Methods and apparatus for refuse collection, bag closure, and disposal

Abstract

A refuse collection apparatus including a handle, a first bag support member, a second bag support member spaced from the first bag support member, and an actuator configured to move the bag support members relative to the handle. The bag support members are arranged to support a refuse bag in an open condition for receiving refuse and to reposition opposite upper portions of the refuse bag toward one another for closing the refuse bag after refuse has been collected. A closure arrangement may be configured to dispense or apply a closure material to the refuse bag. The bag support members may include retention troughs, tips, gripping elements, sliding members, or telescoping portions for mounting, supporting, and releasing the refuse bag. The actuator may be manually operated or electrically operated. Related refuse bags and methods of supporting, collecting, closing, carrying, and disposing of refuse are also disclosed herein.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.