Collapsible Cone

Abstract

This invention provides a collapsible cone comprising a series of concentric rings that can be pulled up from the center and “snapped” ring by ring into place thus forming a cone shape. In An embodiment, each ring has a groove circumnavigating its top and a ridge circumnavigating its bottom so the ridge of one ring snaps into the groove of the next ring, lending stability to the device when erected.

1 . A collapsible cone device comprising a series of concentric rings of decreasing circumference situated in a weighted base ring so that the cone can be pulled up from the center and the rings snapped into place, thereby forming a cone. 
     
     
         2 . The collapsible cone device of  claim 1  wherein the rings are constructed of a flexible plastic material so that the rings form a friction fit to secure the rings to each other. 
     
     
         3 . The collapsible cone device of  claim 1  wherein each ring further comprises a ridge or bump circumnavigating the ring near the bottom edge of the ring and a groove circumnavigating the ring near its upper edge, so that the ridge of one ring fits into the groove of the next ring so that the rings can snap into place and fit securely together when the center is lifted up. 
     
     
         4 . The collapsible cone device of  claim 3  wherein the rings are constructed of a flexible plastic material so that the rings form a friction fit to secure the rings to each other. 
     
     
         5 . A collapsible cone device comprising a single piece of cone-shaped plastic material having alternating rings of thick and think material, so the cone collapses on itself when pushed down, and snaps into place when pulled up. 
     
     
         6 . The collapsible cone device of  claim 5  wherein the material of alternating thick and thin rings comprise a series of accordion pleats around the circumference molded into sides of the cone.