Abstract:
Vacuum-shrinkable luggage is disclosed for compactly enclosing and transporting at least one item enclosed therein, and a method of assembling same. The luggage compresses the at least one item enclosed therein such that the size of the luggage decreases. The luggage defines a compartment therein for containing the item. Collapsible panels forming walls of the luggage are made from a material that prevents air seepage through the panels. Seals are provided to prevent air seepage around edges of the panels. A vacuum source in air communication with the compartment establishes low air pressure within the compartment. The vacuum source causes the walls of the luggage to shrink and/or move inwardly so as to compress or compact the item, also reducing the size of the luggage.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    This invention relates generally to luggage, and more particularly to luggage optimized for travel size restrictions. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    Travelers on airplanes, trains, inter-city buses, and other public transportation conveyances often want to carry their luggage with them on the conveyance. The luggage usually contains personal items, such as clothing, reading material, electronic devices, personal care items, medications, and other items. However, storage space allocated to each traveler on these public transportation conveyances is typically limited or severely restricted by the public transportation carrier. 
         [0003]    For example, in the case of airline travel, airline carriers charge a fee for each checked piece of luggage exceeding a set size limit. To determine whether a piece of luggage exceeds the size limit, one measures and adds the width, height, and depth of the individual luggage piece, and ten compares the sum to a set total dimension in measured in inches. Carry-on luggage must meet set size limitations, so that the luggage can be stowed under the traveler&#39;s seat or in an overhead compartment. In the case of one airline, the size limitation for carry-on luggage is 55 inches, as determined by adding the length, width, and height measurements of the luggage piece. Many airline carriers also charge an additional fee for each piece of luggage checked-in by the traveler. 
         [0004]    Luggage restrictions also apply to train travel. For example, Amtrak®, which is a corporation delivering rail passenger service in the United States, requires that checked-in luggage not exceed 108 inches total, and carry-on luggage not exceed 64 inches total. In addition, Amtrak® allows each ticketed passenger to check-in three luggage pieces, not to exceed 50 pounds per piece, at no charge. However, up to three additional luggage pieces will be accepted by Amtrak® upon payment of a surcharge. The registered mark “Amtrak®” is owned by the National Railroad Passenger Corporation located in Washington, D.C., U.S.A. 
         [0005]    Luggage restrictions apply to inter-city bus travel, as well. For example, in the case of Greyhound SM , which is an inter-city bus carrier, the traveler pays a fee if his luggage exceeds a set size limit. Also, in the case of Greyhound SM , one piece of luggage is checked free of charge for adults and children. However, one additional luggage piece will be checked for an additional charge, and luggage beyond two pieces face yet another charge. “Greyhound SM ” is a service mark owned by Greyhound Lines, Incorporated located in Dallas, Tex., U.S.A. Moreover, in the case of many inter-city bus carriers, carry-on luggage must be sized to fit in overhead compartments or under the traveler&#39;s seat. 
         [0006]    Therefore, it is desirable for travelers on public transportation conveyances to reduce the size and/or number of luggage pieces to avoid additional luggage fees. It is also therefore desirable for travelers on public transportation conveyances to maximize the number of articles packed in each individual luggage piece to reduce the number of luggage pieces, while keeping the size of the luggage below a threshold size. Reducing the number of luggage pieces reduces the excess luggage fees otherwise payable to the public transportation carrier. 
         [0007]    In addition, individuals not traveling on public conveyances often have a need to fit luggage into a limited space. For example, families traveling on holiday or vacation by private automobile often have severely limited space in the automobile to stow the family&#39;s travel items. Such items may include the previously mentioned clothing, reading material, electronic devices, personal care items, medications, and may also include other items, such as souvenirs and large beach towels. 
         [0008]    Further, even individuals not traveling in a private automobile or other private conveyance may have a need to reduce luggage space. As an example, an individual who has finished exercising at a local gymnasium or health club may have a need to compactly stow a duffle bag, which may contain exercise apparel and bath towels, within the limited space of a typical upright and narrow gymnasium or health club storage locker. 
         [0009]    Thus, many individuals in a variety of situations are faced with the need to minimize both the size and number of luggage items, so as to avoid extra baggage fees charged by public transportation carriers, and/or so as to increase the chance that the luggage will fit within limited space available for stowing the luggage. 
         [0010]    Various configurations of luggage that can increase storage efficiency are known. For example, a suitcase with specially arranged sealable compartments for vacuum sealing of articles of travel such as clothing and makeup accessories allows air pressure in the compartments to be substantially reduced, separately or collectively, by means of a vacuum pump. Removal of air from the compartments reduces the volume of the articles contained therein to a minimum, and consequently allows more articles to fit within the suitcase, thereby increasing storage efficiency. However, the actual size of the suitcase remains unchanged, even after the articles inside are vacuum sealed. 
         [0011]    In another known example, a suitcase is provided with a compressive liner encapsulating an air tight packing chamber and has a sealable opening to allow placement and removal of clothing and other articles within the packing chamber. In a relaxed state, the volume of the packing chamber is substantially greater than the volume of the suitcase interior, thereby enlarging the available packing space. When the liner is filled and sealed closed, air is withdrawn from the packing chamber by a motorized vacuum pump, causing the liner to collapse and compress the contents, thereby reducing the volume of the packing chamber to a size which fits within the closed suitcase. A one-way valve holds the vacuum within the chamber, thereby maintaining the liner in the collapsed state until the opening is unsealed. However, the actual size of the suitcase is unchanged after the articles inside are vacuum sealed. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0012]    The invention is luggage that shrinks when vacuum pressure is applied within the luggage, thereby sucking out a substantial amount of air. The negative air pressure of the applied vacuum causes the sides of the luggage to move inward, crushing the clothing or other compactable items contained within the luggage, making the items take up less space, and also reducing the actual size of the luggage. This makes the luggage easier to carry, and easier to stow because the luggage is more likely to fit through and into small places. 
         [0013]    A vacuum pump can be built in to the luggage. The vacuum pump can have its own rechargeable battery. Or the vacuum pump can plug into the wall. Alternatively, the vacuum pump can be separate from the luggage, and the luggage can just incorporate a vacuum port that enables a vacuum hose of a vacuum pump to be connected to the luggage. 
         [0014]    The sides of the luggage can include two rigid panels cooperative with compressible walls, the rigid panels moving towards each other under vacuum pressure, or can be flexible, like the sides of a duffle bag that can collapse from all sides as the internal vacuum pressure pulls them inward. 
         [0015]    The present invention provides a vacuum-shrinkable luggage piece capable of being reduced in size in response to applied vacuum pressure, even with at least one compressible item enclosed therein. The size reduction of the luggage due to the applied vacuum pressure reduces the total dimensions of the luggage, increasing the likelihood that the luggage will meet size restrictions. The present invention also provides a method of assembling such a vacuum-shrinkable luggage item. 
         [0016]    Reducing the total dimension of the luggage can result in reduction or elimination of baggage surcharges by public transportation carriers, can allow more luggage pieces to be stowed in private transportation conveyances, such as family automobiles, and can allow luggage pieces, such as duffle bags, to be stowed in extremely confined spaces, such as gymnasium and health club storage lockers. 
         [0017]    Luggage items include: a suitcase, a briefcase, a laptop case, a hat box, a purse, a duffle bag, or a back-pack, for example. 
         [0018]    Collapsible panels (or walls) of the luggage can be made of a material that prevents air seepage through the panels. Alternatively, the panels can be coated with a layer of material, such as a layer of plastic material, impervious to air seepage therethrough. In addition, any seams in the luggage, such as seams between adjacently connected panels, can be sealed against air seepage by a sealing material. The sealing material can be a gasket made from an elastomer, such as rubber. Alternatively, the seams may be connected and sealed by a flexible adhesive. In either case, the seams remain sealed against air penetration even while the seams are being flexed during size reduction of the luggage. 
         [0019]    The luggage is adapted to be opened, by means of a sealable opening, so that the compartment defined thereby is available to receive the items to be contained therein. After the items are placed within the compartment by the user of the luggage, the user may then close the luggage by closing the sealable opening. In this manner, the luggage becomes air-tight, except for a conduit that penetrates the luggage and that is in air communication with the compartment. The term “conduit” is intended herein to include any suitable connection, such as a port, a tubular structure, and/or an orifice structure. The inner end of the conduit is in air communication with the interior of the luggage, and the outer end of the conduit is open to the environment outside the luggage, so that the conduit can be connected to a vacuum source for evacuating air from the interior of the luggage. 
         [0020]    A volume of air can be found within the interior of the luggage after the luggage is closed. A portion of the air is removed by a vacuum pump that is coupled to the outer end of the conduit. The vacuum pump can be electrically powered or can be hand powered. 
         [0021]    The vacuum pump can be located outside the luggage, or can be built into the luggage. If the vacuum pump is built into the luggage, a suitable electrical connection of the built-in vacuum pump is accessible on an external surface of the luggage. A power supply, such as an electrical wall outlet, can supply electrical power to the electrical connection for operating the built-in vacuum pump. 
         [0022]    Alternatively, a rechargeable battery can also be built into the luggage for providing electrical power to the built-in vacuum pump. In this case, the electrical connection is connected to the rechargeable battery, rather than connected to the internal vacuum pump, for recharging the rechargeable battery. 
         [0023]    If the vacuum pump is located outside of the luggage, the external vacuum pump is connected directly to the power supply (e.g., an electrical wall outlet) for supplying electricity to the external vacuum pump. 
         [0024]    As the vacuum pump operates, air is evacuated from the interior of the luggage. Evacuation of air from the luggage reduces air pressure within the luggage that forces the sides of the luggage to move until the panels compress the contents of the luggage. 
         [0025]    Once the vacuum pump has substantially completed removing air from the interior of the luggage, the vacuum pump stops operating. If the pump is external to the luggage, the hose of the vacuum pump is removed from the conduit of the luggage. If the pump is internal to the luggage, a pressure relay senses that the movement of air has substantially stopped, and the vacuum pump is then turned off. 
         [0026]    One general aspect of the invention is a vacuum-shrinkable luggage for compressing and carrying at least one item contained therein, the vacuum-shrinkable luggage including: a compressible air-tight luggage body defining a compartment for containing the at least one item, the compressible luggage body enabling the vacuum-shrinkable luggage to shrink in size as air pressure falls within the compressible luggage body; a conduit, in air communication with the compartment, for enabling air to leave the compartment so as to cause air pressure to fall within the compartment; and a valve, cooperative with the conduit, to ensure that air leaves, and cannot re-enter, the compartment so as to maintain a low air pressure condition within the compartment while the vacuum-shrinkable luggage is transported. 
         [0027]    In some embodiments, the vacuum-shrinkable luggage further includes a vacuum source coupled to the conduit for causing air to leave the compartment. 
         [0028]    In some embodiments, the vacuum source is disposed outside the compartment. In other embodiments, the vacuum source is disposed inside the compartment. 
         [0029]    In some embodiments, the vacuum-shrinkable luggage further includes a power supply disposed in the compartment and coupled to the vacuum source for supplying power to the vacuum source. 
         [0030]    In some embodiments, the vacuum-shrinkable luggage further includes a seal for sealing the compartment in a substantially air-tight manner. 
         [0031]    Another general aspect of the invention is a vacuum-shrinkable luggage for compressing and carrying at least one item contained therein, the vacuum-shrinkable luggage including: a compressible air-tight luggage body having a sealable air-tight compartment for containing the at least one item therein, the compressible luggage body enabling the vacuum-shrinkable luggage to shrink in size as air pressure falls within the compressible luggage body; a conduit, in air-flow communication with the compartment, for enabling air to leave the compartment so as to cause air pressure to fall within the compartment; a valve, cooperative with the conduit, capable of ensuring that air can exit, and cannot re-enter, the compartment so as to create and then maintain a low air pressure condition within the compartment while the vacuum-shrinkable luggage is transported; and an electrically operable vacuum pump in airflow communication with the air pathway for evacuating air out of the compartment via the air pathway. 
         [0032]    In some embodiments, the vacuum pump is disposed outside the compartment. In other embodiments, the vacuum pump is disposed inside the compartment. 
         [0033]    In some embodiments, the vacuum-shrinkable luggage further includes an electrical power supply disposed within the compartment and coupled to the vacuum pump for supplying electrical power to the vacuum pump. 
         [0034]    In some embodiments, the electrical power supply is a battery. 
         [0035]    In some embodiments, the vacuum-shrinkable luggage further includes a seal in sealing relationship with the compartment for providing the compartment with an air-tight seal. 
         [0036]    In some embodiments, the seal includes a plurality of seal elements adapted to surround the compartment. 
         [0037]    Another general aspect of the invention is a method for assembling a vacuum-shrinkable luggage for compressing and carrying at least one item contained therein, the method including: providing a compressible air-tight luggage body defining a compartment for containing the at least one item, the compressible luggage body enabling the vacuum-shrinkable luggage to shrink in size as air pressure falls within the compressible luggage body; providing a conduit, in air communication with the compartment, for enabling air to leave the compartment so as to cause air pressure to fall within the compartment; and connecting a valve to the conduit, to ensure that air leaves, and cannot re-enter, the compartment so as to maintain a low air pressure condition within the compartment while the vacuum-shrinkable luggage is transported. 
         [0038]    In some embodiments, the method further includes providing a vacuum source adapted to be coupled to the conduit for evacuating air through the conduit. 
         [0039]    In some embodiments, providing a vacuum source includes providing a vacuum source adapted to be disposed outside the compartment. In other embodiments, providing a vacuum source includes providing a vacuum source adapted to be disposed inside the compartment. 
         [0040]    In some embodiments, the method further includes configuring the compartment to receive a power supply adapted to be coupled to the vacuum source for supplying power to the vacuum source. 
         [0041]    In some embodiments, the method further includes disposing a seal in sealing relationship with the compartment for providing the compartment with an air-tight seal. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0042]    The invention will be more fully understood by reference to the detailed description in conjunction with the following figures, wherein: 
           [0043]      FIG. 1  is a view in perspective of a first embodiment luggage, such as a duffle bag, in an uncompressed state, this view showing a conduit sealably penetrating an air-impervious side panel belonging to the first embodiment luggage, the conduit being in the form of an orifice structure having an opening flush with the side panel; 
           [0044]      FIG. 2  is a view in perspective of the first embodiment luggage in an uncompressed state, this view showing the conduit sealably penetrating the air-impervious side panel belonging to the first embodiment luggage, the conduit being in the form of the tubular structure having an end portion thereof outwardly projecting from the side panel, this view also showing a plurality of articles disposed in the luggage; 
           [0045]      FIG. 3  is a fragmentary view in partial vertical section of the first embodiment luggage, this view showing the conduit in the form of the orifice structure sealably penetrating the air-impervious side panel belonging to the first embodiment luggage and also showing a one-way valve disposed in the orifice structure; 
           [0046]      FIG. 4  is a fragmentary view in partial vertical section of the first embodiment luggage, this view showing the conduit in the form of the tubular structure sealably penetrating the air-impervious side panel belonging to the first embodiment luggage and also showing the one-way valve disposed in the tubular structure; 
           [0047]      FIG. 5  is a fragmentary view in partial vertical section of the first embodiment luggage, this view showing the conduit in the form of the tubular structure sealably penetrating the side panel belonging to the first embodiment luggage and also showing the one-way valve disposed in the tubular structure, this view further showing an air-impervious layer adhered to all interior surfaces of the panels forming the first embodiment luggage; 
           [0048]      FIG. 6  is a view in perspective of the first embodiment luggage in the uncompressed state and coupled to an external vacuum source, such as a conventional vacuum cleaner; 
           [0049]      FIG. 7  is a view in perspective of the first embodiment luggage in the uncompressed state and coupled to the external vacuum source, such as a vacuum pump; 
           [0050]      FIG. 8  is a view in perspective of the first embodiment luggage in a compressed state and coupled to the external vacuum source, such as the vacuum pump, this view also showing the plurality of items compressed or compacted in the luggage; 
           [0051]      FIG. 9  is a view in perspective of a second embodiment luggage in an uncompressed state, this view showing an electrical connection in a side panel of the luggage for supplying electrical power to an internal vacuum source belonging to the second embodiment luggage; 
           [0052]      FIG. 10  is a view in perspective of the second embodiment luggage in the uncompressed state and also showing an electrical adapter connected to the electrical connection; 
           [0053]      FIG. 11  is a fragmentary view in partial vertical section of the second embodiment luggage, this view showing the internal vacuum source coupled to the conduit; 
           [0054]      FIG. 12  is a fragmentary view in partial vertical section of a third embodiment luggage, this view showing the electrical connection as part of a rechargeable battery disposed in the third embodiment luggage for charging the rechargeable battery, the rechargeable battery being electrically coupled to the internal vacuum source belonging to the third embodiment luggage for supplying electrical power to the internal vacuum source; 
           [0055]      FIG. 13  is a view in perspective of a fourth embodiment luggage, such as a suitcase, in an uncompressed state and coupled to an external vacuum source, such as the conventional vacuum cleaner, this view also showing the plurality of items disposed in the fourth embodiment luggage; 
           [0056]      FIG. 14  is a view in perspective of the fourth embodiment luggage, such as the suitcase, in an uncompressed state and coupled to the external vacuum source, such as the external vacuum pump; 
           [0057]      FIG. 15  is a side view in partial elevation of the fourth embodiment luggage; 
           [0058]      FIG. 16  is a view taken along section line  16 - 16  of  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0059]      FIG. 17  is a view taken along section line  17 - 17  of  FIG. 16 ; 
           [0060]      FIG. 18  is a view taken along section line  18 - 18  of  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0061]      FIG. 19  is a view taken along section line  19 - 19  of  FIG. 15 ; 
           [0062]      FIG. 20  is a view in partial elevation of a fifth embodiment luggage in an uncompressed state, this view showing the electrical adapter connected to an electrical connection disposed in a side panel of the fifth embodiment luggage for supplying electrical power to an internal vacuum source belonging to the fifth embodiment luggage; 
           [0063]      FIG. 21  is a view in partial vertical section of the fifth embodiment luggage in an uncompressed state, this view showing the internal vacuum source coupled to the conduit; 
           [0064]      FIG. 22  is a view in partial vertical section of a sixth embodiment luggage, this view showing the electrical connection as part of a rechargeable battery disposed in the sixth embodiment luggage for charging the rechargeable battery, the rechargeable battery being coupled to the internal vacuum source belonging to the sixth embodiment luggage for supplying electrical power to the internal vacuum source; 
           [0065]      FIG. 23  is a view in perspective of the previously mentioned fourth embodiment luggage with a closed cover, the fourth embodiment luggage being illustrated in an uncompressed state; 
           [0066]      FIG. 24  is a view in perspective of the fourth embodiment luggage with the closed cover, the fourth embodiment luggage being illustrated in a compressed state reducing height, width and depth of the fourth embodiment luggage; and 
           [0067]      FIG. 25  is a flowchart of an illustrative method of assembling a vacuum shrinkable luggage for compactly enclosing an item contained therein. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0068]    With reference to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , there is shown a first embodiment vacuum-shrinkable luggage, generally referred to as  10 , for compactly enclosing an item  20  contained therein. There can be a plurality of items  20  to be compactly enclosed in luggage  10  and can include various types of items  20 . For example, items  20  can be clothing, reading material, electronic devices, personal care items, souvenirs, beach towels, bath towels, exercise apparel, and/or other items  20 . Luggage  10  includes a collapsible case body  30  defining a sealable air-tight compartment  40  therein for receiving items  20 . Although not critical, it is nonetheless important that case body  30  be air-tight for reasons disclosed in detail hereinbelow. Case body  30  includes a plurality of adjacent and orthogonal panels  50 . Adjacent panels  50  are joined together by an air-impervious seam  60  therebetween. More specifically, panels  50  include a flexible first panel  70   a , a flexible second panel  70   b , a flexible third panel  70   c  a flexible fourth panel  70   d  and a fifth panel  70   e . Fifth panel  70   e  is oriented perpendicularly and orthogonally with respect to first panel  70   a , second panel  70   b , third panel  70   c  and fourth panel  70   d . In addition, fifth panel  70   e  serves as a support base for items  20  and may be substantially rigid, if desired, for supporting items  20  thereon without downward sagging of fifth panel  70   e . In this regard, there may be a substantially inflexible sheet, such as a sheet of cardboard or plastic (not shown) of suitable thickness, resting on fifth panel  70   e  for providing sufficient rigidity to fifth panel  70   e . Second panel  70   b  is oriented substantially parallel to first panel  70   a  and fourth panel  70   d  is oriented substantially parallel to third panel  70   c.    
         [0069]    Referring again to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , panels  50  may be in the form of a continuous, single piece of material having a generally “clover leaf” outline with “leaves” that can be folded and joined at seams  60 . Alternatively, panels  50  may be in the form of a plurality of separate pieces of material separately joined together at seams  60 . A sealable opening  80  in provided in an upper portion  90  of case body  30  for providing access to compartment  40 . Opening  80 , which is interposed between third panel  70   c  and fourth panel  70   d , can be opened and closed by means of an air-tight slide fastener, such as an air-tight zipper  100 . It is important that zipper  100  be air-tight when used to close opening  80  for reasons disclosed in detail hereinbelow. Such an air-tight zipper  100  may be of a type that may be available from Wuxi Xibang Industrial and Trade Company, Limited located in Wuxi, China. A suitable carrying strap, harness, shoulder strap, or yoke  110  is attached to case body  30 , such as by being sewn thereto or by being adhered thereto using a suitable adhesive. Carrying strap  110  allows a user of luggage  10  to conveniently carry luggage  10 . A pair of carrying strap holders  120  (only one of which is shown) are connected to respective ones of first panel  70   a  and second panel  70   b  for holding carrying strap  110  to case body  30  in a manner that restricts excessive movement of carrying strap  110  while luggage  10  is being carried by the user. In this manner, presence of carrying strap  110  substantially prevents excessive yaw, pitch and roll of case body  30  while luggage  10  is being carried by the user. 
         [0070]    Referring to  FIGS. 1 ,  2 ,  3 ,  4  and  5 , and as previously mentioned, panels  70   a / 70   b / 70   c / 70   d / 70   e  are air-tight (i.e., impervious to air flow therethrough). In addition to being air-tight, panels  70   a / 70   b / 70   c / 70   d  are also flexible. To achieve flexibility and air tightness, panels  70   a / 70   b / 70   c / 70   d / 70   e  may be made from a flexible, air-tight fabric material of zero porosity, such as polyurethane-coated nylon. Alternatively, panels  70   a / 70   b / 70   c / 70   d / 70   e  may be made from a flexible organic material, such as cotton or wool, that is coated or layered on an interior or exterior surface thereof with a polymer impervious to air, such as a polyethylene sheet  130 . Also, to provide added assurance that compartment  40  is air-tight, flexible seams  60  are also coated or layered with polyethylene sheet  130  or any suitable sealing substance. 
         [0071]    Referring again to  FIGS. 1 ,  2 ,  3 ,  4  and  5 , sealably penetrating any one of panels  50 , such as third panel  70   c , is a conduit  140  defining a bore or air pathway  150  therethrough in communication with compartment  40 . As described in detail hereinbelow, conduit  140  facilitates formation of relatively low air pressure within compartment  40 . The term “conduit” is intended herein to include any suitable connection, such as a tubular structure  160  or, alternatively, an orifice structure  170 . A first end portion  180  of tubular structure  160  is in communication with compartment  40  and a second end portion  190  extends outwardly from third panel  70   c  and is open to the atmosphere external to luggage  10 . With respect to orifice structure  170 , a first end portion  200  of orifice structure  170  is in communication with compartment  40  and a second end portion  210  of orifice structure  170  is flush with an outer surface of third panel  70   c  and is open to the atmosphere external to luggage  10 . Having second end portion  210  flush with the outer surface of third panel  70   c  provides a more astatically pleasing or streamlined appearance to luggage  10  and tends to prevent interference of conduit  140  with nearby structures, such as adjacent luggage (not shown) and luggage racks (also not shown), or with individuals standing nearby. However, for purposes of brevity and clarity, the invention disclosed hereinafter will be described as having tubular structure  160 , rather than orifice structure  170 . Therefore, it should be appreciated that tubular structure  160  and orifice structure  170  are both suitable for use in the invention, depending on the preference of the user. 
         [0072]    As seen in  FIGS. 3 ,  4  and  5 , a one-way valve  220 , such as a check valve, is disposed in the air pathway  150  for permitting unidirectional air flow through air pathway  150 . In this regard, valve  220  allows unidirectional air flow only out of compartment  40  in a direction as shown by a plurality of flow arrows  225 . Valve  220  permits air flow only out of compartment  40 , so that compartment  40  remains air-tight for maintaining low pressure within compartment  40 , as described more fully hereinbelow. An annular sealing gasket  240 , which may be made from an elastomer, is attached to an inner surface of third panel  70   c  and sealably surrounds second end portion  190  of tubular structure  160 . A purpose of sealing gasket  240  is to provide a sealing function at the junction of second end portion  190  and third panel  70   c , to provide additional assurance that compartment  40  is air-tight. 
         [0073]    Referring to  FIGS. 6 ,  7  and  8 , air is typically present or trapped in compartment  40  after sealable opening  80  in luggage  10  is closed by means of air-tight zipper  100 . It is desirable to remove or evacuate this air from compartment  40  in order to shrink the size (e.g., height, width, and depth) of luggage body  30  that belongs to luggage  10 . As described in detail presently, this air is removed by an electrically operable vacuum source, generally referred to as  250 , that is coupled to second end portion  190  of tubular structure  160 . As described in detail momentarily, vacuum source  250  may be disposed externally to luggage body  30  (i.e., outside compartment  40 ) so as to provide an external vacuum source or within luggage body  30  (i.e., within compartment  40 ) so as to provide an internal vacuum source. 
         [0074]    As best seen in  FIG. 6 , when vacuum source  250  is disposed externally to luggage body  30 , so as to provide an external vacuum source, vacuum source  250  may be a conventional vacuum cleaner  260  having an electrical cord  270  connectable to an external power supply  280 . External power supply  280  may be a conventional electrical wall outlet, as shown, for supplying electrical power to vacuum cleaner  260  to operate vacuum cleaner  260 . A vacuum hose  290  interconnects vacuum cleaner  260  and second end portion  190  of tubular structure  160 . When vacuum hose  290  is connected to second end portion  190  of tubular structure  160 , vacuum hose  290  is in communication with air pathway  150 . In this manner, operation of vacuum cleaner  260  will vacuum air from compartment  40 , through air pathway  150 , into vacuum hose  290  and to vacuum cleaner  260 . 
         [0075]    As best seen in  FIG. 7 , when vacuum source  250  is disposed externally to luggage body  30  so as to provide the external vacuum source, vacuum source  250  may be an external vacuum pump  300  having electrical cord  270  connectable to external power supply  280 . External power supply  280  supplies electrical power to external vacuum pump  300  to operate external vacuum pump  300 . Vacuum hose  290  interconnects external vacuum pump  300  and second end portion  190  of tubular structure  160 . When vacuum hose  290  is connected to second end portion  190  of tubular structure  160 , vacuum hose  290  is in communication with air pathway  150 . In this manner, operation of external vacuum pump  300  will vacuum air from compartment  40 , through air pathway  150 , into vacuum hose  290  and to external vacuum pump  300 . 
         [0076]    Referring to  FIGS. 6 ,  7  and  8 , as vacuum source  250  (e.g., vacuum cleaner  260  or external vacuum pump  300 ) operates, air is evacuated from compartment  40 , as previously mentioned. Evacuation of air from compartment  40  creates a vacuum within compartment  40  that forces flexible panels  70   a / 70   b / 70   c / 70   d  of case body  30  to inwardly collapse or inwardly move until panels  70   a / 70   b / 70   c / 70   d  compactly and intimately surround items  20  in compartment  40 . After sufficient air is evacuated from compartment  40 , operation of vacuum source  250  is stopped by the user. If vacuum source  250  is disposed externally to luggage body  30 , vacuum hose  290  is then uncoupled from second end portion  190  of tubular structure  160 . One-way valve  220  prevents reverse air-flow into now evacuated compartment  40 . In this manner, first embodiment vacuum shrinkable luggage  10  shrinks to compactly, compressively enclose items  20  to be carried therein. 
         [0077]    With reference to  FIGS. 9 ,  10  and  11 , there is shown a second embodiment vacuum shrinkable luggage, generally referred to as  310 , for compactly enclosing item  20  carried therein. Luggage  310  includes collapsible luggage body  30  defining sealable air-tight compartment  40  therein for receiving items  20 . According to this second embodiment luggage  310 , vacuum source  250  is disposed internally within compartment  40  rather than being disposed externally with respect to compartment  40 . More specifically, vacuum source  250  includes an internal vacuum pump  320  that is disposed within compartment  40  and coupled to tubular structure  160 , such as being coupled to first end portion  180  of tubular structure  160 . Internal vacuum pump  320  includes an electrical connection  330  disposed in any one of panels  50 , such as second panel  70   b , so as to be available to a suitable electrical adapter  340  disposed externally with respect to luggage body  30 . Electrical adapter  340  is adapted to connect electrical connection  330 , and therefore internal vacuum pump  320 , to power source  280  for providing electrical power to internal vacuum pump  320  to operate internal vacuum pump  320 . As internal vacuum pump  320  is electrically operated, air is withdrawn from compartment  40 , through air pathway  150  and out tubular structure  160  for producing a vacuum in compartment  40 . After sufficient air is withdrawn from compartment  40 , electrical adapter  340  is disconnected from electrical connection  330 . Thereafter, one-way valve  220  prevents air from reentering compartment  40 , so that the vacuum in compartment  40  is maintained. 
         [0078]    As best seen in  FIG. 12 , there is shown a third embodiment vacuum shrinkable luggage, generally referred to as  350 , for compactly enclosing item  20  carried therein. Luggage  350  includes a third configuration collapsible case body  30  defining sealable air-tight compartment  40  for receiving items  20  therein. According to this third embodiment luggage  350 , vacuum source  250  is disposed internally within compartment  40  rather than being disposed externally with respect to compartment  40 . More specifically, vacuum source  250  includes an electrically operable internal vacuum pump  360  that is disposed within compartment  40  and coupled to tubular structure  160 , such as being coupled to first end portion  180  of tubular structure  160 . Internal vacuum pump  360  does not include previously mentioned electrical connection  330 . Rather, an internal power supply, such as a rechargeable battery  370 , is disposed in compartment  40  and electrically coupled to internal vacuum pump  360 . Rechargeable battery  370  is electrically coupled to internal vacuum pump  360  by means of an electrical cable or wire  380  for supplying electrical power to internal vacuum pump  360 . Internal vacuum pump  360  is adapted to be turned-on and turned-off by manipulating an on/off toggle switch  390 . The on/off toggle switch  390  is disposed in any one of panels  50 , such as panel  70   b , so as to be available to the user of luggage  350 . Also, rechargeable battery  370  includes an electrical connection  400  that is disposed in second panel  70   b , so as to be available to previously mentioned electrical adapter  340 . Electrical adapter  340  removably connects electrical connection  400 , and therefore rechargeable battery  370 , to power source  280  for providing electrical power to recharge rechargeable battery  370 . After rechargeable battery  370  is sufficiently recharged, electrical adapter  340  is disconnected from electrical connection  400 . In addition, after rechargeable battery  370  is sufficiently recharged, internal vacuum pump  360  may be operated by switching-on toggle switch  390 . As internal vacuum pump  360  is electrically operated, air is withdrawn from compartment  40 , through air pathway  150  and out tubular structure  160  for producing a vacuum in compartment  40 . After sufficient air is evacuated from compartment  40  in order to establish the necessary vacuum in compartment  40 , internal vacuum pump  360  is caused to cease operation by switching-off toggle switch  390 . Thereafter, one-way valve  220  prevents air from reentering compartment  40 , so that the vacuum in compartment  40  is maintained until sealable opening  80  is unsealed using zipper  100 . 
         [0079]    With reference to  FIGS. 13 ,  14 ,  15  and  16 , there is shown a fourth embodiment vacuum shrinkable luggage, generally referred to as  410 , for compactly enclosing item  20  carried therein. Luggage  410  includes a collapsible luggage body  420  defining a sealable air-tight compartment  430  therein for receiving items  20 . Luggage body  420  may be in the form of a suitcase, as shown. Luggage body  420  includes a sealable cover  440  pivotably attached to a base  450  by means of a plurality of hinges  460 . Cover  440  and base  450  include a plurality of adjacent and orthogonal substantially rigid suitcase panels, generally referred to as  470 , as described in detail hereinbelow. 
         [0080]    Referring again to  FIGS. 13 ,  14 ,  15  and  16 , the structure of base  450  that belongs to luggage body  420  will now be described. In this regard, base  450  includes an upright front first panel  480  slidably engaging an upright front second panel  490 . Front first panel  480  slidably engages front second panel  490  in a manner disclosed hereinbelow. Front second panel  490  is sealably coupled to an upright side third panel  500  that is disposed orthogonally with respect to front second panel  490 . Front second panel  490  is sealably coupled to side third panel  500  by means of a flexible first upright seal  510 , which may be an elastomer. Side third panel  500  slidably engages an upright side fourth panel  520 . The side fourth panel  520  is sealably coupled to an upright rear fifth panel  530 . Side fourth panel  520  is sealably coupled to rear fifth panel  530  by means of a flexible second upright seal  540 , which may be an elastomer. Rear fifth panel  530  slidably engages an upright rear sixth panel  550 . The rear sixth panel  550  is sealably coupled to an upright side seventh panel  560 . Rear sixth panel  550  is sealably coupled to side seventh panel  560  by means of a third upright seal  570 , which may be an elastomer. Seventh side panel  560  slidably engages an upright side eighth panel  580 . The side eighth panel  580  is sealably coupled to previously mentioned front first panel  480 . Side eighth panel  580  is sealably coupled to first front panel  480  by means of a fourth upright seal  590 , which may be an elastomer. Upright seals  510 / 540 / 570 / 590  are made from an elastomeric material, such as rubber, that is capable of elastically expanding while case body  420  is in an uncollapsed state and capable of elastically contracting while case body  420  is in a collapsed state, as described in detail hereinbelow. 
         [0081]    Referring to  FIGS. 17 and 18 , a horizontal bottom ninth panel  600  is integrally connected to upright front first panel  480  and upright side sixth panel  580 . In addition, a horizontal bottom tenth panel  610  is integrally connected to upright rear sixth panel  550  and upright side seventh panel  560 . Bottom ninth panel  600  is spaced-apart from bottom tenth panel  610  such that a first groove or gap  620  is defined therebetween. A roller  623  may be disposed in gap  620  so as to be interposed between bottom ninth panel  600  and bottom tenth panel  610  to facilitate horizontal movement or translation of bottom ninth panel  600  relative to bottom tenth panel  610 , as indicated by horizontal arrows  625  and  627 . It may be appreciated that horizontal movement or translation of bottom ninth panel  600  results in horizontal movement or translation of front first panel  480  and side sixth panel  580  because bottom ninth panel  600  is integrally connected to front first panel  480  and side sixth panel  580 . In addition, it may be further appreciated that horizontal movement or translation of bottom tenth panel  610  results in horizontal movement or translation of rear sixth panel  550  and side seventh panel  560  because bottom tenth panel  610  is integrally connected to rear sixth panel  550  and side seventh panel  560 . 
         [0082]    Referring again to  FIGS. 17 and 18 , a horizontal bottom eleventh panel  630  is integrally connected to upright front second panel  490  and upright side third panel  500 . In addition, a horizontal bottom twelfth panel  640  is integrally connected to upright rear fifth panel  530  and upright side fourth panel  520 . Bottom eleventh panel  630  is spaced-apart from bottom twelfth panel  640  such that a second groove or gap (not shown), that is substantially similar to gap  620 , is defined therebetween. Previously mentioned roller  623  is disposed in the gap defined between bottom eleventh panel  630  and bottom twelfth panel  640  to facilitate horizontal movement or translation of bottom eleventh panel  630  relative to bottom twelfth panel  640 . It may be appreciated that horizontal movement or translation of bottom eleventh panel  630  results in horizontal movement or translation of front second panel  490  and side third panel  500  because bottom eleventh panel  630  is integrally connected to front second panel  490  and side third panel  500 . In addition, it may be further appreciated that horizontal movement or translation of bottom twelfth panel  640  results in horizontal movement or translation of rear fifth panel  530  and side fourth panel  520  because bottom twelfth panel  640  is integrally connected to rear fifth panel  530  and side fourth panel  520 . 
         [0083]    Referring to  FIG. 17 , an elongate elastomeric gasket seal  650 , which may be rubber, is disposed in each gap that is defined by bottom panels  600 / 610 / 630 / 640 . In this regard, a plurality of gasket seals  650  are affixed to bottom panels  600 / 610 / 630 / 640  when gasket seals are disposed in respective ones of the gaps. For example, a gasket seal  650  is shown disposed in gap  630  defined between bottom ninth panel  600  and bottom tenth panel  610 . A purpose of gasket seals  650  is to seal the gaps, such as gasket seal  650  that seals gap  620 , so that air does not enter compartment  430  through the gaps  630  while air is being vacuumed from compartment  430 . 
         [0084]    Referring to  FIGS. 17 and 18 , an elongate first guide rail  660   a , an elongate second guide rail  660   b , an elongate third guide rail  660   c  and an elongate fourth guide rail  660   c  are provided to maintain suitcase panels  470  in relative alignment one to another, as described presently. Guide rails  660   a / 660   b / 660   c / 660   d  are disposed within compartment  430  and spaced above bottom panels  600 / 5610 / 630 / 640 . More specifically, first guide rail  660   a  extends parallel to side seventh panel  560  and side eighth panel  580  and has an end portion thereof affixed to front first panel  480 , as shown. Spaced along side seventh panel  560  and side eighth panel  580 , and connected thereto, is a plurality of guides  670 . Each guide  670  is connected to respective ones of side seventh panel  560  and side eighth panel  580  by a fastener  675 , which may be a screw or bolt, or by a suitable adhesive. In addition, each guide  670  defines a bore  680  for slidably receiving respective ones of guide rails  660   a / 660   b / 660   c / 660   d  therethrough. Thus, it may be appreciated that a purpose of guide rails  660   a / 660   b / 660   c / 660   d  and guides  670  is to maintain suitcase panels  470  in alignment with each other. In this manner, panels  500 / 520 / 530 / 550 / 560 / 580  easily ride or translate along their respective guide rails  660   a / 660   b / 660   c / 660   d  without misalignment of panels  500 / 520 / 530 / 550 / 560 / 580 . For example, guide rail  660   a  and guide  670  cooperate to maintain side seventh panel  560  in alignment with side eighth panel  580  while seventh panel  560  and side eighth panel  580  ride or translate along first guide rail  660   a . Moreover, an elastic region  683 , which may be made of rubber, extends around the perimeter of base  450  that belongs to case body  420  for reasons disclosed hereinbelow. Elastic region  683  bifurcates each of upright panels  500 / 520 / 530 / 550 / 560 / 580  into an upper portion  687  and a lower portion  689  for reasons disclosed hereinbelow. 
         [0085]    Returning to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , it may be appreciated by a person of skill in the art of luggage design that movement of panels  500 / 520 / 530 / 550 / 560 / 580 / 600 / 610 / 630 / 640  may be described with regard to a Cartesian coordinate system, generally referred to as  685 . In this regard, Cartesian coordinate system  685  has an “X-axis”, a “Y-axis” and a “Z-axis”, as shown. More specifically, with reference to the structure described in detail hereinabove, integrally connected upright front first panel  480 , upright side eighth panel  580  and bottom ninth panel  600  will move together in the X-direction and the Y-direction, as indicated by double-headed arrows  690   a  and  690   b , respectively. In addition, integrally connected upright front second panel  490 , upright side third panel  500  and bottom eleventh panel  630  will move together in the X-direction and the Y-direction, as indicated by double-headed arrows  690   a  and  690   b , respectively. Further, integrally connected upright side fourth panel  520 , upright rear fifth panel  530  and bottom twelfth panel  640  will move together in the X-direction and the Y-direction, as indicated by double-headed arrows  690   a  and  690   b , respectively. Moreover, integrally connected upright rear sixth panel  550 , upright side seventh panel  560  and bottom tenth panel  610  will move together in the X-direction and the Y-direction, as indicated by double-headed arrows  690   a  and  690   b , respectively. In this manner, width and depth of base  450  can increase and decrease by the above described movement of panels  500 / 520 / 530 / 550 / 560 / 580 / 600 / 610 / 630 / 640 . 
         [0086]    Referring again to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , height of base  450 , in addition to width and depth of base  450 , can increase and decrease in the Z-direction of Cartesian coordinate system  685 . In other words, height of base  450  can increase and decrease in the direction of a double-headed arrow  690   c . In this regard, previously mentioned elastic region  683  allows upper portion  687  of base  450  to upwardly and downwardly move. It should be appreciated that upward and downward movement of upper portion  687  allows height of base  450  to respectively increase and decrease. 
         [0087]    Still referring to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , previously mentioned cover  440  includes a plurality of movable cover panels, generally referred to as  700 . In this regard, cover panels  700  include a first cover panel  710 , a second cover panel  720 , a third cover panel  730  and a fourth cover panel  740 . Cover  440  also includes a plurality of cover guide rails  750  (only two of which are shown) and associated guides  760  connected to respective ones of first cover panel  710 , second cover panel  720 , third cover panel  730  and fourth cover panel  740 . It may be appreciated by a person of ordinary skill in the art of luggage design that structure of cover panels  710 / 720 / 730 / 740  comprising cover  440  is substantially similar to structure of panels  500 / 520 / 530 / 550 / 560 / 580 / 600 / 610 / 630 / 640  comprising base  450 . In this manner, cover panels  710 / 720 / 730 / 740  are adapted to move in the X-direction and the Y-direction, so that cover  440  can shrink or expand the same amount as base  450  after cover  440  closes compartment  430  and covers base  450 . Vacuum shrinkable luggage  410  also includes a male latch member  770  connected to cover  440 . Male latch member  770  is adapted to engage a female latch member  780  for releasibly locking cover  440  to base  450  after cover  440  closes compartment  430  and covers base  450 . Female latch member  780  is connected to base  450 . A handle  785  is connected to either or both of front first panel  480  and front second panel  490  for carrying vacuum shrinkable luggage  410 . In addition, an annular, elastomeric cover seal  790 , which may be rubber, extends around a bottom edge or rim of cover  440  for creating an air-tight seal between cover  440  and base  450  after cover  440  closes compartment  430  and covers base  450 . In other words, cover seal  790  maintains cover  440  and base  450  in a seal-tight relationship after cover  440  closes compartment  430  and covers base  450 . 
         [0088]    Referring to  FIGS. 13 ,  14 ,  15 ,  16 ,  17 ,  18  and  19 , air is typically present or trapped in compartment  430  after vacuum shrinkable luggage  410  is closed by means of cover  440 . It is desirable to remove or evacuate this air from compartment  430  in order to shrink the size of luggage body  420  that belongs to vacuum shrinkable luggage  410 . The size of luggage body  420  is determined by height along the Z-axis, width along the X-axis and depth along the Y-axis in Cartesian coordinate system  685 . This air is removed by previously mentioned electrically operable vacuum source  250 . Vacuum source  250  may be disposed externally to luggage body  420  (i.e., outside compartment  430 ) so as to provide an external vacuum source or within case body  420  (i.e., within compartment  430 ) so as to provide an internal vacuum source. When vacuum source  250  is disposed externally to case body  30 , vacuum source  250  may be the previously mentioned conventional vacuum cleaner  260  having electrical cord  270  connectable to external power supply  280  to electrically operate vacuum cleaner  260 . In this case, vacuum hose  290  interconnects vacuum cleaner  260  and second end portion  190  of tubular structure  160 . When vacuum hose  290  is connected to second end portion  190  of tubular structure  160 , vacuum hose  290  is in communication with air pathway  150 . In this manner, operation of vacuum cleaner  260  will vacuum air from compartment  430 , through air pathway  150 , into vacuum hose  290  and to vacuum cleaner  260 . Alternatively, vacuum source  250  may be the previously mentioned external vacuum pump  300  having electrical cord  270  connectable to external power supply  280  to electrically operate external vacuum pump  300 . Vacuum hose  290  interconnects external vacuum pump  300  to second end portion  190  of tubular structure  160 . When vacuum hose  290  is connected to second end portion  190  of tubular structure  160 , vacuum hose  290  is in communication with air pathway  150 . In this manner, operation of external vacuum pump  300  will vacuum air from compartment  430 , through air pathway  150 , into vacuum hose  290  and to external vacuum pump  300 . 
         [0089]    Referring again to  FIGS. 13 ,  14 ,  15 ,  16 ,  17 ,  18  and  19 , after cover  440  is closed and as vacuum source  250  (e.g., vacuum cleaner  260  or external vacuum pump  300 ) operates, air is evacuated from compartment  430 , as previously mentioned. Evacuation of air from compartment  430  creates a relatively lower pressure within compartment  430  that forces all panels  500 / 520 / 530 / 550 / 560 / 580 / 600 / 610 / 630 / 640 , including elastic region  683 , of case body  420  to inwardly move toward the center of luggage body  420  for defining a compressed state of luggage  410 . In this manner, panels  500 / 520 / 530 / 550 / 560 / 580 / 600 / 610 / 630 / 640 , including elastic region  683 , will compactly and intimately surround items  20  in compartment  430 . After sufficient air is evacuated from compartment  430 , operation of vacuum source  250  is stopped by the user. One-way valve  220  prevents reverse air-flow into now evacuated compartment  430 . In this manner, vacuum shrinkable luggage  410  of the invention shrinks to compactly, compressively enclose items  20  to be carried therein. 
         [0090]    With reference to  FIGS. 20 and 21 , there is shown a fifth embodiment vacuum shrinkable luggage, generally referred to as  800 , for compactly enclosing article  20  carried therein. Luggage  800  includes collapsible luggage body  420  defining sealable air-tight compartment  430  therein for receiving items  20 . According to this fifth embodiment luggage  800 , vacuum source  250  is disposed internally within compartment  430  rather than being disposed externally with respect to compartment  430 . More specifically, vacuum source  250  includes internal vacuum pump  320  that is disposed within compartment  430  and coupled to tubular structure  160 , such as being coupled to first end portion  180  of tubular structure  160 . Internal vacuum pump  320  includes electrical connection  330  disposed in any one of panels  470 , such as side eighth panel  580 , so as to be available to electrical adapter  340 . Electrical adapter  340  is adapted to connect electrical connection  330 , and therefore internal vacuum pump  320 , to power source  280  for providing electrical power to internal vacuum pump  320  in order to electrically operate vacuum pump  320 . As internal vacuum pump  320  is electrically operated, air is withdrawn from compartment  430 , through air pathway  150  and out tubular structure  160  for producing a vacuum in compartment  430 . After sufficient air is withdrawn from compartment  430 , electrical adapter  340  is disconnected from electrical connection  330 . Thereafter, one-way valve  220  prevents air from reentering compartment  40 , so that the vacuum in compartment  430  is maintained. 
         [0091]    As best seen in  FIG. 22 , there is shown a sixth embodiment vacuum shrinkable luggage, generally referred to as  810 , for compactly enclosing item  20  carried therein. Luggage  810  includes collapsible luggage body  420  defining sealable air-tight compartment  430  therein for receiving items  20 . According to this sixth embodiment luggage  810 , vacuum source  250  is disposed internally within compartment  430  rather than being disposed externally with respect to compartment  430 . More specifically, vacuum source  250  includes electrically operable internal vacuum pump  360  that is disposed within compartment  430  and coupled to tubular structure  160 , such as being coupled to first end portion  180  of tubular structure  160 . Internal vacuum pump  360  does not include previously mentioned electrical connection  330 . Rather, an internal power supply, such as previously mentioned rechargeable battery  370 , is disposed in compartment  430  and electrically coupled to internal vacuum pump  360 . Rechargeable battery  370  is electrically coupled to internal vacuum pump  360  by means of electrical cable or wire  380  for supplying electrical power to internal vacuum pump  360 . Internal vacuum pump  360  can be turned-on and turned-off by manipulating on/off toggle switch  390 . The on/off toggle switch  390  is disposed in any one of panels  470 , such as side eighth panel  580 , so as to be available to the user of luggage  810 . Also, rechargeable battery  370  includes electrical connection  400  that is disposed in side eighth panel  580 , so as to be available to previously mentioned electrical adapter  340 . Electrical adapter  340  removably connects electrical connection  400 , and therefore rechargeable battery  370 , to power source  280  for providing electrical power to recharge rechargeable battery  370 . After rechargeable battery  370  is sufficiently recharged, electrical adapter  340  is disconnected from electrical connection  400 . Also, after rechargeable batter  370  is sufficiently recharged, internal vacuum pump  360  may be operated by switching-on toggle switch  390 . As internal vacuum pump  360  is electrically operated, air is withdrawn from compartment  40 , through air pathway  150  and out tubular structure  160  for producing a vacuum in compartment  40 . After sufficient air is evacuated from compartment  40  in order to establish the necessary vacuum in compartment  40 , internal vacuum pump  360  is caused to cease operation by switching-off toggle switch  390 . Thereafter, one-way valve  220  prevents air from reentering compartment  430 , so that the vacuum in compartment  430  is maintained until cover  440  is lifted to unseal compartment  430 . 
         [0092]    Referring to  FIG. 23 , there is shown previously mentioned fourth embodiment luggage  410  with cover  440  closed and in an uncompressed state. In this uncompressed state, luggage  410  is illustrated before the vacuum is applied. 
         [0093]    Referring to  FIG. 24 , there is shown previously mentioned fourth embodiment luggage  410  with cover  440  closed and in a compressed state. In this compressed state, luggage  410  is illustrated after the vacuum is applied. 
       Illustrative Methods 
       [0094]    An illustrative method associated with exemplary embodiments for assembling a vacuum shrinkable luggage for compactly enclosing an item carried therein will now be described. 
         [0095]    Referring to  FIG. 25 , an illustrative method  820  that is provided for assembling a vacuum shrinkable luggage for compactly enclosing an item (or “article”) carried therein starts at a block  830 . At a block  840 , a compressible luggage (or “case”) body defining a compartment for receiving the item is provided. At a block  850 , a conduit adapted to be in communication with the compartment is provided for facilitating formation of low pressure (also called “vacuum”) in the compartment, so that the collapsible luggage body shrinks to compressibly surround the item while low pressure forms within the compartment. At a block  860 , a valve is coupled to the conduit for maintaining the low air pressure within the compartment. The method stops at a block  870 . 
         [0096]    Other modifications and implementations will occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and the scope of the invention as claimed. For example, an air pressure gauge may be in communication with the compartment and disposed in a panel of the luggage, so that measurement of air pressure within the compartment is viewable by the user from outside the luggage. A purpose of the pressure gauge would be to display when a sufficiently low air pressure is reached inside the compartment. As another example, the luggage may be liquid-tight, as well as air-tight, for preventing liquid or moisture (i.e., water) from entering the luggage. This may be particularly useful when electronic devices (e.g., cell phone, laptop computer, etc.) are placed in the luggage. Accordingly, the description hereinabove is not intended to limit the invention, except as indicated in the following claims.