Did you know that your suitcase is actually made up of many different parts?
So in this article, we'll introduce the main parts of a suitcase! (This time, we'll focus on hard-type suitcases.)
ACE LUGGAGE describes the products under the following names. If you are considering purchasing, please refer to this blog.

Parts list [Part 1]

1. System 
This is pulled out when moving the suitcase. The part that you grip tightly with your hand is called the "system handle" and the rod-shaped part that is pulled out is called the "system tube"; these two together are called the "system."
The Ace Luggage system has been highly praised for its smooth operation and ease of insertion and removal! The reason for this is that there is a small amount of "play" intentionally left in the system tube and the base that connects the system to the main body. This allows the system to be pulled out smoothly and straight.

2. Top Handle
When the suitcase is placed with the wheels (casters) on the floor, the handle attached to the top is the "top handle." Since the top handle may support the full weight of the suitcase, Ace Luggage conducts a "handle strength test*." We rigorously check the strength of the area around the handle.

*Handle strength test: The handle is moved up and down 5,000 times with a weight inside to verify the durability of the handle, main body, lock, etc.

3. Shell (top shell/bottom shell)
This refers to the "face" of the suitcase, the "part where you pack your luggage," also known as the "body" or "main body." This is probably the part you are most concerned about when purchasing a suitcase.
The shell is made by processing a sheet of material into a three-dimensional shape, or by pouring molten resin into a mold and letting it harden. It consists of two parts: the "top shell" that faces outward when you pull the suitcase, and the "bottom shell" that contains the system and faces the body.
The materials used vary, including aluminum and polycarbonate, and the strength and weight of the body will vary depending on the material.

4. Main handle
When the suitcase is placed with the wheels (casters) on the floor, the handle on the side is checked for strength, just like the top handle.
If you're wondering, "Why is this the main type, even though the top handle is used more frequently?", you're right! The reason this type is called the main type is because in the past, horizontal suitcases without casters were the norm.

↓ Click here to read the history of the birth of the vertical suitcase: " The trajectory of the birth of the 'vertical' and 'wheeled' suitcase ."

5. Glide
There are multiple glides on one side, and when you place the suitcase with this side facing down, the glides act as legs to prevent the side of the shell from touching the floor directly. By preventing scratches and dirt from getting on the side of the shell, you can use the suitcase for as long as possible, keeping it durable and clean.
*Cabin size (carry-on size) luggage often does not have glides in order to ensure maximum capacity within set size regulations.

Parts list [Part 2]

6. Zipper
This is the part used to open and close a suitcase. It is sewn all the way around the shell. Suitcases that use a zipper for opening and closing like this are called "zipper type" suitcases, and as they tend to be lighter than the frames described below, zipper type suitcases are becoming more popular these days.

7. Frame
The zipper section mentioned above is replaced with a "frame" made of aluminum, magnesium alloy, or resin. Suitcases that use a frame for the opening and closing part are called "frame type" suitcases, and although they tend to be heavier than zipper type suitcases, they have the advantage of being able to be opened and closed with less movement and the shell is less likely to deform.

8. Locks
Suitcases are equipped with locks to prevent luggage from being lost or stolen. Currently, the most common type is the "dial type" which allows you to set a 3-digit PIN code of your own choosing, but there are also "key types" which can be locked/unlocked with a key. In recent years, many locks have adopted a special type called a TS lock (Travel Sentry® approved lock).

What is TS Lock?

Currently, at airports in the United States and other countries, passengers are either not allowed to lock their baggage or are only allowed to use "some locks" when checking in their baggage. Those "some locks" are TS locks.
Suitcases locked with TS locks can be opened by security staff using a special tool, allowing passengers to check their luggage with it still locked.
On the other hand, if the lock is not a TS lock, it may be destroyed during inspection...

*In emergencies or depending on the situation in the departure country or destination, you may be asked to open your TS lock.

Parts list [Part 3]

9. Wheels
The wheels. Because they are the parts that constantly support the entire suitcase, Ace Luggage conducts "wheel running tests*" and "drop impact tests*" to rigorously check their strength. Currently, the mainstream is the "4-wheel" type, which has four tires. These are called swivel wheels because they can rotate 360 ​​degrees.
Furthermore, swivel wheels are divided into single-wheel and double-wheel types.

■ Single wheel type
It is possible to move stably and straight in the direction of travel. The wide tires are fixed from both sides, making the casters strong and reliable. Because they are wide, they are less likely to get stuck in roadside gutters or potholes, allowing for smooth travel.
Also , since they are generally smaller than the twin-wheeled packs described below, there is less loss of space (which is great!), and they are often used for carry-on luggage where there are size restrictions.

■ Twin wheel type
Since the two tires rotate independently, there is less turning resistance, making for a smoother ride and greater maneuverability. Another feature is that the load on each tire is smaller, making it easier to start off. The weight is heavier than a single-wheeled vehicle.

Both single-wheel and double-wheel models can move with all four tires in contact with the floor, allowing the suitcase to be moved closer to the body. Suitcases take up a lot of space. It's nice to be able to move the suitcase closer to your body on narrow roads and in crowded places.

We are often asked, "Aren't dual-wheeled suitcases stronger than single-wheeled suitcases?" As a suitcase maker, I can't say which is stronger, as it depends on the product, how you use it, and the road conditions.

* Wheel running test: The wheels are loaded with weights and run on simulated road surfaces for 16km for about 4 consecutive hours to verify their durability.

*Drop impact test: With weight inside, the product is dropped five times from a height of 120cm with the casters facing in different directions, and dropped five times from the glide to verify its strength.

10. Wheels stopper 
Apply the brakes to the wheels. ACE Luggage is equipped with a "one-push wheel stopper" (patent number 5175329). Simply press the button near the handle to stop the casters instantly. This prevents the suitcase from tipping over on slopes or in the swaying interior of public transport, making travel safer and more comfortable.