PAPER BAG CONVEYANCE AID

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the conveyance of bags such as those provided ubiquitously by grocery stores throughout the world. In particular, the present invention most relates to the conveyance of kraft paper bags with rectangular bases.

Although kraft paper bags have provided great utility from their invention in the mid-1800's, toward the latter half of the last century their use has been supplemented, or outright replaced, by single use plastic bags. One of the reasons that plastic bags gained popularity was their relative strength and employment of useful handles. These features enabled a user to carry multiple bags at once.

Most recently, however, employment of single use plastic bags has fallen in disfavor. This is particularly true for those plastic bags that are non-recyclable. Indeed, many jurisdictions throughout the world have begun banning use of plastic bags and there is now a resurgence of reliance on kraft paper bags, which are recyclable. With this resurgence, consumers have been reminded of the deficiencies of kraft paper bags.

While some kraft paper bags are provided with carry handles to aid in transport, these bags are relatively expensive compared to their handle-less counterparts. It has also been found that even if provided, the handles can be insufficient to support the amount of weight that is often loaded into the bags, and many providers resort to the handle-less bags instead. Most stores therefore do not provide kraft paper bags with handles.

Notwithstanding their popularity, handle-less bags can be difficult to carry. When they are grasped from the top by the opening they can tear and when they are cradled from below it is difficult for most users to carry more than one bag.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, there remains a need for an improved manner for carrying bags, and in particular kraft paper bags. Ideally, the manner of conveyance will rival or even exceed the ease and utility of the disfavored plastic bags.

In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, a strap for aiding in the conveyance of a bag having a bottom surface and sides ending in an opening is provided. The strap includes first and second elongate side edges extending between first and second distal ends, a first end edge spanning the first and second elongate side edges at the first distal end and a second end edge spanning the first and second elongate side edges at the second distal end, an inner surface and an opposed outer surface, and a pair of handles, one of each being located generally at the first distal end and the second distal end. The strap may be placed at least in part under the bottom surface of the bag with the first and second distal ends drawn up along the sides and above the opening such that a user may grasp the pair of handles.

In accordance with a further embodiment of the invention, a method of aiding in the conveyance of bags is provided. The method includes providing to a user an elongate strap having two ends, each end of the strap being adapted to extend from under the bag to beyond its opening, the strap having a handle on each end; and instructing a user to utilize the strap to convey a bag by grasping the handles and lifting the bag with the strap when extend from under the bag to beyond its opening. Here, the coefficient of friction between the portion of the strap contacting the bag and the bag is sufficient to prevent the bag from sliding relative to the strap in normal use.

In an additional embodiment of the present invention, a strap for aiding in the conveyance of a bag having a bottom surface and sides ending in an opening is provided. The strap of this embodiment includes first and second elongate side edges extending between first and second distal ends; a first end edge spanning the first and second elongate side edges at the first distal end and a second end edge spanning the first and second elongate side edges at the second distal end; an inner surface and an opposed outer surface; a first handle, the first handle having a grasping portion located generally at the first distal end and two legs extending toward the second end; and a second handle, the second handle having a grasping portion located generally at the second distal end and two legs extending toward the first end. Here, the first elongate side edge is folded over one of the legs of the first handle and one of the legs of the second handle and the second elongate side edge is folded over the other of the legs of the first handle and the other of the legs of the second handle and the strap may be placed at least in part under the bottom surface of the bag with the first and second distal ends drawn up along the sides and above the opening such that a user may grasp the first and second handles.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

With respect to the drawings,

FIG. 1 depicts a strap in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention in an unrolled, unfurled, or open condition;

FIG. 2 depicts the strap of FIG. 1 in a folded configuration;

FIG. 3 depicts the strap of FIG. 1 in use with a bag;

FIG. 4 depicts the strap of FIG. 1 supporting a bag and being carried by a user;

FIGS. 5 through 14 each depict straps of different configurations in accordance with further embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 14 and 15 each depict straps having sleeves in accordance with additional embodiments of the present invention;

FIGS. 16 through 18 depict a strap in accordance with still further embodiments of the present invention, the strap shown in an unrolled, unfurled, or open condition in FIG. 16, in use in FIG. 17, and in a rolled condition in FIG. 18;

FIG. 19 depicts a strap in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 20 depicts a nipple in accordance with aspects of the invention for use with the strap of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 depicts a strap in accordance with an additional embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22 depicts a retention member for use with the strap of FIG. 21;

FIGS. 23 and 24 depict the strap of FIG. 21 with the retention member of FIG. 22 in place, the outer surface being shown in FIG. 23 and the inner surface being shown in FIG. 24;

FIG. 25 depicts a strap in accordance with a still further embodiment of the present invention, the strap incorporating belts;

FIG. 26 depicts the strap of FIG. 25 in use with bags;

FIGS. 27 and 28 depict a further embodiment of a strap, the strap being in the unrolled, unfurled, or open condition in FIG. 27 and in a rolled condition in FIG. 28;

FIGS. 29 and 30 depict a further embodiment of a strap, the strap being in the unrolled, unfurled, or open condition in FIG. 29 and in a rolled condition in FIG. 30;

FIGS. 31 and 32 depict an embodiment of the strap having wings that aid in the construction of the strap;

FIGS. 33 and 34 depict a further embodiment of the strap, this embodiment having a continuous handle as much for aesthetics as for function.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following are described the preferred embodiments of the PAPER BAG CONVEYANCE AID of the present invention. In describing the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be used for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. Where like elements have been depicted in multiple embodiments, identical reference numerals have been used in the multiple embodiments for ease of understanding.

As discussed above, use of paper bags in general, and kraft paper bags with rectangular bases in particular, is increasing after a period of decline. The paper bag conveyance strap of the present invention is designed to aid in support and carrying of these bags by providing structural support and carrying handles.

Although the term strap is generally used throughout this disclosure, it is to be understood that the term sling is also synonymous and may be used interchangeably.

Shown in FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exemplary strap 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, the strap 100 is shown in its unrolled, unfurled, or open condition. The strap of FIG. 1 includes a first elongate side edge 102 and a second elongate side edge 104. Generally, the elongate side edges 102, 104 are linear and extend parallel to each other, but this need not be the case. In other embodiments the elongate side edges 102, 104 may be non-linear and/or may not extend parallel to each other.

Extending transverse between the elongate side edges 102, 104, at their respective distal limits or ends, are a first end edge 106 and second end edge 108. Like the elongate side edges 102, 104, the first end edge 106 and second end edge 108 shown in FIG. 1 are generally linear and generally extend parallel to each other. Again, this need not be the case as the first end edge 106 and second end edge 108 may be non-linear and/or may not extend parallel to each other.

Within the boundaries of the elongate side edges 102, 104 and end edges 106, 108, it will be appreciated that the strap 100 is generally thin and planar, with an inner surface 110 and outer surface 112 (shown in FIG. 2).

Generally, the strap 100 has a width and length configured to accommodate the size kraft paper bag in which it will be used. For conventional kraft paper bags, this size and length may be between approximately 4″ and 20″ wide and between approximately 25″ and 55″ in length. In preferred embodiments, the strap 100 is between 6″ and 8″ wide, and preferably 7.5″ or 8″ wide, and between 30″ and 50″ in length, preferably 44″. In certain embodiments, the strap 100 is approximately 7.5″ wide and 35″ long, 7.5″ and 44″ long, 8″ and 44″ long, or 5″ and 44″ long. In other embodiments, the strap may not have a consistent width and thus the width at any particular cross section may vary from an adjacent cross section.

In considering the size of the strap, it has been found that fabric or film straps are preferably 8″ wide when incorporating sleeves. With sleeves, foam straps are preferably 7.5″ wide depending on seam thickness or which side the sleeve is fastened to. Without sleeves, the straps can be as narrow as 5″ wide or less.

The straps in question may have thicknesses of between 1 mil and 5 mil for thin film or plastic or from 1 mm to 6 mm for foam, and other suitable thicknesses for other materials. For thin film or plastic straps, the preferred thickness is between 2.5 mil and 3.5 mil while the preferred thickness for foam straps is between 2.5 mm and 4.5 mm. Straps of greater or less thickness may also be utilized with the risk of thinner straps not being capable of bearing the necessary weight and thicker straps being insufficiently flexible, inordinately costly, or limiting their ability to be packaged efficiently.

Extending through the inner surface 110 and the outer surface 112 are a pair of handle apertures 114, 116. As shown in FIG. 1, the handle apertures 114, 116 are generally located close to the first end edge 106 and second end edge 108, respectively. Depending on the strength of the material used to form the strap 100, this distance may vary, with a key consideration being that the material remaining between the handle aperture 114, 116 and respective end edge 106, 108 being sufficient to support the load of a full bag supported by the strap 100. It will be appreciated that the handle apertures 114, 116 are shaped and configured to permit the index, middle, ring, and pinky fingers, along with the upper portion of the palm of a human hand, to fit within or through its confines.

Although the designed load capacity of a strap may vary, it is believed that a useful range of strength suitable for bags is up to 60 pounds or 80 pounds, with ranges of up to 40 pounds or up to 25 pounds being more preferred.

The strap 100 may be configured from a large variety of materials, including both natural and synthetic materials, opaque or translucent materials, and thin or thick materials. Preferably the materials are capable of being configured in a flexible planar surface with sufficient strength to support the uses herein.

Within the material types, the straps can also be configured from a variety of material configurations. For example, denim may be construed as a configuration of cotton material.

The following materials and configurations are among those that may be utilized: acetate fibers, triacetate fibers, acrylic fibers, modacrylic fibers, aramid fibers, polyimide fibers, carbon, graphite, elastomeric fibers, spandex, elastoester, fluroploymer, nylon, polyolefin fibers, polyester, polyethylene, low density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene, ployphenylene sulfide, vinyon fiber, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) fibers, Vinyl, Rayon, Modal, Viscose, Lyocell, Tencel, ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyethylene-vinyl acetate (PEVA), rePETe, Tyvek, specialized cellulose converted to an intermediary, natural rubber, synthetic rubber, corduroy, cotton, denim, flannel, hemp, leather, seersucker, silk, terry cloth, velvet, wool, paper, kraft paper, coated kraft paper, pulp, or other materials and configurations generally related or having similar qualities to the foregoing. Additionally, certain of these materials may be laminated.

In some embodiments of the invention, the strap is a single-use strap and is preferably readily recyclable. In other embodiments, the strap is possibly more robust and is capable of many multiples of uses. While also preferably being recyclable, this concern is less critical in the multiple use strap.

In embodiments of the strap which are made from materials that are not relatively high in friction, and as shown in FIG. 1, the strap 100 also includes an increased friction surface 118 on the inner surface 110 thereof. The increased friction surface (also referred to as a non-slip surface) represents an area of the strap which has a greater coefficient of friction than the remaining or underlying areas of the strap. The increased friction surface 118 may be of various sizes and configurations and is provided to ensure that a kraft paper bag, when placed within the strap 100, does not slide. Moreover, the increased friction or non-slip surface 118 may be provided on both surfaces of the strap, the inner surface 110 as well as the outer surface 112, if desired. In this regard, the increased friction or non-slip surface 118 can cover the full body length of the strap, less than the full body length, alternating portions, or even simply along the length of both or either the first side edge or second side edge.

In other strap arrangements where the material of the strap is sufficiently high in friction, an increased friction surface may not be required. For example, where a strap is configured from a high friction material, such as EVA, the increased friction surface may not be required.

The determination of whether a material is a high friction material or not is based on the coefficient of friction between the material in question (of the strap) and the bag to be used. Where the coefficient of friction is great enough that the material will not significantly slip against the bag in normal use, the material is said to be a high friction material. Where significant slipping would occur, such as where the bag may slide out of a strap in normal use, increased friction surfaces should be provided. By normal use it is understood that the bag may sway in the strap to some degree, such as during walking by an individual. Normal use does not, however, and merely as an example, include statically tipping the bag beyond 30 degrees of vertical.

Where required, the increased friction surface 118 may be created by sewing, adhering, or otherwise attaching an in increased friction material to the underlying strap. In other arrangements, the increased friction material may be applied directly to the strap. Examples of suitable material for application are silicone, rubber, releasable adhesives, PEVA, or PVC, which may be applied in a geometric or non-geometric area, in various patterns, or otherwise. It may also be applied in various thicknesses to create desired textures.

In other arrangements, the strap may be configured from multiple pieces surrounding the increased friction material. In this manner, the construction of the strap would be a first material on one end and a second material on an opposite end with an increased friction material forming the middle between and connecting the first two materials. The increased friction material may be attached to the first two materials by chemical adhesion, sewing, or otherwise.

Moving to FIG. 2, there is shown the strap 100 of FIG. 1 in a folded configuration. Here, a portion of the outer surface 112 is clearly shown. Upon the outer surface 112 may be a logo or wording, such as advertisements, promotional materials, inspirational materials, or other the like. In the example shown in FIG. 2, there is a logo 120.

It will be appreciated that in the folded configuration of the strap 100, the handle apertures 114, 116 align so that the index, middle, ring, and pinky fingers, along with the upper portion of the palm, of a single human hand can fit through both. It is in this manner that the strap 100 is used.

FIG. 3 depicts a strap 100 oriented for use on a bag B. It will be appreciated that for optimal use, the strap 100 is generally aligned longitudinally over the center of mass of a filled bag B, or at least along the centerline of a bag. Moreover, the strap 100 is wrapped around the underside and up the sides of the bag B in such a way as to ensure that the handle apertures 114, 116 align at a distance reasonably close to the bag's opening. It will therefore be appreciated that a given length strap may be used optimally with bags of corresponding sizes.

If the strap 100 is too short for a given bag B, the handle apertures 114, 116 will not meet and a user will not be able to grasp both with a single hand. If strap 100 is too long, then the handle apertures 114, 116 will meet too far above the bag's B opening to ensure that the bag does not slip out from being supported by the strap. Although the optimal length of the strap 100 may vary for a given bag B size, FIG. 4 depicts an example of a strap 100 supporting a bag B and being carried by a user U, where the strap 100 is in the range of optimal lengths.

Although not shown in FIG. 3 or 4, it will be appreciated that the increased friction surface 118 is preferably at least configured to cover the underside or base of the bag B, and may optimally extend along the sides of the bag as well.

One will also appreciate that the logo 120, or other markings as may be provided, is preferably positioned on the strap 100 to ensure optimal viewing by the public when a user U is carrying a bag B with the strap. Indeed, it is believed that this space can have monetary or other value as advertising space or for other use.

As previously discussed, a suitable material for application as an increased friction component is silicone. Silicone may be applied in a geometric or non-geometric area, in various patterns, or otherwise. It may also be applied in various thicknesses to create desired textures. Shown in FIG. 5 is a strap 200 with silicone application as a series of dots 202. Shown in FIG. 6 is a strap 300 with silicone application as a series of lines 302.

The introduction of FIGS. 5 and 6 also begin to show different examples of the various configurations in which straps may be formed. In FIG. 5, the strap 200 includes oversized handle apertures 204, 206, one on each of its ends, forming relatively thin elongate handles 208, 210. In FIG. 6, the strap 300 includes handle apertures 304, 306, more similar to those shown in accordance with the strap 100 of FIG. 1.

The strap 300 of FIG. 6 is also provided with a pair of hook and loop type fasteners 308, 310 on each of its ends 312, 314 adjacent to the handle apertures 304, 306. It will be appreciated that each of the hook and look type fasteners 308, 310 are preferably the “hook” side. In this regard, at least some portions of the outer surface (not shown, see outer surface 112 of FIG. 2 as an example) of the strap 300 may be covered with the corresponding “loop” side such that when the strap is rolled from one end 312, 314 to the other, the exposed hook and loop fastener 308, 310 as the case may be will contact the corresponding fastener material on the outer surface to secure the strap in a rolled configuration.

As an example, if the strap 300 were rolled from the end 314 nearest the bottom of FIG. 6, a user would bring the end toward the inner surface 316 and continue to roll the strap toward the other end 312. It will be appreciated that the corresponding diameter of the roll will increase as the strap 300 is continued to be rolled. Upon completion of the rolling process, the hook and loop fastener 308 will align with a corresponding hook and loop fastener (not shown) provided on the outer surface (not shown) of the strap. A finished roll using a different technique is shown, as an example, in FIG. 18.

Of course the hook and loop positions on the strap 300 may be reversed such that the “hooks” are on the outer surface and the exposed hook and loop fastener 308, 310 are “loops.” However, this is not preferred as in this case the hooks on the outer surface tend to attract debris and form an unsightly appearance.

FIG. 7 depicts an embodiment of a strap 400 where the first side edge 402 and second side edge 404 are non-linear. In this embodiment, the first and second side edges are scalloped or sinusoidal.

FIG. 8 depicts an embodiment of a strap 500 where the handle apertures 502, 504 are teardrop shaped. Other geometric and non-geometric configurations are also contemplated; so long as the function of permitting grasping by a human hand is achieved the useable shapes are endless.

FIGS. 9 and 13 depict straps 600, 700 where the inner and outer surfaces are provided with cutouts 602, 702. In FIG. 9, the cutouts are circular while in FIG. 13 the cutouts are rectangular. It will be appreciated that these cutouts may be provided for aesthetic purposes, or to reduce the amount of material used to form the strap 600, 700. Of course, virtually any shape cutout and any number of cutouts may be provided so long as the integrity of the strap is maintained.

FIG. 10 takes the material savings a further level by providing a strap 800 having a relatively small main body 802 formed by its first side edge 804, second end edge 806, second side edge 808, and first end edge 810. To make up for the relatively small main body 802, the strap 800 is provided with elongate handles 812, 814 which are connected to the main body. These connections may be through any suitable means, such as sewing, chemical adhesion, heat sealing, or other boding, or mechanical components such as snaps, rivets, or grommets 816 as shown.

The main body 802 may be formed from the same material or different material than the handles 812, 814. In this case, the designer may select the materials most suitable for the desired application, such as choosing a relatively strong material for the handles. Moreover, it will be appreciated that the handles may be connected to the main body at any suitable width desired, from the extreme corners of the main body to points more toward the center. Typically, such an offset from the main body edge will be no more than a few inches.

The main body 800 of FIG. 10 is also shown as having a logo 818 emblazoned on its outer surface 820 (the inner surface is not shown).

It will be appreciated that in use, the main body 802 would be placed under the base of a bag with the handles 812, 814 being extended along the bags sides to its open top. The handles 812, 814 may then be brought together and grasped by a user to aid in conveyance of the bag.

The strap 900 shown in FIG. 11 is conceptually similar to strap 800 depicted in FIG. 10, with exceptions being that the main body 902 is much larger and the handles 904, 906 are much smaller. Additionally there are shown two logos 908 instead of one.

It will be appreciated that the preferred method of manufacturing the strap is die cutting, even for multiple piece straps. In this regard, and if provided in this manner, the separate handles can be sewn or heat sealed to the main body. In still further embodiments, the components can be sewn together.

FIG. 12 depicts yet another embodiment of strap, in this case strap 1000. A distinction of this strap 1000 versus some of the others is that the handle apertures 1002, 1004 are elongated along the longitudinal axis of the strap.

FIGS. 14 and 15 depict further embodiments of straps, in these cases the straps having means for retaining folded bags for future use. In the embodiment of strap 1100 shown in FIG. 14, the inner surface 1102 includes a pair of open sleeves 1104 sized and configured to retain at least one folded bag B each. In this regard, the sleeves 1104 may be formed by elastic or non-elastic materials. By open, it is to be understood that the sleeve has openings on both ends. A closed sleeve (not shown) would only have one opening and may otherwise be referred to as a pocket.

Referring to FIG. 15, there is shown a strap 1200 configured with a single elongate sleeve 1202. This elongate sleeve 1202 is configured to retain a plurality of folded bags B along virtually the entire length of the strap 1200. Here, the sleeve 1202 is formed from a transparent or translucent material to aid a user in observing the number of bags B within the sleeve 1202.

Notably, sleeves of the type shown in either FIG. 14 or 15, such as sleeves 1104, 1202, may be provided on the inner or outer surface of a strap, or the inner and outer surface of a strap.

FIGS. 16 through 18 depict, among other things, a strap having additional fastening features. Here, the strap 1300 includes a pair of fastening members 1302, 1304 at its first end 1306 and a second pair of fastening members 1308, 1310 at its second end 1312. In preferred embodiments, the fastening members are corresponding male and female snaps. In other embodiments, the fastening members may be corresponding hook and loop fasteners, buttons and openings, snaps, adhesives, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 17, in use fastening members 1302 (not shown in FIG. 17) and 1308 align. Thus, in the case of snaps, for example, one of fastening member 1302 and 1308 will be a male snap and the other will be a female snap. In other embodiments other fastening members such as hook and loop type fasteners may be used. In each case the mating portions will be pointed toward the inner surface 1314 of the strap 1300 such that they may be joined as shown in FIG. 17. This arrangement ensures that the strap 1300 (or others) remains in position around the bag B in use. Without such fastening means, the straps would fall and usability would be impaired

As shown in FIG. 18, the strap 1300 may be rolled whereupon, depending on which direction the strap is rolled from, either fastening member 1302 will align with fastening member 1304 or fastening member 1308 will align with fastening member 1310 such that the fastening members can be connected and the rolled strap retained in the rolled condition. In this regard, it will be appreciated that if fastening member 1302 is a male fastening member with its connection portion pointing toward the inner surface 1314 of the strap 1300 then fastening member 1304 must be a female fastening member with its fastening portion pointing toward the outer surface 1316 of the strap. Likewise, if fastening member 1302 is a female fastening member

In an exemplary embodiment, fastening member 1302 is a male fastening member with its connection portion pointing toward the inner surface 1314 of the strap 1300 and fastening member 1304 a female fastening member with its fastening portion pointing toward the outer surface 1316 of the strap. Fastening member 1308 is therefore a female fastening member with its connection portion pointing toward the inner surface 1314 of the strap 1300 and fastening member 1310 is a male fastening member with its fastening portion pointing toward the outer surface of the strap.

FIG. 19 depicts a further embodiment of a strap 1400 having additional fastening features. Here, the strap 1400 is configured with two apertures 1402, 1404 at its first end 1406 and a single aperture 1408 at its second end 1410. Disposed within aperture 1402 is a nipple 1414 as shown in FIG. 20.

The nipple 1414 comprises a domed upper area 1416 and an oversized base 1418, in this case a round oversized base. When disposed with its domed upper area 1416 placed through the aperture 1402 from the outside surface (not shown) to the inside surface 1412 of strap 1400, the oversized base 1418 is retained by the outer surface and the domed area 1416 extends beyond the inner surface. The fit may be a friction fit or the oversized base 1418 may be adhesively connected to the outer surface (not shown) of the strap 1400, but in any event it is preferred that the nipple 1414 be fairly strongly retained in position through the strap.

Thus, when the strap 1400 is put to use around a bag, the domed upper area 1416 of the nipple 1414 may be pressed through the now aligned aperture 1408 to connect the first end 1406 and second end 1410 of the strap 1400 in a manner similar to shown in FIG. 17. Moreover, when the strap 1400 is rolled from the second end 1410 toward the first end 1406, the domed upper area 1416 of the nipple 1414 may be pressed through the now aligned aperture 1404 to maintain the strap in a rolled configuration similar to that shown in FIG. 18. It will be appreciated that the fit between the nipple 1414 and apertures 1408, 1404 is preferably a tight friction fit.

Materials of construction for the nipple may be any suitable material, but preferred materials are somewhat ridged and resilient, such as hard rubber.

FIG. 21 depicts a strap in accordance with an additional embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, as will be discussed, the strap 1500 is provided with a retention member 1502 (see FIG. 22) for retaining bags which are not in use. In accordance with this embodiment, the strap 1500 includes an aperture 1504 in its approximate geometric center. The strap also includes a pair of slots 1506, 1508 offset from the aperture 1504 toward the handles 1510, 1512. As will be discussed, the aperture 1504 and slots 1506, 1508 are provided to accommodate features of the retention member 1502.

FIG. 22 depicts a retention member 1502 for use with the strap of FIG. 21. The retention member 1502 is formed from a pair of pucks 1514, 1516 connected by one or more resilient bands 1518. In the preferred embodiment, the pucks 1514, 1516 are generally circular, thin, hard plastic members. In other embodiments the pucks 1514, 1516 can be other shapes including geometric or non-geometric shapes. In other embodiments, particularly when used for advertising purposes, the pucks 1514, 1516 may be shaped into a character, logo, or other recognizable feature that serves as a trademark of an entity. Otherwise, the pucks 1514, 1516 may include a logo or other ornamental display on their outer surfaces 1520, 1522.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 22, the pucks 1514, 1516 are connected with resilient bands 1518, and in particular a full length resilient band 1524 and a pair of shortened resilient bands 1526. The full length resilient band 1524 extends the full length of the retention member 1502 as shown in FIG. 24 and is connected to each puck's inside surface 1528 by connection means 1530 such as adhesives, chemical bonding, mechanical connecting such as stapling, or the like. Attached to the full length resilient band 1524 at approximately its midpoint is a loop 1532. The loop need not be resilient and may be formed of metal, plastic, cloth, or other materials.

The shortened resilient bands 1526 each are connected to one of the pucks 1514, 1516 by connection means 1530 and may then be extended toward the loop 1532. Each shortened resilient band 1526 terminates in a spline member 1534, typically a short cylindrical piece of plastic or the like.

As shown in FIG. 24, in use the pucks 1514, 1516 are each pushed through one slot 1506, 1508 from the inside surface 1536 of the strap 1500 to the outside surface 1538 of the strap. The pucks 1514, 1516 are then rotated or otherwise positioned such that they are retained on the outer surface 1538 of the strap 1500.

The splines 1534 are then threaded through the loop 1532 out the inner surface 1536 side of the strap 1500 and pushed through the aperture 1504 to the outer surface of the strap, where they are rotated or otherwise positioned and retained.

This arrangement forms the inverted triangular shape of the retention member 1502 shown in FIG. 24. It will be appreciate that this arrangement also puts the full length resilient band 1524 and a pair of shortened resilient bands 1526 in tension when the strap 1500 is in the unrolled, unfurled, or open condition. This permits bags that are not being used to be stored between the full length resilient band 1524 and a pair of shortened resilient bands 1526 and the inside surface 1536 of the strap.

FIG. 23 depicts the outer surface of the strap 1500. Here, one can readily see how the outer surfaces 1520, 1522 of the pucks 1514, 1516.

FIG. 25 depicts a strap 1600 in accordance with a still further embodiment of the present invention, the strap incorporating belts 1602, 1604 for retaining bags B (FIG. 26) when the bags are not in use. Using belt 1602 as an example, in this embodiment the belts comprise an elongate central portion 1606 with mushroom heads 1608, 1610 on each end. The strap 1600 features slots, such as slots 1612, 1614 through which the mushroom shaped heads 1608, 1610 may be pushed from the outer surface 1616 of the strap 1600 to the inner surface 1618. As shown in FIG. 26, this leaves the central portion 1606 of the belts exposed on the outer surface 1616 of the strap 1600. One or more bags B may then be threaded between the outer surface 1616 and the central portion 1606 to store bags that are not being used.

It will be appreciated that preferred materials for strap 1600 are foam materials, such as polypropylene.

FIG. 27 depicts a strap 1700 having another style of closure. Here, the strap 1700 includes a band 1702, generally configured as an elongate length of material, connected to its outer surface 1704. The connection may be by any suitable means including the button 1706 shown, as well as adhesives, bonding, sewing, and the like.

It will be appreciated that the band 1702 in the embodiment shown includes a slot 1708 at its distal end 1710. As shown in FIG. 28, when the strap 1700 is rolled the band 1702 may be brought around the strap and the button 1706 may be placed through the slot 1708 to enclose the strap. In this regard, it is preferred that that band 1702 be of a length suitable for the diameter of a rolled strap. In the case of elastic bands, this may be smaller than the rolled strap to permit stretching.

An example of such an elastic band is shown in FIG. 29 where a strap 1800 is shown with an elastic band 1802 connected to the strap on one end with a connection means 1804. The strap 1800 in a rolled condition is shown in FIG. 30. Here, the elastic band 1802 is stretched over the strap 1800.

FIG. 31 depicts a strap 1900 in accordance with another configuration. In this view of the outer surface 1902 of the strap 1900, the strap appears clean with only the main body 1904 and handles 1906, 1908 shown.

However, as shown in FIG. 32, the inside surface 1910 reveals the strap's 1900 construction. Here, one will appreciate that the main body 1902 is originally oversized with two longitudinal wings 1912, 1914 that are folded over to sandwich the handle connection members 1916, 1918, shown in dashed lines in FIG. 32. Once folded, the wings 1912, 1914 may be permanently adhered to the remainder of the main body 1902 by any suitable means such as heat sealed, chemical boding, adhesive, sewing, or the like. In this regard, what was once the side edge of the main body 1902 before construction ends up toward the longitudinal centerline of the strap 1900 in its final arrangement.

It will be appreciated that the handles 1906, 1908 and handle connection members 1916, 1918 may be formed from a single length of material in a loop. The components may also be formed from two lengths of material, where conceptually the handles 1906, 1908 themselves extend to form the handle connection members 1916, 1918. In this regard, the handles 1906, 1908 need not be connected to each other as the handle connection members 1916, 1918 may extend only partially onto the inner surface 1910 of the strap 1900. In this arrangement and others, the handle extension members may be described as legs while the exposed portion of the handle may be described as a grasping portion. Preferably, the legs each extend at least several inches into the folded over area such that suitable strength between the handles and strap is achieved.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, the strap 1900 may include adhesive on its inside surface 1910. In a preferred embodiment, the adhesive is a light adhesive which permits the strap from being removed from the bag without damaging either the strap or bag.

FIGS. 33 and 34 depict a strap 2000 which is similar in some regards to the strap of FIGS. 31 and 32. Here, the strap 2000 includes an inner surface 2002 and an outer surface 2004. Rather than having handles attached by folded over wings, the handles 2006, 2008 are connected directly to the outer surface (which is provided that way for aesthetic purposes but could also function interchangeably as the inner surface) by suitable means such as sewing, chemical bonding, heat bonding, or the like.

In this embodiment, and particularly when prepared with cloth material, the strap 2000 may include a hem 2008 circumscribing the main body 2010. The hem 2008 may be purely aesthetic or may function as a structural component. The hem 2008 may also be formed from high friction material to aid against a bag sliding relative to the strap 2000 in normal use.

Lastly, it will be appreciated that the handles 2006, 2008 may again be formed from a single piece of material or multiple pieces, as is desired.

In some embodiments of the present invention, a paper bag may be provided with a strap adhered thereto. Or more preferably, a stack of paper bags may be provided where each has a strap adhered thereto. In this regard the adhesive used to adhere the strap may be a light adhesive that permits the strap's removal from a bag such that the strap may be reused with a different bag, or even the same bag if desired. In this regard, it will be appreciated that the adhesive will cover at least a portion of the inner surface of the strap.

Straps that are preferred for this arrangement, where they are pre-adhered to a bag, are those that are relatively thin plastic. This arrangement will help to keep the stack of bags from becoming unwieldy or untidy and falling over as would be the case where the straps were thick. Nevertheless, thicker straps may also be used.

More conventionally, straps will be provided without the adhesive and may be sold in stacks of straps that are in their open condition, or may be sold in bundles of straps that are in a rolled or otherwise folded condition.

In exemplary embodiment #1, a strap has the following properties:

Strap material
Non-woven polypropylene or PEVA

Estimated number of uses
>125

possible

Increased friction material
Silicone

Usable temperature range
−40° F. to 140° F.

Finished dimensions
7.5″ to 8″ × 44″

Seams
¼″ double seam

Safe working load
Up to 25 pounds

Bag volume capacity
15 Liters

Separate handles
No - integrated as one piece

Material between handle cutout
2″ minimum

and edge

In exemplary embodiment #2, a strap has the following properties:

Strap material
Natural woven fibe

Estimated number of uses
>125

possible

Increased friction material
Silicone

Usable temperature range
−40° F. to 140° F.

Finished dimensions
7.5″ to 8″ × 40″ (main body)

with 4″ handle extensions

Seams
¼″ double seam

Safe working load
Up to 50 pounds

Bag volume capacity
15 Liters

Separate handles
Yes - Nylon

Material between handle cutout
N/A

and edge

In exemplary embodiment #3, a strap has the following properties:

Strap material
Paper

Estimated number of uses
>125

possible

Increased friction material
Not required

Usable temperature range
−40° F. to 140° F.

Finished dimensions
7.5″ to 8″ × 40″ (main body)

with 3″ handle extensions

Seams
¼″ double seam

Safe working load
Up to 25 pounds

Bag volume capacity
15 Liters

Separate handles
Yes - paper

Material between handle cutout
N/A

and edge

In exemplary embodiment #4, a strap has the following properties:

Strap material
EVA

Estimated number of uses
>125

possible

Increased friction material
Not required

Usable temperature range
−40° F. to 140° F.

Finished dimensions
7.5″ to 8″ × 44″

Seams
N/A

Safe working load
Up to 25 pounds

Bag volume capacity
15 Liters

Separate handles
No - integrated as one piece

Material between handle cutout
2″ minimum

and edge

Although the invention herein has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present invention. It is therefore to be understood that numerous modifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that other arrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

PAPER BAG CONVEYANCE AID

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Abstract

Description

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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Provisional Applications (1)