Abstract: A plastic container comprises a bottom wall, a side wall extending upwardly and laterally outwardly from the bottom wall, and an undulating rim extending laterally outwardly from an upper portion of the side wall. The undulating rim forms a plurality of waves extending at least partially around the upper portion of the side wall. Each wave forms a crest and a trough that are generally perpendicular to an adjacent section of the upper portion of the side wall. In response to exerting a tensile load on the rim, the undulating rim acts like an accordion or spring and effectively increases the perimeter along an outer trimmed edge of the rim. In particular, the waves allow the rim to flatten, thereby reducing the hoop stress generated by the tensile load. By relieving the hoop stress on the outer trimmed edge of the rim, the tendency of the rim to crack or break is minimized.

Abstract: A collapsible bag assembly is described which provides a barrier for protecting an appliance item against flood water damage. The bag assembly includes a) a water impermeable flexible tube of plastic sheeting which is open at the top and closed at the bottom and b) a platform base attached to the bottom of the tube. The bag assembly is used by positioning the appliance item on the platform base. During passive periods, the bag assembly is in its collapsed position whereby the tube of plastic sheeting is folded and stored along the edge of the platform base in proximity to the lower part of the appliance item. When it is necessary to protect the appliance item against water contact, the bag assembly is deployed to its extended position by lifting the tube of plastic sheeting from its stored position and extending it toward the top of the appliance item where it is secured until such protection is no longer required.