U.S. patent application number 13/187125 was filed with the patent office on 2012-01-26 for foldable storage apparatus.
Invention is credited to Eric Norman.
Application Number | 20120018428 13/187125 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45492729 |
Filed Date | 2012-01-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120018428 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Norman; Eric |
January 26, 2012 |
Foldable Storage Apparatus
Abstract
Disclosed is a foldable storage apparatus. The foldable storage
apparatus comprises a sheet having an initial flat configuration.
The sheet comprises a receiving portion for receiving one or more
contents. The foldable storage apparatus also comprises first and
second couplers supported by the sheet and operable to secure at
least two sections of the sheet together to at least partially
define a capture volume. The foldable storage apparatus further
comprises an elongate tail extending from the receiving portion and
operable to substantially enclose the capture volume and secure the
contents therein.
Inventors: |
Norman; Eric; (Salt Lake
City, UT) |
Family ID: |
45492729 |
Appl. No.: |
13/187125 |
Filed: |
July 20, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61365953 |
Jul 20, 2010 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
220/6 ;
53/467 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B65D 33/16 20130101;
B65D 2313/04 20130101; B65D 2313/02 20130101; B65D 33/06 20130101;
A45C 7/0059 20130101; B65D 65/08 20130101; A45C 2007/0013 20130101;
B65D 85/07 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
220/6 ;
53/467 |
International
Class: |
B65D 6/00 20060101
B65D006/00; B65B 5/00 20060101 B65B005/00 |
Claims
1. A foldable storage apparatus comprising: a sheet having an
initial flat configuration, said sheet comprising a receiving
portion for receiving one or more contents, and an elongate tail
portion extending from said receiving portion; at least one coupler
that couples at least two sections of said sheet together about
said contents so as to at least partially define a capture volume;
and at least one coupler that couples said tail portion to a
backside of said sheet about said contents to substantially enclose
said capture volume and secure said contents therein.
2. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein said couplers
are selected from the group consisting of ties, straps, clips,
hooks, adhesives, hook and loop fasteners, magnets, elastics,
buckles, snaps, buttons, latches, clasps, drawstrings, and
combinations thereof.
3. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 1, wherein said couplers
comprise a narrow elongated portion of the foldable storage
apparatus that engages another narrow elongated portion, wherein
the elongated portion and the another elongated portion are secured
together.
4. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a
holder to secure a portion of said foldable storage apparatus to a
ground surface to facilitate collection and capture of said
contents.
5. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 4, wherein the holder is
selected from the group consisting of a stake, a peg, spikes, a
rock, a weight, and combinations thereof.
6. A foldable storage apparatus comprising: a sheet having an
initial flat configuration, said sheet comprising a receiving
portion for receiving one or more contents; first and second
couplers supported by said sheet and operable to secure at least
two sections of said sheet together to at least partially define a
capture volume; and a tail extending from said receiving portion
and operable to substantially enclose said capture volume and
secure said contents therein.
7. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 6, wherein said first
and second couplers are selected from the group consisting of ties,
straps, clips, hooks, adhesives, hook and loop fasteners, magnets,
elastics, buckles, snaps, buttons, latches, clasps, drawstrings,
and combinations thereof.
8. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 6, wherein at least one
of said first and second couplers is located on at least one of a
top side and a bottom side of said foldable storage apparatus.
9. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 6, wherein said tail is
elongate such that a width of said tail has a dimension at least as
wide as between one fifth and one half of a length of said
tail.
10. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 6, wherein said tail is
removably coupled to said receiving portion.
11. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 6, wherein said tail is
selected from the group consisting of a sheet-like configuration, a
cord, a rope, a tie, and combinations thereof.
12. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 6, further comprising
at least one of a handle and a shoulder strap.
13. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a
compression mechanism to compress the foldable storage apparatus
and its contents into a more compact configuration.
14. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a
third coupler to provide an additional coupling option.
15. The foldable storage apparatus of claim 6, wherein at least one
of said receiving portion and said tail comprise at least one
extension that operates to wrap around and secure to another
portion of said foldable storage apparatus.
16. A method of storing an item, comprising: disposing one or more
contents on a receiving portion of a sheet, the sheet being in a
substantially flat configuration; coupling a first coupler of said
sheet to a second coupler of said sheet to secure two sections of
said sheet together to at least partially define a capture volume;
and enclosing said capture volume and securing said contents
therein with an elongate tail extending from said receiving
portion.
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: securing said sheet
to a ground surface with a holder; and selectively removing said
holder to allow coupling of said first coupler to said second
coupler.
18. The method of claim 16, further comprising coupling a third
coupler of said sheet to a fourth coupler of said sheet to secure a
third section of said sheet to at least one of said first section
and said second section of said sheet, to further define said
capture volume.
19. The method of claim 16, further comprising connecting a first
longitudinal portion of said sheet to a back side of said
sheet.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising connecting a second
longitudinal portion to at least one of said back side of said
sheet and a bottom side of said sheet.
21. The method of claim 16, wherein portions of said two sections
of said sheet are connected across each other.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Ser. No. 61/365,953, filed Jul. 20, 2010, and
entitled, "Foldable Storage Apparatus," which is incorporated by
reference herein in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to storage devices,
and more specifically to foldable storage devices, such as bags,
sacks, carriers, etc.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND RELATED ART
[0003] A wide variety of storage devices are available to store a
wide variety of items. Often, storage devices are used not only for
storage, but also for transport. Some items to be stored and
transported can be unwieldy and difficult to put into storage
devices. For example, a collection of leaves, sticks, or other yard
debris, climbing rope, camping gear such as a tents or sleeping
bags, or other such items can be difficult to contain within
storage devices and transported. Thus, there is a need for a
storage device that can be configured to easily receive and store
unwieldy items and then transport these with minimal
difficulty.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] In light of the problems and deficiencies inherent in the
prior art, the present invention seeks to overcome these by
providing a foldable storage apparatus.
[0005] In accordance with the invention as embodied and broadly
described herein, the present invention resides in a foldable
storage apparatus. In one aspect of the present invention, the
foldable storage apparatus comprises a sheet having an initial
substantially flat configuration, the sheet comprising a receiving
portion for receiving one or more contents. In another aspect of
the present invention, the foldable storage apparatus comprises
first and second couplers supported by the sheet and operable to
secure at least two sections of the sheet together to at least
partially define a capture volume. In a further aspect of the
present invention, the foldable storage apparatus comprises an
elongate tail portion extending from the receiving portion that is
operable to substantially enclose the capture volume and secure the
contents therein.
[0006] In another aspect, the present invention resides in a
foldable storage apparatus comprising a sheet having an initial
flat configuration, the sheet comprising a receiving portion for
receiving one or more contents, and an elongate tail portion
extending from the receiving portion; at least one coupler that
couples at least two sections of the sheet together about the
contents so as to at least partially define a capture volume; and
at least one coupler that couples the tail portion to a backside of
the sheet about the contents to substantially enclose the capture
volume and secure the contents.
[0007] In still another aspect, the present invention resides in a
foldable storage apparatus comprising a sheet having an initial
flat configuration, the sheet comprising a receiving portion for
receiving one or more contents; first and second couplers supported
by the sheet and operable to secure at least two sections of the
sheet together to at least partially define a capture volume; and
an elongate tail extending from the receiving portion and operable
to substantially enclose the capture volume and secure the contents
therein.
[0008] In still a further aspect, the present invention resides in
a method of storing an item, comprising disposing one or more
contents on a receiving portion of a sheet, the sheet being in a
substantially flat configuration; coupling a first coupler of the
sheet to a second coupler of the sheet to secure two sections of
the sheet together to at least partially define a capture volume;
and enclosing the capture volume and securing the contents therein
with an elongate tail extending from the receiving portion.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The present invention will become more fully apparent from
the following description and appended claims, taken in conjunction
with the accompanying drawings. Understanding that these drawings
merely depict exemplary embodiments of the present invention they
are, therefore, not to be considered limiting of its scope. It will
be readily appreciated that the components of the present
invention, as generally described and illustrated in the figures
herein, could be arranged and designed in a wide variety of
different configurations. Nonetheless, the invention will be
described and explained with additional specificity and detail
through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of a foldable storage
apparatus configured to at least partially define a capture volume
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0011] FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 1 in an initial flat configuration;
[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates a back side of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 1 in an initial flat configuration;
[0013] FIG. 4A illustrates a top view of a foldable storage
apparatus in an initial flat configuration in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 4B illustrates a top view of a foldable storage
apparatus in an initial flat configuration in accordance with
another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0015] FIG. 4C illustrates a top view of a foldable storage
apparatus in an initial flat configuration in accordance with yet
another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 4D illustrates a top view of a foldable storage
apparatus in an initial flat configuration in accordance with still
another exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 5 illustrates a coupler of a foldable storage apparatus
in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0018] FIG. 6A illustrates a top view of a foldable storage
apparatus in a first step of storing an item in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 6B illustrates a top view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 6A in a second step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0020] FIG. 6C illustrates a top view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 6A in a third step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 6D illustrates a top view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 6A in a fourth step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 7A illustrates a side view of the fourth step of
storing an item shown in FIG. 6D in accordance with an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 7B illustrates a side view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 6A in a fifth step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0024] FIG. 7C illustrates a side view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 6A in a sixth step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0025] FIG. 7D illustrates a side view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 6A in a seventh step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0026] FIG. 7E illustrates a side view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 6A in an eighth step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0027] FIG. 7F illustrates a side view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 6A in a ninth step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0028] FIG. 8A illustrates a top view of a foldable storage
apparatus in a first step of storing an item in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 8B illustrates a top view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 8A in a second step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0030] FIG. 8C illustrates a top view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 8A in a third step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0031] FIG. 8D illustrates a top view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 8A in a fourth step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0032] FIG. 9A illustrates a top view of a foldable storage
apparatus in a first step of storing an item in accordance with an
exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0033] FIG. 9B illustrates a top view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 9A in a second step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0034] FIG. 9C illustrates a top view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 9A in a third step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0035] FIG. 9D illustrates a top view of the foldable storage
apparatus of FIG. 9A in a fourth step of storing an item in
accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention;
[0036] FIGS. 10A-10E illustrate a foldable storage apparatus in
accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, as well as various steps within a method for storing an
item within the foldable storage apparatus; and
[0037] FIGS. 11A-11F illustrate further steps in the method of
storing an item within the foldable storage apparatus of FIGS.
10-A-10E.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0038] The following detailed description of exemplary embodiments
of the invention makes reference to the accompanying drawings,
which form a part hereof and in which are shown, by way of
illustration, exemplary embodiments in which the invention may be
practiced. While these exemplary embodiments are described in
sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice
the invention, it should be understood that other embodiments may
be realized and that various changes to the invention may be made
without departing from the spirit and scope of the present
invention. Thus, the following more detailed description of the
embodiments of the present invention is not intended to limit the
scope of the invention, as claimed, but is presented for purposes
of illustration only to describe the features and characteristics
of the present invention, and to sufficiently enable one skilled in
the art to practice the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the
present invention is to be defined solely by the appended
claims.
[0039] The following detailed description and exemplary embodiments
of the invention will be best understood by reference to the
accompanying drawings, wherein the elements and features of the
invention are designated by numerals throughout.
[0040] The present invention describes an apparatus and method for
storing items using a storage apparatus. The storage apparatus may
comprise a sheet that may be placed flat on a surface, such as a
ground surface. The sheet may include a receiving portion for
receiving contents, or items to be stored. The storage apparatus
may also comprise couplers supported by the sheet. The couplers may
be operable to secure at least two section of the sheet together to
at least partially define a capture volume. The storage apparatus
may further comprise an elongate tail extending from the receiving
portion. The tail may be operable with the secured two sections to
substantially enclose the capture volume and secure the contents
therein.
[0041] The present invention provides several significant
advantages over prior related storage devices, some of which are
recited here and throughout the following more detailed
description. First, the storage apparatus can be configured in a
number of different configurations, wherein the storage apparatus
can initially accept and subsequently secure unwieldy storage items
that may be difficult to handle and maneuver. Second, the storage
apparatus can accommodate a wide variety of storage item shapes and
sizes as its capture volume is defined at least in part by the item
to be secured therein.
[0042] Each of the above-recited advantages will be apparent in
light of the detailed description set forth below, with reference
to the accompanying drawings. These advantages are not meant to be
limiting in any way. Indeed, one skilled in the art will appreciate
that other advantages may be realized, other than those
specifically recited herein, upon practicing the present
invention.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 1, illustrated is a foldable storage
apparatus 10. In the figure, the foldable storage apparatus 10 is
shown configured to at least partially define a capture volume 16.
The foldable storage apparatus 10 may comprise a sheet 11, which
may include a broad, thin configuration and surface and may be
flexible enough to be foldable into a configuration that defines a
capture volume 16. For example, a sheet 11 may include natural
and/or synthetic materials such as polymers, nylon, canvas, cotton,
etc.
[0044] The sheet 11 may comprise a number of different shapes or
configurations, such as the one shown in FIGS. 2, 4A-4D, 8A, and
10A. However, these particular embodiments are not intended to be
limiting in any way as those skilled in the art will recognize that
sheet 11 may comprise other shapes and configurations other than
those specifically shown herein.
[0045] Couplers 43, 44 may be supported by the sheet and may be
operable to secure two sections of the sheet together to at least
partially define the capture volume 16. In the figure, the capture
volume 16 is shown containing contents 18. Contents 18 may be
leaves, grass, gravel, twigs, sticks, rocks, trash, rope, tools,
sports equipment, camping gear, or any other item or combination of
items that may be contained by the capture volume 16. It should be
noted that the configuration shown in the figure may be useful for
adding and/or removing contents from the foldable storage apparatus
10.
[0046] The contents 18 in the capture volume 16 may be enclosed and
secured by a tail or tail portion 30 of the foldable storage
apparatus 10. In the figure, tail 30 is shown secured by holders 35
and 36 to a ground surface. Holders may be used to secure various
portions of the foldable storage apparatus 10 to a ground surface
to facilitate collection and capture of contents 18, as discussed
in more detail below. The tail 30 may be elongate and may extend
from a receiving portion 20 of the sheet 11. The tail 30 may also
be operable to substantially enclose the capture volume 16 and
secure the contents 18 therein. Each of these features and elements
is discussed in more detail below.
[0047] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, and with continuing reference to
FIG. 1, illustrated is a top side 12 (FIG. 2) and a bottom side 14
(FIG. 3) of the foldable storage apparatus 10. In FIGS. 2 and 3,
the sheet 11 of the foldable storage apparatus 10 is shown as being
in a flat configuration. FIG. 2 illustrates possible placement of
holders 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, and 38 that may be used to
secure the foldable storage apparatus 10 to a ground surface to
facilitate collection and capture of contents. Holders may comprise
stakes, pegs, spikes, rocks, weights, or any other object or device
that can secure at least a portion (e.g. an edge) of the foldable
storage apparatus to a ground surface. It should be noted that use
of holders is optional and the holders may be selectively used in
any situation where they may be advantageous, or selectively
removed if desired.
[0048] Any of sections 1, 2, 3, or 4 may be brought and coupled
together to define, at least partially, a capture volume 16. In
certain embodiments, sections 1 and 2 may be lateral sections and
sections 3 and 4 may be longitudinal sections. Couplers may be used
to couple the sections together. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2,
couplers 41, 42, 43, 44, 51, 61, 71, and 81 may be located on the
top side of the foldable storage apparatus 10. Alternatively, any
or all of these couplers may be located on the bottom side 14 of
the foldable storage apparatus 10. In the embodiment shown in FIG.
3, couplers 52, 53, 62, 63, 72, 73, 74, 82, 83, and 84 may be
located on the bottom side 14 of the foldable storage apparatus 10.
The couplers located on the bottom side 14 may provide different
options for sizing the capture volume 16. For example, connecting
coupler 51 to coupler 53 may create a smaller capture volume than
connecting coupler 51 to coupler 52. Similarly, connecting coupler
71 to coupler 74 may create a smaller capture volume than
connecting coupler 71 to coupler 72.
[0049] Couplers may comprise ties, straps, clips, hooks, adhesives,
hook and loop fasteners, magnets, elastics, buckles, snaps,
buttons, latches, clasps, or any other suitable mechanism or
configuration for coupling sections of the storage apparatus
together. Likewise, means for securing at least two sections of a
sheet together may comprise various couplers in the form of ties,
straps, clips, hooks, adhesives, hook and loop fasteners, magnets,
elastics, buckles, snaps, buttons, latches, clasps, or any other
suitable mechanism or configuration for securing at least two
sections of the sheet together.
[0050] Similarly, means for securing the tail portion to the
backside of the sheet may comprise various couplers in the form of
ties, straps, clips, hooks, adhesives, hook and loop fasteners,
magnets, elastics, buckles, snaps, buttons, latches, clasps, or any
other suitable mechanism or configuration. In a particular
embodiment, a coupler or means for securing may comprise a
relatively narrow and elongated portion of the foldable storage
apparatus 10 itself that is sufficient to engage another like
coupler or means for securing, wherein the two may be secured
together, such as to be tied into a knot, as exemplified by
couplers 41, 42, 43, 44, 51, 61, 71, and 81. For example, any one
of the aforementioned couplers may be configured to form a knot
with any other coupler of the foldable storage apparatus 10,
including couplers 52, 53, 62, 63, 72, 73, 74, 82, 83, and 84,
which may comprise ties or straps connected to the back side 14 of
the foldable storage apparatus 10.
[0051] In the embodiment shown, couplers 41 and 42 may connect
sections 1 and 2 together. Additionally, or in the alternative,
couplers 43 and 44 may connect sections 1 and 2 together.
Connecting sections of the sheet together functions to create a
three-dimensional structure to at least partially define the
capture volume 16. Furthermore, couplers 51 and 61 may connect with
couplers 52 and 62, respectively, to secure section 3 to sections 1
and 2 and to further define the capture volume 16. The result of
this may be as shown in FIG. 1, where the capture volume 16 is
substantially closed, with an opening oriented toward the tail
30.
[0052] In certain embodiments, the tail 30 may be elongate such
that its width has a dimension at least as wide as between one
fifth and one half of its length. In one embodiment, the tail 30
may be a part of the sheet 11. In other words, the tail 30 and the
sheet 11 can form a unitary structure. In another embodiment, the
tail may be independent or separate from the sheet. In this
example, the tail may be removably coupled to the receiving portion
of the sheet. In a certain aspect, the tail may comprise a
sheet-like configuration, although it is not a part of the sheet
11. In certain other aspects, the tail may be a cord, rope, tie, or
any other configuration that may function in a similar manner to
secure contents in the foldable storage apparatus.
[0053] In some embodiments, a handle 22 and/or shoulder straps 24
may be attached to the sheet 11 to aid in lifting, carrying, or
maneuvering the foldable storage apparatus 10. In certain
embodiments, the foldable storage apparatus may include a
compression mechanism to compress the foldable storage apparatus
and its contents into a more compact configuration. For example, a
compression mechanism may include straps, mesh, webbing, elastics,
etc. that functions to compress or further compress the foldable
storage apparatus defining, at least in part, the capture volume.
The compression mechanism may be separate from the storage
apparatus, it may be secured to the outside of the storage
apparatus, it may compress all or a portion of the storage
apparatus.
[0054] Referring to FIGS. 4A-4D, illustrated are different
embodiments of a foldable storage apparatus. FIG. 4A shows a
foldable storage apparatus 100 and depicts couplers 141, 142, 143,
144, 151, 161, 171, and 181 as being configured to have a more
pronounced narrow and elongated portion than the couplers shown in
FIGS. 1-3 that may be easier to grasp and tie. In addition, the
receiving portion 120 comprises an octagon-like shape, with some of
the edges being curved, and the tail portion 130 being integrally
formed with the receiving portion 120.
[0055] FIG. 4B depicts a foldable storage apparatus 200 as having
couplers 245, 246, 247, and 248 in addition to couplers 241, 242,
243, 244, 251, 261, 271, and 281. The additional couplers may
provide more coupling options and may be used to enhance the
security or integrity of the foldable storage apparatus 200 when
containing storage items or contents. It should be noted that use
of any given coupler or group of couplers of a foldable storage
apparatus may be optional and they may be used selectively as
needed to secure or contain storage contents. In this embodiment,
the receiving portion 220 comprises an octagon-like shape, with
some of the edges being curved, with the tail portion 230 being
integrally formed with the receiving portion 220 and comprising a
longer length than the tail portion shown in FIG. 4A.
[0056] FIG. 4C shows another exemplary foldable storage apparatus
300 and depicts couplers 341, 342, 343, 344, 351, 361, 371, and 381
as comprising magnetic or adhesive strips. Also shown in this
embodiment is a defined and indicated target area 321 for
depositing storage items or contents. Target area 321 may include
multiple boundaries, markings or other indicia evident on a surface
of the sheet that may indicate an acceptable placement and/or
amount of storage contents. For example, storage apparatus 300 may
include target area 321 that may indicate a maximum or suggested
outer boundary of a pile of leaves that can be contained by the
storage apparatus when in a storage configuration. The receiving
portion 320 comprises somewhat of a diamond shape, with curved
edges and a curved top edge. The receiving portion 320 is
integrally formed with a tail portion 330 having a curved bottom
edge, and two outer curving portions.
[0057] FIG. 4D shows foldable storage apparatus 400 and depicts
couplers 441, 442, 443, 444, 445, 451, 461, 471, and 481. Couplers
451 and 461 may be configured to function as "drawstrings." For
example, couplers 451 and 461 may be connected to the storage
apparatus at ends 448 and 449, respectively, and may be routed
about and free to move along edges 446 and 447, respectively. Thus,
pulling on free ends of couplers 451 and 461 may "cinch" up the
storage apparatus and further define the capture volume and the
overall storage volume. This may enhance the security or integrity
of the foldable storage apparatus 400 when containing storage items
or contents. The receiving portion 420 comprises a diamond-like
shape and tail portion 430 similar to that shown in FIG. 4A.
[0058] FIG. 5 illustrates one type of coupler in the form of an
adhesive strip 540. The adhesive strip 540 may be covered by a
protective covering until used. The adhesive strip 540 may be
coupled to another coupler or it may be coupled to a portion (e.g.,
a surface) of the foldable storage apparatus. In some embodiments,
the adhesive strips may be reusable.
[0059] In a related embodiment, a method of storing an item within
a foldable storage apparatus in accordance with the principles
discussed and taught herein is shown in FIGS. 6A-6D. The method
comprises disposing one or more contents 618 on a receiving portion
620 of a sheet, the sheet initially being in a flat configuration,
as shown in FIG. 6A. As shown in the figure, the foldable storage
apparatus may be secured to a ground surface by holders 631, 632,
633, 634, 635, 636, 637, and 638, which may be located at or near
the edges of the storage apparatus and/or the couplers 651, 661,
642, 644, 681, 671, 643, and 641, respectively. In the following
method steps, the holders may be selectively removed or released to
allow various sections to be brought together, and to facilitate
various couplers to couple together.
[0060] The method further comprises coupling a first coupler 641 of
the sheet to a second coupler 642 of the sheet to secure two
sections 601, 602 of the sheet together to at least partially
define a capture volume 616, as shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C. In one
aspect, shown in FIG. 6D, the method may comprise coupling a third
coupler 651 of the sheet to a fourth coupler 652 of the sheet to
secure a third section 603 of the sheet to the first section 601
and/or second section 602 of the sheet, to further define the
capture volume 616. It should be noted that the configuration shown
in FIG. 6D may be useful for adding and/or removing contents from
the foldable storage apparatus 600 as the capture volume is only
substantially closed. In this configuration, items may be inserted
or removed through the formed opening.
[0061] It should also be noted that, in another embodiment, the
first coupler may be coupler 643 and the second coupler may be
coupler 644. In another aspect, the third coupler may be coupler
661 and the fourth coupler may be coupler 662. In still another
embodiment, illustrated in the figures, couplers 641 and 643 may
connect with couplers 642 and 644, respectively. Further, couplers
651 and 661 may connect with couplers 652 and 662, respectively, to
further define the capture volume. In still another aspect,
couplers 651 and 661 may connect with couplers 653 and 663,
respectively. In this example, the coupler combination may define a
capture volume that is less than the capture volume created in the
previous example. In yet another embodiment, couplers 651 and 661
may connect with couplers 652 and 663, or 653 and 662,
respectively. This may define a capture volume of an asymmetric
shape to better accommodate an asymmetric item or contents.
[0062] As shown in the figures, couplers 652, 653, 662, and 663 may
be located on a back or bottom side of the sheet. Thus, in one
aspect, the method may further comprise connecting a first
longitudinal portion 603 of the sheet to a back side of the sheet.
In certain embodiments, a sheet may not include couplers 652, 653,
662, and 663 on the back side of the sheet. Thus, in this
embodiment, the first longitudinal portion 603 may be connected to
the back side of the sheet using only coupler 651 and/or coupler
661.
[0063] This illustrates that, depending on the type of coupler,
couplers need not be utilized in pairs, as one coupler may be
sufficient to couple to a portion of the sheet without a mating
coupler. Thus, couplers may be connected in a variety of ways to
secure contents in the foldable storage apparatus.
[0064] The method of storing an item is further shown in FIGS.
7A-7F. FIG. 7A shows a side view of the configuration represented
in FIG. 6D. Additionally, the method may comprise enclosing the
capture volume and securing the contents therein with an elongate
tail 630 extending from the receiving portion. This is illustrated
in FIGS. 7B-7F, as the capture volume 616 of the storage apparatus
600 is moved, or in this case rolled, in a direction 621 toward the
tail 630 of the storage apparatus 600. Alternatively, the tail may
be moved in a direction toward the capture volume of the storage
apparatus to enclose the opening and the capture volume and secure
the contents. In yet another alternative, the tail and the capture
volume may be moved toward each other to enclose the capture volume
and secure the contents. In one aspect, the method may comprise
connecting a second longitudinal portion 604 to a back or bottom
side of the sheet. In another aspect, enclosing the capture volume
and securing the contents may comprise rolling the capture volume
toward the second longitudinal portion 604. Still further, the
method may comprise compressing the capture volume using a
compression mechanism on an exterior of the sheet. In yet another
aspect, the method may comprise grasping a handle or shoulder strap
attached to the sheet. In any event, the elongate tail operates to
close the capture volume by folding with or about the portions of
the sheet forming the partially enclosed capture volume.
[0065] FIGS. 8A-8D illustrate another method of storing an item in
accordance with the principles herein. This method may be
considered an alternative to the method shown in FIGS. 6A-6D and
may, therefore, be followed by the method shown in FIGS. 7A-7F. As
shown in the figures, the foldable storage apparatus 700 may be
secured to a ground surface by holders 733, 734, 735, 736, 737, and
738, which may be located at or near couplers 742, 744, 781, 771,
743, and 741, respectively. In the following method steps, the
holders may be selectively removed to allow various couplers to
couple together.
[0066] Illustrated in this embodiment, the method comprises coupler
743 connected to coupler 742 to at least partially define a capture
volume 716 of the storage apparatus 700. This may be followed by
connecting coupler 741 to coupler 744 to further define the capture
volume. This may result in portions of sections 701 and 702 being
connected across each other, for example in a diagonal or
criss-cross manner. For certain items, this may be advantageous for
storage or containment of the items. Also illustrated in this
embodiment, is section (or longitudinal portion) 703 with coupler
750. In this embodiment, section 703 may be moved or folded to
further define the capture volume 716 with coupler 750 coupled to
at least a portion of the diagonal or criss-cross portions of
sections 701 and 702. It should be noted that the configuration
shown in FIG. 8D may be useful for adding and/or removing contents
from the foldable storage apparatus 700. Alternatively, section 703
may not include a coupler. In this case, section 703 may be held in
place by the tail 730 when the tail 730 is coupled to a back side
of the sheet with couplers 771 and 781.
[0067] FIGS. 8A-8D further illustrate a foldable storage apparatus
700 formed in accordance with another exemplary embodiment, wherein
receiving portion 720 comprises a plurality of opposing curved
edges, and an integrally formed elongated tail portion 730 also
comprising curved edges.
[0068] FIGS. 9A-9D illustrate yet another method of storing an item
in accordance with the principles herein. Similar to the method
shown in FIGS. 8A-8D, this method may be considered an alternative
to the method shown in FIGS. 6A-6D and may, therefore, be followed
by the method shown in FIGS. 7A-7F. This embodiment illustrates,
among other things, a foldable storage apparatus comprised of
multiple sheets or individual pieces of material. In this example,
the tail 830 is attached to the receiving portion 620 of the
storage apparatus 800 at 811. The attachment may be achieved by
sewing, gluing, welding, tacking, pinning, riveting, or any other
suitable attachment. The attachment 811 illustrates one example of
an attachment configuration. The configuration of the attachment
811 is not to be restricted and may be configured in any manner
that allows the following method steps to be performed. This
example also illustrates an alternative arrangement of sections
that may be coupled, as shown particularly by the presence and
location of section 860.
[0069] As shown in the figures, the foldable storage apparatus 800
may be secured to a ground surface by holders 833, 834, 835, 836,
837, and 838, which may be located at or near couplers 842, 844,
881, 871, 843, and 841, respectively. In the following method
steps, the holders may be selectively removed to allow various
couplers to couple together.
[0070] Illustrated in this embodiment, the method comprises coupler
843 connected to coupler 842 to at least partially define a capture
volume 816 of the storage apparatus 800. This may be followed by
connecting coupler 841 to coupler 844 to further define the capture
volume. This may result in portions of sections 801 and 802 being
connected across each other, for example in a diagonal or
criss-cross manner. Also illustrated in this embodiment, are
sections (or longitudinal portions) 803 and 804 with couplers 850
and 860, respectively. In this embodiment, sections 803 and 804 may
be moved or folded to further define the capture volume 816 with
coupler 850 coupled to coupler 860. It should be noted that the
configuration shown in FIG. 9C may be useful for adding and/or
removing contents from the foldable storage apparatus 800.
Alternatively, sections 803 and 804 may not include couplers. In
this case, sections 803 and 804 may be tucked under criss-crossed
portions and/or held in place by the tail 830 when the tail 830 is
coupled to a back side of the sheet with couplers 871 and 881.
[0071] Illustrated in FIGS. 10A-10E is a foldable storage apparatus
900 formed in accordance with another exemplary embodiment. In this
particular embodiment, the receiving portion 920 and the tail
portion 930 each comprise a pair of extensions (see extensions 992
and 994 extending from the receiving portion 920; and extensions
996 and 998 extending from the tail portion 930), such that when
portions of the receiving portion are brought together and secured
to one another to form a capture volume 916 as shown in FIGS.
10B-10D, the extensions 992 and 994 may be positioned as shown in
FIG. 10D. Subsequently, the extensions 992 and 994 may be wrapped
around the portions of the receiving portion 920 secured together,
and the formed capture volume 916 as shown in FIG. 10E. The method
for forming the capture volume 916 and securing together portions
of the receiving portion, or rather the method for storing an item,
may be similar to that described above, and shown in FIGS. 6A-6D or
FIGS. 8A-8D. Even though not shown here, the foldable storage
apparatus 900 may comprise similar coupling devices or systems as
described above.
[0072] The extensions 992 and 994 function to form a more secure
capture volume 916, and to reduce the chance of the portions of the
receiving portion that are secured together from coming apart or
separating from one another. The extensions 992 and 994 may be any
size or shape as needed or desired.
[0073] In addition, although not shown, the receiving portion 920
may comprise additional extension portions that are configured to
provide a similar wrapping and securing function.
[0074] FIGS. 11A-11F illustrate further steps for storing an item
with the foldable storage apparatus 900 similar to those described
above and shown in FIGS. 7A-7F, with the difference being that the
extensions 996 and 998 extending from the tail portion 930 (see
FIG. 10A), may be secured around the entire folded apparatus once
the receiving portion 920 and the formed capture volume 916 are
folded about the tail portion 930, as shown in FIG. 11F.
[0075] With reference again to FIG. 10A, the extensions 992, 994,
996 and 998 may further comprise one or more couplings that are
associated therewith, similar to those described above, that may be
used to secure the extensions to other portions of the foldable
storage apparatus 900.
[0076] The foregoing detailed description describes the invention
with reference to specific exemplary embodiments. However, it will
be appreciated that various modifications and changes may be made
without departing from the scope of the present invention as set
forth in the appended claims. The detailed description and
accompanying drawings are to be regarded as merely illustrative,
rather than as restrictive, and all such modifications or changes,
if any, are intended to fall within the scope of the present
invention as described and set forth herein.
[0077] More specifically, while illustrative exemplary embodiments
of the invention have been described herein, the present invention
is not limited to these embodiments, but includes any and all
embodiments having modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of
aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations
as would be appreciated by those in the art based on the foregoing
detailed description. The limitations in the claims are to be
interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims
and not limited to examples described in the foregoing detailed
description or during the prosecution of the application, which
examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. For example, in the
present disclosure, the term "preferably" is non-exclusive where it
is intended to mean "preferably, but not limited to." Any steps
recited in any method or process claims may be executed in any
order and are not limited to the order presented in the claims.
Means-plus-function or step-plus-function limitations will only be
employed where for a specific claim limitation all of the following
conditions are present in that limitation: a) "means for" or "step
for" is expressly recited; and b) a corresponding function is
expressly recited. The structure, material or acts that support the
means-plus function are expressly recited in the description
herein. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be
determined solely by the appended claims and their legal
equivalents, rather than by the descriptions and examples given
above.
* * * * *