VELO is a 3-in-1 expandable suitcase that changes size between a carry-on size, a medium check-in size, and a large check-in size through the press of a button.
VELO was funded successfully on three crowdfunding platforms during its initial launch.
Why Expandable?
The Market
Interest in travel has been steadily increasing. While the luggage market is growing, it has seen little innovation—most brands focus mainly on aesthetics and materials. An expandable suitcase presents an exciting opportunity to lead innovation in this long-static market.
Products & Trends Research
We conducted research on over 20 suitcase brands and in-depth analysis on the top 6 best selling ones.
Important Insights
Among all the standard suitcase sizes, 20" and 24" suitcases are bought most frequently, followed by 26". This further implies the market potential of an expandable suitcase that can transform between the 3 sizes.
Suitcases with patterned surfaces are more popular than those with flat, smooth surfaces. Patterned surfaces add visual appeal and increased resistance to visible scratches
Black, white, and grey are the most popular suitcase colors due to their timeless and versatile appeal. However, there is a growing trend toward low-saturation colors, such as Morandi tones.
Concept Development
Focus Area 1: General Form
We began by defining the preliminary form of the suitcase.
After evaluating various options, we decided to move forward with a vertical expansion design, where the top shells slide over and enclose the bottom shells. This configuration offers a cleaner aesthetic and improved protection. However, as the suitcase expands and the overlapping area between the shells decreases, a potential weak point may develop in the center region.
Our research shows that stripe patterns are generally more acceptable to buyers. To ensure the suitcase stands out from typical designs, we selected two stripe variations with distinctive visual elements.
Focus Area 2: Exterior Design
Focus Area 3: Structural / Mechanical Design
Expansion Mechanism
Reinforcement Frame
As the suitcase expands, the overlapping area between the top and bottom shells decreases, resulting in a potential weak point. To reinforce this area, a set of interlocking metal frames was introduced. These frames not only enhance the structural integrity of the suitcase but also conceal the exposed rough edges on the top shells. Visually, they contribute to a more refined and complete aesthetic.
Wide Handlebar
Unlike normal handlebars, wide handlebars require reinforcement pieces to strengthen their structure. A set of nylon plates (red) was incorporated into the grip structure. Working with the handle manufacturer, the CAD was refined for better manufacturability.
Mechanism Assembly
During the prototyping phase, the expansion mechanism was assembled by putting the suitcase upside down, positioning the internal components (green), and sliding the cover (orange) into place. This process proved highly challenging, as components frequently dislodged during assembly, and aligning them with the cover’s slots was difficult and time-consuming.
To streamline the assembly process, a bracket piece (green) that secures the internal components in place was introduced. Both the bracket and internal components were pre-installed by the manufacturer before the structure was shipped for final assembly. This change significantly improved assembly efficiency.
Durablility Testing
One Suitcase for All Your Needs
Transform with a Single Press
Positioned beneath the telescopic handle to avoid accidental activation, VELO’s expansion button allows seamless transformation between carry-on, medium, and large checked sizes — ready for any journey.
Room for More, Stress-Free
Forget the hassle of overpacking or extra bags, VELO expands to fit everything you pick up along the way.
Save Space When You’re Home
When not in use, retract VELO to its smallest size, helping you reclaim valuable closet or storage space.
Secure at Every Size
VELO’s custom zipper system, paired with the latest TSA 008 lock, keeps your belongings safe and secure.
Pack Efficiently
Adjustable internal dividers help organize your essentials and maximize usable space, making packing simpler and more efficient.
Sleek Pop-up Handle
Designed to maintain the sleek and streamlined aesthetics, this discreet handle adds a touch of elegance while ensuring easy maneuverability.
