Cites Families (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7290660B2 (en) * | 2004-07-23 | 2007-11-06 | Tilman Paul A | Storage system having a disposable vacuum bag |
RU94424U1 (en) * | 2010-03-11 | 2010-05-27 | Виталий Владимирович Бегарь | UNIVERSAL BAG |
-
2021
- 2021-06-30 WO PCT/US2021/039925 patent/WO2022010713A1/en unknown
- 2021-06-30 EP EP21838149.9A patent/EP4175885A1/en active Pending
- 2021-06-30 KR KR1020237004127A patent/KR20230031368A/en unknown
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
KR20230031368A (en) | 2023-03-07 |
WO2022010713A1 (en) | 2022-01-13 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US10376031B1 (en) | Luggage having integrated compression system with removable battery | |
CA2808758C (en) | Luggage comprising a vacuum device | |
US6499574B1 (en) | Vacuum-packed luggage and method of manufacture | |
US20130048456A1 (en) | Suitcase for Luggage | |
US6135253A (en) | Suitcase with compressible packing system | |
US9198492B2 (en) | Luggage system | |
US20130292221A1 (en) | Compact luggage | |
US20150089903A1 (en) | Installable Vacuum Garment Bag for Luggage | |
US8251192B1 (en) | Suitcase | |
AU2009289090A1 (en) | Vacuum packing cover, and packing and/or carrying bag having such a cover built therein | |
US20060228051A1 (en) | Collapsible bag | |
EP4175885A1 (en) | Travel bags having an integrated vacuum compression system | |
CN103237741B (en) | Vacuum-packing container using a packing stand | |
US11805877B2 (en) | Travel bags having a portable and integrated and reusable vacuum compression system with rechargeable removable battery | |
US20240065400A1 (en) | Travel bags having a portable and integrated and reusable vacuum compression system with rechargeable removable battery | |
US20090145939A1 (en) | Vacuum stabilized carry bag | |
US9668559B1 (en) | Stacked multiple compartment vacuum compressible and sealable luggage | |
US20080185250A1 (en) | Case with compression bags | |
KR100651236B1 (en) | Suitcase | |
US20230047443A1 (en) | Luggage having integrated compression system with removable battery | |
CN210672376U (en) | Luggage case | |
US20230398267A1 (en) | Breast pump bag | |
CN216453759U (en) | Vacuum storage box | |
CN213215731U (en) | Vacuum compression case | |
CN218219426U (en) | Integrated draw-bar box with vacuum storage bag |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: THE INTERNATIONAL PUBLICATION HAS BEEN MADE |
|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION WAS MADE |
|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20230202 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
DAV | Request for validation of the european patent (deleted) | ||
DAX | Request for extension of the european patent (deleted) | ||
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R079 Free format text: PREVIOUS MAIN CLASS: B65B0031040000 Ipc: A45C0013020000 |
|
RIC1 | Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant |
Ipc: F04B 35/04 20060101ALN20240604BHEP Ipc: A45C 13/00 20060101ALN20240604BHEP Ipc: F04B 35/06 20060101ALI20240604BHEP Ipc: B65B 31/04 20060101ALI20240604BHEP Ipc: B65B 25/20 20060101ALI20240604BHEP Ipc: B65B 7/02 20060101ALI20240604BHEP Ipc: A45C 13/03 20060101ALI20240604BHEP Ipc: A45C 13/02 20060101AFI20240604BHEP |