Open-topped flexible bag for storing articles

Abstract

An open-topped flexible bag for storing articles comprises a fabric base and four side walls having upper edges defining an open top. Stiffening elements are located at the upper edges for holding the top of the bag open.

1 . An open-topped flexible bag for storing articles comprising a fabric base and side walls having an upper bag edge defining an open top, and a stiffening element located at the upper bag edge for holding the upper bag edge in a generally square or rectangular shape.  
   
   
       2 . The bag of  claim 1  wherein the stiffening elements hold the open top of the bag open.  
   
   
       3 . The bag of  claim 1  further including a draw-closed top comprising a skirt with an upper skirt edge that can be drawn closed by a draw-cord passing through a plurality of eyes around the upper skirt edge and wherein the stiffening element maintain the generally square or rectangular shape of the bag edge when the draw-closed top is drawn closed.  
   
   
       4 . The bag of  claim 1  further including a top closure hinged to the bag at a first edge and having an overlapping lip at an opposite edge that can be closed to close off the open top of the bag and secure it closed, and wherein the stiffening element is located at the upper edge over which the lip can be closed.  
   
   
       5 . The bag of  claim 1  wherein the bag is rectangular and the stiffening element is arranged to hold the upper edge of the side walls at rights angles to each other.  
   
   
       6 . The bag of  claim 1  wherein the stiffening element bridges two of the side walls.  
   
   
       7 . The bag of  claim 1  wherein the upper edge has a pocket into which the stiffening element locates.  
   
   
       8 . The bag of  claim 1  wherein the stiffening element is sewn into the upper edge.  
   
   
       9 . The bag of  claim 1  wherein the stiffening element is selected from a group comprising a stiff metallic or plastic rod, a stiff metallic or plastic strip, a ridged plastic strip having flexible ends and a ridged rod having spring ends.