Rubbermaid, Inc.

Steve Paletti

Kevin Rausch

Rainer B Teufel

David G Mann

A collapsible container (10) includes a first wall (12) and a second wall (14) connected by a collapsible and expandable third wall (16). The third wall (16) includes an interior wall (20) and an exterior wall (22) that are each collapsible and expandable. At least one spring (60) extends between the first wall (12) and the second wall (14) between the interior wall (20) and the exterior wall (22) to urge the first and second walls (12, 14) apart. Straps (62) also extend between the first wall (12) and the second wall (14) to counteract the force of the spring (60). The length of the straps (62) between the first wall (12) and the second wall (14) is adjustable between a fully collapsed and fully expanded position. The length of the straps (62) is adjustable because the straps (62) slidingly engage the second wall (14) and are held with respect to the second wall (14) by locking devices (64). The locking devices (64) normally engage the straps (62) to lock their position with respect to the second wall (14) but may be released to allow the second wall (14) to move away from the first wall (12). The locking devices (64) are also configured such that they do not need to be released for the second wall (14) to be moved toward the first wall (12).

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Columbus, OH, United States of America

Steve Paletti