Collapsible container with compartments

Abstract

A collapsible container has a longitudinal axis with a top frame and a bottom frame connected by a spiral frame where the frames encircle the axis. The spiral frame is collapsible along the axis and the container has a web of flexible material supported by the frame. A first stiffener has opposing ends fastened to the container along a length of the frame that curves outward around the longitudinal axis. The stiffener has a first curved position extending adjacent the frame and a second position curved in an opposite direction to define an opening to a compartment between the frame and the stiffener. The compartment has a sidewall formed by a sheet of material fastened to the stiffener and the web of material supported by the frame. A plurality of these compartments can be provided, with the stiffener holding the entrance to the compartment open or closed.

Description

Background technique

[0001] A variety of collapsible covered baskets use metal frames. A substantially cylindrical vessel formed of a helical frame as in US Pat. Nos. 6,431,393, 6,392,987.

[0002] Pockets are added to containers with flat side walls by sewing the pockets on the panels. But the outer pockets are unsightly and left with loose dangling threads that can catch and snag the contents. Internal pockets have the same problem. The openings of these pockets are difficult to access, and if the pockets are made so large that the openings open sunken, the openings of these pockets obstruct the entering articles. Further, the openings of these pockets are flexible and pliable, so these pockets do not have a well-defined opening shape unless the user grabs the pocket and holds it to open it, which would require the user's hands, thus making the use of two Putting items into pockets with only one hand is difficult. There is therefore a need for a pocket that allows the p...

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