Support frame for use with lawn and refuse bags

Abstract

A C-shaped support frame fits to the upper entry of a lawn and/or refuse bag to hold the bag open for receiving leaves or waste. The support frame includes retention structure in the form of a pair of deflectable beams and associated cutouts, each of U-shape, wherein the bag material is engaged by the beam when the beam is snap-fitted back into the cutout associated therewith. The retention structure may include two pairs of U-shaped beams, the beams of each pair being relatively deflectable and grippingly engageable with the bag material when the beams are snap-fitted into their respective cutouts.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/830,031, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/849,666, filed Oct. 5, 2006, each titled "Support Frame for Use With Leaf Bags", filed Oct. 5, 2006, and the entire disclosure of each incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] This invention relates, in general, to a support frame for use with lawn and refuse bags or the like; and in particular, to an improved support frame for removable attachment to the top entry of such bag for rigidifying and maintaining the bag upwardly open to receive materials deposited therein.

[0004] 2. Discussion of Related Art

[0005] In the prior art, there are many bag holders, but these prior art bag holders have numerous deficiencies. For example, some of the known bag holders may be inconvenient to erect, may collapse at inopportune times, and may be unstable when the bag is filled.

[0006] Further, various types of bag retainers have been proposed. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,511,110 to Roye discloses a bag retainer with a plurality of legs, which are joined to a bag-retaining frame having retainers to hold a bag in the frame.

[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 6,076,782 to Alderman discloses a bag retainer with a plurality of legs joined to a bag-retaining frame having retainers to hold a bag in the frame.

[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 3,638,888 to Ross discloses a foldable bag frame with a lower and upper support ring and supports between the support rings.

[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,411,229 to Hoefkes discloses a bag holder with two frames that are hinged together to support a bag therebetween.

[0010] The above documents disclose various solutions to the problems then presented. The instant invention is directed to improved apparatus for use with lawn and refuse bags, which overcomes certain disadvantages inherent in the prior disclosures.

[0011] It is an object of the present invention to provide a new and improved support apparatus for holding a bag in an open condition.

[0012] It is an object of the present invention to provide a new and improved support apparatus that is inexpensive, reusable, easy to use, and removably attaches to the top entry of a conventional paper bag used to receive lawn and refuse materials and maintain the bag in an upwardly open position to receive the materials dropped thereinto.

[0013] It is an object of the present invention to provide a new and improved support apparatus that is lightweight and has a high strength to weight ratio to support and retain a conventional lawn and refuse bag in an upwardly open condition.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention is a support apparatus for holding a lawn and/or refuse bag or the like in an upwardly open condition for receiving leaves and/or other refuse funneled thereinto by a user. The support apparatus is fitted to the upper end portion of the bag and spaced retention members thereof grip the bag material, the retention members cooperating as well to provide handles. The support apparatus is preferably in the form of a C-shaped frame that is able to be inserted into or about and hold the top of a bag open, such as a self-standing yard waste paper bag having a rectangular top entry, or a plastic refuse bag and extend from the top opening to the bottom of the bag to maintain the bag vertical and the top entry open to receive waste materials dropped therein.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment according to this invention, the support apparatus is one-piece, generally rectangular, formed of a cardboard like material, and vertically scored or creased to form a center wall between a pair of side walls, the vertical creases reducing the material thickness and forming hinges that enable the side walls to swing inwardly and outwardly, respectively, between a stored position wherein the sidewalls are in generally parallel juxtaposed relation, such as with the center wall or one another, and in use position wherein the sidewalls are generally perpendicular to the center wall. Each sidewall includes retention structure, which comprises handle-like beams that snap-fit into a receiving cutout to establish frictional retaining engagement with the material of the bag and rigidify, support and hold and maintain the upper end portion of the bag in an upwardly open condition for filling by the user.

[0016] According to this embodiment of the invention, the retention structure comprises the sidewall being punched to form a pair of circular openings and slitted, the slit being continuous, U-shaped and extending between the openings and forming a U-shaped cutout and a U-shaped beam that is deflectable upwardly from nested fitment within the cutout. In use, the upper end portion of the bag is inserted between the beam and cutout and the upper end located in the openings, the beam is snap-fitted back into nested fitment within the cutout, whereupon the material is gripped by the mating edges of the beam and cutout and the frame is engaged in a tight locking engagement with the bag. Unwanted removal of the bag from locked fitment is further inhibited by engagement of the bag material by the edge that forms a shaped opening.

[0017] Importantly, the shaped opening openings not only enhance gripping connection with the bag material but also enhance inward/outward flexure of the beam relative to the sidewall from which cantilevered.

[0018] Additionally, the deflectable U-shaped beam has a width dimension greater than a height dimension. Together, the two U-shaped beams cooperate to form handles.

[0019] Preferably, the U-shaped slit is symmetrically centered on a perpendicular that extends between the top and bottom edges of the sidewall and the slit defines first, second and third edges, the first and second edges being symmetrically disposed and at an acute angle to the perpendicular and the third edge generally parallel to the top edge of the sidewall and joining the first and second edges, the transition between the third edge with each of the first and second edges being rounded to increase bag engagement area and to obviate cutting the bag material.

[0020] Further, the one-piece retention frame is preferably formed of a material that is lightweight, moisture resistant, and notable for stiffness and durability and high strength to weight ratio. A preferred material is cardboard and like paper products made of unbleached kraft paper, with two heavy outer layers and a wavy inner layer to provide strength, and possibly comprised of recycled fibers and coated to form a moisture barrier when collecting wet leaves, thereby enabling use and reuse of the retention frame.

[0021] According to an important aspect of this embodiment, the wavy inner layer comprises a succession of parallel ridges and grooves, which are oriented parallel to the top and bottom edges of the frame, the inner layer operating to reduce the ability of the side wall to resist a bending force resulting from the flange deflecting outwardly to fit about the upper end portion of the bag.

[0022] Preferably, the cross-section of said inner layer is formed by repeating sequence of squared indentations (i.e., a crenellated cross-section).

[0023] In another embodiment according to this invention, the retention structure on each said sidewall comprises a pair of U-shaped beams, the members formed by the material of the sidewall being slitted with inner and outer U-shaped slits to form a nested pair of U-shaped cutouts and associated beams, the inner slit forming the outer periphery of an inner beam and the inner periphery and an outer beam and the cutout for the inner beam, and the outer slit forming the outer periphery of an outer beam and the cutout therefore, the beams being deflectable outwardly of the sidewall and interfittable into their respective cutouts. The bag material is inserted into gaps formed between the outwardly deflected beams and the beams snap fitted back into their cutouts to grippingly engage and lock with the bag material.

[0024] The inner and outer slits cooperate to form a carrying handle comprised of a pair of legs that are cantilevered to the sidewall and a transverse handle portion that extends between the legs. As noted, the outer periphery of this handle lock fits into the forming slit thereof and the inner periphery of this handle forms the cutout and lock fits the outer periphery of the inner beam.

[0025] Additionally, the sidewall is punched to form a keyhole-shaped opening at each end of the outer slit, and form a pivot line or axis, in a manner described hereinabove. Importantly, the keyhole shaped openings enhance gripping connection with the bag material but also enhance inward/outward foldability of the U-shaped handle or outer beam relative to the sidewall from which cantilevered.

[0026] Preferably, the one-piece retention frame of this embodiment is preferably formed of a cardboard like that described above but wherein the wavy inner layer comprises a succession of parallel ridges and grooves oriented perpendicular to the top and bottom edges of the frame.

[0027] However, depending on the application, such as whether intended for repetitive uses or whether a single use followed by discarding is desired, the support frame and retention structure thereof may be comprised of material other than cardboard, such as a polymeric material.

[0028] According to another embodiment of this invention, there is provided an arrangement for collecting leaves and like yard waste, comprising, in combination,

[0029] an upwardly open bag formed of self-supporting yet pliable paper material that is capable of being manipulated and deformed and having a top end, and

[0030] a C-shaped support frame located, at least in part, atop the top end of the bag and holding the bag in the open position, the frame having a center wall and a pair of lateral sidewalls, and retention means for gripping and removable securement to the bag material, said retention means provided on each said sidewall and comprising said side wall being punched to form a pair of laterally spaced through holes that define a pivot axis and slitted between the holes to form a U-shaped beam and matching U-shaped cutout, the beam being deflectable relative to the axis upwardly from and into nested relation with the cutout, the top end of the bag fitting between the beam and the cutout and the openings locating the top end of the bag, the nesting of the beam into the cutout frictionally engaging and forming a locked engagement with the material of the bag.

[0031] These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will be fully apparent from the following description, when taken in connection with the annexed drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] The above and other advantages and features of the present invention will be better understood from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the present invention, which is provided in connection with the accompanying drawings. The various features of the drawings may not be to scale. Included in the drawings are the following Figures:

[0033] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a support frame of the present invention positioned for attachment atop the upwardly open top of a paper lawn and refuse bag to maintain the top of the bag in an upwardly open position to receive materials dropped into the bag.

[0034] FIG. 2 is an elevation view looking at the left half of the support frame according to the present invention, the right half being a mirror image thereof

[0035] FIG. 3 is an end view of the top longitudinal edge of the support frame with the opposite lateral side walls thereof folded downwardly and into a stored position against a center wall.

[0036] FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the sidewall shown in FIG. 2 showing bag retention structure thereof.

[0037] FIGS. 5A and 5B show a first step in attaching the support frame atop the top end portion of the lawn and refuse bag with FIG. 5B taken along line 5B-5B of FIG. 5A, each Figure being a partial elevation view of the arrangement wherein the side wall is inside the bag and the beam clip is outside the bag, with FIG. 5A showing the arrangement as seen looking at the outside of the bag, and FIG. 5B showing a cross-section of the arrangement.

[0038] FIGS. 6A and 6B are similar to FIGS. 5A and 5B but show a second and final step wherein the retention structure of the support frame is in a snap-fit gripping attachment with the leaf bag.

[0039] FIG. 7 is an alternate embodiment of a bag retention and shows the support frame positioned atop and encircling the top entry thereof with the top end of the bag located by the keyhole and the beam clip positioned interiorly of the bag for outward movement into mating seating in the cutout lock and snap fit retaining engagement with the leaf bag.

[0040] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a support frame of the present invention used to vertically support and retain a lawn and refuse bag in an open position.

[0041] FIG. 9 is a top end view of the support frame shown in FIG. 8.

[0042] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a top end portion of the support frame and leaf bag retention structure of FIG. 8

[0043] FIGS. 11, 12, 13, and 14 are elevation views showing the support frame of FIG. 10 positioned within the bag and the progressive stages wherein the retention structure of the support frame is brought into retaining engagement with the material of the leaf bag.

[0044] FIGS. 11A, 12A, 13A, and 14A are side views in section taken along lines 11A, 12A, 13A, and 14A, respectively, of FIGS. 11, 12, 13, and 14 showing the support frame of the present invention being received in the lawn and refuse bag and compliant material of the bag being engaged by and retained by retention structure of the support frame.

DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0045] Referring now to the drawings, there is illustrated embodiments of a bag support or retention frame according to this invention. In a first arrangement, a support frame is fittable atop a self-standing generally rectangularly open paper lawn bag. In another arrangement, a support frame is adapted to be fittable within in a paper or non-self standing plastic bag and extend from the top to the bottom thereof

[0046] According to the first arrangement, FIG. 1 illustrates a bag support or retention frame according to this present invention, generally indicated by the reference number 10 positioned atop a top end 12 of and insertion, at least in part, into the upper end portion 14 of a lawn and refuse bag or the like, generally indicated at "B". The upper end portion 14 of the bag "B" is openable and typically forms a rectangular shaped entryway into the interior of the bag.

[0047] Generally, the bag "B" is conventionally available in the marketplace and is comprised of a material that is capable of retaining yard waste material that is dry but also which may be wet or moistened. Preferably, the bag "B" is self-supporting, forms an open top, and is comprised of kraft paper or a material that may be crumpled, crushed, or otherwise manipulated to close the open top.

[0048] In some applications, the retention or support frame 10 may be axially elongated, insertable into a plastic bag and extend between the ends thereof and be used to make the plastic bag self standing and upwardly open.

[0049] The support frame 10 is adapted to rigidify and maintain the top end of the bag in an upwardly open position for receiving leaves, grass clippings, yard waste and like materials funneled thereinto by a user.

[0050] According to this invention, the bag support or retention frame 10 is inserted, at least in part, into the top opening of the bag "B", seated atop the top end 12 of the bag, and secured in removable retaining engagement with material of the bag "B" to maintain the bag in an open waste receiving condition. It is to be understood that the support frame 10 of the present invention may be inserted within or in encircling relation with the bag, as will be discussed in greater detail herein below.

[0051] The support frame 10 is preferably unitary and of once piece construction and generally rectangular shaped, the frame having top and bottom edges 16 and 18 extending longitudinally and opposite lateral edges 20 and 22. Preferably, the frame 10 is formed of a material that is lightweight, moisture resistant, and notable for stiffness and durability and high strength to weight ratio. A preferred material is cardboard and like paper product made of unbleached craft paper, with two heavy outer layers 10a and 10b and a wavy inner layer 10c to provide strength. The material is possibly comprised of recycled fibers and coated to form a moisture barrier when collecting wet leaves, thereby enabling use and reuse of the support frame.

[0052] In an important aspect of this invention, the inner layer 10c forms an alternating succession of parallel ridges (and grooves) 10d that extend between the opposite lateral edges 20 and 22 in generally parallel relation to the top and bottom edges 16 and 18. In one preferred embodiment, the ridges 10d of the inner layer form a repeating sequence of squared indentations (i.e., crenellated). As will be discussed, the orientation of the ridges 10d cooperate to assist a top end portion of the frame to locally deform outwardly to effect retention with the bag material.

[0053] Further, in some applications, such as where longevity is desired, the support frame can be made from other materials such as, but not limited to, extruded plastic or high-density polyethylene.

[0054] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the support or bag retention frame 10 is creased at 24 and 26 to partition the cardboard sheet into a center wall 28, and a pair of sidewalls 30 and 32, each wall being generally rectangular in shape. The crease lines 24 and 26 extend between the top and bottom edges 16 and 18 and form areas of reduced thickness in the cardboard material. Importantly, the crease lines form hinge connections that enable the sidewalls 30 and 32 to swing relative to the center wall 28 and fold over onto themselves in juxtaposed with one another and the center wall and in substantially parallel relation with one another.

[0055] The support frame 10 may also be formed by joining separate components (i.e., providing separate walls that are joined together by separate hinge elements).

[0056] The support frame 10 is preferably located atop the bag and proximate to the top end 12 thereof. That is, the support frame is vertically spaced from the bottom of the bag and provides a rigidifying collar or funnel about the top end portion 14 of the bag.

[0057] As noted hereinabove, in some applications, when the support frame 10 is inserted into the interior of the bag, the support frame 10 may be substantially coextensive with the vertical height of the bag "B". That is, the height of the support frame, as measured by the length of the edges 10 and 22 (or the distance between the top and bottom edges 16 and 18), and the vertical height of the bag "B" may be substantially the same.

[0058] As seen best in FIG. 3, the side walls 30 and 32 swing relative to their crease, or hinge connection 24 and 26 with the center wall 28, and between a stored first position in juxtaposed generally parallel relation against the center wall 28 and an in use second position (shown in phantom) in generally perpendicular relation with the center wall 28. When deployed and in the in use position, the walls 30, 28 and 32 cooperate to form a generally squared C-shaped collar or frame for maintaining the top end of the bag "B" in an upwardly open position.

[0059] Each sidewall 30 and 32 is provided with retention structure 34 for engaging and retaining the paper material of the bag and that forms the upper end portion 14 of the bag, wherein to support, retain, and maintain the bag in the upwardly open condition. In the discussion to follow, the description of the retention structure 34 is with respect to the sidewall 30, but applies equally to the sidewall 32.

[0060] According to this invention, referring to FIG. 3, the retention structure 34 comprises the material of the side wall 30 being slitted by a U-shaped slit 36 to form a U-shaped beam clip 38 and matching U-shaped cutout lock recess 40 and punched to form a circular keyhole opening 42 at each end of the U-shaped slit. The keyholes 42 are generally aligned along a common line, which forms a pivot axis "P". The pivot axis is proximate to and in parallel spaced relation to the top edge 16 of the sidewall 30.

[0061] The U-shaped beam clip 38 is integral with the sidewall and has an upper end portion 44 disposed along the pivot axis "P", proximate to the top edge 16, and a lower end portion 46, proximate to the lower edge 18. The beam clip 38 functions as a cantilever beam and deflects relative to the pivot axis "P" with the lower end portion 46 being adapted to pivot outwardly and away from the side wall 30 and into and from nested relation within the lock recess 40.

[0062] Preferably, the U-shaped slit 36 is symmetrically centered on a perpendicular, or centerline "L", that extends between the top and bottom edges 16 and 18 of the support frame 10. Because the beam clip 38 and lock recess 40 are formed simultaneously by the slitting step, they have matching shapes and the beam 38 nests or otherwise fits snugly within the lock recess 40.

[0063] Further, the U-shaped slit provides the beam clip 38 with a pair of angled side edges 38a and 38b and a generally horizontally extending end edge 38c in generally parallel relation to the pivot axis. The lock recess 40 includes a pair of angled side edges 40a and 40b and an end edge 40c. The transition between the respective side edges 38a, 40a and 38b, 40b with the respective end edge 38c, 40c is generally rounded to increase bag gripping area, distribute engagement forces, and obviate cutting engagement with the bag material.

[0064] Preferably, the side edges 38a, 40a and 38b, 40b are at an acute angle "A" to the perpendicular line "L" (see FIG. 2). Preferably, the acute angle "A" is between 25.degree. and 60.degree. (or the two side edges of the slit define a double included angle of 50.degree. to 120.degree.). More preferably, each side edge is at an acute angle "A" of about 30.degree. to the perpendicular line "L".

[0065] In an illustrative example of the preferred embodiment, the support frame 10 is formed of a single sheet of cardboard, the sheet having a thickness of about 1/8 to 3/16 inches, a height of about 41/2 inches, a center wall 28 of about 153/4 inches wide, and two side walls 30 and 32 each about 113/4 inches wide. The beam clip 38 and cutout 40 are centered between the opposite edges of the respective sidewall and the pivot line defined by the keyholes or openings 42 about 3/4 inch down from the top edge 16 thereof. The U-shaped beam clip 38 has a width of about 53/4 inches to 57/8 inches (across the top and from key hole to key hole), and angled side edges of about 3 inches to 31/4 inches, and a width of about 23/4 inches. The keyhole opening 42 is generally circular and has a diameter of about 1/4 inch.

[0066] As regards the inner wavy layer 10c, preferably each wave is generally box like in cross-section.

[0067] Referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B, the support frame 10 positioned above the upwardly open bag "B" and the beam clips 38 deflected outwardly from their respective lock recess 40 and away from one another. In this regard, as shown in FIG. 5B, the wavy inner layer 10c provides a controlled resistance to deformation of the sidewall, and enables outward deflection of the beam clip 38. The upper end portion "C" of the sidewall 30 is adapted to yield locally, enabling control of the beam deflection relative to the sidewall.

[0068] The frame 10 is moved downwardly and inserted into the bag, at least in part, and seated atop the top end 12 of the bag "B". The lower end of the support frame is located interiorly of the bag, the top end 12 of the bag located in the key holes 42, and the upper end portion 14 of the bag "B", at least in part, sandwiched between the respective side walls 30 and 32 and their respective clip beams. The clip beams 38 are exterior to the bag interior.

[0069] Referring to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the clip beams 38 are pushed inwardly towards their respective sidewalls 30 and 32 and back into their respective lock recesses 40. The edges of the beam clip and associated lock recess cooperate to snap fit into gripping relation (i.e., form a releasable lock) with the upper end portion of the bag.

[0070] The bag material is grippingly retained by the coaction of the slitted and punched out portions of the sidewalls 30 and 32. The junction between the keyhole 42 and the slits formed by the edges of the beam and matched recess form a pinching relation to resist withdrawal of the bag "B".

[0071] The bag of FIGS. 6A and 6B is upwardly open, and ready for filling.

[0072] To remove the bag "B" from retained engagement by the retention frame 10 of the present invention, the beam clips are snapped free and deflected outwardly of their lock recesses, releasing any gripping relation with the bag, and the frame withdrawn from the bag. Typically, the upper end portion of the bag is then closed by a conventional tie member.

[0073] According to an alternate arrangement, and referring to FIG. 7, the support frame 10 may be dimensioned to encircle the bag "B". In this arrangement, the C-shaped frame is positioned above the bag, the beam clips 38 deflected outwardly of their lock recesses 40 and away from their side walls 30 and 32 and towards one another, and the frame lowered downwardly and into the bag, at least in part. That is, the frame is seated atop the top end 12 of the bag, the keyholes 42 locate the bag, the clip beams 38 are disposed interiorly of the bag, and the sidewalls are disposed about the bag. The beam clips are then pushed back into their respective lock recesses 40, the edges of the beam clips and recesses simultaneously gripping and retaining upper end portions of the bag material.

[0074] In another preferred embodiment according to this invention, FIG. 8 illustrates a bag support or retention frame according to this present invention, generally indicated by the reference number 110 disposed within and maintaining a leaf bag "B" (shown in phantom) in a vertical upwardly open position for receiving leaves, grass clippings, yard waste and like materials funneled thereinto by a user.

[0075] Generally, the bag "B" is as described hereinabove and may be comprised of paper (and self-supporting) or of a polymeric material (e.g., plastic), each being of a material that may be crumpled, crushed, or otherwise manipulated to close the open top and capable of retaining yard waste material that is dry but also which may be wet or moistened.

[0076] As described above, the bag support or retention frame 110 is inserted into the top opening of the bag "B" and secured in retaining engagement with material of the bag "B" to maintain the bag in an open waste receiving condition.

[0077] Preferably, the retention frame according to this embodiment of the invention is to be used with bags forming a top opening that is generally square or rectangular in shape and slightly larger than the shape of the support or retention frame 110 when unfolded into a squared C-shape.

[0078] Preferably, the support frame 110 is as described above, and is unitary, of once piece construction and formed of a material that is lightweight, moisture resistant, and notable for stiffness and durability and high strength to weight ratio. Preferably, and depending on the application, the material is cardboard or a polymeric material.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the support or bag retention frame 110 includes a center wall 112 having a pair of lateral side edges 112a and 112b and a pair of side walls 114 and 116 hingedly joined to a respective edge, such as by a crease or fold. Each of the walls is generally rectangular in shape and, so joined, form substantially bottom and top edges 118 and 120. The support frame 110 has a height, as measured by the separation between the edges 118 and 120, which is substantially coextensive with the vertical height of the bag "B" when the frame is inserted therewithin. The top or upper end portion 122 of the bag is proximate to the top edge 120 of the frame 110.

[0080] The side walls 114 and 116 swing relative to their hinge connection between a stored first position in juxtaposed generally parallel relation against the center wall 112 and an in use second position in generally perpendicular relation with the center wall 112. In the in use position, the walls cooperate to form a generally squared C-shaped frame for supporting the bag in an upwardly open position when the frame is inserted into the bag.

[0081] Each side wall 114 and 116 is provided with retention structure 124 for engaging and retaining the material of the bag that forms the upper end portion 122 of the bag wherein to retain the bag in said vertical upwardly open condition, the retention means being provided on the upper end portion of each said side wall. In the discussion to follow, the description of the retention structure 124 is with respect to the sidewall 114, but applies equally to the sidewall 116.

[0082] Further, depending on the application, the first and second sidewalls 114 and 116 may be separately provided with mounting or connecting structure for mounting the walls to one another and for pivoting movement with respect to one another and between a stored first position and a deployed second position.

[0083] According to this invention, referring to FIG. 10, the retention structure 124 comprises the material of the sidewall 114 being slitted to form a first member or clip 126 of U-shape and a second member or lock 128 nested within the first member 126. The clip and lock 126 and 128 each have an upper end portion 130 and 132, respectively, disposed along a pivot line "P" proximate to but spaced downwardly from the top edge 120 of the side wall 114 and a lower end portion 134 and 136, respectively, distal and spaced downwardly from the pivot line.

[0084] The clip and lock 126 and 128 are integral with the sidewall from which formed and function as a deflectable cantilever beam. That is, the clip and lock pivot relative to the pivot line "P" with the lower ends 134 and 136 pivoting outwardly and away from the plane of the side wall 114 and inwardly towards the sidewall, returning the clip and lock into the plane of the sidewall 114.

[0085] The clip 126 is generally U-shaped and includes a pair of vertically extending legs 138 and 140 and a generally horizontally extending lower leg 142, the lower leg 142 extending between the sides 112a and 112b and in generally parallel relation to the top edge 120. The lock 128 is also U-shaped and nests within the U-shape of the clip 126.

[0086] The clip and lock 126 and 128 pivot outwardly and away from the sidewall 114. In so doing, a closable contoured U-shaped opening or throat 144 for receiving bag material 146 is formed between the outer exterior edge 126a of the clip 126 and the corresponding edge 114a of the sidewall 114 from which the clip 126 is formed. Further, a closable contoured U-shaped opening or throat 148 for receiving bag material 150 is formed between the interior edge 126b of the U-shaped clip 126 and the corresponding peripheral edge 128a of the lock 128.

[0087] The material 146 and 150 of the leaf bag "B" is inserted into the openings 144 and 148 and the clip 126 and lock 128 snapped into closed relation with the side wall from which each depends. Thereafter, the bag material 146 and 150 is frictionally engaged and clamped into a retained tight fit by and between the edges 126a and 114a of the U-shaped lock member 126 and also by and between the edges 126b and 128a of the lock member 128.

[0088] To further enhance the ability of the clip and lock member to grip and retain the bag material as well as the outward/inward foldability of the U-shaped members 126 and 128, a cutout area, such as a keyhole 152, is provided at the root of each leg 138 and 140 that form the U-shape of the clip member 126. The cut out may provided such as in a punching operation. As illustrated, the keyhole opening 152 is generally circular, and centered on the root of the slit that forms the U-shaped clip 126.

[0089] Further and according to this invention, the second member or lock 128 forms a handle member for the user to use in lifting and moving the leaf bag. In use, when movement of the bag is desired, the clip members 126 are in planar relation with the sidewalls 114 and 116 and in gripping relation with the bag material 146. The two lock members 128 are pivoted outwardly from the plane of the respective sidewalls 114 and 116 and away from the two clips 126 associated therewith to form the opening 148 for receiving the user's fingers and gripping the lock members 128.

[0090] In some applications, where retention only is desired, the clip and lock members 126 and 128 may be disposed horizontally.

[0091] Additionally, in some applications, a U-shaped opening may be provided in the side wall and a U-shaped clip and lock with U-shaped periphery separately provided and hingedly mounted in close fitting pivoting relation relative to the U-shaped opening in the sidewall.

[0092] According to this invention, the bag material is pliable and capable of being maneuvered into engaged relation by the clip and lock members 126 and 128 and frictionally gripped thereby.

[0093] In one application, the width of the sidewall 114 and 116 is about 11 inches and the clip 126 and lock 128 are centered between the secured and free edges thereof and about 3/4 inch down from the top edge 120 thereof. The U-shaped clip 126 has a width of about 53/4 inches (across the top and spanning the opposite sides of the legs and space between the legs), and legs having a width of about 1 inch and a height of about 31/4 inches. The upper edge of the lock 128 (and thus the inner width of the U-shaped clip 126) is about 33/4 inches.

[0094] Importantly, the keyhole or opening 152 is generally circular and has a diameter of about 1/4 inch. Two keyholes 152 are provided on each sidewall 114 and 116 and each is centered on a respective slit that forms one and the other leg of the U-shaped clip member.

[0095] FIGS. 11-14 and 11A-14A illustrate the progressive steps in attaching the upper end portion of the bag "B" to the support frame 110.

[0096] FIGS. 11 and 11A show the support frame 110 when inserted within the bag "B" and the upper end portion 122 of the bag proximate to the top edge 120 of the frame 110. The sidewall 114 has been slitted to form the U-shaped clip 126 and nested lock 128, each "snapped into" planar relation with the sidewall. The sidewall is also punched to form the keyholes 152 at the root of the clip 126.

[0097] FIGS. 12 and 12A show the clip 126 and lock 128 being pivoted upwardly and away from the frame, and in a direction inwardly of the bag "B". In such movement, the throats or openings 144 and 148 for receiving bag material proximate to the upper end portion of the bag are developed between the clip 126 and the side wall, and between the clip 126 and the lock 128.

[0098] FIGS. 13 and 13A show bag material 146 and 150 being received in the openings 144 and 148, and forced upwardly and into the circular keyholes 152 forming the root of the clip 126.

[0099] FIGS. 14 and 14A illustrate a final retained arrangement between the retention frame 110 and the upper end portion of the bag "B". The lower bag material 144 is frictionally gripped between the outer peripheral U-shaped edge 126a of the U-shaped clip 126 and the complementary U-shaped edge 114a formed in the wall 114. Further, the upper bag material 150 is frictionally engaged between the inner U-shaped edge 126b of the U-shaped clip 126 and the complementary U-shaped outer peripheral edge 128a of the lock 128.

[0100] Additionally, bag material is grippingly retained by the coaction of the slitted and punched out portions of the sidewall 114. The junction between the keyhole 152 and slits formed by the edges 126A and 114A form a pinching relation to resist downward withdrawal of the bag "B".

[0101] The bag of FIGS. 14 and 14A is vertically disposed, and upwardly open, and ready for filling.

[0102] To remove the bag "B" from retained engagement by the retention frame 110 of the present invention, the clip and lock members 126 and 128 are snapped free, and the frame withdrawn from the bag, and the top of the bag tied in a conventional manner.

[0103] Although the retention frame and the method of using the same according to the present invention has been described in the foregoing specification with considerable detail, it is to be understood that modifications may be made to the invention by those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains

Claims

1. A support apparatus for insertion into and maintaining the top opening of a bag in an upwardly open position, comprising: a retention frame, said retention frame including a center wall, a pair of sidewalls, and means for hingedly connecting the sidewalls to the center wall and to swing relative to the hinge between a stored first position in generally parallel relation with the center wall and an in use second position in generally perpendicular relation with the center wall and form a C-shaped structure that is fittable, at least in part, to the upper end portion of the bag and the walls are juxtaposed with a respective portion of the bag, and retention means for engaging and gripping the material of the bag, the retention means being provided on each sidewall and adapted to removably grip a respective upper end portion of the bag with which the sidewall is juxtaposed wherein the frame operates to retain and maintain the bag in the upwardly open position.

2. The support apparatus of claim 1, wherein the retention frame has a top edge proximate to the top of the bag and a bottom edge proximate to the ground, the sidewalls and center wall extending vertically between the edges when the retention frame is connected to the bag.

3. The support apparatus of claim 2, wherein the bag is comprised of a strong durable paper wherein to be vertically self-standing.

4. The support apparatus of claim 2, wherein the bag is comprised of a limp pliable polymeric material and the sidewalls and center wall extend between the opposite ends of the bag wherein to hold the bag vertically.

5. The support apparatus of claim 1, wherein the retention frame is one piece and of a cardboard-like material, and said means for hingedly connecting the sidewalls to the center wall comprises a pair of creases or like areas of reduced cross-section formed in the material.

6. The support apparatus of claim 1, wherein said retention means comprises the side wall being punched and slitted, the slit being continuous, extending between opposite ends, and U-shaped wherein to form a deflectable U-shaped beam clip that interfits in nested relation within a U-shaped cutout and the punches forming a pair of keyhole shaped openings one at each end of the slit, said key hole shaped openings defining a pivot axis proximate to the top edge of the associated side wall, said beam clip having an upper end portion disposed along said pivot axis and a lower end portion that is deflectable outwardly and inwardly relative to the plane of the associated sidewall, the upper end portion of the material of the bag being frictionally engaged and retained in a tight fit by and between the edges of the slit that form the beam clips and associated cutouts when the beam clips are nested in their cutouts and also by and with the edges that form the keyhole openings at ends of the slit.

7. An arrangement for collecting leaves and like yard waste, comprising, in combination, an upwardly open bag formed of self-supporting yet pliable paper material that is capable of being manipulated and deformed and having a top end, and a support frame located, at least in part, atop the top end of the bag and holding the bag in the open position, the frame comprising a one piece generally rectangular sheet having top and bottom edges proximate to the top end, a center wall and a pair of lateral sidewalls, the walls forming a squared C-shape, and retention means for individually removably securing and engaging each said side wall to the material of the bag, said retention means comprising each said side wall being slitted to form a U-shaped beam clip and matching U-shaped cutout lock and punched to form a keyhole opening at each end of the U-shaped slit, the keyhole openings defining a pivot axis of the beam clip and for locating the top end of the bag, the beam clip being deflectable relative to the side wall outwardly from the cutout lock to receive material forming the upper end portion of the bag and inwardly to seat within the cutout lock, the bag material being frictionally engaged and retained between the mating edges of the slit forming the beam clip and cutout when the beam clip is seated and by the keyhole shaped openings receive and retain the material of the bag inserted therewithin.

8. A support apparatus for holding a lawn and/or refuse bag or the like in an upwardly open condition for receiving leaves and/or other refuse funneled thereinto by a user, the support apparatus comprising a support frame fitted to the upper end portion of the bag, the support frame in the form of a C-shaped frame comprising a pair of sidewalls hingedly connected to a center wall, each sidewall including retention structure, which comprises the material of the sidewall being slitted to form a U-shaped beam that deflects upwardly from and snap-fits into a receiving cutout to establish frictional retaining engagement with the material of the bag when inserted therebetween, the walls of the frame operating to rigidify, support and hold and maintain the upper end portion of the bag in an upwardly open condition for filling by the user.

9. The support apparatus of claim 8, wherein the retention structure comprises the sidewall being punched to form a pair of circular openings and slitted, the slit being continuous, U-shaped and extending between the openings and forming a U-shaped cutout and a U-shaped beam that is deflectable upwardly from nested fitment within the cutout, the upper end portion of the bag being able to be inserted between the beam and the cutout and the upper end located in and engaged by the openings, and the beam is snap-fitted back into nested fitment within the cutout, whereupon the material is gripped by the mating edges of the beam and cutout and the frame is engaged in a tight locking engagement with the bag.