US 6,202,718 B1 · Multi-function transporter for yard debris

Abstract

A yard debris transportation device includes a multi-panel assembly that is moveable between a collection configuration and a transport configuration. The panel assembly includes first, second, third, and fourth panel sections that are hingeably connected in series. In the collection configuration, the panel sections are open and substantially flat, such as laying against the ground. After yard debris is placed thereon, the panel assembly is changed to the transport configuration, forming a shell about a cavity having the yard debris therein. The end panel sections overlap in the transport configuration so that cutouts on the end panel sections overlay one another, thereby forming at least one gripping hole. The gripping hole(s) are used as a handle to carry the panel assembly with the yard debris trapped therein from the collection location to the remote dumping location. The panel assembly is inserted into a trash bag and the gripping hole(s) is released. With the panel assembly at least partially opened from the transport position, yard debris flows out the lower opening of the panel assembly and into the trash bag. The panel assembly may then be easily carried to the same collection site or a new collection site.

Claims14

Dependent claims

A method of collecting and disposing of yard debris, comprising:

a) arranging a panel assembly having at least a first generally planar end panel, a second generally planar end panel, and at least two intermediate generally planar panels linking said first end panel to said second end panel in a collection configuration wherein at least said intermediate panels are disposed substantially flat along a ground surface, said panel assembly including a first cutout disposed within one of said end panels and a second cutout disposed within another of said panels;
b) moving yard debris onto said panel assembly;
c) thereafter, folding said panel assembly into a transport configuration substantially circumferentially surrounding said yard debris in a longitudinal cavity defined by at least three of said panels and having a substantially polygonal cross-section;
wherein, in said transport configuration, said first and second cutouts substantially overlap to form a first gripping hole;
d) carrying, via said first gripping hole, said panel assembly with said yard debris to a remote location;
e) thereafter, dumping said yard debris from said panel assembly at said remote location.

3 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Multi-function transporter for yard debris

Life of this patent

Multi-function transporter for yard debris

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims14