Collapsible storage apparatus

Abstract

A collapsible storage apparatus with a base, two or more side walls, and two or more end walls. In erected position the side walls and end walls extend upwardly from the base, and in collapsed position the side walls and end walls fold downwardly towards the base. Preferably, the edges of the side walls are releasably engaged to the adjacent edges of the end walls.

1 . A collapsible storage apparatus comprising: 
 a base;    at least two side walls; and    at least two end walls,    said at least two side walls and said at least two end walls attached to and extending upwardly from said base to define a storage cavity, wherein at least one edge of at least one of said at least two side walls is attached by releasable engagement means to an adjacent edge of at least one of said at least two end walls, such that upon release of said releasable engagement means, said at least two side walls and said at least two end walls are foldable downwardly toward said base.    
   
   
       2 . A collapsible storage apparatus as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein first and second edges of each of said at least two side walls are attached by releasable engagement means to adjacent edges of said at least two end walls.  
   
   
       3 . A collapsible storage apparatus as claimed in  claim 2 , wherein said releasable engagement means are zippers.  
   
   
       4 . A collapsible storage apparatus as claimed in  claim 2 , wherein said releasable engagement means are snaps.  
   
   
       5 . A collapsible storage apparatus as claimed in  claim 2 , further comprising a lid.  
   
   
       6 . A collapsible storage apparatus as claimed in  claim 5  in which said lid is attached to one of said at least two side walls.  
   
   
       7 . A collapsible storage apparatus as claimed in  claim 5  in which said lid is attached to one of said at least two end walls.  
   
   
       8 . A collapsible storage apparatus as claimed in  claim 5  in which said lid is releasably engaged with top edges of each of said at least two side walls and said at least two end walls.  
   
   
       9 . A collapsible storage apparatus as claimed in  claim 2  in which said at least two side walls and said at least two end walls are substantially rectangular.  
   
   
       10 . A collapsible storage apparatus as claimed in  claim 2  that is shaped so as to give the appearance of an article that is appealing to children.  
   
   
       11 . A collapsible storage apparatus as claimed in  claim 2  in which said at least two side walls and said at least two end walls are constructed from fabric material into which stiffening means have been incorporated.