U.S. patent application number 12/964615 was filed with the patent office on 2011-06-23 for portable bag holding device.
Invention is credited to Rosemarie Faraone.
Application Number | 20110147545 12/964615 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44149714 |
Filed Date | 2011-06-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110147545 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Faraone; Rosemarie |
June 23, 2011 |
PORTABLE BAG HOLDING DEVICE
Abstract
A portable bag opening device for holding a disposable bag. This
device includes a handle, a first bag mouth engaging portion that
has an elongated body defining an open slot for receiving part of
the bag mouth therein, and at least one bag mouth holding portion
for assisting in maintaining the bag mouth part in the first bag
mouth engaging portion with the bag in an open position to receive
contents therein. The bag mouth part is removable from the first
bag mouth engaging portion for disposal of the bag after contents
are placed therein. The device also includes a second bag mouth
engaging portion comprising a flexible strip attachable to the bag
mouth on the perimeter thereof opposite that of the first bag mouth
engaging portion. Also, a kit that includes components for forming
the a portable bag opening device and a method of using the
same.
Inventors: |
Faraone; Rosemarie;
(Chicago, IL) |
Family ID: |
44149714 |
Appl. No.: |
12/964615 |
Filed: |
December 9, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61287465 |
Dec 17, 2009 |
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61316265 |
Mar 22, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
248/99 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65B 67/1233 20130101;
B65F 2240/138 20130101; B65F 1/1415 20130101; B65B 67/1227
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
248/99 |
International
Class: |
B65B 67/12 20060101
B65B067/12 |
Claims
1. A portable bag opening device for holding a disposable bag which
has an opening that defines the mouth of the bag, comprising: a
handle; a first bag mouth engaging portion comprising an elongated
body defining an open slot configured and dimensioned to receive
part of the bag mouth therein; and at least one additional bag
mouth holding portion for assisting in maintaining the bag mouth
part in the bag mouth engaging portion with the mouth of the bag in
an at least partial open position to receive contents therein,
wherein the bag mouth part is removable from the first bag mouth
engaging portion for disposal of the bag after contents are placed
therein.
2. The portable bag opening device of claim 1, wherein the handle
has at least an partial open portion to allow grasping by a user or
hanging of the device from a support, with the handle configured
with a closed loop shape that is oval or round and is further
configured to be openable and reclosable to allow the user to
attach the handle to objects, or the handle is configured with an
open loop shape which is sufficiently stiff to not excessively
deflect when supporting a loaded bag and is sufficiently flexible
to allow the user to attach the handle to objects.
3. The portable bag opening device of claim 1, wherein the handle
and the first bag mouth engaging member each comprise a stem
portion in mutual engagement, wherein the stem portions are
engageable in any one of a plurality of lockable positions to
provide a selective length between the handle and the first bag
mouth engaging portion.
4. The portable bag opening device of claim 3, wherein the stem
portions are configured to be telescopically engageable with the
plurality of lockable positions provided by a depressible button on
one stem portion and a plurality of holes on the other stem
portion.
5. The portable bag opening device of claim 1, wherein the open
slot is longitudinal and the first bag mouth holding portion
comprises at least one tab member positioned on the elongated body
and providing a protrusion around which a portion of the bag mouth
can be wrapped after passing through the slot to help secure the
bag to the body.
6. The portable bag opening device of claim 1, wherein the open
slot is longitudinal and wherein the first bag mouth engaging
portion comprises at least two tab members spaced along the
elongated body below the open slot for receiving the bag mouth part
to further keep the bag mouth in the open position.
7. The portable bag opening device of claim 1, wherein the open
slot is longitudinal and the bag mouth holding portion comprises
either one additional threading slot positioned at the end of the
body and configured and positioned to engage the bag mouth part
that is pulled through the open slot to help secure the bag to the
body or two additional threading slots with one provided at each
end of the body, and wherein each threading slot is arcuate or
comprises first and second channels oriented parallel to or at an
obtuse angle to the longitudinal open slot.
8. The portable bag opening device of claim 1, wherein the open
slot is longitudinal and the bag mouth holding portion comprises at
least one hinged arm that is reversibly engageable with the bag
mouth part after the bag mouth part is pulled through the threading
slot.
9. The portable bag opening device of claim 1, wherein the open
slot is longitudinal and the bag mouth holding portion comprises at
least one arm member that is reversibly engageable with the bag
mouth part using push clips after the bag mouth part is pulled
through the threading slot and positioned beneath the arm
member.
10. The portable bag opening device of the claim 1, wherein both
the handle and the first bag mouth engaging portion are made of
plastic, composite material, fiber-based material lightweight
metallic alloy and any combination thereof.
11. The portable bag opening device of the claim 1, further
comprising a second bag mouth engaging portion comprising a
flexible strip attachable to the bag mouth on the perimeter thereof
opposite that of the first bag mouth engaging portion, wherein the
second bag mouth engaging portion has sufficient rigidity to keep
the mouth of the bag in an open position when in use and is
removable from the bag for disposal when the bag is full.
12. The portable bag opening device of the claim 11, wherein the
second bag mouth engaging portion includes a projecting lip that
projects over the mouth of the bag and which pivots about an axis
such to engage a flat surface to provide a ramp guide for contents
which is are to be placed into the bag.
13. The portable bag opening device of the claim 12, wherein the
second bag mouth engaging portion is formed of a plastic, composite
or fiber-based material and includes at least one foldable tab
member for attaching the second bag mouth engaging portion to the
bag mouth in a position opposite that of the first bag mouth
engaging portion, with the ramp guide of the second bag mouth
engaging portion optionally coated with a harder material or
optionally made from a harder material than that of the rest of the
second bag mouth engaging portion.
14. The portable bag opening device of the claim 12, wherein the
second bag mouth engaging portion further comprises of slots
dimensioned and configured to allow a portion of the bag mouth
opening to be inserted and removed from the slots while also
providing a clamping force on the portion of the bag mouth opening
within the slots.
15. A kit for holding a disposable bag open comprising components
for forming a portable bag opening device according to claim 1 and
optionally one or a plurality of bags of the same or different
sizes, with the bags sized to be compatible with the first bag
mouth engaging portion of the bag opening device and optionally a
plurality of handles of different sizes.
16. A method for holding a disposable bag open comprising:
providing a portable bag opening device according to claim 1,
passing part of the bag mouth of a disposable bag through the open
slot, and securing that part of the bag mouth around the first bag
mouth engaging portion to assist in holding the bag in an open
position.
17. A method for holding a disposable bag open comprising:
providing a portable bag opening device kit according to claim 15
which also contains one or more disposable bags, passing part of
the bag mouth of a disposable bag from the kit through the open
slot, and securing that part of the bag mouth around the first bag
mouth engaging portion to assist in holding the bag in an open
position.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent
Application No. 61/287,465, filed Dec. 17, 2009, and U.S. Patent
Application No. 61/316,265, filed Mar. 22, 2010, the entire content
of each of which is expressly incorporated herein by reference
thereto.
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a portable bag opening
device for collecting refuse, yard waste, or construction debris.
Specifically, the invention relates to device that is capable of
holding a disposable bag which stays open when in use.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] When using disposable bags, it is usually difficult to
perform other functions, such as collecting waste, raking leaves,
or picking up trash, while trying to keep the mouth of the bag open
at the same time. If the mouth of the bag collapses when one is
attempting to load the bag with leaves or refuse, some or all of
the debris may miss the bag opening and end up on the ground or
floor, thereby causing frustration and the need to duplicate the
effort. One solution is to simply use one hand for placing the
debris into the bag, while using the other hand to hold the bag
open. When the bag is completely empty, this may not even work, as
two hands are often required to hold the bag open. Furthermore, if
only a small handful of debris may be lifted and placed in the bag
at one time, the job will take much longer than if both hands could
be used.
[0004] To keep from dropping the waste or debris all over the floor
or ground, some people will hold the bag in a horizontal position,
rather than vertically upright. When such bags are used in a
horizontal position, it is also difficult to sweep or rake refuse
or debris into the bag because the mouth does not stay open in this
position either. Again, the solution is generally to hold the bag
open with one hand while sweeping or raking with the other hand.
Using the bag in this manner can be very inefficient.
[0005] The current unstructured mouth openings of polymeric bags
available to consumers are difficult to load in both the horizontal
and vertical positions without containers or stands while
performing tasks.
[0006] Common tasks that are most difficult to perform with
available unstructured bags include loading trash, leaves,
landscape, and construction debris. Users are constantly stopping
to try to hold the bag open with one hand and loading the bag with
the other, a task that is time and motion inefficient and usually
very unsuccessful until the bag is 1/4-1/2 full.
[0007] Additionally, many individuals have problems with their
backs, which makes constantly bending to open the bag not only time
consuming, but also painful. Many businesses lose a great deal of
labor to back injuries and related ailments each year.
[0008] To hold bags open in an upright position, various stands
have been developed. The bag must be loaded into such a stand, and
then lifted out of the stand when full. If the stands are made of
metal, they may rip a polymeric or paper bag when it is lifted out.
The bag may fall from such stands during loading as well.
[0009] Several patents disclose attempts to solve the bag opening
problem.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 4,282,911 discloses a combined hanger and bag
with the hanger being substantially triangular and comprising
congruent parallel frame members with snap extensions on one member
and corresponding openings on the other member so that the two
members may be snapped together.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 4,958,871 relates to an improved, hand-held
device for the picking up of animal waste in a clean, hygienic
manner using a scooping device and a fold-lock-top sandwich bag as
the receptacle for the waste material.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 5,050,920 discloses a rim secured to a handle
with the lower edge of the rim including a lip which assists in the
pick-up of waste, and a bag for catching the waste which is
suspended from the rim.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 6,485,073 relates to a shovel and bag assembly
for scooping animal refuse deposited by a pet animal, with the
shovel comprising a handle, a spaded loop including a spade with a
protruding leading edge, a first and second support arm for the
spade, a base, and a first and second extended corner.
[0014] The prior invention of the inventor, in U.S. application
Ser. No. 11/735,240, filed Apr. 13, 2007 relates to a bag for
collecting waste and refuse. The bag disclosed is for collecting
waste and refuse, which includes solid edges and a handle for
keeping the bag open.
[0015] Despite these known methods and devices, there still is a
need for improved bag holders to main a disposable bag in opening
position which avoids the disadvantages of the prior art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] The present invention relates to a portable bag opening
device for holding a disposable bag which has an opening that
defines the mouth of the bag. This device comprises a handle, a
first bag mouth engaging portion comprising an elongated body
defining an open slot configured and dimensioned to receive part of
the bag mouth therein, and at least one bag mouth holding portion
for assisting in maintaining the bag mouth part in the first bag
mouth engaging portion with the mouth of the bag in an at least
partial open position to receive contents therein. The bag mouth
part is removable from the first bag mouth engaging portion for
disposal of the bag after contents are placed therein.
[0017] Advantageously, the handle has at least a partial open
portion to allow grasping by a user or hanging of the device from a
support. The handle may be configured with a closed loop shape,
which generally is oval or round, for superior strength. The handle
may also be configured with an open loop shape, to be openable and
reclosable to allow the user to attach the handle to objects.
[0018] The handle and the first bag mouth engaging portion each
typically comprise a stem portion in mutual engagement. These stem
portions may be integral with one another, thereby providing a
fixed-length stem. Further embodiments have stem portions which are
engageable in any one of a plurality of lockable positions to
provide a selective length between the handle and the first bag
mouth engaging portion. The stem portions can also be configured to
be telescopically engageable with the plurality of lockable
positions provided by a depressible button on one stem portion and
a plurality of holes on the other stem portion.
[0019] To easily attach the bag to the device, the open slot is
longitudinal. The bag mouth holding portion can be configured in
any one of a number of arrangements to secure the bag mouth part to
the handle. In one embodiment, the bag mouth holding portion
comprises at least two tab members spaced along the elongated body
below the open slot for receiving the bag mouth part to further
keep the bag mouth in the open position. Alternatively, the bag
mouth holding portion comprises at least one tab member positioned
on the elongated body and providing a protrusion around which a
portion of the bag mouth can be wrapped after passing through the
slot to help secure the bag to the body. The protrusion can extend
upwardly towards the handle or downwardly if positioned below the
threading slot.
[0020] The bag mouth holding portion can instead comprise at least
one additional threading slot positioned at the end of the body and
which is configured and positioned to engage the bag mouth part
that is pulled through the open slot to help secure the bag to the
body.
[0021] Two additional threading slots are preferably provided, one
at each end of the body, wherein each threading slot first and
second channels oriented at an obtuse angle.
[0022] In another embodiment, the bag mouth holding portion may
comprise at least one hinged arm that is reversibly engageable with
the bag mouth part after the bag mouth part is pulled through the
threading slot. The bag mouth holding portion can instead comprise
at least one arm member that is reversibly engageable with the bag
mouth part using push clips after the bag mouth part is pulled
through the threading slot and positioned beneath the arm member.
For convenience, the bag mouth holding portion comprises two tabs,
channels, or arm members, one located at either end of the body of
the first bag mouth engaging portion.
[0023] In an additional embodiment, the open longitudinal slot can
include an arcuate or curved recess to further ease insertion of
the bag through the slot. This additional open area also can allow
the user's finger to pass through the slot for pushing the bag into
and through the slot.
[0024] Preferably, both the handle and the first bag mouth engaging
portion are made of a lightweight material, such as plastics,
composites, fiber products, or lightweight metallic alloys.
[0025] The portable bag opening device advantageously comprises a
second bag mouth engaging portion of a flexible strip attachable to
the bag mouth on the perimeter thereof opposite that of the first
bag mouth engaging portion, wherein the second bag mouth engaging
portion has sufficient rigidity to keep the mouth of the bag in an
open position when in use and is removable from the bag for
disposal when the bag is full. The second bag mouth engaging
portion includes a projecting lip that projects over the mouth of
the bag and which pivots about an axis such to engage a flat
surface to provide a ramp guide for contents which are to be placed
into the bag. The second bag mouth engaging portion is formed of a
plastic, composite or fiber-based material and includes at least
one foldable tab member for attaching the second bag mouth engaging
portion to the bag mouth in a position opposite that of the first
bag mouth engaging portion. In yet another embodiment, the
invention provides for the ramp guide to be coated or made from a
harder material. In yet another embodiment, arcuate or curved slots
are provided for attachment to the bag. As the edge of the bag is
placed through the slots, it causes the slot to expand. This
expansion provides a reaction force which clamps the bag to the
second bag mouth engaging portion.
[0026] To provide sufficient opening of the bag mouth, the open
slot is longitudinal and engages at least 10 to 50% of the
perimeter of the bag mouth. Typically, this slot should engage
around 20 to 33% of the bag mouth perimeter. This engagement is
achieved by pulling the bag mouth through the open slot and then
securing that part to the bag mouth holding portion. For example,
the bag mouth part can be wrapped around the tab member or members.
Alternatively, the bag mouth part can be pulled through the open
slot and then through the additional threading slot or slots to
attach the bag to the body.
[0027] The invention also provides a kit for holding a disposable
bag open comprising one of the inventive bag opening devices
therein. The kit may optionally contain one or more bags sized to
be compatible with the first bag mouth engaging portion. Another
embodiment of the kit may include a plurality of bags or handles of
different sizes, or of both such plurality of bags and handles.
[0028] The invention further provides a method for holding a
disposable bag open using any of the portable bag opening devices
of the invention. Generally, this method comprises providing a
portable bag opening device as disclosed herein, passing part of
the bag mouth of a disposable bag through the open slot, and
securing that part of the bag mouth around the first bag mouth
engaging portion to assist in holding the bag in an open
position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0029] The invention will be better understood in relation to the
attached drawings illustrating preferred embodiments, wherein:
[0030] FIG. 1 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention
showing a handle and a bag mouth engaging portion having multiple
threading slots;
[0031] FIG. 2 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention
showing a handle and a bag mouth engaging portion of FIG. 1 in
engagement with a bag;
[0032] FIG. 3 is a plan view of another embodiment of the invention
showing a handle and a bag mouth engaging portion that includes
multiple bag mouth receiving slots;
[0033] FIGS. 4A and 4B show details of the second bag mouth
engaging portion that is usable with the first bag mouth engaging
portion of the invention;
[0034] FIG. 5 illustrates the use of two first bag mouth engaging
portions mounted on opposite sides of the bag to enable a user to
hold the bag open for filling by others;
[0035] FIG. 6 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention
showing a handle and a bag mouth engaging portion having linear
threading slots;
[0036] FIG. 7 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention
showing a handle and a bag mouth engaging portion having downwardly
facing tabs that are located beneath the threading slot;
[0037] FIG. 8 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention
showing a handle and a bag mouth engaging portion having hinged
U-channel arms;
[0038] FIG. 9 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention
showing a handle and a bag mouth engaging portion having arms that
hold the bag when secured thereto using push clips;
[0039] FIG. 10 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention
showing a handle and a bag mouth engaging portion with upwardly
extending tabs positioned above the threading slot;
[0040] FIG. 11 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention
showing a handle, stem and bag mouth engaging portion as a single
integral piece with the addition of a arcuate or curved recess
within the slot;
[0041] FIG. 12 is a front view of an embodiment of the invention
showing a variation of the device of FIG. 6 having a shortened
handle and the bag mouth engaging portion of FIG. 7 and further
including an arcuate or curved recess within the slot; and
[0042] FIG. 13 is a top view of a further embodiment of the second
bag mouth engaging portion of the invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0043] The present invention now provides an easy to use bag
opening device that can be manipulated with one hand to hold the
bag open so that the user can fill the bag using his or her other
hand. Furthermore, the device can be mounted on a hook so that the
user does not have to hold the bag while filling it. In certain
embodiments, the handle can be configured to allow for opening and
closing of the handle. This would then allow the handle to be
placed for example on lines or poles, allowing the user to use both
hands to fill the bag.
[0044] The handle attaches to the top or terminal opening of the
bag and enables the user to hold the bag open in a horizontal
and/or vertical position for tasking and loading. This handle also
allows the user to hold or hang the bag in a vertical or upright or
position to form a container for trash or storage. When hung in a
vertical position, the mouth of the bag remains open for allowing
the user to easily toss debris into the open bag. The adjustable
handle also enables the user to carry the bag easily while
performing mobile tasks. This is perfect for use in residential
cleaning and storage, by laborers, e.g., with sand bagging efforts,
or for maintenance crews performing mobile tasks.
[0045] One can also attach one or more additional handles to the
bag for better control of the opening. For example, attaching
handles to two positions, e.g., to both the left and right sides of
the bag at the top opening, enables tandem working with one person
holding the bag open with the handles and another person filling it
with contents.
[0046] The flat sweeping edge attaches to the bottom of the bag
opening (i.e., the opposite side to where the handle is attached)
allowing the user to rake, sweep and/or shovel debris therein.
[0047] The invention is also `Green` in that all pieces of the
device are designed to be reusable. They are removed from a filled
bag and optionally cleaned before reuse on another bag. As they are
made of plastic, they can simply be hosed off for outdoor use or
placed in the dishwasher for cleaning before re-use again and again
for any number of chores.
[0048] There are a number of preferred applications for the device
and bag:
[0049] Residential: Trash and storage receptacle
[0050] Commercial/Business: Food service businesses office
buildings and construction sites
[0051] Storage: The hook feature provides safer off-the-floor
storage
[0052] Portable Receptacles For laborers and maintenance crews
[0053] Sand Bagging Efforts: By applying two handles to the top
left and right side of the bag opening, as in FIG. 5, the user will
be able to hold the bag open while others can fill the bag with
sand. Typical sad bags are sized around 14'' by 26'' and can hold
around 40 to 50 pounds of sand. The handle can simply be held up
with the bag touching the ground to assist in supporting the weight
of the sand as the bag is being filled. This makes the loading
effort easier and much more time efficient.
[0054] Events: Bags with the device of the invention useful where
permanent receptacles are not available. Attachment of the device
to the bag allows the bag to be conveniently hung from a support
member of choice. Thus the device can be securely supported by a
pole or door knob, without risk of damaging the bag.
[0055] In the case of using the bag for construction work, the bag
becomes a labor and injury reducing system by simply hanging the
bag in the vertical position. Work crews can then place a wheel
cart under each bag and unhook each bag letting it fall into the
cart. This allows work crews to fill a bag without holding it, and
then dispose of it without carrying it to a wheel cart. Thus the
system alleviates the possibility of injuries by allowing work
crews to fill the bag without needing to hold it. Additionally the
system is much more time efficient by eliminating the time needed
to carry the bag over to a wheel cart. It is also possible for the
user to hold the handle with one hand to place the second bag mouth
engaging portion near the floor or ground to enable contents to be
pushed into the bag using their other hand. Again, the user does
not have to bend over as often, reducing stress and strain on their
lower back.
[0056] The device is preferably made of lightweight material, such
as plastic. The various components of the device can be made of a
single part or it can be made of multiple parts when additional
features, such as an elongated length, are desired.
[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the bag opening device 1 of the
present invention is made of two portions as illustrated herein.
FIGS. 1 and 2 show that the handle portion 10 has an open loop 11
having a shape such as oval or round or any other shape that is
suitable for grasping by the hand of a user. This handle has an
open slot 18 so that the handle can be opened for attaching the
device to a post, doorknob, line or other object. Open slot 18 may
also be configured in any other appropriate manner to enable the
opening and closing of the handle.
[0058] Examples of configurations that can be used are a snap
connection, latch, clamp or any other configuration that would be
obvious to one of ordinary skill. The handle portion also has a
stem 12, which is configured to have a plurality of holes 13,14,15,
16 (four holes are shown as an example), which lock in a position
in alignment with a depressible button 17 on the stem 22 of the
first bag mouth engaging portion 20. Although such types of
connections are known, they are of advantageous use in the present
invention. One stem portion, such as that of the handle, can
contain the button or buttons while the other portion can contain
the holes. Of course, the reverse is also possible. This embodiment
can have a length of about 18 inches when fully extended, but this
could vary between 6 to 24 inches or other as desired. While four
holes are shown, it would be understood by one of ordinary skill in
the art that more or less can be provided as desired.
[0059] The stem portions can be engageable in a number of ways,
such as channels, grooves, telescopically, tongue-and-groove or any
other way known in the art by one of ordinary skill. For example,
the stems 12 and 22 can have a tongue-and-groove arrangement using
the buttons and holes to maintain the parts in engagement in a
fixed position, or they can be configured as tubes that are
telescopically engageable, again with the buttons and holes to
maintaining the parts in engagement in a desired fixed position.
The various fixed positions that are selectable enable the overall
length of the device to be adjustable as desired to accommodate
users of different heights or to enable mounting upon support
structures of different heights.
[0060] The bag mouth engaging portion 20 also includes an elongated
body 30 defining an open slot 29 configured and dimensioned to
receive a portion of the bag mouth 26 therein. In FIGS. 1 and 2,
the bag mouth portion 26 is initially pulled through the slot 29 to
hold that part of the bag mouth. In FIGS. 11 and 12, arcuate or
curved recess 103 are utilized to aid in the passing of bag mouth
portion 26 through slot 29. After passing through the slot, the bag
mouth part 26 then is lulled through additional threading slots 27
to help secure the bag to the bag opening device. The additional
threading slots 27 help prevent the bag mouth part from sliding
back out of slot 29 as the bag is filled with contents. To further
assist in preventing the bag mouth part 26 from detaching from the
device, the additional threading slots 27 are provided on each end
of the body of the first bag mouth engaging portion 20 and have the
configuration of dual channels arranged at an angle. Two channels
at each end are shown in FIG. 1, but a skilled artisan will readily
observe that multiple channels orientated at various angles can be
used without departing from the invention. The channels can also be
arcuate, serpentine or any other configuration, but the simple
angled straight channels have been found to be the easiest to
manufacture while still providing the necessary holding power for
the bag mouth. This arrangement also helps maintain the mouth of
the bag in an at least partial open position to receive the
contents therein.
[0061] Regarding the size of the device, as a preferred example,
for a bag having a volume of about 45 gallons and a perimeter of
the bag mouth of around 5 or 6 feet, the body portion can have a
length of 8.5 inches and a total open slot length of about 6 to 7
inches. The additional channel members can be 3 to 4 inches long
with each channel being around 1.5 to 2 inches in length.
[0062] To provide the bag opening device 1 with a disposable bag 2
attached, a portion of the mouth of the disposable bag 26 is pulled
through the open slot 29 of the elongated body 30 and is then
pulled through the threading slots 27 to attach the bag to the
device. While specifically preferred dimensions are shown above,
variations to these specific dimensions can be made depending upon
the size of the bag. The additional threading slots 27 can be
designed with a change in direction as shown, or as arcuate, to
provide better grabbing and securement of the bag mouth in the
slots.
[0063] For the other figures, like components to FIGS. 1 and 2 are
designated by the same numerals. FIG. 3 shows an alternative bag
engaging portion while FIGS. 4A-4B and 12 show further details of
the second bag mouth engaging portion.
[0064] FIGS. 3 and 10 show a similar device except one that uses
tab members 28 positioned on the elongated body 30 for providing a
protrusion around which a portion of the bag mouth can be wrapped.
Although two tab members 28 are shown, at least one tab member 28
is used. When lighter material is to be collected in the bag, or
when it is desirable to simply hand the bag in a partially open
position, one tab member is generally sufficient. For a more open
bag mouth, two tab members are preferred. For very large bags, one
or more additional tab members can be provided in accordance with
the present invention although two spaced tab members are generally
sufficient.
[0065] In this embodiment, to attach a disposable bag 2 to the bag
opening device 1, a portion of the mouth of the disposable bag 26
is pulled through the open slot 29 of the elongated body 30 as
discussed above but then it is wrapped around the two tab members
28 to help secure the bag to the bag opening device, with the mouth
of the bag in an at least partial open position to receive contents
therein.
[0066] For a bag engagement device length of 8.5 inches and a total
open slot length of about 6 to 7 inches, the tab members can be an
inch or two in height and width. Thus, the tab members are thus
conveniently spaced apart by 7 to 8 inches for that embodiment. The
preferred spacing between the tab members can be determined by
routine testing by a skilled artisan depending upon the size of the
bag to be held.
[0067] For a 13 gallon bag, for example, a smaller device can be
used as shown in FIG. 6. Here, the two portions of the device
manufactured as a single piece such that stem portions 12 and 22
form an integral stem 60 between the handle 50 and the bag mouth
receiving portion 70. The bag mouth receiving portion 70 in this
embodiment is shorter than for the two piece devices used with
larger bags. Also, the additional threading slots 75 can be
elongated and straight as well as shorter than the additional
threading slots 27 of the embodiment of FIGS. 1-2. Handle 50 has
opening 55 for attachment to objects as in the other
embodiments.
[0068] In FIGS. 4A and 4B, the second bag mouth opening portion 40
assists in keeping the bag mouth 26 open due to its placement
opposite the first bag mouth engaging portion 30. It has a length
sufficient to hold that part of the bag mouth open, such as around
18 inches for the 45 gallon bag shown. Of course, the length could
be tailored for any particular bag size or for the type of material
that is to be directed into the bag. The second bag mouth engaging
portion can be attached to the bag with the use of tab members 45
that can be bent to engage the bag mouth as clips, as shown in FIG.
4B. For ease of placement of this component in a kit, the second
bag mouth engaging portion 40 can include score lines 35 so that it
can be folded to fit in a smaller receptacle, such as kit box or
container. Also, the score lines 35 can assist in forming "wings"
by folding up the outer portions of the portion 40 to configure a
chute to facilitate movement of material into the bag. In this
embodiment, it is possible for a person to use one arm to hold the
bag by the device handle 11 and lower the second bag mouth engaging
portion 40 to contact the ground to facilitate the sweeping of
contents in the bag. Of course one person can hold the bag in this
manner while another person sweeps the contents into the bag.
[0069] FIG. 5 illustrates a bag with two bag opening devices 1
attached thereto. This enables one person to hold the bag open
while another person or persons can fill the bag with material.
Alternatively, the two handles can be attached to two different
supports to help hold the bag open and in an upright position to
facilitate filling of the contents therein.
[0070] In FIGS. 7-9, like components to FIGS. 1 and 2 are
designated by the same numerals.
[0071] FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment similar to FIG. 3, but
where the tab members 28A and 28b are positioned below the slot 29
and face downwardly. This alternative use of the tab members
results in a secure attachment of the bag to the device.
[0072] FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment, this one having two
U-channel arms 80 which are pivotable about pin 85. These channel
arms 80 are initially pivoted upwards as shown. After the bag mouth
26 is pulled through slot 29, it is pulled over the top of body 30
and then the arms 80 are pivoted back upon the bag mouth portion to
hold it on the body member 30. The arms 80 have a downwardly facing
U shape that engages the body 30 and securely holds the bag mouth
therein.
[0073] FIG. 9 illustrates yet another embodiment, this one having
two detached U-channel arms 90. After the bag mouth 26 is pulled
through slot 29, it is pulled over the top of body 30 and the arms
90 are pressed onto the body to hold the bag mouth between it and
the body member 30. The arms 80 have a downwardly facing U shape
that engages the body 30 and push clips 95 are also provided to
securely hold the bag mouth thereon.
[0074] FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment similar to that in FIG.
10. Bag opening device 100 utilizes a closed loop handle 100 as
well as integral stem 60. By making the bag opening device as one
unified part, with no opening on the handle, the device becomes
stronger and more rigid. Thus, the device can be made of a
lightweight material yet can still carry heavier loads.
Additionally, the reduced complexity reduces production costs,
thereby lowering the price of the device. The device also differs
from the other embodiments illustrated by providing an arcuate or
curved recess 103 in slot 29. This recess 103 allows for easier
insertion of the bag portion 26 into and through slot 29, while
also providing an open area for the user to push the bag through
the slot with his or her finger. The particular size and shape of
the recess is not critical although it is shown as curved or
arcuate to provide a smooth transition which does not present sharp
corners that can represent stress raisers in the structure. If
desired, the recess can be rectangular or triangular without
departing from the desired function provided that the material is
formulated to be sufficiently strong to avoid producing a
stress-raising point which causes the part to crack or break as
greater stress is put on the part due to re-use.
[0075] FIG. 12 is a modified version of the device in FIG. 6. In
this embodiment, bag opening device 50 in FIG. 6 has the bag mouth
receiving portion 70 switched out for that of the bag mouth
receiving portion 30 of the device in FIG. 7. Furthermore, slot 65
has an arcuate or curved recess 103 added for easier insertion of
the bag portion 26 as in FIG. 11.
[0076] FIG. 13 is another preferred embodiment of the second bag
mouth engaging portion. In this embodiment, the second bag mouth
engaging portion 120 has two edges 121 and 122. Edge 121 is to be
placed facing towards the inside of the bag. This can be indicated
by use of an arrow, wording and any combination thereof. Edge 122
is to be used to provide a ramp guide for material swept towards
the bag mouth. Thus edge 122 guides material from the surface it is
resting on into the bag, as the material is swept towards it.
Optionally, while the rest of the second bag mouth engaging portion
120 is made of a light weight material, such as plastic, composites
or fiber-based materials, edge 122 may be coated or made of a
harder material, to prolong the life of second bag mouth engaging
portion 120. Slots 128a and 128b are provided to receive the bag
portion 26. As bag portion 26 is inserted through slots 128a and
128b, this causes the slots to enlarge. This enlargement produces a
reaction force which then allows the edges of slots 128a and 128b
to clamp bag portion 26 inside the respective slot.
[0077] After the bag has received contents and is full or the
cleanup exercise is otherwise completed, the bag mouth perimeter is
simply untangled or unwrapped from the tabs and the bag mouth part
is removed from the slot so that bag and contents can be discarded.
The component parts of the device of the invention can then be
reused on other bags.
[0078] As noted herein, the components of the device can be
provided in a kit. The components can include those necessary to
make the device. If desired, a plurality of handles of different
sizes or lengths can be included, along with one or more bags sized
to be compatible with the first bag mouth engaging portion.
[0079] It is to be understood that the invention is not to be
limited to the exact configuration as illustrated and described
herein. For example, although the bag mouth engaging portions are
shown in a linear configuration, they can be arcuate to engage the
bag mouth perimeter. This contributes to the maintenance of the
open position, but it is not necessary for the two components to
fully engage the bag mouth perimeter, nor do they need to contact
each other or join together. Accordingly, all expedient
modifications readily attainable by one of ordinary skill in the
art from the disclosure set forth herein, or by routine
experimentation therefrom, are deemed to be within the spirit and
scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
* * * * *