Movable Storage Basket

Abstract

The present disclosure presents an apparatus for transporting materials, comprising a flexible enclosure with an outer layer of a first height and an inner layer of a greater second height. A rigid base with gliders couples to the enclosure's bottom, facilitating smooth movement across surfaces. A closure mechanism at the inner layer's top adjusts the enclosure's volume by reducing the second height to match the first. A strap assembly couples to the enclosure, featuring an adjustable strap with a coupling mechanism to detachably secure it around a support structure. A rotation mechanism allows the strap to transition between a horizontal orientation for securing to a user's lap and a vertical orientation for shoulder carrying, providing a secure, adaptable, and ergonomic solution.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present disclosure claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 789,861, filed Apr. 16, 2025, the contents of which are claimed by reference in their entirety.FIELD OF INVENTION

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to assistive devices for personal use and, more particularly, to a laundry transport system providing hands-free mobility for wheelchair users, as well as other users, such as those with limited upper body strength.BACKGROUND

[0003] Independent wheelchair users engage in laundry activities with a similar frequency to able-bodied individuals, yet they encounter a significantly greater number of challenges throughout the entire process. A survey revealed that 75% of people utilizing wheelchairs identified the transportation of their clothes to and from washing machines and dryers as the most arduous and time-consuming aspect of their laundry routine. Several factors contribute to this challenging experience, including the requirement for individuals to use both hands to effectively self-propel their wheelchair while simultaneously attempting to maintain a laundry basket in a stable position on their lap. Furthermore, an additional challenge arises if attempting to transport the laundry basket on the floor, as users are then compelled to steer the basket, which often involves awkward maneuvering and can impede their ability to navigate freely or safely. These combined difficulties underscore a substantial accessibility gap within a fundamental daily chore, leading to considerable physical strain, increased time expenditure, and a reduction in independence for a significant portion of the wheelchair-using population, and others.

[0004] The current methods for managing laundry transportation do not adequately address the unique needs and physical constraints faced by these individuals, prompting a clear need for alternative solutions that can alleviate these burdens and foster greater autonomy in their daily lives.

[0005] The existing technological landscape for material transport, particularly for items like laundry, often relies on conventional containers that present various limitations for individuals with mobility impairments. Traditional laundry baskets, for instance, are designed primarily for manual carrying or dragging, which is not feasible for wheelchair users who require their hands for propulsion. Similarly, standard duffel bags or hampers, while offering containment, typically lack features that facilitate hands-free or low-effort transport in conjunction with a wheelchair. These conventional solutions often necessitate awkward postures, repetitive strain, and the risk of spillage or dropping items, further exacerbating the difficulties encountered by users. The absence of integrated carrying mechanisms that adapt to different modes of transport, such as hands-free lap transport or easy floor sliding, means that individuals are frequently forced to compromise on convenience, safety, or independence. This technological gap highlights a need for more thoughtfully designed apparatuses that consider the specific ergonomic and functional requirements of diverse user groups, moving beyond one-size-fits-all approaches that fail to address specialized accessibility concerns.

[0006] While various prior art multi-configuration laundry bags offer versatility in carrying modes for different stages of the laundry process, they do not specifically address the unique challenges faced by independent wheelchair users in transporting materials. Therefore, there is a need to overcome the problems discussed above by providing an apparatus for transporting materials that specifically addresses the challenges faced by independent wheelchair users. This apparatus may, in some embodiments, offer a flexible enclosure with an adjustable volume, allowing it to adapt to varying quantities of materials. The apparatus may incorporate a rigid base equipped with gliders to facilitate smooth and effortless sliding movement across various floor surfaces, thereby reducing physical strain during transport. Furthermore, the apparatus may have a multi-mode carrying assembly that includes an adjustable strap and a coupling mechanism, enabling the apparatus to be securely fastened around a support structure, such as a user's lap or a wheelchair, for hands-free transport. A rotation mechanism should allow the adjustable strap to pivot between a horizontal orientation for lap securing and a vertical orientation for shoulder carrying, providing versatile transport options. Such an apparatus would significantly enhance the independence and ease with which wheelchair users can manage their laundry and other materials, mitigating the current difficulties associated with simultaneous propulsion and material handling.SUMMARY

[0007] The primary objective of the present disclosure is to provide a material transport apparatus that offers hands-free lap transport for users, particularly those navigating in wheelchairs, thereby supporting two-handed self-propulsion and reducing concerns about the apparatus shifting or falling. Another objective of the present disclosure is to offer a versatile carrying apparatus that can be securely fastened to a support structure as a lap strap or adjusted to function as a shoulder strap, providing users with various convenient transport options. Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to facilitate streamlined and accessible material transport processes, such as laundry activities, by incorporating features like gliders for smooth floor movement and an adjustable volume enclosure, enhancing ease of use for a wide range of individuals.

[0008] According to one objective of the present disclosure, an apparatus for transporting materials comprises a flexible enclosure having an outer layer and an inner layer, the outer layer having a first height and the inner layer having a second height greater than the first height. The apparatus further includes a base coupled to a bottom portion of the flexible enclosure, where the base comprises a rigid material and a plurality of gliders configured to facilitate sliding movement across a surface. A closure mechanism may be disposed at a top portion of the inner layer of the flexible enclosure, where the closure mechanism is configured to adjust a volume of the flexible enclosure by selectively reducing the second height to substantially match the first height. A strap assembly is coupled to the flexible enclosure, the strap assembly comprising an adjustable strap having a first end and a second end; a coupling mechanism disposed at the first end of the adjustable strap, the coupling mechanism configured to detachably secure the adjustable strap around a support structure; and a rotation mechanism coupled to the flexible enclosure, the rotation mechanism configured to allow the adjustable strap to rotate between a horizontal orientation for securing the apparatus to a user's lap and a vertical orientation for carrying the apparatus over a user's shoulder.

[0009] According to another objective of the present disclosure, a system for material transport for a user comprises a flexible container. The flexible container encompasses a body portion having an outer wall and an inner wall, the inner wall being taller than the outer wall; a rigid bottom portion coupled to the body portion, the rigid bottom portion comprising a plurality of low-friction feet configured for smooth movement across various floor surfaces; and a volume adjustment mechanism associated with a top edge of the inner wall, the volume adjustment mechanism configured to selectively reduce the effective height of the inner wall to correspond with the height of the outer wall. A multi-mode carrying assembly is coupled to the flexible container, the multi-mode carrying assembly comprising an elongated strap having an adjustable length; a securing component at one end of the elongated strap, the securing component configured to detachably engage with a support structure; and a pivotable attachment point on the flexible container, the pivotable attachment point configured to allow the elongated strap to transition between a lap-securing configuration and a shoulder-carrying configuration, wherein the system is configured to enable hands-free lap transport when secured to a user's support structure and to allow for push-along transport via the low-friction feet.

[0010] According to yet another objective of the present disclosure, a method for transporting materials includes providing a container assembly comprising a flexible enclosure with an adjustable volume, a rigid base with gliders, and a multi-purpose strap assembly. The method involves placing materials into the flexible enclosure and adjusting the volume of the flexible enclosure based on a quantity of the materials. Further steps include positioning the container assembly on a user's lap and securing the container assembly to a support structure of the user via the strap assembly in a horizontal orientation, thereby enabling hands-free transport. The method also encompasses propelling the support structure while the container assembly is secured on the user's lap; and alternatively, placing the container assembly on a floor surface and sliding the container assembly across the floor surface using the gliders. The method may further include reconfiguring the strap assembly from the horizontal orientation to a vertical orientation and carrying the container assembly over a user's shoulder using the strap assembly in the vertical orientation, wherein adjusting the volume comprises tightening a drawstring of an inner bag within the flexible enclosure to reduce its height.

[0011] In an embodiment of the apparatus, the outer layer comprises a thicker polyester material, and the inner layer comprises a thinner, more flexible polyester material. Additionally, the first height may be approximately 17 inches and the second height may be approximately 28 inches. The closure mechanism may comprise a drawstring. The base may comprise polypropylene. The plurality of gliders may comprise raised feet configured to minimize scratching on hard floors. The adjustable strap may comprise a nylon weave material. The coupling mechanism may comprise a clip, which may be a carabiner-like clip. The rotation mechanism may comprise a twisting ring configured to receive the coupling mechanism, and the apparatus may further comprise a handle arrangement integrated into the outer layer of the flexible enclosure, the handle arrangement comprising fabric cutouts. In an embodiment of the system, the support structure is a wheelchair. The outer wall may comprise a thicker polyester and the inner wall may comprise a thinner, more flexible polyester. The volume adjustment mechanism may comprise a drawstring. The rigid bottom portion may comprise polypropylene. The securing component may comprise a clip.

[0012] The presented disclosure offers solutions for accessible material transport, enhancing user convenience and independence. The adaptable design allows for varied carrying modes and secure operation, simplifying daily tasks for a diverse user base. The integrated features provide functionality and ease of use not readily available in comparable devices. The foregoing paragraphs have been provided by way of general introduction and are not intended to limit the scope of the following claims. The described embodiments, together with further advantages, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0013] FIG. 1: Perspective view of the laundry basket with strap attachment.

[0014] FIG. 2: Side view of the laundry basket with strap attachment.

[0015] FIG. 3: Bottom perspective view of the laundry basket showing gliders.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood by reference to the description set forth herein. All the aspects described herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following descriptions. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred aspects and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration only and should not be treated as limitations. Changes and modifications may be made within the scope herein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, and the present disclosure herein includes all such modifications.

[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a laundry basket 100, showcasing its design tailored for convenient material transport, especially for users in wheelchairs. The laundry basket 100 comprises an outer layer 102, which forms the primary structural body of the container. Integrated into the outer layer 102 are handle cutouts 104, allowing for ease of manual lifting and carrying. Furthermore, a twisting ring 106 is coupled to the outer layer 102, serving as an attachment point for a carabiner-like clip 108. The carabiner-like clip 108 is part of a strap assembly, which is not fully depicted in this view but is essential for securing the laundry basket 100 to a user's lap or for shoulder transport. The arrangement of these components demonstrates how the laundry basket 100 facilitates flexible handling and transport options, supporting hands-free use and adaptable carrying configurations. The robust construction of the outer layer 102, often made from a thicker polyester material, provides resilience and stability for containing various materials, while the integrated handle cutouts 104 offer an alternative or supplementary means of gripping and maneuvering the laundry basket 100. This configuration promotes a streamlined and accessible process for material handling, addressing the diverse needs of users.

[0018] The outer layer 102 serves as the exterior component of the flexible enclosure, providing the primary structure and defining a substantial portion of the volume of the laundry basket 100. The outer layer 102 is designed with a first height, for instance, approximately 17 inches, which contributes to its compact form when the internal volume is reduced. This component is typically constructed from a durable material, such as a thicker polyester, contributing to the overall strength and longevity of the laundry basket 100. Alternative materials for the outer layer 102 could include canvas, reinforced nylon, or other robust synthetic fabrics that provide comparable durability and flexibility. The design of the outer layer 102 allows it to maintain its form while being flexible enough to accommodate various loads and interactions with other components. Its material composition may vary depending on desired strength, water resistance, and aesthetic properties, offering choices such as a ripstop nylon for improved tear resistance or a coated polyester for enhanced moisture protection.

[0019] The handle cutouts 104 are an integrated feature of the outer layer 102, designed as openings within the fabric that allow users to grip and lift the laundry basket 100. These handle cutouts 104 provide a direct and sturdy means of carrying the laundry basket 100, complementing the functionality of the strap assembly. The fabric from which the handle cutouts 104 are formed is consistent with the material of the outer layer 102, such as thick polyester, ensuring their durability and structural integrity under load. As an alternative to simple cutouts, the laundry basket 100 could incorporate stitched fabric loops or reinforced webbing handles attached to the exterior of the outer layer 102, which would offer different ergonomic gripping options. Such an alternative could involve a padded handle for enhanced comfort during prolonged carrying or handles that are strategically positioned to optimize balance when the laundry basket 100 is filled to varying capacities. These handle cutouts 104 are positioned to allow for balanced lifting whether the laundry basket 100 is empty or full.

[0020] The twisting ring 106 functions as a pivotal attachment point for the strap assembly, allowing for versatile positioning of the strap. This rotation mechanism is coupled to the flexible enclosure, providing the capability for an adjustable strap to rotate between a horizontal orientation for securing the apparatus to a user's lap and a vertical orientation for carrying the apparatus over a user's shoulder. The twisting ring 106 is configured to receive the coupling mechanism, such as the carabiner-like clip 108, enabling a fluid transition between different carrying modes. Alternative embodiments for the twisting ring 106 might involve a swivel mechanism integrated directly into the fabric of the outer layer 102 or a D-ring coupled to a rotatable bracket, providing similar rotational functionality. The construction of the twisting ring 106 typically involves durable metal or high-strength polymer to withstand the stresses of carrying the laundry basket 100, ensuring reliability across numerous uses. The interaction of the twisting ring 106 with the carabiner-like clip 108 is significant for enabling the multi-mode carrying functionality of the laundry basket 100.

[0021] The carabiner-like clip 108 represents a coupling mechanism disposed at an end of an adjustable strap, which is configured to detachably secure the adjustable strap around a support structure, such as the back of a wheelchair. This clip facilitates quick and secure attachment and detachment of the strap, enabling users to easily engage or disengage the lap strap. The carabiner-like clip 108 is designed for robust performance, often fabricated from resilient materials like metal alloys or strong plastics to withstand tension and repeated use.

[0022] Other forms of coupling mechanisms could include buckles, snap hooks, or quick-release fasteners, each offering varying levels of security and ease of operation. For example, a heavy-duty side-release buckle could provide a swift and simple connection, while a more traditional snap hook might offer a higher degree of security with a slightly more involved attachment process. The carabiner-like clip 108 is designed to integrate seamlessly with the twisting ring 106, forming a functional unit for the strap assembly.

[0023] Inner layer 120 serves as the interior component of the flexible enclosure. Inner layer 120 is designed, in most embodiments, to be capable of extending beyond the top edge of outer layer 102, to add extendable volume to the basket of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, inner layer may have an open or closed bottom (not shown); in the case of the latter, contents of the basket (such as, e.g., clothes) would be capable of direct contact with the inner surface of outer layer 102. Inner layer 120 may be relatively permanently affixed to outer layer 120 or be easily detachable from outer layer 102. In some embodiments, the inner layer 120, may include reinforced sections 122, disposed in some embodiments on the corners of the inner layer 120, to provide structural support to the inner layer. In some embodiments, reinforced section 122 may slide along corresponding grooves 123 in the outer layer to provide a sliding surface to allow for easier extensibility. The groove may contain stops that keep the inner layer within the basket 100 at full extension of the inner layer 120 and / or maintain the inner layer at various heights by one or more stops that allow the inner layer to stay at a desired height without slipping down due to gravity or weight of items stored in the inner layer. This component is typically constructed from a durable material, such as a thicker polyester, which may be thinner than the outer layer to allow the inner layer to collapse or be drawn shut (such as with a drawstring, Velcro strips and the like) at the top of the inner layer to secure its contents. Alternative materials for the inner layer 120 could include canvas, reinforced nylon, or other robust synthetic fabrics that provide comparable durability and flexibility. The design of the inner layer 120 (in some embodiments, with reinforced sections 122) allows it to maintain its form while being flexible enough to accommodate various loads and interactions with other components. Its material composition may vary depending on desired strength, water resistance, and aesthetic properties, offering choices such as a ripstop nylon for improved tear resistance or a coated polyester for enhanced moisture protection.

[0024] FIG. 2 presents a side view of the laundry basket 100, further illustrating its structural components and their interconnections. In this view, the laundry basket 100 clearly shows the outer layer 102 with its integrated handle cutouts 104. The twisting ring 106 is visibly coupled to the outer layer 102, serving as a connection point for the carabiner-like clip 108, which is part of the adjustable strap assembly. A significant feature highlighted in this view is the bottom 110 of the laundry basket 100, which is coupled to the outer layer 102. The bottom 110 provides structural rigidity and stability to the entire apparatus. This side perspective emphasizes how the flexible outer layer 102 is anchored to the firm base provided by the bottom 110, creating a robust and functional container. The visible elements collectively demonstrate the apparatus's ability to be carried by hand using the handle cutouts 104 or secured to a user via the strap assembly involving the twisting ring 106 and the carabiner-like clip 108, while also providing a stable base for placement.

[0025] The bottom 110 is a foundational component of the laundry basket 100, providing a rigid and stable base for the flexible enclosure. This component is coupled to the bottom portion of the flexible enclosure, specifically the outer layer 102. The bottom 110 is constructed from a robust material, such as polypropylene, contributing to its durability and capacity to support varied loads without deforming. This rigid base is essential for the structural integrity of the laundry basket 100, ensuring it can stand upright and resist sagging when filled. The use of polypropylene for the bottom 110 offers advantages such as resistance to impact, chemicals, and moisture, making it suitable for environments where laundry or other materials might be wet or heavy. Alternative materials for the bottom 110 could include high-density polyethylene, ABS plastic, or a composite material, each offering varying degrees of stiffness, impact resistance, and weight. The bottom 110 provides a secure platform for the attachment of other features, such as the glider feet 112, which are detailed in a subsequent figure.

[0026] FIG. 3 displays a bottom perspective view of the laundry basket 100, specifically highlighting its base and the mechanisms for smooth surface interaction. This view clearly shows the laundry basket 100 from underneath, emphasizing the robust bottom 110. The outer layer 102, which forms the main body of the laundry basket, is shown securely connected to the bottom 110. The twisting ring 106 and the carabiner-like clip 108 are also visible, illustrating their attachment to the outer layer 102, though their primary function for carrying is less emphasized in this bottom view. The prominent features in this figure are the glider feet 112, which are integrated into the bottom 110. These glider feet 112 are specifically designed to facilitate effortless sliding movement across diverse floor surfaces. The arrangement of the components in this view demonstrates how the laundry basket 100 is constructed to offer not only hands-free transport but also ease of movement across various home environments, minimizing physical strain on the user.

[0027] The glider feet 112 are a plurality of low-friction feet that are integrated into the bottom 110 of the laundry basket 100. These glider feet 112 are specifically configured to facilitate smooth sliding movement across various floor surfaces, including hardwood, tile, and carpet. The design of the glider feet 112 often incorporates raised feet to minimize scratching on hard floors, protecting both the floor surfaces and the bottom of the laundry basket 100 from wear and tear. The material for the glider feet 112 is typically a low-friction polymer, such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), UHMW (ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene), or other composite materials known for their slickness and durability. Alternative embodiments for the glider feet 112 could include small, robust wheels for enhanced maneuverability, though wheels might introduce more noise and complexity. Another alternative might be felt pads or rubberized glides, each suitable for specific flooring types, balancing friction and floor protection. The glider feet 112 function synergistically with the rigid bottom 110 to enable the push-along transport mode of the laundry basket 100, providing an additional method of moving the container without lifting.

[0028] The embodiments of the present disclosure as disclosed herein are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Other embodiments are possible and modifications may be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. As such, these embodiments are only illustrative of the inventive concepts contained herein.

Claims

1. An apparatus for transporting materials, comprising:a flexible enclosure having an outer layer and an inner layer, the outer layer having a first height and the inner layer having a second height greater than the first height;a base coupled to a bottom portion of the flexible enclosure, the base comprising a rigid material and a plurality of gliders configured to facilitate sliding movement across a surface;a closure mechanism disposed at a top portion of the inner layer of the flexible enclosure, the closure mechanism configured to adjust a volume of the flexible enclosure by selectively reducing the second height to substantially match the first height; anda strap assembly coupled to the flexible enclosure, the strap assembly comprising:an adjustable strap having a first end and a second end;a coupling mechanism disposed at the first end of the adjustable strap, the coupling mechanism configured to detachably secure the adjustable strap around a support structure; anda rotation mechanism coupled to the flexible enclosure, the rotation mechanism configured to allow the adjustable strap to rotate between a horizontal orientation for securing the apparatus to a user's lap and a vertical orientation for carrying the apparatus over a user's shoulder.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the outer layer comprises a thicker polyester material and the inner layer comprises a thinner, more flexible polyester material.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first height is approximately 17 inches and the second height is approximately 28 inches.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the closure mechanism comprises a drawstring.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the base comprises polypropylene.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of gliders comprises raised feet configured to minimize scratching on hard floors.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the adjustable strap comprises a nylon weave material.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the coupling mechanism comprises a clip.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the clip is a carabiner-like clip.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the rotation mechanism comprises a twisting ring configured to receive the coupling mechanism.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a handle arrangement integrated into the outer layer of the flexible enclosure, the handle arrangement comprising fabric cutouts.

12. A system for material transport for a user, comprising:a flexible container comprising:a body portion having an outer wall and an inner wall, the inner wall being taller than the outer wall;a rigid bottom portion coupled to the body portion, the rigid bottom portion comprising a plurality of low-friction feet configured for smooth movement across various floor surfaces;a volume adjustment mechanism associated with a top edge of the inner wall, the volume adjustment mechanism configured to selectively reduce the effective height of the inner wall to correspond with the height of the outer wall; anda multi-mode carrying assembly coupled to the flexible container, the multi-mode carrying assembly comprising:an elongated strap having an adjustable length;a securing component at one end of the elongated strap, the securing component configured to detachably engage with a support structure; anda pivotable attachment point on the flexible container, the pivotable attachment point configured to allow the elongated strap to transition between a lap-securing configuration and a shoulder-carrying configuration,wherein the system is configured to enable hands-free lap transport when secured to a user's support structure and to allow for push-along transport via the low-friction feet.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the support structure is a wheelchair.

14. The system of claim 12, wherein the outer wall comprises a thicker polyester and the inner wall comprises a thinner, more flexible polyester.

15. The system of claim 12, wherein the volume adjustment mechanism comprises a drawstring.

16. The system of claim 12, wherein the rigid bottom portion comprises polypropylene.

17. The system of claim 12, wherein the securing component comprises a clip.

18. A method for transporting materials, comprising:providing a container assembly comprising a flexible enclosure with an adjustable volume, a rigid base with gliders, and a multi-purpose strap assembly;placing materials into the flexible enclosure;adjusting the volume of the flexible enclosure based on a quantity of the materials;positioning the container assembly on a user's lap;securing the container assembly to a support structure of the user via the strap assembly in a horizontal orientation, thereby enabling hands-free transport;propelling the support structure while the container assembly is secured on the user's lap; andalternatively, placing the container assembly on a floor surface and sliding the container assembly across the floor surface using the gliders.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising:reconfiguring the strap assembly from the horizontal orientation to a vertical orientation; andcarrying the container assembly over a user's shoulder using the strap assembly in the vertical orientation.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein adjusting the volume comprises tightening a drawstring of an inner bag within the flexible enclosure to reduce its height.

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