Patent Description:
Document <CIT> relates to a foldable container according to the preamble of claim <NUM>.

Many foldable brackets are designed and aid for daily entertainment activities. Accordingly, a height of the bracket can be raised to lift up the appliance from the ground during the use of the appliance. As a result, the user does not have to bend or squat to use the appliance. Once the bracket is folded, a size of the bracket is reduced for storage and space saving.

Household temporary container, especially large size receptacle, is popular to be used as basin, bathtub or swimming pool for bathing, cleaning or playing purpose. This temporary container is convenient for most families. For example, the user is able to move this temporary container from place to place, such as bathroom or yard, as needed. Since this kind of container needs to have space large enough to hold at least a child or pet inside while having enough space to contain water or cleaning liquid, the conventional container is generally made in larger size. This kind of rigid container is convenient for most families also take wider space for using water, usually in outdoor area or bathroom. It is known that such relatively large container is not required to be used all the time or even daily use, this temporary container will not be the primary consideration for most families in view of storage, especially for urban families. Since the storage in urban family is very limited, it is a problem to store the temporary container when it is not in used. These defects of the temporary container cannot be solved and this temporary container is not practical in use.

Specifically, in order to reduce the space occupied by the temporary container when it is not in use, the current temporary container is designed to be inflatable, such that the temporary container is reused by inflating and deflating the temporary container. Usually, the temporary container is inflated by an inflator or inflatable pump. Before using the inflatable temporary container, it is necessary to initially place the inflatable temporary container in a preset position, and then use the inflatable pump to inflate the inflatable temporary container for at least five minutes for fully inflate the temporary container by filling a predetermined amount of gas to bias against the inner sidewall of the temporary container so as to support the shape of the temporary container. In other words, it is very troublesome to setup the temporary container. If the inflatable pump is damaged or lost, the inflatable temporary container cannot be used at all. Moreover, in order to facilitate the temporary container being folded after deflation, it is also necessary to provide an air exhaust vent at the temporary container. If the air exhaust vent is poorly sealed, air leakage is likely to occur. Once the inflatable temporary container has an air leakage problem, it is easy to cause the water or cleaning liquid contained in the temporary container to leak out, especially for the temporary container used in the living room. In other words, if the water or cleaning fluid leaks out of the temporary container, it will inevitably cause water damage to the home environment. Furthermore, during the manufacturing process of the inflatable temporary container, the air exhaust vent is affixed to the sidewall of the temporary container to communicate with an interior air chamber of the inflatable temporary container. It is difficult to ensure the tightness between the sidewall and the air exhaust vent.

For the temporary container made of plastic, it must be stored indoors in order to prevent the plastic aging from directly exposing under the sun. Therefore, it is necessary to save a larger space for storing the temporary container. In some cases, the entire temporary container is used to store various items inside the container during storage, such that these items must be placed somewhere in the storage room. However, before the next use of the temporary container, additional steps are required to take out the items and clean the container before use.

In addition to liquid containers, some cooking utensils, such as grills, table tops, etc., have similar problems. One of the major problems is stability after it is setup. Since the foldable bracket is movable, it is a major concern how to keep the stability of the foldable bracket when it is unfolded. The existing foldable bracket is basically constructed to have a X-shaped pivotal structure. This structure provides high mobility and is easy to deform during use. The foldable angle may increase permanently as the structure is frequently used.

In addition, the temporary container is directly placed on the ground when it is used, wherein the user will need to bend over when helping children or pets to clean, which is likely to hurt health the user, especially the back of the user.

Even though the existing foldable brackets can be folded, the folding operation thereof requires many steps. Basically, it requires two hands to close the bracket, and may also need to rotate and fold different parts of the bracket frame. So, the traditional folding process of the foldable bracket is very troublesome. Since the folding process is complicated and difficult, the user will merely keep the temporary container being unfolded all the time, which fails to achieve the main purpose of folding up the temporary container for storage to save the space.

The invention is advantageous in that it provides a foldable container wherein the foldable container can be folded to reduce the overall size thereof when the foldable container in not in use.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container wherein the space occupied by the foldable container after being folded is greatly reduced to save the storage space of the foldable container and to allow the folded foldable container to be easily carried.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame wherein when the foldable supporting frame is unfolded, the foldable supporting frame is raised and supported at a predetermined height for stably supporting the container.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the size of the foldable supporting frame is enlarged when it is unfolded and the size of the foldable supporting frame is reduced when it is folded.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the foldable container can be conveniently operated to quickly convert the foldable container between the folded mode and the unfolded mode. The folding and unfolding operations of the foldable container does not require any tool to move foldable container between the folded mode and the unfolded mode.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the foldable supporting frame is folded by a single pulling force without additional force or steps, and then the foldable supporting frame is folded up and is ready for storage or carry.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the foldable supporting frame is easily pulled for being folded up and stored. Therefore, the folded foldable supporting frame can fit in a narrow storage space.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the folded foldable supporting frame is easily and quickly unfolded for use without any tools or devices so as to save time and to minimize any complicated steps.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the foldable supporting frame can be used as a support for liquid containers or household utensils.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the foldable supporting frame can support the appliance at a predetermined height from the ground, so as to keep the water or cleaning liquid from the ground for maintaining relative hygiene and cleanliness.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the foldable container allows the water or cleaning liquid contained therein being automatically flowed out and drained.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the foldable container is easily cleaned and is easy to actuate and keep dry.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein when the foldable supporting frame is folded, the container is automatically folded at the same time for facilitating the folding operation of the foldable container to convert from the unfolded mode to the folded mode.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein when the foldable supporting frame is unfolded, the container is automatically unfolded for facilitating the unfolding operation of the foldable container to convert from the folded mode to the unfolded mode.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the container is pulled and folded to fold up the foldable supporting frame at the same time without any direct operation of the foldable supporting frame, so as to automatically move the foldable supporting frame from the unfolded mode to the folded mode.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein when the foldable container is in the unfolded mode, the foldable container can be pulled by a pulling action to easily fold up the foldable container from the unfolded mode to the folded mode.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein when the foldable container is at the unfolded mode, the foldable container allows a one-handed pulling operation to simplify the folding operation of the foldable container.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the foldable supporting frame can support the container to raise at a predetermined height so as to allow the user comfortably cleaning for children or pets, as an example. In other words, the foldable container allows the user to wash the child or pet in a standing position, which is beneficial to the health of the user, and is particularly beneficial to the back of the user.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the foldable supporting frame is supported and raised at a predetermined height for the user to operate comfortably without bending the back of the user,.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising a foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the shape of the foldable supporting frame is restricted when it is folded without being pulled, such that the foldable supporting frame provides a stable supporting ability.

Another advantage of the invention is to provide a foldable container comprising foldable supporting frame thereof, wherein the foldable supporting frame will not be folded accidentally, such that foldable supporting frame will maintain its stability when it is unfolded and in use.

Additional advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the description which follows and may be realized by means of the instrumentalities and combinations particular point out in the appended claims.

According to the present invention, the foregoing and other objects and advantages are attained by a foldable container, according to independent claim <NUM>. The dependent claims relate to advantageous embodiments.

Still further objects and advantages will become apparent from a consideration of the ensuing description and drawings.

These and other objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

The following description is disclosed to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the present invention. Preferred embodiments are provided in the following description only as examples and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The general principles defined in the following description would be applied to other embodiments, alternatives, modifications, equivalents, and applications without departing from the scope of the present invention.

It is appreciated that the terms "longitudinal", "transverse", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "exterior", and "interior" in the following description refer to the orientation or positioning relationship in the accompanying drawings for easy understanding of the present invention without limiting the actual location or orientation of the present invention. Therefore, the above terms should not be an actual location limitation of the elements of the present invention.

It is appreciated that the terms "one", "a", and "an" in the following description refer to "at least one" or "one or more" in the embodiment. In particular, the term "a" in one embodiment may refer to "one" while in another embodiment may refer to "more than one". Therefore, the above terms should not be an actual numerical limitation of the elements of the present invention.

Referring to <FIG> of the drawings, a foldable container according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated, wherein the foldable container is suitable for containing water or liquid for cleaning therein to serve as a bathtub or a swimming pool. The foldable container comprises a foldable supporting frame <NUM>, an operation switch <NUM> being operated through a pulling operation by a pulling force to operate and move the foldable supporting frame <NUM> between an unfolded mode and a folded mode, and a container body <NUM> being placed and supported on the foldable supporting frame <NUM>. In other words, when the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is unfolded, the container body <NUM> is also unfolded for containing the liquid therein. When the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is moved to its folded mode, the container body <NUM> and the foldable supporting frame <NUM> are folded together, such that the entire foldable container can be stored in a folded state.

When the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is unfolded, the container body <NUM> is automatically unfolded along with the folding operation of the foldable supporting frame <NUM>. In other words, during the folding process of the foldable supporting frame <NUM>, the container body <NUM> is automatically folded when the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is folded.

It is worth mentioning that the present invention provides a single pulling operation referring to the one-way mode when the foldable container is operated to moved and converted from the unfolded mode to the folded mode. In other words, operating the foldable container at the same direction can move the foldable container from the unfolded mode to the folded mode. Preferably, the single pulling operation in the present invention refers to the one-way pulling operation when operating the foldable container to move from the unfolded mode to the folded mode. In other words, pulling the foldable container at the same direction at one time can move the foldable container from the unfolded mode to the folded mode. It is appreciated that those skilled in the art should understand that pulling the foldable container at the same direction in different stages can also move the foldable container from the unfolded mode to the folded mode. For example, pulling the foldable container twice toward the same direction can also move the foldable container from the unfolded mode to the folded mode. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the container body <NUM> according to the preferred embodiment is fixedly coupled at the foldable supporting frame <NUM>. The container body <NUM> is driven by the foldable supporting frame <NUM> to be folded and unfolded. When the container body <NUM> is needed to be unfolded, the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is operated to unfold the container body <NUM>. It is worth mentioning that the foldable container can be unfolded as a whole system without any additional step. No additional step is required to open up the container body <NUM> or improve the stability of the container body <NUM>. When the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is operated to expand and unfolded, the container body <NUM> is simultaneously expanded at its setup state. In addition, folding up the container body <NUM> by folding the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is similar. When the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is folded, the foldable supporting frame <NUM> will drive the container body <NUM> to fold. Therefore, the folding or unfolding of the foldable container can be easily operated.

As shown in <FIG>, the foldable supporting frame <NUM> comprises at least two top supporting arms <NUM>, at least two folding arms <NUM>, and at least four supporting legs <NUM>. Each of the top supporting arms <NUM> is placed on the folding arm <NUM> and the supporting leg <NUM>, wherein the folding arm <NUM> and the top supporting arm <NUM> are supported by the supporting leg <NUM>. Preferably, the number of the top supporting arms <NUM>, the folding arms <NUM> and the supporting legs <NUM> are corresponding, wherein each of the top supporting arm <NUM> and each of the folding arms <NUM> are correspondingly supported by the supporting leg <NUM>.

It is worth mentioning that the folding arms <NUM> are pivotally connected to each other by the operation switch <NUM>. The rotation of the folding arm <NUM> is configured to drive the folding or unfolding movement of the top supporting arm <NUM> and the supporting leg <NUM>. When the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is in the folded mode, the two folding arms <NUM> are arranged to be folded and overlapped each other. When the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is in the unfolded mode, the two folding arms <NUM> are arranged to be unfolded to open and extended flatly. Therefore, when the folding arm <NUM> is folded, the top supporting arm <NUM> and the supporting leg <NUM> are folded following the folding operation of the folding arm <NUM>. Therefore, by only folding the folding arm <NUM>, the entire foldable supporting frame <NUM> is folded, which is convenient in operation. When the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is folded, the container body <NUM> is correspondingly folded.

As shown in <FIG>, the operation switch <NUM> is connected to two ends of the two folding arms <NUM> to control the foldable supporting frame <NUM> to switch between folding and unfolding. The switch <NUM> can be further operated by being pulled to move the folding arm <NUM> from the unfolded mode to the folded mode. In other words, when the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is in the unfolded mode, the operation switch <NUM> is pulled to drive and move the folding arm <NUM>. In other words, the folding arm <NUM> is folded due to gravity and loss of supportability. Though the pulling operation, the operation switch <NUM> is pulled to fold the foldable supporting frame <NUM>.

Specifically, the two folding arms <NUM> are pivotally connected with each other around a rotating rod <NUM>, wherein the rotating rod <NUM> is placed between the ends of the two folding arms <NUM>. The rotating rod <NUM> is installed into the operation switch <NUM>. The two folding arms <NUM> are rotated around the operation switch <NUM>, wherein the operation switch <NUM> is configured to restrict the rotations of the folding arms <NUM> relative to each other. According to the first embodiment, one of the folding arms <NUM> is fixed to the operation switch <NUM>, while another folding arm <NUM> is relatively free to rotate relative to the operation switch <NUM>. In other words, one of the folding arms <NUM> is defined as a fixed folding arm <NUM>, and another folding arm <NUM> is a free rotatable folding arm <NUM>. The fixed folding arm <NUM> is installed into the operation switch <NUM> together with the rotating rod <NUM>. The free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is rotatably coupled at the operation switch <NUM> around the rotating rod <NUM>.

In addition, the rotation of the fixed folding arm <NUM> and the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> around the rotating rod <NUM> are asymmetrical. In other words, when the fixed folding arm <NUM> and the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> are folded with each other, the fixed folding arm <NUM> and the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> are staggered and stacked with each other and will not contact or collide with each other. On one side, the fixed folding arm <NUM> and the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> will not be mechanically damaged during the folding and unfolding operations. On the other side, after folding, a retention channel is formed between the fixed folding arm <NUM> and the free rotatable folding arm <NUM>.

It is worth mentioning that the end of the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is further transversely connected to a switch rod <NUM>. When the folding arm <NUM> is flatly unfolded, the switch rod <NUM> is firmly supported by the operation switch <NUM>, wherein the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is parallel to the fixed folding arm <NUM>. When the switch rod <NUM> is supported, the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is relatively supported on the same side of the fixed folding arm <NUM>. When the operation switch <NUM> is configured to keep supporting the switch rod <NUM>, the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is configured to remains relative parallel to the fixed folding arm <NUM>. When the switch rod <NUM> is released from the operation switch <NUM>, the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> will lose its support. Under the action of gravity force, the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> will rotate around the rotating rod <NUM> and fold toward the fixed folding arm <NUM>. In other words, when the switch rod <NUM> is supported by the operation switch <NUM>, due to the restriction of the operation switch <NUM>, the folding arm <NUM> is unfolded and is difficult to change its position. Once the switch rod <NUM> is detached from the operation switch <NUM>, the folding arm <NUM> can rotate around the rotating rod <NUM> to be folded. Therefore, the folding arm <NUM> is controlled by the operation switch <NUM> for controlling the movement of the folding arm <NUM>, wherein the folding position or the unfolding position of the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is indirectly controlled by the operation switch <NUM>.

In addition, the supporting legs <NUM> and the folding arms <NUM> are pivotally connected to pivot shafts <NUM> respectively. When the folding arm <NUM> is operated to rotate around the rotating rod <NUM>, the angle and distance between the folding arms <NUM> are changed while the supporting leg <NUM> is driven to rotate around the pivot shafts <NUM>. Each of the supporting legs <NUM>, each of the folding arms <NUM>, and the pivot shaft <NUM> are formed into a rotatable X-shaped frame. Since the movements of the folding arms <NUM> are transmitted to the supporting legs <NUM>, the supporting legs <NUM> are automatically moved for being further folded or unfolded via the folding arms <NUM>.

Furthermore, as shown in <FIG>, the container body <NUM> is detachably connected to the foldable supporting frame <NUM>. The container body <NUM> can be further removed from the folding supporting frame <NUM> for being and cleaned or disinfected.

Furthermore, the top supporting arm <NUM> is driven to rotate by the supporting leg <NUM> via a folding assembly <NUM>, wherein the folding assembly <NUM> is installed at the top of the supporting leg <NUM>. When the supporting leg <NUM> is folded or unfolded as the folding arm <NUM> rotates, the top supporting arm <NUM> is driven to rotate around the folding assembly <NUM>. Each of the supporting legs <NUM>, each of the top supporting arms <NUM>, and the folding assembly <NUM> are formed into a rotatable inversed V-shaped frame. Since the folding assembly <NUM> is driven, it is not necessary to fold or unfold the supporting leg <NUM> because the movement of the folding assembly <NUM> will be transmitted to the supporting leg <NUM>.

In detail, the folding assembly <NUM> comprises a rotatable base <NUM> and a linkage unit <NUM>. The rotatable base <NUM> is coupled at the end of the top supporting arm <NUM> to receive the upper end of the supporting leg <NUM> in the rotatable base <NUM>. The linkage unit <NUM> comprises two linkage members <NUM> respectively mounted on the top end of the supporting leg <NUM> and the end of the top supporting arm <NUM>. The linkage members <NUM> are connected by link shafts <NUM>, so that the angle between each top supporting arm <NUM> and each supporting leg <NUM> can be controlled and has a maximum angle limitation. Each of the top supporting arms <NUM>, each of the supporting legs <NUM> and the linkage member <NUM> are formed in an A shape, wherein the top supporting arms <NUM> will drive the supporting legs <NUM> to move, while the supporting legs <NUM> will drive the top supporting arm <NUM> to move around the rotatable base <NUM>.

Preferably, by operating the operation switch <NUM> to release the switch rod <NUM> and to fold the folding arm <NUM>, the supporting leg <NUM> and the top supporting arm <NUM> are corresponding folded. Preferably, the top supporting arm <NUM> is expanded to further drive the folding arm <NUM> to be supported on the operation switch <NUM> and to drive the supporting leg <NUM> to expand.

Furthermore, each of the supporting legs <NUM> is configured for correspondingly installing an extension leg <NUM> for increasing the height of the top supporting arm <NUM> and keeping the container body <NUM> on the top supporting arm <NUM> in a preset position, as shown in <FIG>. Through the extension legs <NUM>, the container body <NUM> is supported and raised above the ground for hygienic and cleaning purpose while the water or cleaning liquid is contained in the container body <NUM>. As a result, the user can comfortably use the container body <NUM> without bending the user's body.

The container body <NUM> comprises a surrounding wall <NUM> and a bottom wall <NUM> sealingly connected to the surrounding wall <NUM> to form the container body <NUM> having a bowl shape and a surrounding edge <NUM> defining an opening thereof surrounded by the edge <NUM>. The edge <NUM> of the surrounding wall <NUM> is disposed on the top supporting arm <NUM> of the foldable supporting frame <NUM>. In one alternative mode of the present invention, the container body <NUM> is detachably mounted on the top supporting arm <NUM> for replacement. The container body <NUM> further comprises at least one pocket <NUM> placed on the surrounding wall <NUM>. The pocket <NUM> is configured for keeping other items therein to facilitate the reaching of items when using liquid for cleaning or playing in the container body <NUM>.

Preferably, as shown in <FIG>, the edge <NUM> of the surrounding wall <NUM> is constructed to have a fixing rib <NUM> and an edge sleeve <NUM>, wherein the fixing rib <NUM> is configured to pass through the edge sleeve <NUM>. such that the edge <NUM> is supported with its shape. The top supporting arm <NUM> further comprises a rod body <NUM>, wherein the rod body <NUM> has a fixing cavity <NUM> formed on one side of the rod body <NUM>. The fixing cavity <NUM> is extended through the rod body <NUM>, wherein the edge <NUM> of the surrounding wall <NUM> is installed inside the fixing cavity <NUM>.

Specifically, the fixing rib <NUM> is extended into the fixing cavity <NUM> of the rod body <NUM>, such that the edge sleeve <NUM> to be carried is suspended and fixed to the rod body <NUM>. In the first embodiment, the fixing cavity <NUM> of the rod body <NUM> has a U-shaped configuration, wherein the fixing rib <NUM> is configured to enter from an opening of the fixing cavity <NUM> into the fixing cavity <NUM>. Furthermore, the edge sleeve <NUM> is formed in a U-shape and is also connected to the rod body <NUM> of the top supporting arm <NUM> in a U-shape. When the surrounding wall <NUM> is needed to be disassembled, the fixing rib <NUM> relatively removed from the fixing cavity <NUM> of the rod body <NUM>, wherein the fixing rib <NUM> is completely removed from the top supporting arm <NUM>. Preferably, the rod body <NUM> is pulled to release the supportability of the edge sleeve <NUM>. More preferably, the fixing rib <NUM> is detachably connected to the sleeve edge <NUM>, such that the sleeve edge <NUM> can be further folded or cleaned.

It is worth mentioning that the bottom wall <NUM> has a drain port <NUM> for draining the water or cleaning liquid in the container body <NUM>. Preferably, the drain port <NUM> is set at the lowest location or area of the bottom wall <NUM> for effectively draining the liquid in the container body <NUM>. The drain port <NUM> is able to connect a drain pipe <NUM> to allow liquid to flow out of the container body <NUM> along the drain pipe <NUM>. A drain plug can be detachably plugged at the drain port <NUM> to prevent the liquid being drained out the container body <NUM> through the drain port <NUM>.

Particularly, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, when the foldable supporting frame <NUM> is in the folded mode, the drain pipe <NUM> is located in the retention channel. The retention channel is formed with a predetermined width because of the asymmetric folding of the fixed folding arm <NUM> and the free rotatable folding arm <NUM>. The drain pipe <NUM> is located in the retention channel and will not be pressed by the fixed folding arm <NUM> and the free rotatable folding arm <NUM>. In other words, the drain pipe <NUM> is held in the retention channel at the folded mode, wherein the drain pipe <NUM> is enclosed between two sides of the fixed folding arm <NUM> and the free rotatable folding arm <NUM>. Therefore, the drain pipe <NUM> will not be damaged by any external impact, and the drain pipe <NUM> is kept in a certain position to avoid any unwanted movement, vibration or swinging.

The bottom wall <NUM> further comprises a handle <NUM> connected to the operation switch <NUM>. The operation switch <NUM> can be operated by operating the handle <NUM> to fold the folding arm <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the operation switch <NUM> comprises a main body <NUM>, a slider <NUM> movably coupled at the main body <NUM>, and a resilient member <NUM> connecting the main body <NUM> to the slider <NUM> so as to fasten the slider <NUM> in the main body <NUM>. The main constructed to have a shape for being held on the end of one of the folding arms <NUM>. Particularly, the main body <NUM> is rotatably coupled at the free folding arm <NUM> and fixedly coupled at the fixed rotatable folding arm <NUM>. It is worth mentioning that the slider <NUM> is partially protruded out of the main body <NUM> due to the elastic force of the resilient member <NUM>. When the resilient member <NUM> is configured to push the slider <NUM> protruding out of the main body <NUM>, the slider <NUM> can support the folding arm <NUM> in place. Once the slider <NUM> is configured to move inside the main body <NUM>, the folding arm <NUM> will lose support, such that the folding arm <NUM> will fall down and rotate around the rotating rod <NUM>. When the folding arm <NUM> is no longer supported by the slider <NUM> of the operation switch <NUM>, the folding arm <NUM> is folded. As a result, the two folding arms <NUM> are folded to overlap each other.

When the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is rotated, is supported by the slider <NUM>, and is parallel to the fixed folding arm <NUM>, the folding arm <NUM> is unfolded flatly, while the folding supporting frame <NUM> is in the unfolded mode. When the slider <NUM> is configured to move back in the main body <NUM>, the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is configured to drop and overlappedly fold with the fixed folding arm <NUM>.

According to the preferred embodiment, the main body <NUM> is formed with two fixed arm cavities <NUM>, two free arm cavities <NUM> and a slider cavity <NUM>. The end of the fixed folding arm <NUM> is fixedly coupled in the fixed arm cavity <NUM>, and the rotating rod <NUM> is configured to pass through the fixed arm cavity <NUM>. The end of the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is movably arranged in the free arm cavity <NUM> and rotatably connected around the rotating rod <NUM>. Therefore, the rotating rod <NUM> is configured to pass through the fixed arm cavity <NUM> and the free arm cavity <NUM>. In other words, both ends of the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> and both ends of the fixed folding arm <NUM> surround the rotating rod <NUM>. The fixed folding arm <NUM> and the fixed arm cavity <NUM> of the main body <NUM> remain stationary, wherein the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is configured to rotate in the free arm cavity <NUM> of the main body <NUM>. The slider <NUM> is movably disposed in the slider cavity <NUM> to be moved in or pushed by the resilient member <NUM> to move out of the slider cavity <NUM>.

The switch rod <NUM> is located outside of the main body <NUM> and is configured to apply a pushing force to the slider <NUM> to move the slider <NUM> backward in the slider cavity <NUM>. When the switch rod <NUM> is lifted to force the slider <NUM> to move in, and when the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is rotated around the rotating rod <NUM> to expand, the slider <NUM> is pushed to move back into the slider cavity <NUM>. When the switch rod <NUM> passes over the slider <NUM> that no force is applied to the slider <NUM>, the slider <NUM> is pushed out of the slider cavity <NUM> by the resilient member <NUM> to protrude out of the slider cavity <NUM> again. The switch rod <NUM> is then supported by the slider <NUM> when protrude out of the slider cavity <NUM>. Under this circumstances, the switch rod <NUM> cannot push the slider <NUM> back, and the slider <NUM> bears the weight of the switch rod <NUM>. When the slider <NUM> is kept protruding out of the slider cavity <NUM> and the switch rod <NUM> is still supported by the slider <NUM> of the operation switch <NUM>, the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> and the fixed folding arm <NUM> are relatively unfolded, while the folding arm <NUM> is laid flat and stable.

The slider <NUM> has a supporting end <NUM> defining a unidirectional inclined sloping surface. The switch rod <NUM> is configured to push the supporting end <NUM> along the sloping surface thereof. The supporting end <NUM> of the slider <NUM> is configured to support the switch rod <NUM> on the planar surface thereof to bear the weight of the switch rod <NUM> so as to prevent the switch rod <NUM> being pushed back.

The slider <NUM> has a pulling end <NUM> firmly connected to a pulling strap <NUM>. By pulling out the pulling strap <NUM>, the slider <NUM> is configured to resist the elastic force of the resilient member <NUM> and to move backward in the slider cavity <NUM>.

The slider <NUM> further comprises a stopper <NUM> protruded from the main body <NUM> to engage with the slider <NUM> inside the slider cavity <NUM> for preventing the slider <NUM> from moving out of the slider cavity <NUM> via the pushing force of the resilient member <NUM>. In other words, the slider <NUM> is pushed by the resilient member <NUM> and is held by the stopper <NUM> in order to be held in the slider cavity <NUM>. Also, the slider <NUM> is restricted to move along a specific path in the slider cavity <NUM>. According to the preferred embodiment, the slider <NUM> further comprises at least one slide rail <NUM> formed inside the slider cavity <NUM> to limit the moving direction and distance of the slider <NUM>. The slider <NUM> further comprises at least one sliding leg <NUM>, wherein the sliding leg <NUM> is correspondingly engaged with the sliding rail <NUM> of the sliding block cavity <NUM>.

The slider cavity <NUM> has a supporting opening <NUM> corresponding to the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> and a pulling opening <NUM> corresponding to the fixed folding arm <NUM>. The slider <NUM> is pushed by the resilient member <NUM> to protrude out from the supporting opening <NUM>, wherein when the slider <NUM> is pressed by the switch rod <NUM>, the slider <NUM> is pulled back toward the pulling opening <NUM>. The slider cavity <NUM> further has a limitation window <NUM>. The limitation window <NUM> is preferably located at the top of the main body <NUM>. The limitation window <NUM> is configured to accommodate the stopper <NUM> of the slider <NUM> inside the limitation window <NUM>. The limitation window <NUM> is configured to block the stopper <NUM> and move within the area of the limitation window <NUM>. In other alternative modes, the limitation window <NUM> can be shaped as a groove to limit the movement of the stopper <NUM>.

The pulling strap <NUM> is extended out of the main body <NUM> through the pulling opening <NUM> from the pulling end <NUM> of the sliding block <NUM>. When the pulling strap <NUM> is actuated to pull the slider <NUM> back to the slider cavity <NUM>, the supporting end <NUM> is moved backward, such that the support of the switch rod <NUM> is dismissed due to the backward movement of the supporting end <NUM>. The stopper <NUM> is restricted to continuously move backward by the limitation window <NUM>, so as to avoid further movement of the slider <NUM>.

The pulling strap <NUM> has one end connecting to the handle <NUM> at the bottom wall <NUM> of the container body <NUM> and an opposed end connecting to the slider <NUM>. Therefore, when the handle <NUM> is pulled to lift the container body <NUM>, the pulling strap <NUM> is configured to transmit the pulling force to pull the slider <NUM> to move the slider <NUM> into the slider cavity <NUM>. Only one action of pulling the handle <NUM> of the container body <NUM> is required for operating the operation switch to fold the foldable supporting frame <NUM>.

In addition, the relationship and movement of the foldable container during the unfolding process according to the preferred embodiment are shown in <FIG>.

When the foldable container is actuated for being used, as an example, the top supporting arms <NUM> are opened from the folded mode. The top supporting arms <NUM> are configured to drive the supporting legs <NUM> to move and expand around the folding assembly <NUM>. The supporting legs <NUM> are configured to drive the folding arms <NUM> to open about the pivot shafts <NUM>. In other words, the folding arms <NUM> are driven to rotate about the pivot shafts <NUM> by the movements of the supporting legs <NUM>. When the folding arms <NUM> are unfolded to lay flat on each other, the folding arms <NUM> are rotated about the rotating rod <NUM>. The folding arm <NUM> will be supported by the operation switch <NUM> to restrict its further movement.

Specifically, when the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is rotated to the fixed folding arm <NUM>, the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is rotated to be supported by the slider <NUM> of the operation switch <NUM> and is parallel to the fixed folding arm <NUM>, such that the folding arms <NUM> are expand to lay flat on each other. The foldable support frame <NUM> is in the unfolded mode. When the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is driven to rotate, the switch rod <NUM> is lifted to apply the force to the supporting end <NUM> of the slider <NUM>. Then the slider <NUM> is pushed to move back into the slider cavity <NUM>. After the switch rod <NUM> is continuously raised to pass over the slider <NUM>, the slider <NUM> is not affect by the force, such that the slider <NUM> is pushed out of the slider cavity <NUM> by the resilient member <NUM> to protrude out of the slider cavity <NUM>. The switch rod <NUM> is supported on the slider <NUM> when the slider <NUM> is protruded out of the slider cavity <NUM>. Under this circumstance, the switch rod <NUM> cannot push the slider <NUM> back by exerts its weight on the slider <NUM>. Therefore, the folding arm <NUM> is unfolded and is stably supported by the switch <NUM>. The foldable support frame <NUM> is moved at its unfolded mode. The container body <NUM> is opened up as the top supporting arms <NUM> are expanded.

Accordingly, as the top supporting arm <NUM> of the foldable support frame <NUM> is unfolded, the folding arm <NUM> is stably supported by the operation switch <NUM>. Furthermore, under the movement of the top supporting arm <NUM>, the container body <NUM> is actuated to be opened.

In addition, the relationship and movement of the foldable container during the folding process according to the preferred embodiment are shown in <FIG>.

In order to fold the foldable container, the handle <NUM> is pulled to lift the container body <NUM>, such that the pulling strap <NUM> will transmit a pulling force to pull the slider <NUM> to move back in the slider cavity <NUM>. When the folding arm <NUM> is unfolded, the supporting end <NUM> will support the switch rod <NUM> on its planar surface to bear the weight of the switch rod <NUM> without being pushed back. When the slider <NUM> is moved backward in the slider cavity <NUM>, the slider <NUM> will resist the elastic force of the resilient member <NUM>. The switch rod <NUM> of the folding arm <NUM> will be dropped after losing the supportability so as to cause the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> to rotate about the rotating rod <NUM>. In other words, the free rotatable folding arm <NUM> is dropped and folded with the fixed folding arm <NUM>.

When two arm portions of the folding arm <NUM> are folded with each other, the top supporting arms <NUM> and the supporting legs <NUM> are also folded accordingly. The rotation of the folding arm <NUM> will drive the supporting legs <NUM> to move about the pivot shafts <NUM>. In other words, the supporting legs <NUM> are configured to rotate with the folding movements of the folding arms <NUM>, such that the top supporting arm <NUM> is driven to rotate around the folding assembly <NUM> to be folded.

Accordingly, when the pulling strap <NUM> is pulled to operate the operation switch <NUM>, the folding arm <NUM> will lose the support of the operation switch <NUM>. Then, when folding arm <NUM> is folded due to gravity, the supporting legs <NUM>, the top supporting arms <NUM> and the container body <NUM> are also folded along with the folding movements of the folding arms <NUM>. Therefore, the foldable container is folded up by one single pulling action.

As shown in <FIG>, a foldable container according to a second embodiment illustrates an alternative mode of the first embodiment, wherein the difference between the first and second embodiments is that the container body <NUM>' is detachably coupled on the foldable supporting frame <NUM>'. It is worth mentioning that the container body <NUM>' can be any conventional container suitable for being carried by the foldable supporting frame <NUM>'.

The foldable supporting frame <NUM>' comprises at least two folding arms <NUM>' and at least four supporting legs <NUM>'. Preferably, the number of the folding arms <NUM>' and the number of the supporting legs <NUM>' are designed accordingly. Each of the folding arms <NUM>' is correspondingly supported by the two supporting legs <NUM>'.

In addition, according to the embodiment, the supporting legs <NUM>' are pivotally connected to each other about the pivot shaft <NUM>' and are driven by the folding arms <NUM> to rotate about the pivot shaft <NUM>'. As shown in <FIG>, as the folding arms <NUM>' rotate about the rotating rod <NUM>' to be folded or unfolded, the angle and distance between the folding arms <NUM>' will change. The supporting legs <NUM>' are also driven to rotate about the pivot shaft <NUM>'.

According to the second embodiment, two of the operation switches <NUM> are installed on one of the folding arms <NUM>'. The operation switch <NUM> has the same structure and function as the above-mentioned first embodiment, and thus not be repeated here. However, the switch rod <NUM>' is designed and shaped differently. The switch rod <NUM>' is integrally formed on the folding arm <NUM>' for providing supporting purpose.

In addition, <FIG> illustrate the relationship and movement of unfolding the foldable container according to the preferred embodiment.

The foldable supporting frame <NUM>' is opened from the folded mode. The supporting legs <NUM>' are driven by the folding arms <NUM>' and are expanded about the pivot shafts <NUM>'. The supporting legs <NUM>' can drive the folding arms <NUM>' to be opened. When the folding arms <NUM>' are unfolded to lay flat with each other, the folding arms <NUM>' are rotated about the rotating rod <NUM>'. The folding arm <NUM>' will be supported by the operation switch <NUM> to restrict further downward movement, and further upward movement is restricted by the supporting leg <NUM>' and the pivot shaft <NUM>'.

Specifically, when one of the folding arms <NUM>' is rotated toward another folding arm <NUM>, the switch rod <NUM>' is lifted to the supporting end <NUM> of the slider <NUM>. Each of the sliders <NUM> is configured to support the side of the switch rod <NUM>', such that the switch rod <NUM>' is symmetrically supported by the two operation switches <NUM>. Then, each of the sliders <NUM> is pushed by the switch rod <NUM>' to move into the slider cavity <NUM>, such that the switch rod <NUM>' will continue to lift and pass the slider <NUM>. Each of the sliders <NUM> is pushed out of the slider cavity <NUM> by the resilient member <NUM> so as to protrude out of the slider cavity <NUM> again. The switch rod <NUM>' is supported by the slider <NUM> and placed on the two operation switches <NUM> when the slider <NUM> is protruded out of the slider cavity <NUM>. Under the circumstance, the switch rod <NUM>' cannot push the slider <NUM> backward, and the weight of the switch rod <NUM>' is supported on the slider <NUM>. Then, the folding arm <NUM>' is unfolded and is stably supported by the operation switch <NUM>. The foldable supporting frame <NUM>' is then moved at the unfolded mode. The container body <NUM>' can be placed on the folding arms <NUM>'.

Accordingly, as the folding arm <NUM>' or the supporting leg <NUM>' of the foldable supporting frame <NUM>' is unfolded, the folding arm <NUM>' is stably supported by the operation switch <NUM>, such that the switch lever <NUM>' can support the weight of the container body <NUM>'.

In addition, relationship and movement of the foldable container during the folding process according to the preferred embodiment are shown in <FIG>.

When the folding arm <NUM>' is unfolded, the switch rod <NUM>' is supported on the planar surface of the supporting end <NUM> to support the weight of the switch rod <NUM>' without being pushed back. In order to fold the foldable container, it is necessary to pull the two pulling straps <NUM>', such that each slider <NUM> is moved backward in the slider cavity <NUM>. Each of the sliders <NUM> is pulled back in the slider cavity <NUM> against the elastic force of the resilient member <NUM>. The switch rod <NUM>' of the folding arm <NUM>' will lose the support, and then will fall and rotate about the rotating rod <NUM>'. In other words, one of the folding arms <NUM>' is dropped for being folded with another folding arm <NUM>'. The rotation of the folding arm <NUM>' will drive the supporting leg <NUM>' to move about the pivot shaft <NUM>'. In other words, as the folding arm <NUM>' is folded, the supporting leg <NUM>' is rotated correspondingly.

Normally, when the pulling strap <NUM> is pulled to actuate the operation switch <NUM>, the folding arm <NUM>' will lose the support provided by the operation switch <NUM>. Then the folding arm <NUM>' is folded by its own gravity, wherein the supporting leg <NUM>' is folded as the folding arm <NUM>' is folded. Therefore, the foldable container is folded by the single pulling action.

In an alternative mode of the present invention, two pulling straps <NUM> can be connected end-to-end. Then, by pulling only one of the pulling straps <NUM>, the two operation switches <NUM> can be operated. In addition, the two ends of the pulling strap <NUM> are securely fastened to the two sliders <NUM> respectively. By pulling the pulling strap <NUM>, the two operation switches <NUM> are operated at the same time.

Moreover, as shown in <FIG>, a foldable container according to a third embodiment illustrates another alternative mode of the first embodiment, wherein the difference between the first and third embodiment is that the third embodiment further comprises a mattress 50A disposed in the container body <NUM>, such that the container body <NUM> serves as a bed or a resting basket.

In other words, at least two folding arms <NUM> and at least four supporting legs <NUM> are correspondingly configured, wherein each of the folding arms <NUM> is correspondingly supported by two supporting legs <NUM>. Similarly, the supporting legs <NUM> are pivotally connected to each other about the pivot shaft <NUM>, wherein the supporting leg <NUM> is driven by the folding arm <NUM> to rotate about the pivot shaft <NUM>. As the folding arms <NUM> rotate about the rotating rod <NUM> to fold or unfold, the angle and distance between the folding arms <NUM> change. The supporting leg <NUM> is also driven to rotate about the pivot shaft <NUM>. The operation switch <NUM> is coupled at one of the folding arms <NUM>. The operation switch <NUM> has the same structure and function as the above mentioned first embodiment, and thus not being repeated here.

It is worth mentioning that the extension legs 14A of the foldable supporting frame <NUM> are implemented differently in the third embodiment. The extension leg 14A further comprises a rocking frame 141A, two corner frames 142A, and two foot stands 143A, wherein the rocking frame 141A is an elongated bar shape and is formed in a curved manner, wherein two ends of the rocking frame 141A is coupled to the two corner frames 142A respectively, wherein the foot stands 143A are pivotally coupled at the corner frames 142A respectively. The rocking frame 141A is arranged extended along a lower part of the supporting leg <NUM> in a convex manner for supporting on the ground. Each of the foot stands 143A comprises a supporting stand 1431A and a swinging stand 1432A integrally extended therefrom. For retaining the extension leg 14A at a stationary position, the supporting stands 1431A are rotatably extended toward a direction of the supporting leg <NUM> away from the rocking frame 141A and are rotatably folded away from each other to stand on the ground. For retaining the extension leg 14A at a rocking position, the supporting stands 1431A are rotatably folded to overlap with the rocking frame 141A, wherein the swinging stands 1432A are outwardly extended from the two corner frames 142A for limiting a rocking motion of the rocking frame 141A.

Furthermore, the supporting stand 1431A and the swinging stand 1432A are integrally formed in a one-piece member and are rotatably coupled at the corner frames 142A respectively. As shown in <FIG>, when the swinging stand 1432A is rotated to extend to the direction of the supporting leg <NUM>, the rocking frame 141A is supported on the ground. Via the curvature of the rocking frame 141A, the extension legs <NUM> can be rocked at a sideward rocking motion. Therefore, when the mattress 50A is placed in the container body <NUM>, the container body <NUM> serves as a baby crib or baby cradle for a baby resting therein.

As shown in <FIG>, when the supporting stands 1431A are rotatably extended to the direction of the supporting leg <NUM>, the supporting stands 1431A are supported on the ground, such that the rocking frame 141A is raised above the ground. Then, the extension leg 14A is stably supported on the ground with four ground points. Therefore, when the mattress 50A is placed on the container body 30A, the container body 30A serves as a infant bed for a baby, and the foldable supporting frame <NUM> serves as a rocking bed for the baby.

It is worth mentioning that the operation of the extension legs 14A will not affect the unfolding and folding operations of the foldable supporting frame <NUM>. The mattress 50A further comprises with a mattress handle 51A, wherein the mattress handle 51A is connected to the operation switch <NUM> to be pulled up for actuating the folding operation of the operation switch <NUM>.

According to the preferred embodiment, the present disclosure further provides a folding method for the foldable container, which comprises the steps of:.

Specifically, the container body <NUM> is connected with the operation switch <NUM>, wherein the operation switch <NUM> is actuated to fold the foldable supporting frame <NUM>. In other words, the operation of the container body <NUM> is configured to drive the operation of the operation switch <NUM>, thereby realizing the folding operation of the foldable supporting frame from the container body <NUM>. Since the container body <NUM> is folded by the pulling action to fold up the foldable supporting frame <NUM> at the same time, the entire folding operation of the foldable container is automatically actuated and completed by one pulling action.

Claim 1:
A foldable container, comprising:
a foldable supporting frame (<NUM>, <NUM>') arranged to be operated between an unfolded position and a folded position;
at least one operation switch (<NUM>), wherein the operation switch (<NUM>) is coupled with the foldable supporting frame (<NUM>, <NUM>') to operate the foldable supporting frame (<NUM>, <NUM>') between the unfolded position and the folded position through a pulling operation of the operation switch; and
a container body (<NUM>, <NUM>', 30A), wherein the container body is supported on the foldable supporting frame (<NUM>, <NUM>'), wherein the container body has an edge (<NUM>) defining opening thereof surrounded by the edge (<NUM>), wherein at the unfolded position, the opening of the container body is opened, wherein at the folded position , the opening of the container body is closed, wherein the container body is automatically folded as the foldable supporting frame (<NUM>, <NUM>') is moved from the unfolded position to the folded position,
wherein the foldable supporting frame comprises two folding arms and at least four supporting legs, wherein each of the folding arms is supported by the supporting legs, wherein the folding arms are pivotally connected with each other at the operation switch, wherein the folding arm and the supporting leg are pivotally rotated with each other, characterised in that
the container is a liquid container,
and in that
the folding arm (<NUM>, <NUM>') further comprises a switch rod (<NUM>, <NUM>'), wherein the switch rod (<NUM>, <NUM>') is disposed at an end of one of the folding arms (<NUM>, <NUM>'), wherein in the unfolded position, the switch rod (<NUM>, <NUM>') is supported by the operation switch (<NUM>) to limit a movement between the two folding arms (<NUM>, <NUM>') of the foldable support frame (<NUM>, <NUM>').