COLLAPSIBLE BAG FOR CARRYING ARTICLES

Abstract

A collapsible bag for carrying articles that includes a folding seat mounted on an exterior surface of the bag. The bag includes side frame members and a bottom plate that are individually pivotable relative to a base frame assembly to change the volume of the interior compartment of the bag. The bag is provided with various article retainers on its exterior surface to provide easy access to articles retained therein.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field

This invention generally relates to bags. More particularly, the invention relates to bags for carrying articles such as sporting equipment. Specifically, the invention relates to a bag that is collapsible for storage and includes a folding seat that is movably secured to the exterior rear wall of the bag.

2. Background Information

Sports equipment may tend to be quite bulky and difficult to transport. For example, a hockey player may require at least one stick, a pair of skates, a helmet, gloves, shoulder and shin pads, elbow pads, pants, shirt, an undershirt, long underwear, and athletic support. Goalies need even more equipment with large goalie pads added to the mix. A soccer player may carry at least one ball, shin guards, water bottle, warm-up pants, shirt, jacket and shoes. Typically, and if at all possible, all of this equipment will be carried in a large nylon or canvas carry bag. Not only is this an awkward method of transporting equipment but there are a number of other disadvantages. One is that it is very difficult to find a particular piece of equipment within this large carry bag. It tends to be necessary to rummage through all of the equipment and necessitates the removal of much of the equipment from the bag while a search is made for the desired article.

This problem has been somewhat addressed in the prior art. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,139,308 to Ziman. The patent discloses a chair that is movable between a folded position and an expanded position. When the chair is folded, the bag is moved to a position where it may be detachably engaged with the seat to hold the chair in the folded position. Carry straps are provided to enable the user to carry the folded chair.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,439,241 (Nelson) discloses a collapsible golf bag cart that includes a foldable seat. The seat frame is pivotably connected to the golf bag cart frame and is movable between a collapsed position and an expanded position. When a golf bag is to be carried in the cart, the seat is moved to the expanded position. The seat can only be collapsed onto the golf bag cart frame when the golf bag has been removed from the cart.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,499,760 (Pielocik) discloses a device that includes a first, second and third frame assembly that are pivotably nested together and are moveable relative to each other between a backpack mode and a chair mode. The first frame assembly has a pair of retractable first legs that are capable of supporting a rolled-up sleeping bag when the device is in the backpack mode and are extended and locked into place as the rear legs of the chair when the device is moved into the chair mode. A first storage compartment is pivotably mounted on the first frame assembly. When in the backpack mode, the first storage compartment is positioned on the front side of the assembly and when in the chair mode, the compartment is on the back side of the assembly.

The second frame assembly includes a seat and a second storage compartment that are aligned with the first compartment when the device is in the backpack mode and are at right angles relative to the first compartment when the device is in the chair mode. The third frame assembly serves as the front legs of the chair when in the chair mode. Chains connected the first and third frame assemblies together so that when the device is in the chair mode, the front and rear legs of the chair will not separate from each other.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,797,612 (Buccioni) discloses a carrier for hockey equipment. The device is molded from high-impact plastic, is generally rectangular in shape and includes slidable trays for retaining equipment. The carrier includes clamps on its rear wall and at least one pair of wheels mounted at one end of the rear wall. The clamps are provided to lock one or two hockey sticks in place such that they can act as handles to aid in wheeling the carrier along a surface when in a vertical orientation. The carrier also includes other handles that enable a user to carry the carrier in a horizontal orientation. These carriers are quite cumbersome and difficult to transport even when empty.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,264,078 (Bilang) discloses a combination bag and chair assembly. The seat is similar in configuration to a folding beach chair but both the back and the seat areas are retained within zippered bag portions. Articles can be inserted into both of the bag portions so that they can be transported when the seat assembly is in a folded position. When it is desired to use the seat assembly as a chair the seat is unfolded, the zippers are opened and the articles are removed from within the bag portions. So, essentially, this device is a folding chair that has pockets for retaining some relatively flat articles therein.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,763,940 (Lai) discloses a sports bag that comprises a soft zippered body that is stitched to and retained on a rigid, wheeled base frame. The base frame closes an opening in one end of the soft body. Two rigid shells are fixedly fastened to the soft body adjacent an opening in the end of the body opposite the frame. The shells are secured to each other by a zipper. The shells and frame protect the contents of the bag against impact.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,997,507 (Rhee) discloses a rucksack that includes a detachable folding chair. The back wall of the rucksack includes a hook and loop fastener region that is designed to mate with a complementary hook and loop fastener region on the chair. A zippered cover is provided to cover and retain the folded chair within a pouch adjacent the back wall of the rucksack. The legs of the folded chair extend outwardly from the bottom of the pocket formed by the cover and back wall of the rucksack. A spacer is provided on the exterior surface of the cover and is designed to be received in the small of a user's back. The spacer serves two purposes. Firstly, it provides a soft contact point between the user's lower back and rucksack. Secondly, the spacer keeps the bottom ends of the chair legs away from the user's clothing.

U.S. Patent Publication No. 2008/0023282 (Duncan) discloses a sports equipment bag that has a stool integrated into the interior compartment of the bag. A seat member is secured over a portion of the top panel of the bag and over the top wall of the stool. The front wall of the stool positioned inside the compartment is slanted downwardly toward the bottom panel of the bag. The athlete is able to sit on the seat member and position their foot on the slanted front wall so that they can more easily put a shoe on or take a shoe off.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The device of the present invention comprises a collapsible bag for carrying articles that includes a folding seat mounted on an exterior surface of the bag. The bag includes side frame members and a bottom plate that are individually pivotable relative to a base frame assembly to change the volume of the interior compartment of the bag. The bag is provided with various article retainers on its exterior surface to provide easy access to articles retained therein.

Specifically, the bag is designed for use by athletes to transport sporting equipment. In addition to the carrying abilities of the sports equipment to and from the event or game, during the game the bag of the present invention has other functions. The bag may include a display region thereon, where the display provided in that region comprises a section of the team logo or graphic. The bag may also be connected to other identical dedicated bags to display the full team logo or graphic thereon. Additionally, when ganged together in this manner, the bags may form a temporary bench on the sidelines.

The bag is soft-sided with a nylon outer shell attached to a rigid frame constructed of metal tubing or other rigid or semi-rigid materials like carbon fiber rods. The bag includes locking members which, when disengaged, permit the sides of the bag's frame to swivel through about 90 degrees and permit the bottom to flip up through around 90 degrees to create a reasonably flat and dense package. These features make it easier to ship and store the bag when it is not in use.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The preferred embodiments of the invention, illustrative of the best mode in which applicant has contemplated applying the principles, are set forth in the following description and are shown in the drawings and are particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bag in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the frame of the bag of FIG. 1 with the fabric panels removed therefrom for clarity;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a first highlighted region of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the frame shown in FIG. 2 with the back support panel removed for clarity;

FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of the frame with portions of the fabric panels shown attached thereto;

FIG. 5 a is a partial front perspective view of the frame showing the locking member securing the side frame member in the extended position;

FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of a second embodiment of the bag showing an expandable net extending outwardly from a side panel of the bag and retaining a soccer ball therein;

FIG. 7 is a front view of a third embodiment of the bag showing a pair of holding straps extending outwardly from the side panels of the bag and retaining a pair of goalie pads against the front panel;

FIG. 7 a is a left side view of the bag of FIG. 7 showing one of the holding straps and a pocket provided on the side panel of the bag;

FIG. 8 is a right side view of a fourth embodiment of the bag showing a pocket on the side panel retaining a hockey stick therein;

FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of the bag of FIG. 1 showing a seat attached to the back of the bag with the seat in the folded storage or transport position;

FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the bag of FIG. 9 with the seat in the expanded position and ready for use;

FIG. 11 is a right side view of the bag shown in FIG. 10 and showing the wheels mounted on the bag frame;

FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of the bag with the seat removed and showing the connectors mounted on the sides of the bag;

FIG. 13 is an exploded partial perspective view of the back of the bag showing the manner in which the seat frame is connected to the back panel of the bag;

FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of a plurality of bags in accordance with the present invention shown joined together with a first one of the seats removed to show the connectors on the sides of adjacent bags being used to join the bags together;

FIG. 15 is a right side view of an alternative embodiment of the bag showing the wheels mounted on the seat frame;

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view showing the frame only and illustrating the side frame members folded inwardly;

FIG. 17 is a front view showing the frame only and illustrating the bottom plate flipped upwardly into contact with the folded side frame members;

FIG. 18 is a side view of the folded frame illustrated in FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of the frame of the bag of FIG. 1 with the fabric panels removed therefrom for clarity and showing a second embodiment of a side frame member used in the base frame of the bag; and

FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of the frame of FIG. 19, showing the frame only and illustrating the side frame members folded inwardly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIGS. 1-18 there is shown a bag in accordance with the present invention and generally indicated at 10. Bag 10 is made up from a plurality of flexible fabric panels 12 that are secured to a frame 26 in any suitable manner, such as by stitching. Panels 12 make up an exterior wall of the bag that surrounds and defines an interior compartment 24 (FIG. 4) suitable for carrying articles such as clothing and sporting equipment. Suitable fabrics for the panels 12 include such materials as nylon and canvas, with nylon being preferred because of its water resistant properties. Frame 26 is made up of a plurality of rigid frame members manufactured from any suitable metal or composite material, or a combination of such materials.

The exterior wall of bag 10 is made up from a top panel 12a, a bottom panel 12b (FIG. 5), a front panel 12c, a back panel 12d (FIG. 9), a left side panel 12e and a right side panel 12f (FIG. 9). Preferably, frame 26 and panels 12a-12f are configured in such a manner that, when viewed from the side, bag 10 is narrower proximate its top end 10a than proximate its bottom end 10b. This aids in keeping the bag's center of gravity low when bag 10 is standing in a vertically upright position as illustrated in FIG. 1. In the embodiment illustrated herein, the width of the top end 10a of the bag, as measured between front panel 12c and back panel 12d, is around one half of the width “W” (FIG. 7a) of the bottom end 10b of the bag as measured between the same two panels. It will be understood that the exterior wall can be made up of any other arrangement of panels and that bag 10 may take other shapes than those illustrated in the attached figures.

As shown in FIG. 1, a telescoping handle 14 is extendable outwardly from top panel 12a when bag 10 is to be wheeled around on wheels 16. Handle 14 may collapsed inwardly toward top panel 12a when it is not needed as shown in FIG. 6. A pair of supports 18 are provided at bottom end 10b adjacent bottom panel 12b. Supports 18 aid wheels 16 in supporting bag 10 on a surface in the vertical upright position.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 6, front panel 12c defines an opening through which the user may access an interior compartment 24 that is defined by top, bottom, front, back and side panels 12a-12f. Front panel 12c includes a flap to cover this opening. A portion of the flap is substantially continuous with the front panel 12c and a peripheral outer edge of the flap is provided with a zipper 22 that selectively secures the flap to front panel 12c. When the zipper 22 is moved in a first direction, access to the interior compartment 24 is permitted. When the zipper 22 is moved in a second direction, access to the interior compartment 24 is substantially prevented.

In accordance with a specific feature of the present invention, bag 10 is also provided with a detachable panel 28 that is disposed substantially parallel to and adjacent an outer surface of the flap. Panel 28 is secured to the outer surface of the flap by a second zipper 20. Second zipper 20 allows for complete removal of panel 28 from the flap. When second zipper 20 is moved in a first direction, panel 28 is completely detached from the flap. When second zipper 20 is moved in a second direction, panel 28 is reattached to the flap. Panel 28 is removable to allow for a graphic 30 to be applied thereto. (Graphic 30 may take the form of a logo or image or both.) Once graphic 30 is applied to panel 28, panel 28 is once again secured to the flap of front panel 12c using zipper 20.

In accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, connectors 32a, 32b (FIG. 9) extend outwardly from back panel 12b proximate side panels 12e, 12f. While connectors 32a, 32b are described and illustrated herein as snap-type fittings, they may instead be any one of a wide variety of types of connectors including but not limited to hook and loop fasteners, buttons and tabs with mating buttonholes, zippers etc. It should also be understood that connectors 32a, 32b may extend outwardly from side panels 12e, 12f instead of back panel 12d. The function of connectors 32a, 32b will be described later herein.

FIGS. 2-4 show the frame 26 in greater detail. Frame 26 comprises a base frame assembly to which two side frame members 40, 42 and a bottom plate 44 are secured. The base frame assembly comprises a top frame member 34, a back plate 46, a handle frame 50 and a back support plate 52 that are secured to each other. The base frame assembly preferably also includes a pair of wheel assemblies each comprising a wheel well 48, an axle 49 and a wheel rotatably mounted on axle 49.

Top frame member 34 and the members that make up handle frame 50 preferably are all generally hollow tubes. Handle 14 is telescopingly engaged in the members of handle frame 50 in a manner that is well known in the art. Back support panel 52 is manufactured of a substantially rigid material, preferably a substantially rigid plastic. Back support panel 52 includes cut out regions that surround wheel wells 48.

In accordance with a specific feature of the present invention, first and second side frame members 40, 42 and bottom plate 44 are each pivotably mounted to the base frame assembly. First and second side frame members 40, 42 are substantially identical to each other. First side frame member 40 is secured to first end 34a of top frame member 34 by a first pivot assembly 54. Second side frame member 42 is secured to second end 34b of top frame member 34 by a second pivot assembly 56. Bottom plate 44 is mounted to back plate 46 of the base frame assembly by a hinge 58. First and second pivot assemblies 54, 56 and hinge 58 permit first and second side frame members 40, 42 and bottom plate 44 to be individually moved between an extended position and a collapsed position as will be hereinafter described. When all three of the first and second side frame members 40, 42 and bottom plate 44 are in their extended positions, the volume of compartment 24, as defined by the exterior wall of the bag 10, is at its largest. When one or more of first and second side frame members 40, 42 and bottom plate 44 are moved into their collapsed positions, the volume of compartment 24 is reduced. When all three of first and second side frame members 40, 42 and bottom plate 44 are in their collapsed positions, the volume of compartment 24 is at its smallest. Thus, by moving these three members 40, 42, 44, bag 10 may be expanded in volume for carrying articles or may be collapsed and reduced in volume for transportation or storage purposes.

First and second side frame members are substantially identical in shape. Preferably, in a first embodiment of the invention, both of these side frame members 40, 42 are substantially D-shaped and they extend outwardly and downwardly away from top frame member 34 in generally the same direction as each other. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 16-18, first side frame member 40 comprises a generally straight first leg 40d and a generally arcuate second leg 40c. First leg 40d connects at a first end 40b to first pivot assembly 54. Second leg 40c extends outwardly from the end of first leg 40d remote from first end 40b and is connected at a second end 40a to first pivot assembly 54. First end 40b is substantially fixedly secured to first pivot assembly 54 and second end 40a is pivotally connected thereto. First end 40b and second end 40a are disposed generally at right angles to each other. The first pivot assembly 54 is the only point of connection that first side frame member 40 has with the base frame assembly. First pivot assembly 54 permits first side frame member 40 to be pivoted relative to the base frame assembly around a first axis that is substantially orthogonal to top frame member 34.

As indicated above, first side frame member 40 is pivotable between an extended position and a collapsed position. In the extended position, shown in FIG. 2, both of the first and second legs 40c, 40d of first side frame member 40 are substantially aligned with each other and are disposed orthogonal to top frame member 34. Second leg 40c extends outwardly and forwardly away from the base frame assembly. When first side frame member 40 is pivoted from the extended position into the collapsed position, the second leg 40c thereof is moved through an arc of about ninety degrees, indicated by arrow “A” (FIG. 2) until it is disposed generally parallel to top frame member 34. FIG. 16 shows first side frame member 40 in the collapsed position. In this figure it can be seen that second leg 40c is in close proximity to handle frame 50 and portions of top frame member 34 and back plate 46. Preferably, when in this collapsed position, at least a portion of second leg 40c is in abutting contact with at least a portion of the base frame assembly. Additionally, a portion 40e of second leg 40c is generally aligned with hinge 58. When first side frame member 40 is moved from the collapsed position to the expanded position, the second leg 40c thereof is rotated in a direction opposite to arrow “A” through about ninety degrees from the position where it is substantially parallel to top frame member 34 to the position where it extends generally outwardly away from the base frame assembly at an angle of about ninety degrees to top frame member 34.

Second side frame member 42 is substantially identical to first side frame member 40 and comprises a generally straight first leg 42d and a generally arcuate second leg 42c. First leg 42d connects at a first end 42b to second pivot assembly 56 (FIG. 3). Second leg 42c extends outwardly from the end of first leg 42d remote from first end 42b thereof and is connected at a second end 42a to second pivot assembly 56. First and second ends 42b, 42a are connected to second pivot assembly 56 in such a manner that they are disposed substantially at right angles to each other. Furthermore, first end 42b is substantially fixedly secured to second pivot assembly 56 and second end 42a is pivotally connected thereto. Second pivot assembly 56 is the only point of connection that second side frame member 42 has with the base frame assembly. Second pivot assembly 56 permits second side frame member 42 to be pivoted relative to the base frame assembly around a second axis that is substantially orthogonal to top frame member 34 and is generally parallel to the first axis.

Second side frame member 42 is also pivotable between an extended position and a collapsed position. In the extended position, shown in FIG. 2, both of the first and second legs 42c, 42d are substantially aligned with each other and second leg 42d extends outwardly and forwardly away from top frame member 34 at an angle of around ninety degrees thereto. When second side frame member 42 is moved into the collapsed position, it is rotated through about ninety degrees in a direction opposite to the rotational movement of first side frame member 40. The direction of rotation of second side frame member 42 is indicated by arrow “B” in FIG. 2. If first frame member 40 is rotated into its collapsed position before second side frame member 42, then when second side frame member 42 is moved into the collapsed position, second side frame member 42 will be in close proximity to first frame member 40 and preferably is in abutting contact therewith. Alternatively, if second side frame member 42 is pivoted into the collapsed position before first side frame member 40, then second side frame member 42 will be in close proximity to handle frame 50 and preferably will be in abutting contact therewith. The first side frame member 40 may then be pivoted into close proximity with that portion of second side frame member 42 remote from handle frame 50. When second side frame member 40 is in the collapsed position, a portion 42e of second leg 42c thereof is disposed substantially aligned with hinge 58.

As mentioned previously, the first ends 40a, 42a are pivotally connected to first and second pivot assemblies 54, 56, while the second ends 40b, 42b are fixedly connected thereto. Thus, when each of first and second side frame members 40, 42 are moved from their extended positions to their collapsed positions, the first legs 40d, 42d thereof remain substantially stationary while the second legs 40c, 42c thereof move in an arc. This causes first legs 40d, 42d to become somewhat flexed inwardly so that the lowermost regions of first legs 40d, 42d proximate wheel wells 48 are disposed closer to each other than are the ends 40b, 42b thereof.

Generally speaking, when first and second side frame members 40, 42 are moved from the extended position to the collapsed position, they are rotated inwardly toward each other and when they are moved from the collapsed position to the extended position, they are rotated outwardly away from each other.

As shown in FIG. 5a and in accordance with a specific feature of the present invention, bag 10 preferably is provided with one or more locking members 90 to retain first side frame member 40 in the extended position. Locking member 90 comprises a strap 90a that is sewn or otherwise secured to side panel 12e at one end. The other end of strap 90a is free of attachment to side panel 12e. Strap 90a is provided with a D-ring 90b or buckle through which the free end of the strap 90a is threaded after being wrapped around the portion 40e of side frame member 40. Instead of a D-ring 90b, strap 90a may be provided with snaps or hook and loop fasteners or any other type of other fastener that will permit the free end of strap 90a to be quickly and easily released and secured. When it is desired to move first side frame member 40 from the extended position into the collapsed position, the athlete disengages the free end of strap 90a from D-ring 90b and then rotates leg 40c of first side frame member 40 inwardly toward handle frame 50. When it is desired to retain the bag 10 in the fully expanded position, leg 40c is moved from the collapsed position to the extended position by rotating it outwardly away from handle frame 50. The free end of strap 90a is wrapped around portion 40e of first side frame member 40 and is threaded through D-ring 90b.

Furthermore, one or more locking members 90 may be positioned to engage first side frame member 40 when in its extended position and other locking members may be positioned to engage first side frame member 40 when in its collapsed position. Alternatively, at least one of locking members 90 may be operative to lock first side frame member 40 in the extended position and in the collapsed position. When the locking members 90 are disengaged, first side member 40 is movable between its extended and collapsed positions. When locking members 90 are engaged, first side member 40 cannot be moved.

It will further be understood that instead of locking member 90 being releasably engaged with portion 40e of first side frame member 40, it may instead be positioned so as to engage either of legs 40c or 40d. Locking member 90 will therefore be positioned appropriately on one of side panel 12e, bottom panel 12b, top panel 12a, back or front panel 12c, 12d, on first pivot assembly 54 or any portion of base frame assembly.

It will further be understood that types of locking member other than the disclosed strap 90a and D-ring 90b may be utilized to releasably engage a region of first side frame member 40 in either of the extended and collapsed positions.

A substantially identical locking member 92 is associated with the base frame assembly and second side frame member 42. Locking member 92 may be disposed at least partially on any of the members of base frame assembly, second pivot assembly 56, or exterior wall, and may engage any of the legs 42c, 42d, 42e of second side frame member 42. When engaged, locking member 92 locks second side frame member 42 in one or both of the extended and collapsed positions. When locking member 92 is disengaged, second side frame member 42 is moveable between its extended and collapsed positions.

In accordance with yet another specific feature of the present invention, bottom plate 44, which is connected to back plate 46 by a hinge 58, is movable between an extended position (FIG. 2) and a collapsed position (FIGS. 17 & 18). When in the extended position, bottom plate 44 extends outwardly and forwardly away from back plate 46 and generally at an angle of ninety degrees relative thereto. When bottom plate 44 is moved from the extended position to the collapsed position, plate 44 is moved through an arc of about ninety degrees until it is disposed substantially parallel to back plate 46. This movement is indicated by arrow “C” in FIG. 2. When bottom plate 44 is moved from the collapsed position to the expanded position, it is moved through an arc of ninety degrees in the opposite direction of arrow “C” until it once again extends substantially outwardly and forwardly away from back plate 46. Although not specifically shown herein, it will be understood that bottom plate 44 may also be provided with a locking member to restrict or prevent its rotational movement.

When panels 12a-12f are secured to frame 26, a pair of rigid brace members 60 are secured over portions of back panel 12d and side panels 12e, 12f proximate wheel wells 48. Brace members 60 increase the strength of the panels 12d, 12e and 12f and provide additional protection against impact in these regions of bag 10. Similarly, a stronger fabric or a rigid member may be provided as a brace member 62 on a portion of one or both of bottom panel 12b and front and back panels 12c, 12d.

FIG. 6 shows bag 10 provided with a first type of a sporting equipment retaining mechanism. In this instance, the retaining mechanism comprises an elastic net 64 that is secured to one of the panels on the bag10, such as side panel 12e. The net 64 is designed to securely retain sporting equipment, such as a soccer ball 200, in contact with the associated side panel 12e. Net 64 has a first end 64a and a second end 64b. First end 64a is fixedly secured to side panel 12e proximate top end 10a of bag and second end 64b is fixedly secured to side panel 12e proximate bottom end 10b of bag 10. The user inserts the piece of sporting equipment between net 64 and side panel 12e and spreads the elastic material of net 64 around the sporting equipment so that the sporting equipment is restrained against side panel 12e. Additionally, one of the edges of net 64 between first and second ends 64a and 64b may be fixedly secured to side panel 12e so that net 64 comprises an elastic pocket that may be stretched open to receive the sporting equipment therein.

FIGS. 7 and 7 a show bag 10 provided with a second type of sporting equipment retaining mechanism. In this instance, the retaining mechanism comprises two strap members 66 that are used to retaining sporting equipment, such as goalie pads 202, in abutting contact with one of the panels on the bag 10, such as front panel 12c. One end of each strap member 66 is secured to one of back and side panels 12d, 12e or 12f. This end of the strap member 66 may be fixedly secured to one of back and side panels 12d, 12e or 12f, or may be temporarily secured thereto. The second end of each strap member 66 is provided with a connector 68. The connectors 68 permit strap members 66 to be engaged with each other to hold the sporting equipment 202 against front panel 12c and are disengaged to allow the sporting equipment 202 to be removed for use. It will be understood that the strap members 66 can be located in any location on bag 10 so as to retain articles against any of the side, top and back panels. Furthermore, one or both of said strap members 66 may be selectively adjustable in length and one or both of strap members 66 may be made from an elastic or stretchable type material.

Alternatively, only a single strap member may be utilized on bag 10. In this latter instance a first end of the single strap member would be fixedly or temporarily secured to the exterior wall of the bag and the other end would be provided with a first connector 68. A complementary second connector 68 would be secured directly to a portion of the exterior surface of the bag remote from the first end of the single strap 66.

Referring still to FIGS. 7 and 7a, bag 10 may also be provided with a third type of sporting equipment retaining mechanism in the form of a pocket 70. The fabric from which pocket 70 is constructed will be fixedly secured to side panel 12e along three sides and the fourth side is not secured thereto. Consequently, an article of sporting equipment may be inserted into the open fourth side of pocket 70. This is illustrated in FIG. 8 where bag 10 is provided with only pocket 70 for retaining a piece of sporting equipment, such as a hockey stick 204, therein. It will be understood that bag 10 may be provided with one or more of all three types of sporting equipment retaining mechanisms 64, 66 and 70 thereon and that any of these retaining mechanisms may be associated with any of the panels 12a-12f of the bag 10. Furthermore, bag 10 may be specifically designed for use with a particular sport and thus may include appropriately sized and shaped retaining mechanisms for securing the particular type of sporting equipment against the exterior surface of the bag 10 so that it may be quickly and easily accessed and stored.

Referring to FIGS. 9-14 and in accordance with yet another specific feature of the present invention, bag 10 includes a seat 72 that is movably secured to the back of the bag adjacent the exterior surface of back panel 12d. Seat 72 is movable between a folded position (FIG. 9) and an unfolded position (FIG. 10). When seat 72 is in the folded position, seat 72 is not available for the user to sit on. When seat 72 is in the unfolded position, seat 72 is available for the user to sit on. Seat 72 comprises a rigid seat frame 74 having fabric seat panels mounted thereon. In particular, seat frame 74 comprises first and second seat frame members 74a, 74b and first and second seat panels 76a, 76b. First and second seat frame member 74a, 74b are pivotally connected to each other by pivot pins 78. Seat frame member 74b is connected to bag 10 by first and second pivot pins 94 that are secured to brackets 80. The first pivot pin 94 is disposed adjacent a first one of the wheel wells 48, and the second pivot pin 94 is disposed adjacent the second one of the wheel wells 48. The first and second pivot pins 94 are substantially coaxially aligned with axles 49 of wheels 16. Thus, when seat 72 is moved between the folded and unfolded position, seat 72 pivots about an axis that is aligned with the axles of the wheels 16.

Seat panels 76a, 76b are secured around portions of seat frame members 74a, 74b. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 13, seat panel 76a is secured to one or more straps 77 that are fixedly mounted on back panel 12d and back support plate 52 by fasteners 79. A buckle 81 is provided to slide up and down straps 77 as seat 72 is folded and unfolded. Seat panel 76a is secured to buckle 81 by a fabric tab 83.

Seat frame member 74a is provided with friction pads 82. When bag 10 is placed on a surface in an upright position as illustrated in the attached figures, brackets 80 and friction pads 82 abut that surface and thus provide a stable base for the seat 72. Although not illustrated herein, seat frame 74 may be provided with some type of limiting device or stop that will only permit a range of pivotal motion between frame members 74a and 74b. This, limiting device will thereby prevent total collapse of the seat 72 when a user sits down on the first panel member 76a.

Seat 72 is provided with a first seat panel 76a that is fixedly secured along a top edge to top panel 12a of bag and along a second edge to a portion of seat frame member 74b. First seat panel 76a is the panel upon which a user will sit when the seat 72 in the unfolded position. Seat 72 is also provided with a second set panel 76b that is secured to a portion of seat frame member 74b and to a portion of seat frame member 74a and is configured to flex and move along these portions of the frame members as the seat is moved between the folded and unfolded positions.

As illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, second seat panel 76b may be provided with pockets 84 to be used to store sporting equipment therein, such as water bottles 206, when seat 72 is in the unfolded position. These pockets 84 are not necessarily provided on seat 72 (see FIG. 9). Bag 10 preferably is also provided with a transparent pouch 73 into which a name tag or other information may be inserted. Preferably, pouch 73 is attached to bag 10 by a zipper 75 and is detachable from bag 10.

Second seat panel 76b preferably is also provided with connectors 32c, 32d that are matingly engageable with connectors 32b, 32a, respectively, to secure seat 72 in the folded position against back panel 12d of bag 10. This is shown in FIG. 9. Additionally, these connectors 32a-32d may be utilized to secure adjacent bags 10a, 10b, 10c together. FIG. 14 illustrates three bags 10a, 10b, 10c being ganged together. The seat of bag 10a has not been illustrated to show how the connectors on the back panels 12d of bags 10a and 10b are secured together. Connector 32b of bag 10a is secured to connector 32a of bag 10b. Although not visible, connector 32b of bag 10b is secured to connector 32a of bag 10c. Additionally, connector 32d of bag 10b is secured to connector 32c of bag 10c. It will be understood that in a similar fashion a connector 32d on bag 10a will be secured to connector 32c on bag 10b. This ganged arrangement of bags 10a-10c provides a way for athletes to create a temporary bench area on the sidelines of any sporting event. Furthermore, although not illustrated in these figures, the first seat panels 76a of each of bags 10a, 10b, 10c may be provided with a graphic thereon. The graphic can be a team logo or a portion of a team logo. Thus, when bags 10a-10c are ganged together the team logo is clearly displayed.

Although not illustrated herein, it should be understood that bags 10a-10c may be provided with additional connectors that will permit them to be ganged together even when the seats 72 are in the folded and secured position shown in FIG. 9.

In accordance with yet another specific feature of the present invention, a mesh insert 96 may be provided in back panel 12d intermediate seat 72 and the interior compartment 24. When seat 72 is in the unfolded position shown in FIG. 10, mesh insert 96 permits airflow into compartment 24 thus aiding in airing and drying out articles retained within compartment 24.

FIG. 15 illustrates an alternative configuration of a bag 110 and seat frame 174 from those shown in FIGS. 1-14. Specifically, in FIG. 15, the wheels 116 are mounted on axles secured to seat frame member 174a instead of being mounted on axles secured in the wheel wells (not shown) on the base frame assembly (not shown). All other components of bag 110 are identical to those of bag 10. The support 118, frame member 174b and wheels 116 provide a solid base for the seat 172.

Bag 10 is used in the following manner. If bag 10 is initially in the expanded position (FIG. 1), the user will unzip one of zippers 20 and 22 to insert articles into compartment 24. If bag 10 is designed for use by a soccer player, for example, the player can retain a ball 200 in expandable net 64. If bag is designed for use by a hockey player such as a goalie, for example, straps 66 may be used to retain pads 202 against front panel 12c once zippers 20, 22 have been closed. A hockey stick 204 can be inserted into pocket 70. When all of the player's gear is retained in and on bag 10, handle 14 is moved into the expanded position (FIG. 1), bag is tilted so that the player can utilize wheels 16 to move bag 10 along a surface.

When the player reaches the playing field or arena, bag 10 is placed in the position shown in FIG. 1 with wheels 16 and supports 18 retaining bag 10 in the vertically upright position. Handle 14 may be collapsed inwardly into handle frame 50 and zippers 20 and/or 22 unzipped for the player to gain access to articles in compartment 24. If needed, the player can lay bag 10 flat on its back so that back panel 12d touches the ground. Zipper 22 is used to gain access to the articles within compartment 24 and also permits free airflow into the interior compartment 24. Any equipment stored in net 64, straps 66 and pockets 70 is obviously removed when needed and, in the case of straps 66, is removed prior to unzipping zippers 20, 22.

If and when desired, bag 10 may be positioned to permit seat 72 to be used for sitting. In order to access seat 72, connectors 32b, 32c are disengaged and connectors 32a, 32d are disengaged. The player then grasps the upper end of seat frame member 74b adjacent top panel 12a and pulls the same outwardly away from back panel 12d. This motion causes seat frame member 74b to pivot about pivot pins 86 in brackets 80. This, in turn, causes seat frame member 74a to pivot relative to seat frame member 74b and bottom end of seat frame member 74b that includes friction pads 82 is moved outwardly away from back panel 12d of bag. The movement also causes seat panel 76a to move from a substantially vertical orientation (FIG. 9) to a substantially horizontal orientation (FIG. 10). Bottom end of seat frame member 76a with friction pads 82, brackets 80, wheels 16 and supports 18 provide a strong, firm base for seat 72. The player can then sit on seat panel 76a. As illustrated in FIG. 10, pockets 84 on seat 72 can be used to retain articles such as water bottles 206 in an easily accessed location on seat 72.

As previously described, bag 10 may be secured to one or two identical bags used by other team members of the player to form a temporary bench area on the sidelines. This is accomplished by securing adjacent bags and seats together using connectors 32a-32d. When a plurality of bags 10 in accordance with the present invention are ganged together in this manner, each player can individually still access the articles retained in the compartment 24 of his bag as the zippers 20, 22 are easily accessible on the opposite side of the ganged bags. As illustrated in FIG. 10, when seat 72 is in the folded out position, mesh insert 96 permits air to flow into compartment 24 to dry articles retained therein. Insert 96 is covered by seat 72 when it is returned to its folded position.

Additionally, if the bags are provided with graphics or all or part of the team's logo on front panels 12c, specifically on panel portions 28, the combined graphic is displayed prominently on the opposite side of the ganged bags from seats 72. It will, of course, be understood that seat panel 76a may also be provided with a graphic or logo that is displayed when seat 72 is in either of the folded or unfolded position.

When the game is over, the connectors 32a-32d are disengaged, the seats 72 are folded up by reversing the steps previously set out, and the connectors 32a-32d are used to lock the folded seat 72 against the back panel 12d of bag 10. The player will place all pieces of sporting equipment, such as balls 200, pads 202, sticks 204 etc. in the relevant storage areas of bag 10. Handle 14 is moved to its extended position and bag 10 is wheeled away.

Referring to FIGS. 16-18 and in accordance with yet another feature of the present invention, bag 10 is designed to be movable between an expanded condition (FIG. 1) and a collapsed condition (FIG. 18). In its expanded condition, bag 10 is used for retaining articles and transporting the same from one location to another. When bag 10 is not needed for this purpose, it can be moved to the collapsed condition for storage purposes. FIGS. 16-18 show the relationships between the frame members which enable this movement between the collapsed and expanded conditions to occur. In these figures the fabric panels 12a-12f have been removed so that the movement of the frame members of frame 26 can be more easily seen.

Initially, as best seen in FIG. 2, first side frame member 40 extends outwardly away from back support panel 52 at an angle of about ninety degrees. Similarly, second side frame member 42 extends outwardly away from back support panel 52 at an angle of about ninety degrees. Bottom plate 44 also extends outwardly from back support panel 52 at an angle of about ninety degrees.

Bag 10 is collapsed from the position shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 to the position shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 in four steps. In the first step, one or both of locking members 90, 92 are disengaged to permit one or both of first and second side frame members 40, 42 to be moved between their extended and collapsed positions. In the second step, first side frame member 40 is pivoted about first pivot assembly 54 and is rotated inwardly in the direction indicated by arrow “A” (FIG. 16) toward handle frame 50. The motion causes first side frame member 40 to move through around ninety degrees relative to its initial position. The motion brings the second leg 40c of first side frame member 40 into closer proximity with handle frame 50. The leg 40e of first side frame member 40 is also brought into substantial alignment with hinge 58.

In the third step toward collapsing bag 10, second side frame member 42 is pivoted about second pivot member assembly 56 and rotated in the direction of arrow “B” (FIG. 16) toward handle frame 50. The movement causes second side frame member 42 to move through around ninety degrees relative to its initial position. This motion brings the second leg 42c of second side frame member 42 into closer proximity with the second leg 40c of first side frame member 40. The leg 42e of second side frame member 42 is also brought into substantial alignment with hinge 58.

In the fourth step toward collapsing bag 10, bottom plate 44 is rotated upwardly in the direction of arrow “C” (FIG. 16) about hinge 58 to the position shown in FIGS. 17 & 18. This motion causes bottom plate 44 to move through around ninety degrees relative to its initial position. FIG. 17 also shows that bottom plate 44 includes L-shaped cut out zones 86 that accommodate wheel wells 48. This permits bottom plate 44 to be brought into close proximity with leg 42c of second side frame member 42. As is evident from FIG. 18, the collapsed bag 10 is of a far smaller width “W1” than is the fully expanded bag that has a width “W” (FIG. 7a).

In order to move bag 10 from the collapsed position (FIG. 18) to the expanded position (FIG. 1), the four steps are reversed.

FIGS. 19 and 20 show the frame of a bag in accordance with the present invention and illustrating a second embodiment of a first and second side frame member 140, 142 that may be utilized therein. Frame 126 comprises a base frame assembly to which the two side frame members 140, 142 and a bottom plate 144 are secured. The base frame assembly comprises a top frame member 134, a back plate 146, a handle frame 150 and a back support plate 52 that are secured to each other. The base frame assembly preferably also includes a pair of wheel assemblies each comprising a wheel well 148, an axle 149 and a wheel rotatably mounted on axle 149.

First and second side frame members 140, 142 are substantially identical in shape and preferably are both substantially L-shaped. First side frame member 140 comprises a generally straight first leg 140d and a generally arcuate second leg 140e. Preferably, first leg 140d is manufactured from fiberglass and is secured to the top frame member 134 and exterior wall of the bag such that first leg 140d of first side frame member 140 remains stationary at all times. Second leg 140e may include a ninety degree elbow or may include one or more bends. Second leg 140e preferably is manufactured from metal and one end of second leg 140e connects to a lowermost end of first leg 140d. In a first instance, the end of second leg 140e which connects to the lowermost end of first leg 140d is of a different diameter to the lowermost end such that the lowermost end is received within a bore in the end of second leg 140e or the end of the second leg is received within a bore in the lowermost end of first leg 140d. Alternatively, a pivot assembly similar to pivot assembly 54 may be used to secure first and second legs 140e, 140e together. In either instance, first and second legs 140d, 140e are secured to each in such a manner that second leg 140e is able to be pivoted about a first axis extending longitudinally through first leg 140d.

Second leg 140e is pivotable between an extended position (FIG. 19) and a collapsed position (FIG. 20). In the extended position, second leg 140e extends outwardly and forwardly away from the base frame assembly and substantially prevents bottom plate 144 from being pivoted upwardly into the collapsed position. When first side frame member 140 is pivoted from the extended position into the collapsed position, the second leg 140e thereof is moved through an arc of about ninety degrees, indicated by arrow “A” (FIG. 19) until it is disposed generally parallel to top frame member 134. Once in this position, bottom plate 144 is free to be pivoted upwardly into abutting contact with handle frame 150 so that the bag may be folded for storage.

FIG. 20 shows first side frame member 140 in the collapsed position. In this figure it can be seen that second leg 140e is in close proximity to handle frame 150. Preferably, when in this collapsed position, at least a portion of second leg 140e is in abutting contact with at least a portion of the base frame assembly. Additionally, a portion of second leg 140e is generally aligned with hinge 158.

When first side frame member 140 is moved from the collapsed position to the extended position, the second leg 140e thereof is rotated in a direction opposite to arrow “A” through about ninety degrees from the position where it is substantially parallel to top frame member 134 to the position where it extends generally outwardly away from the base frame assembly and at an angle of about ninety degrees relative to top frame member 134.

Second side frame member 142 is substantially identical in structure and function to first side frame member 140 and comprises a generally straight first leg 142d and a generally arcuate second leg 142e that are pivotally connected together. FIG. 19 shows second leg 142e extending outwardly and forwardly away from base frame assembly at an angle of around ninety degrees relative to top frame member 134. When second side frame member 142 is moved from this extended position into the collapsed position, second leg 142e is rotated through about ninety degrees in a direction opposite to the rotational movement of second leg 140e of first side frame member 140. The direction of rotation of second leg 142e is indicated by arrow “B” in FIG. 19.

If second leg 140e of first frame member 140 is rotated into its collapsed position before second leg 142e of second side frame member 142, then when second leg 142e is moved into the collapsed position, second leg 142e will be disposed in close proximity to second leg 140e and preferably is in abutting contact therewith. Alternatively, if second leg 142e is pivoted into the collapsed position before second leg 140e, then second leg 142e will be in close proximity to handle frame 150 and preferably will be in abutting contact therewith. The second leg 140e may then be pivoted into close proximity with the second leg 142e and thereby be disposed remote from handle frame 150. When second leg 142e of second side frame member 142 is in the collapsed position, a portion thereof is disposed substantially aligned with hinge 158.

It should be understood that because the first legs 140d and 142d are fixed to both the top frame member 134 and the exterior wall, they may be considered to be part of the base frame assembly. If this is the case, then the second legs 140e and 142e essentially constitute the first and second side frame members that are pivotally secured to the base frame assembly. Each of the second legs 140e and 142e is still generally L-shaped as a portion thereof is generally aligned with first legs 140d or 142d, and a second portion thereof is disposed generally at right angles to the first portion.

Other arrangements of the components of the base frame assembly and side frame members are possible to construct bags of different shapes to that shown in the attached Figures.

In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed.

Moreover, the description and illustration of the invention are an example and the invention is not limited to the exact details shown or described.

Claims

1. A bag for carrying articles comprising: a base frame assembly:a first side frame member;a first pivot assembly securing the first side frame member to the base frame assembly, wherein the first side frame member is pivotable between an extended position and a collapsed position, and when in the extended position at least a portion of the first side frame member extends at an angle outwardly and forwardly away from the base frame assembly, and when in the collapsed position the portion of the first side frame member is disposed generally parallel to the base frame assembly;an exterior wall disposed around the base frame assembly and the first side frame member; andan interior compartment defined and bounded by the exterior wall; and wherein the compartment is of a first volume when the first side frame member is in the extended position and is of a second volume when the first side frame member is in the collapsed position, and the second volume is smaller than the first volume.

2. The bag as defined in claim 1, further comprising a locking member that is selectively engaged to lock the first side frame member against movement between the extended and collapsed positions, and is selectively disengaged to permit movement of the first side frame member between the extended and collapsed positions.

3. The bag as defined in claim 2, wherein the locking member is disposed on one or more of the base frame assembly, first side frame assembly and first pivot assembly.

4. The bag as defined in claim 1, further comprising: a second side frame member;a second pivot assembly securing the second side frame member to the base frame assembly a spaced distance from the first pivot assembly; and wherein the second side frame member is pivotable between an extended position and a collapsed position, and when in the extended position at least a portion of the second side frame member extends at an angle outwardly and forwardly away from the base frame assembly, and when in the collapsed position the portion of the second side frame member is disposed generally parallel to the base frame assembly; wherein the exterior wall additionally surrounds the second side frame member and the compartment is increased in volume beyond the first volume to a third volume when the second side frame member is in its extended position.

5. The bag as defined in claim 4, wherein the first and second side frame members are rotated outwardly away from each other when moved from their collapsed positions to their extended positions, and are rotated inwardly toward each other when moved from their extended positions to their collapsed positions.

6. The bag as defined in claim 4, further comprising; a bottom plate;a hinge connecting the bottom plate to the base frame assembly a spaced distance away from the first and second pivot assemblies; said hinge permitting the bottom plate to be rotated between an extended position where it extends at an angle outwardly and forwardly away from the base frame assembly, and a collapsed position where it is disposed generally parallel to the base frame assembly; and wherein the exterior wall additionally surrounds the bottom plate and the volume of the compartment is increased beyond the first size when the bottom plate is in its extended position and is decreased when the bottom plate is in its collapsed position.

7. The bag as defined in claim 6, wherein the first and second side frame members and the bottom plate are each independently movable between their extended positions and their collapsed positions.

8. The bag as defined in claim 6, wherein one or more of the first side frame member, second side frame member and bottom plate extend outwardly away from the base frame assembly at an angle of around ninety degrees when in the extended position.

9. The bag as defined in claim 6, wherein one or more of the first and second side frame members and bottom plate are pivotable through about ninety degrees between their extended position and collapsed position.

10. The bag as defined in claim 4, wherein the base frame assembly comprises: a top frame member;a back plate member disposed a spaced distance from the top frame member and being substantially aligned therewith; anda handle frame member extending between the top frame member and back plate member.

11. The bag as defined in claim 10, wherein both of the first side frame member and the second side frame member extend outwardly away from the top frame member and in the same direction toward the back plate member.

12. The bag as defined in claim 11, wherein the first side frame member is pivotable about a first axis disposed substantially orthogonal to the top frame member and the second side frame member is pivotable about a second axis disposed substantially orthogonal to the top frame member and parallel to the first axis.

13. The bag as defined in claim 4, wherein each of the first and second side frame members are one of generally D-shaped and generally L-shaped.

14. The bag as defined in claim 4, wherein the first side frame member is only secured to the base frame assembly by the first pivot assembly and the second side frame member is only secured to the base frame assembly by the second pivot assembly.

15. The bag as defined in claim 1, wherein the exterior wall of the bag includes a front panel, and the bag further comprises: an opening defined in the front panel, said opening providing access to the interior compartment;a flap complementary in size and shape to the opening, wherein a portion of the flap is substantially continuous with the front panel and the flap further includes an outer edge;a first zipper securing the outer edge of the flap to the front panel; said first zipper being movable in a first direction to permit access to the compartment and movable in a second direction to prevent access to the compartment; anda detachable panel disposed parallel to and adjacent an outer surface of the flap;a second zipper securing the detachable panel to the outer surface of the flap; said second zipper being movable in a first direction to detach the detachable panel from the flap and movable in a second direction to reattach the detachable panel to the flap.

16. The bag as defined in claim 1, further comprising an expandable net that is fixedly secured to a region of the exterior wall of the bag; said expandable net being adapted to retain an article in abutting contact with the exterior wall.

17. The bag as defined in claim 1, comprising a pair of strap members, each strap member being secured at a first end to the exterior wall of the bag and releasably securable at a second end to the other strap member, and wherein the strap members cooperate with each other to retain an article in abutting contact with the exterior wall of the bag.

18. The bag as defined in claim 10, further comprising a seat that is movably secured to a back region of the bag; where the seat is disposed adjacent an exterior surface of the exterior wall; and wherein the seat includes: a seat frame movable between a folded position and an unfolded position, andat least one seat panel mounted on the seat frame; and wherein at least a portion of the seat panel is available for sitting thereon when the seat frame is in the unfolded position, and the portion of the seat frame is not available for sitting thereon when the seat frame is in the folded position.

19. The bag as defined in claim 18, wherein the seat frame includes: a first seat frame member;a second seat frame member;at least one pivot pin securing the first and second seat frame members together and permitting the seat frame members to be rotated relative to each other to permit the seat to be moved between the folded and unfolded position.

20. The bag as defined in claim 19, further comprising: at least one strap member disposed on the back region of the bag and being oriented to extend substantially between a top end and a bottom end of the bag;a connector securing one of the first and second seat frame members to the at least one strap member in such a manner that the connector moves along the at least one strap member as the seat frame is moved between the folded and unfolded positions.

21. The bag as defined in claim 19, further comprising a first and a second wheel assembly, and said first wheel assembly comprises a first wheel well, a first wheel and a first wheel axle; and the second wheel assembly comprises a second wheel well, a second wheel and a second wheel axle; and wherein the first wheel well is connected to a second end of the first back frame member; and the second wheel well is connected to a second end of the second back frame member.

22. The bag as defined in claim 21, wherein a first end of the first seat frame member is secured to the base frame assembly by a first pivot pin disposed adjacent the first wheel well and a second end of the first seat frame member is secured to the base frame assembly by a second pivot pin adjacent the second wheel well.

23. The bag as defined in claim 22, wherein the first wheel axle is mounted in the first wheel well and first wheel is retained within the first wheel well; and the second wheel axle is mounted in the second wheel well and the second wheel is retained within the second wheel well.

24. The bag as defined in claim 22, wherein the first wheel axle is mounted on a first region of the second seat frame member and the first wheel is mounted on the first wheel axle, and the second wheel axle is mounted on a second region of the second seat frame member and the second wheel is mounted on the second wheel axle; and wherein the first wheel is received in the first wheel well and the second wheel is received in the second wheel well only when the seat is in the folded position.

25. The bag as defined in claim 18, further comprising: a first connector extending outwardly away from a portion of the exterior wall of the bag adjacent a first side of the seat frame;a second connector extending outwardly away from a portion of the exterior wall of the bag adjacent a second side of the seat frame; and wherein the first and second connectors are of a type that are connectable to each other; whereby the bag is adapted to be secured to a second substantially identical bag to form a temporary bench.

26. The bag as defined in claim 25, further comprising: a third connector mounted on one of the seat frame and the seat panel in a region thereof where the third connector is releasably engageable with the first connector; anda fourth connector mounted on one of the seat frame and the seat panel in a region thereof where the fourth connector is releasably engageable with the second connector, wherein the first and third connectors and second and fourth connectors are engaged with each other when the seat frame is in the folded position to retain the seat adjacent the back region of the bag.