Suitcase that can self-weigh, charge phone on the go

Washington: Researchers have recently developed a "Bluesmart suitcase" that is equipped with digital technology to solve to basic needs of travelers like charging phone and self-weighing among others.

Martin Diz, from University at Buffalo, has built a Bluetooth-driven suitcase that packs a microcomputer , a battery for charging smartphones on the go, a sensor for tracking the luggage's location, and a built-in digital scale for weighing the case.

The case had been accompanied by a mobile application that serves as a personal travel assistant.

The innovations Diz and his five co-founders came up with include; a built-in battery with three USB ports that can charge cell phones and tablets six times over; the ability to lock the suitcase using a smart phone app. The case also automatically locks when the owner moves away from it.

It also contains sensors that tracks the location of the case; an app that tracks trip data, such as distance traveled and airports visited; app-notifications that remind travelers when to arrive at the airport and what to pack based on the weather at their destination; a built-in digital scale that weighs the eight-pound case when the handle's lifted.

Travelers can recharge Bluesmart in as little as five hours with their laptop or tablet cable, though the suitcase will also be shipped with its own charge cord. The case had been preapproved by the Transportation Security Administration.

The suitcase will be shipped to supporters in August 2015. It will sell in the 500 dollar price range, said Diz. But savvy buyers can purchase the suitcase for a discount on the Bluesmart Indiegogo page.