Shopping cart engageable tote bag

Abstract

A reusable shopping bag, wherein environmentally beneficial avoidance of disposable shopping receptacles is enabled, wherein temporary securing to essentially any type of shopping cart is facilitated by the specially configured hangers defined coincident with a pair of engageable jaws, in order to effectively line the cargo compartment of a cart in order to prevent the passage of small articles therethrough, and wherein the jaws provide structural reinforcement and a general locking of the bag opening edge, requiring a multi-directional application of force in order for unlock and full access to bag contents.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]The present invention relates generally to shopping totes, and more specifically to a tote bag with a multi-functional jaw that facilitates engagement with essentially any shopping cart, that provides supportive shape definition for the bag, and that enables interlocking closure to prohibit accidental loss of bag contents during transport.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Millions of shopping carts are utilized each day by consumers in retail establishments. While many of these carts are similarly manufactured and configured, several general types exist: traditional-style, deep-compartment metal; traditional-style, deep-compartment plastic; and modern-style, shallow-compartment metal. Each style generally includes a push handle, an area for child seating, and a cargo compartment.[0003]Many new entrants have been introduced wherein the child seating area is generally removed from the cargo compartment and is highly stylized, such as in the form of a truck cab, in ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0014]Accordingly, a feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to provide a tote bag with interlocking handles.

[0015]Another feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to provide a tote bag adaptable for use as a shopping-cart liner for both metal and plastic shopping carts.

[0016]Still another feature and advantage of the present invention its ability to provide a utility bag comprising a first pair of handles that enables interlocking closure of the bag opening, and a second pair of handles that enables shoulder or hand carriage or support of the bag.

[0017]Yet another feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to provide a tote bag comprising a first pair of flexible handles and a second pair of rigid handles.

[0018]Still another feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to expand to essentially line at least a portion of the interior compartment of a shopping cart cargo area, while retaining its ability to retract to a traditionally configured tote bag for transport.

Problems solved by technology

Irrespective of the overall cart style, however, and of the well-appreciated advantages of such a wheeled shopping assistant, the grid-like construction of the walls and floor of a shopping cart's cargo compartment remain essentially standard, whether metal or plastic, wherein each disadvantageously allows unintended passage of small items and goods therethrough.

This can result in a lost purchase for the retailer, as well as a lost item desired by the consumer, wherein such loss frequently remains undiscovered until after departure from the store.

And, relying on small disposable plastic or paper bags is not necessarily economically pleasant for the retailer, nor friendly for an improved environment.

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