A container for flexible elongate members

Abstract

A container assembly for flexible elongate members A container assembly for flexible elongate members, the container assembly comprising a container comprising two opposite ends and a tubular body therebetween for containing the flexible elongate members. The container assembly comprises a plurality of accessories adapted to be attached to and detached from at least one openable end of the container in use. The accessories include two or more of: a lid, a base, and one or more container extenders.

Description

[0001] A CONTAINER FOR FLEXIBLE ELONGATE MEMBERS

[0002] FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to a container for flexible elongate members.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Flexible elongate members such as cable-ties for example have many practical applications. However, storage of such elongate members is often difficult; especially during transport from one installation site to another. Often the cable-ties are pulled from their original packaging and thrown loosely into a toolbox where they scatter amongst the tools and can be difficult to recover. Other conventional storage devices for cable-ties for example tend to be open ended containers whereby the cable-ties protrude from the structure and are prone to falling out of the container. Further, a number of conventional storage devices for cable-ties are not portable; instead being fixed to a workbench for example.

[0006] In addition, many users of cable-ties may opt to utilise the original packaging as a make-shift holder for storage. This method is also inefficient as the packaging is not typically designed for the repeated removal and insertion of the ties. As a result the packaging typically becomes deformed and damaged, thus allowing the cable-ties to fall out of the original packaging. The original packaging is usually a flexible plastic bag formed into a tube shape by the volume of cable-ties themselves and so when a person tries to pinch the cable-ties out of an opening generally made by tearing the bag, pinching or pulling cable-ties is difficult because of the fact that the flexible bag and the cable-ties are in close proximity. This means the operator is pinching or pulling at the cable-ties through a tear. Once opened, cable-ties regularly fall out through this tear both during use and while in storage, a problem which becomes worse over time as the size of the tear increases through use.

[0007] Another problem with the flexible plastic bag packaging is that the cable-ties generally spread out in a planar fashion as their quantity reduces, and the flexible bag follows the shape of the cable tie bundle, meaning there is no space between the opening formed by the tear and the cable-ties. In other words, the cable-ties remain in close proximity to the opening formed by the tear almost coplanar. This means that a person’s grip between their thumb and index finger has limited depth to get a grip of the cable-tie and it can leave a person having to take several attempts at the cable-tie before successfully removing a cable-tie. This is because the sheet of material adjacent the opening and the cable-ties pressed up against or proximal to the opening are almost co-planar leaving no depth for pinching or pulling the cable ties. Also, because the bag is flexible, it is easy to accidentally pinch the bag itself rather than the cable tie. This is a frustrating experience for the user who may be using cableties regularly as part of their ongoing work.

[0008] It is a problem that such storage containers are also typically adapted for just one size of cable tie meaning one length of cable tie. This means that if a bundle of cable ties of a particular type are exchanged for a bundle of cable ties of another type, the container is not well able to accommodate the change in length of the cable ties, with the cable ties either bending and / or buckling to fit, or there being excess space between the ends of the cable ties and the ends of the container. If there is bending or buckling, the cable ties can become tangled, damaged and difficult to remove, and if there is excess space, cable ties can move around in the container and fall out of the storage container inadvertently via the aperture.

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to obviate the abovementioned problems by providing a container for flexible elongate members wherein the elongate members are contained securely within the container for storage and transport yet easily loadable into, accessible, and removable from the container when required by the user.

[0010] SUMMARY OFTHE INVENTION

[0011] Accordingly, the present invention provides a container assembly for flexible elongate members, the container assembly comprising a container comprisingtwo opposite ends and a tubular body therebetween for containing the flexible elongate members, wherein at least one of the two opposite ends is an openable end, wherein the container assembly further comprises a plurality of accessories adapted to be attached to and detached from the at least one openable end of the container in use.

[0012] Ideally, the container having an aperture for at least removal of the flexible elongate members, at least the portion of the container defining the aperture having means for maintaining at least part of a perimeter of the aperture in a non-planar orientation.

[0013] Advantageously, the non-planar orientation of at least part of the perimeter of the aperture means that an operator can always place their thumb and index finger in alignment or partially aligned with the flexible elongate member so that upon closing their thumb and index finger they will be able to apply a clamping force onto at least part of opposing sides of the body of a flexible elongate member proximal to the aperture.

[0014] Advantageously, the non-planar orientation of the perimeter creates a three- dimensional space into the container around the flexible elongate members. This allows an operator to apply the same clamping force to flexible elongate members at the back of the container relative to the aperture being at a front position of the container.

[0015] Ideally, the container is adapted to prevent the flexible elongate members coming out of the container without operator intervention.

[0016] By “operator intervention” we mean the operator intervention described in the preceding statements i.e., placing a thumb and index finger in alignment or partially aligned with the flexible elongate member so that upon closing their thumb and indexfinger they will be able to apply the clamping force to the flexible elongate member.

[0017] Ideally, all or part of the perimeter of the aperture is rigid.

[0018] Preferably, all or part of the portion of the container defining the aperture is rigid.

[0019] Ideally, the container is rigid.

[0020] Preferably, the container is an elongate container.

[0021] Ideally, the container comprises two opposite ends.

[0022] Ideally, the aperture is located away from the two opposite ends of the container. Preferably, the aperture is located towards or about the middle of the container relative to the two opposite ends.

[0023] Ideally, the container has a tubular body.

[0024] Preferably, the tubular body is a cylindrical body.

[0025] Alternatively, the tubular body has a polygonal shaped cross-section.

[0026] Ideally, the tubular body has a rectangular or pentagonal or hexagonal or heptagonal or octagonal cross-section etc.

[0027] Ideally, the container comprises a single moulded unit.

[0028] Ideally, the container has two opposite ends and the container body therebetween.

[0029] Ideally, the container has at least one openable end for receiving the flexible elongate members.

[0030] By “openable end” we mean an end which can be opened in use.

[0031] Advantageously, a container for flexible elongate members which comprises at least an end that is openable, provides a user with ease of access to the container to quickly and easily refill the container with additional elongate members.

[0032] Ideally, the container has at least one closable end for limitingthe openings through which the elongate flexible members can leave the container without operator intervention to only the aperture.

[0033] The at least one openable end is the same end as the at least one closable end. By this we mean that the end of the container being referred to can be opened and closed in the use of the container.

[0034] Advantageously, this ensures that the flexible elongate members can be placed into the container and then in use are contained in the container in a plurality of orientations of the container.

[0035] By this we mean that an operator can move and rotate the container without flexible elongate members falling out of the container without the operator intervention described.

[0036] Ideally, the at least one openable end for receiving the flexible elongate members comprises a detachable lid member for attaching / detachingthe detachable lid member to / from the container.

[0037] By this we mean the container assembly comprises the detachable lid memberfor attaching / detachingthe detachable lid member to / from the at least one openable end of the container.

[0038] Ideally, the at least one openable end for receiving the flexible elongate members comprises a detachable lid member for attaching / detachingthe detachable lid member to / from the cylindrical tubular body.

[0039] Ideally, the detachable lid member is configured to be attached / detached by translationally moving the detachable lid member from the container.

[0040] Ideally, the detachable lid member is configured to be attached / detached by rotationally moving the detachable lid member from the container.

[0041] Ideally, the detachable lid member comprises a closed end and an open end for positively engaging the open end of the tubular body of the container. By “open end of the tubular body” we mean the at least one openable end of the container when the openable end does not have one of the plurality of accessories attached thereto.

[0042] In one embodiment, an inner profile of the detachable lid member having an interference fit means extending along a portion of the detachable lid member for positively engaging the open end of the tubular body of the container.

[0043] Advantageously, this detachable lid member provides the operator with a lid that is easily pressed onto and pulled off from the tubular body or rotatably attachable / detachable to / from the container to enable the container to be quickly and easily refilled with flexible elongate members.

[0044] Alternatively, a portion of the inner profile of the detachable lid member and a portion of the external profile of the container comprise correspondingly located and formed threads.

[0045] Advantageously, this embodiment provides the detachable lid member with a screwlike function to rotate onto and off from the tubular body of the container.

[0046] Ideally, the lid comprises a gripping means formed on an outer-facing surface of the lid for facilitating joining the lid to the container or removing the lid from the container in use.

[0047] Ideally, the gripping means comprises a plurality of ridges on an outer-facing sidewall surface of the lid.

[0048] Ideally, the gripping means comprises one or more holes extendingfrom an outerfacing end wall surface of the lid.

[0049] Ideally, the detachable lid member comprises a means for retaining a magnet against an interior-facing surface of the closed end of the detachable lid member.

[0050] Advantageously, this means that the container is retainable on a magnetisable surface such as a metallic wall of a van, when the lid is secured to the container.

[0051] Ideally, the detachable lid member comprises magnetisable material. Advantageously, this means the container is retainable on a magnetic surface such as a surface of a permanent magnet, when the lid is secured to the container.

[0052] Advantageously, magnetic coupling of the container via the lid allows the container to be mounted via the lid so that a user can remove flexible elongate members from the aperture without needingto hold the container, for example with another hand, to prevent the container from, for example, sliding or toppling. Advantageously, magnetic coupling allows for the container to be easily mounted onto and removed from any magnetic or magnetisable surface allowing ease of use of the container and obviates the need for mechanical mounting such as clamps or clips, or loop fasteners for example.

[0053] Ideally, the means for retainingthe magnet is adapted to retain an annular arrangement of one or more magnets.

[0054] Ideally, the means for retainingthe magnet is adapted to retain an annular magnet.

[0055] Ideally, the means for retainingthe magnet comprises a circumferentially located mechanical coupling means.

[0056] Ideally, the means for retainingthe magnet comprises a circumferentially located snap fit retaining means. By circumferentially located, we mean circumferentially located around the annular magnetic arrangement in use. Ideally, the snap fit retaining means comprises a circumferentially located resiliently displaceable lip arrangement.

[0057] Ideally, the snap fit retaining means comprises a circumferentially located resiliently displaceable plurality of resiliently displaceable hooks.

[0058] Ideally, the resiliently displaceable hooks are equispaced angularly around the annular magnetic arrangement.

[0059] Ideally, the detachable lid member comprises a means for at least partially receiving a magnetic arrangement against an interior-facing surface of the closed end of the detachable lid member.

[0060] Ideally, the magnetic arrangement receiving means is an annular recess.

[0061] Ideally, the lid is adapted to be attached to and detached from one or more of the base, and the container extender.

[0062] Ideally, the container comprises a magnetic mounting means for mountingthe container to a magnetic or magnetisable surface and / or for mounting a magnetic or magnetisable portion of an accessory for the container to the container.

[0063] Ideally, the container is formed at least partially from a magnetisable material for mounting the container to a magnetic surface and / orfor mounting a magnetic portion of an accessory for the containerto the container.

[0064] Ideally, the container for flexible elongate members comprises securing means for securing the container to another component.

[0065] Ideally, a mechanical fixing means such as one or more cable ties are extendable through an aperture of the securing means to secure the container to one or more additional components.

[0066] By “another” or an “additional” componentwe mean an accessory for the container or a support for the container

[0067] Ideally, the securing means comprises one or more clamps, hooks and / orfixing lugs.

[0068] Ideally, the container is adapted for use with a means for adjusting the length of the container from a first length corresponding to one or more flexible elongate members having a first length to a second length corresponding to one or more flexible elongate members having a second length, wherein the second length of the or each elongate member is not the same as the first length.

[0069] Accordingly, the present invention provides a means for adjusting a length of a container for flexible elongate members from a first length corresponding to one or more flexible elongate members having a first length to a second length corresponding to one or more flexible elongate members having a second length, wherein the second length of the or each elongate member is not the same as the first length.

[0070] Ideally, the means for adjusting the length of the container comprises one or more container extenders.

[0071] Advantageously, this allows different lengths of containers to be formed by adding or removing the container extenders to the container to accommodate various lengths of flexible elongate members.

[0072] Ideally, the one or more container extenders comprise one or more tubular bodies. Ideally, the means for adjusting the length of the container is modular.

[0073] Ideally, the one or more container extenders comprise a plurality of modular bodies.

[0074] Ideally, the one or more container extenders are attachable / detachable to / from the container.

[0075] Ideally, at least one of the one or more container extenders are attachable / detachable to / from another of the one or more container extenders.

[0076] Ideally, the one or more container extenders have two opposite ends and a container extender body therebetween, wherein a first end is suitable for attaching / detaching to / from the container or to / from another container extender and wherein a second end is suitable for being attached to by another container extender or for being closed by a detachable lid member.

[0077] This means that the two opposite ends of the one or more container extenders are open for being joined to the container, container extender, or detachable lid member.

[0078] By the container extender being attachable / detachable to / from the container we mean attachable / detachable to / from the container at the at least one openable end of the container.

[0079] Ideally, the second end of the container extender is suitable for being attached to by a base.

[0080] Advantageously, the container extender is adapted to attach to and detach from the at least one openable end of the container so that if a longer length of flexible elongate member needs to be held in the container, the detachable lid member can be removed from the at least one openable end of the container, the container extender can be attached to the at least one openable end and the same detachable lid member can be attached to the second end of the container extender. Instead, a second container extender can be attached to the container extender attached to the container, the second container extender being attached to by the lid or base. This process can be repeated with as many container extenders as needed for the particular length of flexible elongate member. The container extenders are identically formed. This is what we mean by “modular” in this context.

[0081] Ideally, an internal thread is formed at the first end of the one or more container extenders for engaging an external thread of the container or another container extender.

[0082] Ideally, an external thread is formed at the second end of the one or more container extenders for engaging an internal thread of a detachable lid member. The external thread at the second end may also engage an internal thread of the base.

[0083] Ideally, the first end has a widened-diameter portion, widened relative to the second end and the container extender body for fitting around an outside of the container or container extender when attaching the container extender to the container or another container extender.

[0084] Ideally, the first end has a series of ribs for assisting gripping and rotating of the container extender.

[0085] Ideally, the ribs are equi-angularly spaced.

[0086] Ideally, the ribs are formed on the widened diameter portion of the container extender. Ideally, the container for flexible elongate members comprises a closed end wall. Ideally, the closed end wall is formed as part of the single part of the container for flexible elongate members.

[0087] By “single part” we mean the single moulded unit of the container.

[0088] Ideally, the container for flexible elongate members comprises an aperture sized to receive a mechanical fastening means of a clip for hanging the container.

[0089] Ideally, the end wall comprises an aperture sized to receive the mechanical fastening means of the clip for hanging the container.

[0090] Accordingly, there is provided a clip for hanging a container for flexible elongate members, the clip comprising a mechanical and / or magnetic fastening means for fastening the clip to the container.

[0091] Ideally, the mechanical fastening means of the clip comprises a resiliently compressible arrangement.

[0092] Ideally, the resiliently compressible arrangement comprises two resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusions.

[0093] Ideally, the resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusions are half-conical tapering prongs.

[0094] Ideally, the resiliently compressible arrangement provides a snap fit or press fit arrangement whereby the two resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusions are compressible together to pass through the aperture and spring back to their original shape to lock them in place in the container.

[0095] Ideally, at least one of the resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusions comprises an inclined surface gradually increasingthe width of the or each resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusion away from a free end of the or each resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusion.

[0096] Ideally, the inclined surface returns to a stem of the resiliently compressible arrangement creating a notched surface for engaging an internal surface of the wall of the closed end of the container for flexible elongate members.

[0097] Ideally, the or each resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusions extends from the stem.

[0098] Ideally, the stem extends from a base of the clip.

[0099] Ideally, the base of the clip is wider than the stem where the base meets the stem, creating a notched surface for engaging an external surface of the closed end wall.

[0100] Ideally, the two notched surfaces are spaced apart by a distance slightly greater than the thickness of the closed end wall.

[0101] Ideally, the aperture sized to receive the expandable protrusion of a clip for hanging the elongate container is sized to be too small for permitting flexible elongate members to travel therethrough. Advantageously, this prevents flexible elongate members moving through the aperture when there is no clip installed in the aperture.

[0102] Ideally, the clip has a releasable catch mechanism allowing the clip to be opened and secured to a further object.

[0103] By “further object” we mean a means for hanging the container such as a belt loop or metal grating or wire mesh panel. Ideally, the clip is a carabiner clip.

[0104] Ideally, the clip comprises a stiffening rib extending around an exterior surface of the clip.

[0105] Ideally, the securing means of the containerfor flexible elongate members is suitable for securing a waste bin attachment.

[0106] Ideally, the securing means suitable for securing the waste bin attachment comprises mechanical securing means.

[0107] Ideally, the securing means suitable for securing the waste bin attachment comprises magnetic securing means.

[0108] According to the invention there is provided a waste bin attachment for flexible elongate member waste, wherein the waste bin attachment is adapted to be secured to a containerfor flexible elongate members.

[0109] Ideally, the container assembly comprises the waste bin attachment.

[0110] Ideally, the waste bin attachment is elongate.

[0111] Ideally, the waste bin attachment is tubular.

[0112] Ideally, the waste bin is securable to a tubular body of the container for flexible elongate members wherein axes of the waste bin and the elongate container are parallel and spaced apart.

[0113] Ideally, the waste bin and the tubular body have circumferential proximal surfaces.

[0114] Advantageously, this ensures that the waste bin sits close against the tubular body of the container and that the container does not topple too easily.

[0115] Ideally, the waste bin comprises securing means-receiving means for receiving securing means of the container for mechanically and / or magnetically coupling the waste bin and the container.

[0116] Ideally, the securing means-receiving means comprise a means for receiving coupling means.

[0117] Ideally, the securing means-receiving means comprise pairs of apertures alignable along a line, wherein the apertures are offset on the securing means-receiving means away from a main body of the waste bin to permit a portion of the securing means of the container for flexible elongate members to be received between the apertures and the main body of the waste bin. Thereby, a fastening means can be inserted through the apertures of the securing means-receiving means to fasten together the waste bin and the container for flexible elongate members.

[0118] Ideally, the waste bin comprises an open end and a detachable lid memberfor attaching / detachingthe detachable lid member to / from the open end of the waste bin.

[0119] By “open end” we mean “openable end”.

[0120] Ideally, the detachable lid member of the waste bin prevents flexible elongate member waste coming out of the waste bin through the open end when the detachable lid member is located on the waste bin.

[0121] Ideally, the lid of the elongate waste bin comprises a one way opening for allowing waste into the bin but not out of the bin. Ideally, the one-way opening comprises a rim and a plurality of resiliently displaceable fingers attached to the circumference of the rim and extending from the circumference of the rim away from the rim. Advantageously, when a force is applied to the resiliently displaceable fingers away from the rim, the fingers move and at least part of the one way opening opens to form an aperture, allowing the flexible elongate member waste to enter into the waste bin via the aperture.

[0122] Ideally, when the flexible elongate member waste passes into the bin, the force is removed from the fingers allowing them to seal the aperture to prevent flexible elongate member waste to pass from inside the bin to outside of the bin.

[0123] Ideally, the one way opening comprises an inwardly protruding shell protruding inwardly from a top end of the detachable lid member of the waste bin inwards towards a bottom end of the detachable lid member.

[0124] Ideally, the inwardly protruding shell is concave.

[0125] Ideally, when no force is applied to the resiliently displaceable fingers to open at least part of the aperture, the inwardly protruding shell is in the shape of a hemisphere.

[0126] Ideally, the resiliently displaceable fingers are biased towards forming a hemispherical shape of the inwardly protruding shell, wherein the hemispherical inwardly protruding shell is a closed configuration of the one-way opening.

[0127] Ideally, when a force is applied to the resiliently displaceable fingers to open at least part of the aperture, the fingers extend out of the hemispherical shape of the inwardly protruding shell downwards into the waste bin to form the aperture.

[0128] Ideally, the plurality of resiliently displaceable fingers are formed by a plurality of incisions running from a bottom dead centre of the hemispherical shell upwardly and outwardly from the bottom dead centre to a circumferential perimeter portion of the shell.

[0129] Ideally, the incisions are equi-angularly spaced.

[0130] Ideally, the incisions are arranged at a 30-degree angle to one another.

[0131] Ideally, the tubular body of the container comprises stabilising means for resisting rocking or rotating of the tubular body when the tubular body is rested on a flat surface on a sidewall of the tubular body.

[0132] Ideally, the stabilising means comprise magnets and / or magnet receiving means, or magnetisable material for mounting the container to a magnetic or magnetisable surface.

[0133] Ideally, the stabilising means comprise feet for supportingthe container.

[0134] Ideally, the containerforflexible elongate members comprise one or more feet for supportingthe container on a flat surface. By this we mean the stabilising means.

[0135] Ideally, the one or more feet comprise a pair of feet located at opposite ends of the container for flexible elongate members. Advantageously, this increases stability of the container when supported on a flat surface by the feet in use.

[0136] Ideally, the container comprises a plurality of feet spaced apart along the length of the container and aligned alongthe length of the container.

[0137] Ideally, the feet comprise planar surface portions alignable with one another for supportingthe containerfor flexible elongate members on a flat surface in use. Ideally, the feet are located on the container for flexible elongate members offset angularly from the aperture.

[0138] Advantageously, this means that when the container for flexible elongate members is located on a surface via the feet, an operator can easily access the aperture for withdrawing flexible elongate members, in particularthe surface on which the container is located does not interfere with the access to the aperture by the operator.

[0139] Ideally, the feet are located opposite the aperture in terms of the angular position with respect to the tubular body. Advantageously, this means the feet are locatable in a position whereby when the container is in use or mounted the flexible elongate members can be removed from the containerthrough the aperture.

[0140] Ideally, the feet comprise housings for receiving one or more magnets for retaining the container for flexible elongate members on magnetisable metal, such as a metal wall of a van.

[0141] Ideally, the feet comprise one or more through holes for securing the container to one or more additional components.

[0142] Ideally, mechanical fastening means can pass through the one or more through holes of the feet to secure the containerto the one or more additional components.

[0143] Preferably, the mechanical fastening means comprises a flexible elongate member, an elastic member, Velcro8strip, cord or the like.

[0144] Alternatively, the least one pair of correspondingly located feet comprise apertures to enable the container to be mechanically mounted by screws or nails or the like.

[0145] Preferably, the aperture extends longitudinally along a part of the length of the container.

[0146] Ideally, the aperture extends longitudinally along a part of the length of the tubular body of the container.

[0147] Preferably, the aperture being adapted to extend over less than 50% of the longitudinal length of the container.

[0148] Preferably, the aperture being adapted to extend over less than 40% of the longitudinal length of the container.

[0149] Ideally, the aperture being adapted to extend over less than 30% of the longitudinal length of the container.

[0150] Preferably, the aperture being adapted to extend over less than 20% of the longitudinal length of the container.

[0151] Ideally, the aperture being adapted to extend over less than 10% of the longitudinal length of the container.

[0152] Ideally, the aperture extends circumferentially around at least part of the container.

[0153] Preferably, the aperture extends circumferentially around at least part of the tubular body of the container.

[0154] Ideally, the aperture extends circumferentially around up to 50% of the tubular body of the container.

[0155] Preferably, the aperture extends circumferentially around up to 40% of the tubular body of the container. Ideally, the aperture extends circumferentially around up to 30% of the tubular body of the container.

[0156] Preferably, the aperture extends circumferentially around up to 20% of the tubular body of the container.

[0157] Ideally, the aperture extends circumferentially around up to 10% of the tubular body of the container.

[0158] Advantageously, the perimeter of the aperture extending circumferentially around at least part of the tubular body of the container creates a three dimensional non-planar cavity cutting a jaw shaped cavity through the tubular wall of the container. This three dimensional non-planar opening through the tubular wall provides the space for an operator to place their thumb and finger on opposing sides of and in alignment with all or part of the flexible elongate member.

[0159] Preferably, the aperture is a polygonal shaped aperture.

[0160] Ideally, the aperture is a rectangular shaped aperture.

[0161] Preferably, the aperture is circular.

[0162] Preferably, the aperture is an elliptical shaped aperture.

[0163] Preferably, a range of longitudinal lengths and widths of the container for flexible elongate members are provided.

[0164] Preferably, the length of the container for flexible elongate members is adaptable in the range of 50mm to 800mm.

[0165] Ideally, the overall longitudinal length of the container for flexible elongate members is in the range of 70mm and 400mm.

[0166] Ideally, the flexible elongate members are cable-ties.

[0167] Preferably, the container is formed of a plastic composite.

[0168] Ideally, the container is formed of a thermoplastic composite.

[0169] Preferably, the container is formed of polyurethane.

[0170] Ideally, the container is formed of polyethylene terephthalate.

[0171] Ideally, the container is formed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

[0172] Preferably, the container is formed of substrate comprising a bibulous matrix such as cardboard.

[0173] Ideally, the container is formed of a metallic material.

[0174] Preferably, the container is formed of metal alloy.

[0175] Ideally, the containerforflexible elongate members is suitable for being secured to a detachable base.

[0176] Accordingly, there is provided a detachable base for a container for flexible elongate members.

[0177] By “base” we mean for stabilising the container supported by the base in use.

[0178] Ideally, the base is adapted to stabilise the container in use by comprising a larger footprint relative to the at least one openable end of the container. Advantageously, this resists rocking / toppling of the container comprising the base attached thereto when the container is supported on the base in use. Ideally, the base has a base body with an under surface and an upper surface spaced apart by the depth of the body.

[0179] Ideally, the undersurface and the upper surface are substantially parallel.

[0180] Preferably, the upper surface has a recess formed for receiving the base of the container.

[0181] By “base of the container” we mean the at least one openable end of the container.

[0182] Ideally, the recess in the upper surface is a tubular recess formed for securely receiving a base portion of the tubular body of the container for flexible elongate members.

[0183] Ideally, at least part of the depth of the recess is threaded internally formed for engaging with an external thread of the tubular body of the container for flexible elongate members. Advantageously, this provides a means of the base attaching to and being detached from the at least one openable end of the container in use.

[0184] Ideally, the base of the recess in the upper surface is a flat surface formed for engaging the base of the container for flexible elongate members. Advantageously, this provides stability for the bottom of the container for flexible elongate members as it is screwed onto the flat surface of the base of the recess in the upper surface. Further advantageously, the base of the recess forms an end wall of the container when the base is attached to the container in use to prevent flexible elongate members from falling out of the container without the operator intervention described.

[0185] Ideally, the body of the detachable base has a polygonal cross-section.

[0186] Preferably, the body of the detachable base has an octagonal cross-section.

[0187] Advantageously, the polygonal cross-section provides the body with an outer facing sidewall with faces disposed at an angle to adjacent faces, which assist the user to rotate the base for attachingthe base to and detachingthe base from the at least one openable end of the container in use.

[0188] Ideally, the central portion of the base body has a central depth portion with a constant diameter across the central depth portion of the polygonal body. In other words, the width between two diametrically opposite points at the same height of the central portion is the same along the entire depth of the central depth portion.

[0189] Preferably, the central portion of the polygonal body tapers towards the undersurface and upper surface of the base body creating a reduced diameter polygonal body at both surfaces.

[0190] Ideally, the central portion of the polygonal body tapers towards the undersurface and upper surface of the base body at the same angle of incline creating the same reduced diameter polygonal body at both surfaces.

[0191] Ideally, the detachable base has a detachable cover member for detachably coupling to and from the body of the detachable base.

[0192] Preferably, the detachable cover member comprises an annular polygonal cover member.

[0193] Ideally, the detachable cover member comprises an annular octagonal cover member. Ideally, the detachable cover member comprises a tapered polygonal member tapering from a coupling perimeter of the detachable cover member formed for engaging the central depth portion of the body to the undersurface of the detachable cover member.

[0194] Preferably, the detachable cover member has the undersurface defining a central aperture extending upwardly from the undersurface towards and / or beyond the coupling perimeter in a height wise direction and creating a central tubular sleeve formation.

[0195] Ideally, the central portion of the polygonal body opposite the recess on the upper surface comprises a central spigot projecting away from the upper surface.

[0196] Ideally, the spigot is a cylindrical spigot.

[0197] Preferably, the spigot has an external thread.

[0198] Ideally, the external thread is formed for receiving the lid of the container for receiving flexible elongate members. Advantageously, this is a safe place to store the lid when it is not in use preventing the lid from getting misplaced.

[0199] Ideally, the tubular sleeve of the detachable cover member is coaxially aligned with the central spigot of the body so that the inner tubular surface of the tubular sleeve is spaced apart from the external tubular surface of the spigot a distance sufficient to allow the lid to be screwed onto the spigot inside the tubular sleeve.

[0200] Ideally, a portion of the body around the tubular spigot has been removed creating an internal space ideally defining an internal space flat surface.

[0201] Preferably, a coupling means is disposed around the perimeter of the body of the detachable base distal from the upper surface and the perimeter of the detachable cover member for coupling the two components securely together.

[0202] Ideally, the detachable cover member has a recess formed for receiving means for couplingthe detachable base to another body.

[0203] Ideally, the base comprises a means for magnetically couplingthe base to a support surface.

[0204] Ideally, the base comprises one or more magnets or magnetisable material for magnetically couplingthe base to a support surface.

[0205] Advantageously, magnetic coupling of the container via the base allows the container to be mounted via the base so that a user can remove flexible elongate members from the aperture without needing to hold the container, for example with another hand, to prevent the container from, for example, sliding or toppling. Advantageously, magnetic coupling allows for the container to be easily mounted onto and removed from any magnetic or magnetisable surface allowing ease of use of the container and obviates the need for mechanical mounting such as clamps or clips, or loop fasteners for example.

[0206] Preferably, the detachable cover member has a recess formed for receiving magnetic means for coupling the detachable base to another metallic body, such as the side wall of a van.

[0207] Preferably, the detachable cover member has a recess formed for receiving magnetisable material for coupling the detachable base to a magnetic body, such as a permanent magnet. Alternatively, the base body itself may be formed at least partially from a magnetisable material.

[0208] Ideally, the detachable cover member has a plurality of recesses for receiving a plurality of magnets.

[0209] Preferably, the detachable cover member has eight recesses for receiving eight magnets.

[0210] Ideally, the detachable cover member has the same number of recesses as the number of sides of the polygon.

[0211] Ideally, a plurality of peripheral angularly spaced spigots extend from the internal flat space surface formed for engaging with the magnets in the detachable cover member in such a way as when the detachable cover member is coupled to the body the peripheral spigots engage the magnets and retains them securely in their location.

[0212] A flexible bag for flexible elongate members, the flexible bag having an aperture for at least removal of the flexible elongate members, at least a portion of the flexible bag defining the aperture having means for maintaining at least part of a perimeter of the aperture in a planar or non-planar orientation.

[0213] Advantageously, the planar or non-planar orientation of at least part of the perimeter of the aperture means that an operator can always place their thumb and index finger in alignment or partially aligned with the flexible elongate member so that upon closing their thumb and index finger they will be able to apply a clamping force onto at least part of opposing sides of the body of an flexible elongate member proximal to the aperture.

[0214] Ideally, the planar or non-planar orientation of all or part of the perimeter creates a three-dimensional space into the flexible bag around the flexible elongate members.

[0215] The skilled person will appreciate that all preferred or optional features of the invention described with reference to only some aspects or embodiments of the invention may be applied to all aspects of the invention.

[0216] It will be appreciated that optional features applicable to one aspect of the invention can be used in any combination, and in any number. Moreover, they can also be used with any of the other aspects of the invention in any combination and in any number. This includes, but is not limited to, the dependent claims from any claim being used as dependent claims for any other claim in the claims of this application.

[0217] The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings which show a container for flexible elongate members according to the invention by way of example only.

[0218] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0219] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0220] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a container for flexible elongate members in a first embodiment accordingto the invention in an in-use orientation according to the invention; Figure 2 is a side elevation view of the container of figure 1 ;

[0221] Figure 3 is a front elevation view of the container of figures 1 and 2;

[0222] Figure 4 is a section view of the container of figures 1 to 3 along line A-A of figure 3;

[0223] Figure 5 is an underside view of the container of figures 1 to 4;

[0224] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a container for flexible elongate members in a second embodiment accordingto the invention in an in-use orientation accordingto the invention;

[0225] Figure 7 is a side elevation view of the container of figure 6;

[0226] Figure 8 is a front elevation view of the container of figures 6 and 7;

[0227] Figure 9 is a section view of the container of figures 6 to 8 along line A-A of figure 8;

[0228] Figure 10 is an underside view of the container of figures 6 to 9;

[0229] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a container for flexible elongate members in a third embodiment accordingto the invention in an in-use orientation accordingto the invention;

[0230] Figure 12 is a side elevation view of the container of figure 11 ;

[0231] Figure 13 is a front elevation view of the container of figures 11 and 12;

[0232] Figure 14 is a section view of the container of figures 11 to 13 along line A-A of figure 13;

[0233] Figure 15 is an underside view of the container of figures 11 to 14;

[0234] Figure 16 is a detailed cutaway underside view of the container of figures 11 to 15 in the region of figure 15 marked ‘B’;

[0235] Figure 17 is a perspective view of a lid for a container for flexible elongate members accordingto the invention;

[0236] Figure 18 is a side elevation view of an exterior of the lid of figure 17;

[0237] Figure 19 is a view of an interior of the lid of figures 17 and 18;

[0238] Figure 20 is a section view of the lid of figures 17 to 19 along the line A-A of figure 19;

[0239] Figure 21 is a detailed cutaway section view of the lid of figures 17 to 20 in the region of figure 20 marked ‘B’;

[0240] Figure 22 is a side elevation view of an extender for a container for flexible elongate members accordingto the invention.

[0241] Figure 23 is a section view of the extender of figure 22 along the line A-A of figure 22;

[0242] Figure 24 is a plan view of the extender of figures 22 and 23;

[0243] Figure 25 is a perspective view of a waste bin for a container for flexible elongate members accordingto the invention;

[0244] Figure 26 is a side elevation view of the waste bin of figure 25 along a first viewing direction;

[0245] Figure T1 is a side elevation view of the waste bin of figures 25 and 26 along a second viewing direction perpendicular to the viewing direction of figure 26;

[0246] Figure 28 is a section view of the waste bin of figures 25 to T1 along line A-A of figure 27;

[0247] Figure 29 is a plan view of the waste bin of figures 25 to 28;

[0248] Figure 30 is an underside view of the waste bin of figures 25 to 29;

[0249] Figure 31 is a perspective view of a waste bin lid for a waste bin for a container for flexible elongate members accordingto the invention;

[0250] Figure 32 is a side elevation view of the waste bin lid of figure 31 ; Figure 33 is a section view of the waste bin lid of figures 31 and 32 along line A-A of figure

[0251] 32;

[0252] Figure 34 is a plan view of the waste bin lid of figures 31 to 33;

[0253] Figure 35 is an underside view of the waste bin lid of figures 31 to 34;

[0254] Figure 36 is a side elevation view of a hanging clip for use with a container for flexible elongate members accordingto the invention;

[0255] Figure 37 is an elevation view of the hanging clip of figure 36 along a first viewing direction;

[0256] Figure 38 is an elevation view of the hanging clip of figures 36 and 37 along a second viewing direction perpendicular to the viewing direction of figure 37;

[0257] Figure 39 is an underside view of the hanging clip of figures 36 to 38;

[0258] Figure 40 is a perspective view of a detachable cover member for a body of a detachable base for a container for flexible elongate members accordingto the invention;

[0259] Figure 41 is a side elevation view of the cover member of figure 40;

[0260] Figure 42 is a section view of the cover member of figures 40 and 41 along the line A-A of figure 41 ;

[0261] Figure 43 is a view of an interior of the cover member of figures 40 to 42;

[0262] Figure 44 is a view of an interior of the cover member of figures 40 to 43;

[0263] Figure 45 is a body of a detachable base for a container for flexible elongate members accordingto the invention;

[0264] Figure 46 is a view of an interior of the body of figure 45;

[0265] Figure 47 is a view of an exterior of the body of figures 45 and 46;

[0266] Figure 48 is a side elevation view of the body of figures 45 to 47;

[0267] Figure 49 is a section view of the body of figures 45 to 48 along line A-A of figure 48; and

[0268] Figure 50 is a detailed cutaway section view of the body of figures 45 to 49 in the region of figure 49 marked ‘B’.

[0269] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0270] The following description with reference to the accompanying drawings is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of various embodiments of the disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to assist in that understanding but these are to be regarded as merely exemplary. Accordingly, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognise that various changes and modifications of the various embodiments described herein can be made without departingfrom the scope and spirit of the disclosure. In addition, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0271] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to the bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the disclosure. Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following description of various embodiments of the disclosure is provided for illustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0272] It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0273] Referring to the drawings generally there is shown a container assembly for flexible elongate members, the container assembly comprising a container 1 , 101 , 201 comprising two opposite ends 5a, 105a, 205a, 5b, 105b, 205b and a tubular body 3, 103, 203 therebetween for containing the flexible elongate members, wherein the end 5b, 105b, 205b is an openable end 5b, 105b, 205b, wherein the container assembly further comprises a plurality of accessories 13, 29, 96, 84 adapted to be attached to and detached from the openable end 5b, 105b, 205b of the container 1 , 101 , 201 in use.

[0274] Referring to the drawings in figures 1 to 16 there is shown a container in three separate embodiments, indicated by reference numerals 1 , 101 , 201 , for flexible elongate members (not shown). The container has an aperture 9, 109, 209 for at least the removal of flexible elongate members. The container 1 , 101 , 201 has a tubular body 3, 103, 203. A removal of part of the tubular body 3, 103, 203 defines the aperture 9, 109, 209. By “removal” we mean a cutaway portion of tubular body 3, 103, 203. The tubular body 3, 103, 203 defining the aperture 9, 109, 209 maintains the perimeter of the aperture 9, 109, 209 in a non-planar orientation.

[0275] Advantageously, the non-planar orientation of at least part of the perimeter of the aperture 9, 109, 209 means that an operator can always place their thumb and index finger in alignment or partially aligned with the flexible elongate member so that upon closing their thumb and index finger they will be able to apply a clamping force onto at least part of opposing sides of the body of an flexible elongate member proximal to the aperture 9, 109, 209. Advantageously, the non-planar orientation of the perimeter creates a three- dimensional space into the container 1 , 101 , 201 around the flexible elongate members. This allows an operator to apply the same clamping force to flexible elongate members at the back of the container 1 , 101 , 201 relative to the aperture being at a front position of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0276] The container 1 , 101 , 201 is adapted to prevent the flexible elongate members coming out of the container 1 , 101 , 201 without operator intervention.

[0277] All or part of the perimeter of the aperture 9, 109, 209 is rigid. All or part of the portion of the container 1 , 101 , 201 defining the aperture 9, 109, 209 is rigid. The container 1 , 101 , 201 is rigid.

[0278] The container 1 , 101 , 201 is an elongate container 1 , 101 , 201. The container 1 , 101 , 201 comprises two opposite ends 5a, 105a, 205a, 5b, 105b, 205b. The aperture 9, 109, 209 is located away from the two opposite ends 5a, 105a, 205a, 5b, 105b, 205b of the container 1 , 101 , 201 . The aperture 9, 109, 209 is located towards or about the middle of the container 1 , 101 , 201 relative to the two opposite ends 5a, 105a, 205a, 5b, 105b, 205b.

[0279] The container 1 , 101 , 201 has a tubular body 7, 107, 207. The tubular body 7, 107, 207 is a cylindrical body 7, 107, 207 in the depicted embodiments but may alternatively have a polygonal shaped cross-section, for example a rectangular or pentagonal or hexagonal or heptagonal or octagonal cross-section etc.

[0280] The container 1 , 101 , 201 comprises a single moulded unit. The figures 1 to 16 show the single moulded unit of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0281] The container 1 , 101 , 201 has two opposite ends 5a, 105a, 205a, 5b, 105b, 205b and a tubular body 7, 107, 207 therebetween. In the figures 1 to 16 the container 1 , 101 , 201 is shown with end 5b, 105b, 205b being an open end 5b, 105b, 205b for receiving the flexible elongate members.

[0282] Advantageously, the container for flexible elongate members 1 , 101 , 201 comprising at least an end 5b, 105b, 205b that is open, provides a user with ease of access to the container 1 , 101 , 201 to quickly and easily refill the container 1 , 101 , 201 with additional elongate members.

[0283] When one of a plurality of accessories according to the invention are attached to the end 5b, 105b, 205b, such as a lid 13, extender 29, or base (shown across figures 40 to 50 in two parts 96, 84), end 5b, 105b, 205b is closed but openable in that the threads 11 , 111 , 211 of containers 1 , 101 , 201 and threads 19, 31 , 91 of accessories 13, 29, 96, 84 can be used to remove the accessories 13, 29, 96, 84 from end 5b, 105b, 205b.

[0284] End 5b, 105b, 205b shown as open in figures 1 to 16 is a closable end 5b, 105b, 205b for limiting the openings through which the elongate flexible members can leave the container 1 , 101 , 201 without operator intervention to only the aperture 9, 109, 209.

[0285] Advantageously, this ensures that the flexible elongate members are contained in the container 1 , 101 , 201 in a plurality of orientations of the container 1 , 101 , 201 . In other words, the operator can rotate the container 1 , 101 , 201 without the flexible elongate members falling out of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0286] Open end 5b, 105b, 205b for receiving the flexible elongate members may be closed by a detachable lid member 13 (see figures 17 to 21 ) for attaching / detachingthe detachable lid member 13 to / from the container 1 , 101 , 201 , including to / from the tubular body 7, 107, 207.

[0287] The detachable lid member 13 is configured to be attached / detached by rotationally moving the detachable lid member 13 relative to the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0288] The detachable lid member 13 comprises a closed end 15 and an open end 17 for positively engaging the open end 5b, 105b, 205b of the tubular body 7, 107, 107 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 (see figures 18 and 20). Closed end 15 of lid 13 forms an end wall 15 of container 1 , 101 , 201 when lid 13 is attached to container 1 , 101 , 201.

[0289] A portion of the inner profile of the detachable lid member 13 and a portion of an external profile of the container 1 , 101 , 201 comprise correspondingly located and formed threads W and 11 , 111 , 211.

[0290] Advantageously, this embodiment provides the detachable lid member 13 with a screw-like function to rotate onto and off from the tubular body of the container to ensure a secure attachment between the lid member 13 and the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0291] The detachable lid member 13 comprises an arrangement 21 for retaining a magnet against an interior-facing surface of the closed end 15 of the detachable lid member 13. Advantageously, this means that the container 1 , 101 , 201 is retainable on a magnetisable surface, such as a metallic wall of a van, when the lid 13 is secured to the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0292] Alternatively, the lid 13 or part of the lid 13 may be constructed from a magnetisable material for retaining the container 1 , 101 , 201 on a surface of a magnetic material, for example on a permanent magnet (not shown).

[0293] Advantageously, magnetic mounting of the container 1 , 101 , 201 via the lid 13 allows the container to be mounted via the lid 13 so that a user can remove flexible elongate members from the aperture 9, 109, 209 without needingto hold the container 1 , 101 , 201 , for example with another hand, to prevent the container 1 , 101 , 201 from, for example, sliding or toppling.

[0294] The arrangement 21 for retaining the magnet is adapted to retain an annular arrangement of one or more magnets (not shown).

[0295] The arrangement 21 for retaining the magnet is adapted to retain an annular magnet (not shown).

[0296] The arrangement 21 for retaining the magnet comprises a circumferentially located mechanical coupling arrangement 21 .

[0297] The arrangement 21 for retaining the magnet comprises a circumferentially located snap fit retaining arrangement 21 . By circumferentially located, we mean circumferentially located around the annular magnetic arrangement in use.

[0298] The snap fit retaining arrangement 21 comprises a circumferentially located resiliently displaceable lip arrangement 21 .

[0299] The snap fit retaining arrangement 21 comprises a circumferentially located resiliently displaceable plurality of resiliently displaceable hooks (21 a, 21 b, ...).

[0300] The resiliently displaceable hooks (21 a, 21 b, ...) are equispaced angularly around the annular magnetic arrangement.

[0301] The detachable lid member 13 comprises an arrangement 23 for at least partially receiving a magnetic arrangement (not shown) against an interior-facing surface of the closed end 15 of the detachable lid member 13.

[0302] The magnetic arrangement receiving arrangement 23 is an annular recess 23.

[0303] The detachable lid member 13 comprises a series of ribs 25 for assisting gripping and rotating of the lid 13 onto and off the container 1 , 101 , 201 in use.

[0304] The container 1 , 101 , 201 comprises securing arrangement 27, 127, 227 (see figures 3, 8, 13) for securing the container 1 , 101 , 201 to another component.

[0305] A mechanical fixing arrangement (not shown) such as one or more cable ties are extendable through an aperture of the securing arrangement 27, 127, .T1 to secure the container 1 , 101 , 201 to one or more additional components.

[0306] The securing arrangement 27, 127, . 1 comprises a plurality of clamps, hooks and / or fixing lugs 27, 127, 227.

[0307] The securing arrangement 27, 127, . 1 are adapted to secure a waste bin attachment (figures 25 to 35). The container 1 , 101 , 201 is adapted for use with an arrangement 29 (figures 22-24) for adjusting the length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 from a first length corresponding to one or more flexible elongate members having a first length to a second length corresponding to one or more flexible elongate members having a second length, wherein the second length of the or each elongate member is not the same as the first length.

[0308] Accordingly, there is provided an arrangement 29 for adjusting a length of a container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members from a first length corresponding to one or more flexible elongate members having a first length to a second length corresponding to one or more flexible elongate members having a second length, wherein the second length of the or each elongate member is not the same as the first length.

[0309] The arrangement 29 for adjusting the length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 comprises a container extender 29.

[0310] Advantageously, this allows different lengths of containers 1 , 101 , 201 to be formed by adding or removing the container extender 29 to the container 1 , 101 , 201 to accommodate various lengths of flexible elongate members.

[0311] The container extender 29 comprises a tubular body 30.

[0312] The arrangement 29 for adjusting the length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 is modular.

[0313] The container extender 29 is attachable / detachable to / from the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0314] The container extender 29 is attachable / detachable to / from another container extender (not shown). By this we mean the extender 29 is attachable / detachable to / from another container extender which is formed with an identical structure to extender 29.

[0315] The container extender 29 has two opposite open ends 29a, 29b and a body 30 therebetween, wherein a first end 29a is suitable for attaching / detaching to / from the container 1 , 101 , 201 at end 5b, 105b, 205b or to / from another container extender and wherein a second end 29b is suitable for being attached to by another container extender or for being close by the detachable lid member 13. End 29a can attach to an end of a second extender formed in the same manner as end 29b of extender 29 for example.

[0316] An internal thread 31 is formed at the first end 29a of the container extender 29 for engaging an external thread 11 , 111 , 211 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 or an external thread (formed such as thread 33 of extender 29) of another container extender (not shown).

[0317] An external thread 33 is formed at the second end 29b of the container extender 29 for engaging an internal thread 19 of a detachable lid member 13 or an internal thread (formed such as thread 31 of extender 29) of another container extender (not shown).

[0318] The first end 29a has a widened-diameter portion 35, widened relative to the second end 29b and the container extender body 30, the widened-diameter portion being for fitting around an outside of the container 1 , 101 , 201 or another container extender (not shown) when attaching the container extender 29 to the container 1 , 101 , 201 or another container extender (not shown).

[0319] The first end has a series of ribs 37 for assisting gripping and rotating of the container extender 29 for rotating the container extender onto and off the container 1 , 101 , 201 or another container extender (not shown).

[0320] The ribs 37 are equi-angularly spaced. The ribs 37 are formed on the widened diameter portion 35 of the container extender

[0321] 29.

[0322] Lid 13 is suitable for attaching / detaching to / from the tubular body 3, 103, 203 by means of correspondingly located and formed thread 19 in the lid 13 and thread 11 , 111 , 211 in the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0323] Lid 13 is suitable for attaching / detaching to / from the tubular body 30 by means of correspondingly located and formed thread 19 in the lid 13 and thread 33 tubular container extender 29.

[0324] Extender 29 is suitable for attaching / detaching to / from the tubular body 3, 103, 203 by arrangement of correspondingly located and formed thread 31 in the extender 29 and thread

[0325] 11. 111. 211 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 . Thereby, the threads 19, 31 of the lid and extender 13, 29 respectively are identically shaped and interchangeable and the components are therefore modular. Extender has a second thread 33 which is identically shaped to thread 11 ,

[0326] 111. 211 of container 1 , 101 , 201 , therefore lid 13 is securable to the end of extender 29 having the thread 33 by means of the threads 19, 33 of the lid and extender 13, 29.

[0327] Further modularity can be seen in that threads 31 , 33 are correspondingly formed, therefore additional extenders formed identically to the extender 29 can be used to increase the length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 further if desired (not shown).

[0328] The container 1 , 101 , 201 forflexible elongate members comprises a closed end 5a, 105a, 205a having a wall 5a, 105a, 205a.

[0329] The closed end wall 5a, 105a, 205a is formed as part of the single part of the container 1 , 101 , 201 . By single part we mean the single moulded unit shown in figures 1 to 16.

[0330] The container 1 , 101 , 201 forflexible elongate members comprises an aperture 38, 138, 238 sized to receive a mechanical fastening arrangement of a clip 39 for hangingthe container 1 , 101 , 201 (see figures 36 to 39).

[0331] The end wall 5a, 105a, 205a comprises an aperture 38, 138, 238 sized to receive the mechanical fastening arrangement 41 of the clip 39 for hanging the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0332] Accordingly, there is provided a clip 39 for hanging a container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members, the clip 39 comprising a mechanical fastening arrangement 41 for fastening the clip 39 to the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0333] The mechanical fastening arrangement 41 of the clip 39 comprises a resiliently compressible arrangement 41 .

[0334] The resiliently compressible arrangement 41 comprises two resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusions 43a, 43b.

[0335] The resiliently compressible arrangement 41 provides a snap fit or press fit arrangement 41 whereby the two resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusions 43a, 43b are compressible together to pass through the aperture 38, 138, 238 and spring back to their original shape to lock the resiliently compressible arrangement 41 in place in the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0336] The resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusions 43a, 43b comprise an inclined surface gradually increasingthe width of the resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusions 43a, 43b away from a free end of the resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusions 43a, 43b.

[0337] The inclined surface returns to a stem 45 of the resiliently compressible arrangement creating a notched surface 47 for engaging an internal surface of the wall of closed end 5a, 105a, 205a.

[0338] The resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusions 43a, 43b are half-conical in shape.

[0339] The resiliently deformable and / or displaceable protrusions 43a, 43b extends from the stem 45.

[0340] The stem 45 extends from a base 51 of the clip 39.

[0341] The base 51 of the clip 39 is wider than the stem 45 where the base 51 meets the stem 45, creating a notched surface 53 for engaging an external surface of the wall of closed end 5a, 105a, 205a.

[0342] The two notched surfaces 47, 53 are spaced apart by a distance slightly greater than the thickness of the wall of the closed end 5a, 105a, 205a.

[0343] The aperture 38, 138, 238 sized to receive the compressible arrangement 41 of a clip 39 for hanging the container 1 , 101 , 201 is sized to be too small for permitting flexible elongate members to travel therethrough. Advantageously, this prevents flexible elongate members moving through the aperture 38, 138, 238 when there is no clip installed in the aperture.

[0344] The clip 39 has a releasable catch mechanism 54 allowingthe clip to be opened and secured to a further object.

[0345] The clip 39 is a carabiner clip.

[0346] The clip 39 comprises a stiffening rib 55 extending around an exterior surface of the clip.

[0347] Returningto container 1 , 101 , 201 , the securing arrangement 27, 127, 227 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members is suitable for securing a waste bin attachment 57 (see figures 25 to 35).

[0348] Accordingly, there is provided a waste bin attachment 57 for flexible elongate member waste, wherein the waste bin attachment 57 is adapted to be secured to the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members .

[0349] The waste bin attachment 57 is elongate.

[0350] The waste bin attachment 57 is tubular.

[0351] The waste bin attachment 57 is securable to a tubular body 7, 107, 207 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members wherein axes of the waste bin attachment 57 and the container 1 , 101 , 201 are parallel and spaced apart.

[0352] The waste bin attachment 57 and the tubular body 7, 107, 207 have circumferential proximal surfaces when the two are secured to one another.

[0353] Advantageously, this ensures that the waste bin attachment 57 sits close against the tubular body 7, 107, 207 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 and that the container 1 , 101 , 201 does not topple too easily. The waste bin attachment 57 comprises securing arrangement-receiving arrangement 59 for receiving securing arrangement 27, 127, .T1 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for mechanically couplingthe waste bin attachment 57 and the container 1 , 101 , 201.

[0354] The securing arrangement-receiving arrangement 59 comprises an arrangement 61 for receiving mechanical fastening arrangement (not shown).

[0355] The securing arrangement-receiving arrangement 61 comprise pairs of apertures 61 alignable along a line, wherein the apertures 61 are offset on the securing arrangementreceiving arrangement 59 away from a main tubular body 63 of the waste bin attachment 57 to permit a portion of the securing arrangement 27, 127, .T1 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members to be received between the apertures 61 and main body 63 of the waste bin attachment 57.

[0356] Thereby, a fastening arrangement such as a cable tie (not shown) can pass through the apertures 61 of the securing arrangement-receiving arrangement 59 to fasten together the waste bin attachment 57 and the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members. Other means such as pins can be used forthis.

[0357] The waste bin attachment 57 comprises an open end 65 for receiving a detachable lid member 67 (see figures 31 to 35) for attaching / detachingthe detachable lid member 67 to / from the open end 65 of the waste bin attachment 57.

[0358] The detachable lid member 67 of the waste bin attachment 57 prevents flexible elongate member waste coming out of the waste bin attachment 57 through the open end 65 when the detachable lid member 67 is located on the waste bin attachment 57.

[0359] The lid 67 of the waste bin attachment 57 comprises a one way opening 69 for allowing waste into the bin attachment 57 but not out of the bin attachment 57.

[0360] The one-way opening 69 comprises a rim 71 and a plurality of resiliently displaceable fingers 73 attached to the circumference of the rim 71 and extending from the circumference of the rim 71 away from the rim 71 . Advantageously, when a force is applied to the resiliently displaceable fingers 73, the fingers 73 move and at least part of the one way opening 69 opens to form an aperture, allowing the flexible elongate member waste to enter into the waste bin attachment 57 via the aperture.

[0361] When the flexible elongate member waste passes into the bin attachment 57, the force is removed from the fingers 69 allowing them to seal the aperture to prevent flexible elongate member waste to pass from inside the bin attachment 57 to outside of the bin attachment 57.

[0362] The one way opening 69 comprises an inwardly protruding shell 75 (see especially figure 33) protruding inwardly from a top end of the detachable lid member 67 of the waste bin inwards via the rim 71 towards a bottom end of the detachable lid member 67. The resiliently displaceable fingers 73 form the inwardly protruding shell 75.

[0363] The inwardly protruding shell 75 is concave viewed from the top end of the detachable lid member 67.

[0364] When no force is applied to the resiliently displaceable fingers 73 to form the aperture of the one way opening 69, the inwardly protruding shell 75 is in the shape of a hemisphere. The resilie ntly displaceable fingers 73 are biased towards forming a hemispherical shape of the inwardly protruding shell 75, wherein the hemispherical-shaped inwardly protruding shell 75 is a closed configuration of the one-way opening 69.

[0365] When a force is applied to the resiliently displaceable fingers 73 to form the aperture of the one way opening 69, the fingers 73 extend out of the hemispherical shape of the inwardly protruding shell 75 downwards into the waste bin attachment 57 to form the aperture.

[0366] The plurality of resiliently displaceable fingers 73 are formed by a plurality of incisions runningfrom a bottom dead centre of the hemispherical shell 75 upwardly and outwardly from the bottom dead centre to a rim of the shell 75.

[0367] The incisions are equi-angularly spaced.

[0368] The incisions are arranged at a 30-degree angle to one another.

[0369] Threads 77, 79 on waste bin 57 and lid 67 respectively are used to attach / detach the waste bin lid 67 to / from the waste bin 57 in use.

[0370] Returning to the container 1 , 101 , 201 , the container 1 , 101 , 201 comprises one or more feet 4, 104, 204 for supporting the container 1 , 101 , 201 on a flat surface.

[0371] The one or more feet 4, 104, 204 comprise a pair of feet 4, 104, 204 located at opposite ends of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members. Advantageously, this increases stability of the container 1 , 101 , 201 when supported on a flat surface by the feet 4, 104, 204 in use.

[0372] The container comprises feet 4, 104, 204 spaced apart along the length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 and aligned alongthe length of the container 1 , 101 , 201.

[0373] The feet 4, 104, 204 comprise planar surface portions alignable with one another for supportingthe container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members on a flat surface in use.

[0374] The feet 4, 104, 204 are located on the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members offset angularly from the aperture 9, 109, 209.

[0375] Advantageously, this means that when the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members is located on a surface via the feet 4, 104, 204 an operator can easily access the aperture 9, 109, 209 for withdrawing flexible elongate members, in particular the surface on which the container is located does not interfere with the access to the aperture 9, 109, 209 by the operator. The feet 4, 104, 204 stabilise container 1 , 101 , 201 to prevent the container rocking and rotating so that the aperture 9, 109, 209 always faces away from a supporting surface towards a user.

[0376] The feet 4, 104, 204 are located opposite the aperture 9, 109, 209 in terms of the angular position with respect to the tubular body 7, 107, 207. Advantageously, this means the feet 4, 104, 204 are locatable in a position whereby when the container 1 , 101 , 201 is in use or mounted the flexible elongate members can be removed from the container 1 , 101 , 201 through the aperture 9, 109, 209.

[0377] The feet 4, 104, 204 comprise housings for receiving one or more magnets (112, see figure 10) for retaining the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members on magnetisable metal, such as a metal wall of a van. The feet 4, 104, 204 comprise one or more through holes (see especially figures 5, 10, 15, 16) for securing the container 1 , 101 , 201 to one or more additional components.

[0378] Mechanical fastening arrangement can pass through the one or more through holes of the feet 4, 104, 204 to secure the container 1 , 101 , 201 to the one or more additional components.

[0379] Feet 4, 104, 204 comprise apertures to enable the container to be mechanically mounted by screws or nails or the like.

[0380] Returning to aperture 9, 109, 209, the aperture 9, 109, 209 extends longitudinally along a part of the length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0381] The aperture 9, 109, 209 extends longitudinally along a part of the length of the tubular body 7, 107, 207 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0382] The aperture 9, 109, 209 being adapted to extend over less than 50% of the longitudinal length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0383] The aperture 9, 109, 209 being adapted to extend over less than 40% of the longitudinal length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0384] The aperture 9, 109, 209 being adapted to extend over less than 30% of the longitudinal length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0385] The aperture 9, 109, 209 being adapted to extend over less than 20% of the longitudinal length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0386] The aperture 9, 109, 209 being adapted to extend over less than 10% of the longitudinal length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0387] The aperture 9, 109, 209 extends circumferentially around at least part of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0388] The aperture 9, 109, 209 extends circumferentially around at least part of the tubular body 7, 107, 207 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0389] The aperture 9, 109, 209 extends circumferentially around up to 50% of the tubular body 7, 107, 207 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0390] The aperture 9, 109, 209 extends circumferentially around up to 40% of the tubular body 7, 107, 207 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0391] The aperture 9, 109, 209 extends circumferentially around up to 30% of the tubular body 7, 107, 207 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0392] The aperture 9, 109, 209 extends circumferentially around up to 20% of the tubular body 7, 107, 207 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0393] The aperture 9, 109, 209 extends circumferentially around up to 10% of the tubular body 7, 107, 207 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0394] A range of longitudinal lengths and widths of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members are possible.

[0395] The length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members is adaptable within the range of 50mm to 800mm.

[0396] The overall longitudinal length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members is adaptable in the range of 70mm and 400mm. By adaptable we mean that the container 1 , 101 , 201 can be formed having the various lengths shown in the embodiments of figures 1 to 16 and / or one or more container extenders 29 can be used to increase the length of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0397] The flexible elongate members are cable-ties.

[0398] The container 1 , 101 , 201 is formed of a plastic composite.

[0399] The container 1 , 101 , 201 is formed of a thermoplastic composite.

[0400] The container 1 , 101 , 201 is formed of polyurethane.

[0401] The container 1 , 101 , 201 is formed of polyethylene terephthalate.

[0402] The container 1 , 101 , 201 is formed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

[0403] The container 1 , 101 , 201 is formed of substrate comprising a bibulous matrix such as cardboard.

[0404] The container 1 , 101 , 201 is formed of a metallic material.

[0405] The container 1 , 101 , 201 is formed of metal alloy.

[0406] The container 1 , 101 , 201 forflexible elongate members is suitable for being secured to a detachable base.

[0407] There is also provided a detachable base for a container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members (see figures 40 to 50 wherein the base is shown in two parts 96, 84 separated between figures 40 to 44 and figures 45 to 50).

[0408] The base has a base body with an undersurface 81 (see figures 40 to 44) and an upper surface 83 (see figures 45 to 50) spaced apart by the depth of the body (depth 85 of e.g. figure 41 and depth 87 of e.g. figure 49 making up the total depth of the body).

[0409] The undersurface 81 and the upper surface 83 are substantially parallel.

[0410] The upper surface 83 has a recess 89 formed for receiving the base 5b, 105b, 205b, of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0411] The recess 89 in the upper surface 83 is a tubular recess 89 formed for securely receiving a base portion 5b, 105b, 205b of the tubular body 7, 107, 207 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members.

[0412] At least part 91 of the depth of the recess 89 is threaded internally formed for engaging with an external thread 11 , 111 , 211 of the tubular body 7, 107, 207 of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members.

[0413] The base (underside surface of which is shown at 93 in figure 45) of the recess 89 in the upper surface 83 is a flat surface formed for engaging the base 5b, 105b, 205b of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members. Advantageously, this provides stability for the bottom of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for flexible elongate members as it is screwed onto the flat surface of the base of the recess 89 in the upper surface 83.

[0414] The body of the detachable base has a polygonal cross-section.

[0415] The body of the detachable base has an octagonal cross-section (see especially figures 43, 44, 46, 47).

[0416] The central portion of the base body has a central depth portion (separate central depth portions 94, 95 are shown which together form the central depth portion) with a constant diameter across the central depth portion 94, 95 of the polygonal body. In other l ' l words, the width between two diametrically opposite points at the same height of the central portion 94, 95 is the same along the entire depth of the central depth portion.

[0417] The central portion 94, 95 of the polygonal body tapers towards the undersurface 81 and upper surface 83 of the base body creating a reduced diameter polygonal body at both surfaces 81 , 83.

[0418] The central portion of the polygonal body tapers towards the undersurface 81 and upper surface 83 of the base body at the same angle of incline creating the same reduced diameter polygonal body at both surfaces.

[0419] A first part of the detachable base has a detachable cover member 96 (figures 40 to 44) for detachably coupling to and from the body of the detachable base.

[0420] The detachable cover member 96 comprises an annular polygonal cover member 96.

[0421] The detachable cover member 96 comprises an annular octagonal cover member 96.

[0422] The detachable cover member 96 comprises a tapered polygonal member 96 tapering from a coupling perimeter 97 of the detachable cover member 96 formed for engaging the central depth portion 87 of the body to the cover member 96.

[0423] By this we mean the detachable cover member 96 comprises a coupling perimeter 97 for engaging a coupling perimeter 99 of part 84 of base.

[0424] The detachable cover member 96 has the undersurface defining a central aperture 98 (figures 40 and 43) extending upwardly from the undersurface towards and / or beyond the coupling perimeter 97 (see figures 41 and 42) in a height wise direction and creating a central tubular sleeve formation 102 (see figure 42).

[0425] The central portion 95 of the polygonal body 84 opposite the recess on the upper surface comprises a central spigot 93 projecting away from the upper surface.

[0426] The spigot 93 is a cylindrical spigot 93.

[0427] The spigot 93 has an external thread 92.

[0428] The external thread 92 is formed for receiving the lid (such as lid 13 of the drawings) of the container 1 , 101 , 201 for receiving flexible elongate members. Advantageously, this is a safe place to store the lid 13 when it is not is use preventing the lid 13 from getting misplaced when the base replaces the lid on the end 5b, 105b, 205b of the container 1 , 101 , 201 .

[0429] The tubular sleeve 102 of the detachable cover member 96 is coaxially aligned with the central spigot 93 of the body 84 so that the inner tubular surface of the tubular sleeve 102 is spaced apart from the external tubular (threaded) surface of the spigot 93 a distance sufficient to allow the lid 13 to be screwed onto the spigot 93 inside the tubular sleeve 102.

[0430] A portion of the body around the tubular spigot has been removed creating an internal space ideally, defining an internal space flat surface.

[0431] An end wall from which the spigot 93 extends is also countersunk from the undersurface 81 so that the lid 13 is countersunkfrom undersurface 81 in use.

[0432] A coupling arrangement 99 is disposed around the perimeter of the body of the detachable base distal from the upper surface and the perimeter of the detachable cover member for coupling the two components securely together.

[0433] The detachable cover member has a recess formed for receiving an arrangement for couplingthe detachable base to another body. The detachable cover member has a plurality of recesses 88 for receiving a plurality of magnets (not shown) for couplingthe detachable base to another metallic body, such as the side wall of a van.

[0434] The detachable cover member has eight recesses 88 for receiving eight magnets.

[0435] The detachable cover member has the same number of recesses 88 as the number of sides of the polygon.

[0436] A plurality of peripheral angularly spaced spigots extend from the internal flat space surface formed for engaging with the magnets in the detachable cover member is such a way as when the detachable cover member is coupled to the body the peripheral spigots engage the magnets and retain the magnets securely in their location.

[0437] There is also provided a flexible bag for flexible elongate members, the flexible bag having an aperture for at least removal of the flexible elongate members, at least a portion of the flexible bag defining the aperture having arrangement for maintaining at least part of a perimeter of the aperture in a planar or non-planar orientation.

[0438] Advantageously, the planar or non-planar orientation of at least part of the perimeter of the aperture arrangement that an operator can always place their thumb and index finger in alignment or partially aligned with the flexible elongate member so that upon closing their thumb and index finger they will be able to apply a clamping force onto at least part of opposing sides of the body of an flexible elongate member proximal to the aperture.

[0439] The planar or non-planar orientation of all or part of the perimeter creates a three- dimensional space into the flexible bag around the flexible elongate members, (not shown).

[0440] The skilled person will appreciate that all preferred or optional features of the invention described with reference to only some aspects or embodiments of the invention may be applied to all aspects of the invention.

[0441] It will be appreciated that optional features applicable to one aspect of the invention can be used in any combination, and in any number. Moreover, they can also be used with any of the other aspects of the invention in any combination and in any number. This includes, but is not limited to, the dependent claims from any claim being used as dependent claims for any other claim in the claims of this application.

[0442] In relation to the detailed description of the different embodiments of the invention, it will be understood that one or more technical features of one embodiment can be used in combination with one or more technical features of any other embodiment where the transferred use of the one or more technical features would be immediately apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art to carry out a similar function in a similar way on the other embodiment.

[0443] The features disclosed in the foregoing description or the following drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing a disclosed function, or a method or a process of attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may separately, or in any combination of such features be utilised for realisingthe invention in diverse forms thereof.

Claims

29CLAIMS1 . A container assembly for flexible elongate members, the container assembly comprising a container comprisingtwo opposite ends and a tubular body therebetween for containing the flexible elongate members, wherein at least one of the two opposite ends is an openable end for receiving the flexible elongate members, wherein the container assembly further comprises a plurality of accessories adapted to be attached to and detached from the at least one openable end of the container in use.

2. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 1 , wherein the plurality of accessories is any two from: a lid, a base, and a container extender.

3. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 2, wherein the plurality of accessories comprises the lid, wherein the lid is a detachable lid member comprising a closed end and an open end for positively engagingthe at least one openable end of the container.

4. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 3, wherein a portion of the inner profile of the detachable lid member and a portion of the external profile of the at least one openable end of the container comprise correspondingly located and formed threads for attachingthe lid to and detachingthe lid from the at least one openable end of the container in use.

5. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the lid comprises a gripping means formed on an outer-facing surface of the lid for facilitating joiningthe lid to the container or removingthe lid from the container in use.

6. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 5, wherein the gripping means comprises a plurality of ridges on an outer-facing sidewall surface of the lid.

307. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 5 or claim 6, wherein the gripping means comprises one or more holes extending from an outerfacing end wall surface of the lid.

8. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto any one of claims 3 to claim 7, wherein the detachable lid member comprises a means for retaining a magnet against an interior-facing surface of the closed end of the detachable lid member.

9. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto any one of claims 3 to claim 7, wherein the detachable lid member comprises magnetisable material.

10. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto any one of claims 3 to 9, wherein the lid is adapted to be attached to and detached from one or more of: a base, and a container extender.11 . A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the more than one accessory comprises the base, wherein the base is adapted to stabilise the container supported on a surface by the base in use.

12. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 11 , wherein the base is adapted to stabilise the container in use by comprising a larger footprint relative to the at least one openable end of the container.

13. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the base comprises a base body with an under surface and an upper surface spaced apart by the depth of the body, wherein the upper surface has a tubular recess formed for securely receiving a base portion of the tubular body of the container for attachingthe base to and detachingfrom the at least one openable end of the container in use.

14. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 13, wherein the tubular recess is threaded for engaging with a thread of the tubular body of thecontainer for attachingthe base to and detaching the base from the at least one openable end of the container in use.

15. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 14, wherein the tubular recess is threaded internally formed for engaging with an external thread of the tubular body of the container for attachingthe base to and detaching the base from the at least one openable end of the container in use.

16. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the base of the recess in the upper surface is a flat surface formed for engaging the base of the container in use.

17. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the body of the detachable base has a polygonal cross-section.

18. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 17, wherein the body of the detachable base has an octagonal cross-section.

19. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto any one of claims 1 1 to 18, wherein the base comprises a means for magnetically coupling the base to a support surface.

20. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 19, wherein the base comprises one or more magnets or magnetisable material for magnetically couplingthe base to the support surface.21 . A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 20, wherein the base has a detachable cover member for detachably coupling to and from the body of the detachable base, wherein the detachable cover member has a recess formed for receiving magnetic means for couplingthe detachable base to another metallic body.

22. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto any one of claims 11 to 21 , wherein the base is adapted to be attached to and detached from a container extender.

23. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto any one of claims 2 to 22, wherein the plurality of accessories comprises the container extender for adjusting the length of the container from a first length corresponding to one or more flexible elongate members having a first length to a second length corresponding to one or more flexible elongate members having a second length, wherein the second length of the or each elongate member is not the same as the first length, wherein the container extender is a tubular container extender.

24. A container assembly for flexible elongate members according to claim 23, wherein the container extender has two opposite ends and a container extender body therebetween, wherein a first end is suitable for attaching to and detaching from the container or to and from another container extender and wherein a second end of the two opposite ends is suitable for being attached to by another container extender or for being closed by a detachable lid member.

25. A container assembly for flexible elongate members according to claim 24, wherein the second end of the container extender is suitable for being attached to by a base.

26. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto claim 24 or claim 25, wherein an internal thread is formed at the first end of the container extender for engaging an external thread of the container or another container extender, and wherein an external thread is formed at the second end of the container extender for engaging an internal thread of a detachable lid member.

27. A container assembly for flexible elongate members accordingto any preceding claim, wherein the container assembly further comprises a waste bin attachment adapted to be secured to the container, the waste bin attachment comprising a tubular body for containing flexible elongate member waste.

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