Collapsible storage device

Abstract

A collapsible storage device including a frame and at least one collapsible storage compartment attachable to the frame. Each of the at least one collapsible storage compartment has a flexible shell with an opening, a plurality of straps attached to the flexible shell, a plurality of first connectors and second connectors attached to the straps. The first connectors are removably connectable between the flexible shell and the frame. The second connectors are adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment. The first connectors are also adapted to removably connect with the second connectors.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of storage devices. More particularly, this invention relates to a collapsible storage device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Various storage devices are used to sort and organize various materials that are accumulated for later use. Organization of these materials allows for quicker access when the materials are needed without undue delay in finding the materials.

[0003] However, bulky storage systems take up valuable space. Current housing and commercial spaces are designed to make optimum use of our living and working quarters. Storage devices that take up space when not being used, such as storage devices with rigid compartments, take up more space than is needed and waste the limited amount of space available.

[0004] In addition, some storage devices, such as a cabinet or dresser with drawers, tend to be bulky, making relocation of the materials within the drawers difficult. Typically, the contents of the drawer need to be emptied into another container for transport.

[0005] Secondly, some storage devices that are designed for portability fail to provide adequate access to multiple compartments at the same time.

[0006] What is needed is a collapsible storage device that does not take up space when not being used, allows for transport of the compartment with the contents remaining in the compartment, and allows access to multiple compartments at the same time.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] The present invention provides a collapsible storage device that has a frame and at least one collapsible storage compartment. The at least one collapsible storage compartment includes a main shell, at least one flap and a closure mechanism. The main shell has a partially enclosed region with an open end. The at least one flap extends from the main shell proximate the open end. The at least one flap enables the at least one collapsible storage compartment to be attached to the frame. The closure mechanism is proximate the open end for at least partially closing the open end.

[0008] One embodiment of the collapsible storage device includes a frame and at least one collapsible storage compartment attachable to the frame. Each of the collapsible storage compartments has a flexible shell with an opening and a plurality of first connectors. Each of the first connectors is removably connectable between the flexible shell and the frame.

[0009] One embodiment of the collapsible storage device further includes a plurality of second connectors attached to each of the collapsible storage compartments. Each of the second connectors is adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment. Each of the first connectors is adapted to removably connect with the frame or one of the second connectors.

[0010] One embodiment of the collapsible storage device further includes collapsible storage compartments having a plurality of straps attached to each flexible shell. Each of the first connectors is attached to the top end of one of the straps.

[0011] One embodiment of the collapsible storage device further includes a plurality of second connectors, with each of the second connectors attached to the bottom end of one of the straps. Each of the second connectors is adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment. Each of the first connectors is adapted to removably connect with both the frame or with one of the second connectors.

[0012] The present invention also provides a collapsible storage compartment attachable to a frame. Each of the collapsible storage compartments has a flexible shell having an opening and a plurality of first connectors. Each of the first connectors is removably connectable between the flexible shell and a frame.

[0013] One embodiment of the collapsible storage compartment further includes a plurality of second connectors attached to each of the collapsible storage compartments. Each of the second connectors is adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment. Each of the first connectors is adapted to removably connect with a frame or one of the second connectors.

[0014] One embodiment of the collapsible storage compartment further includes collapsible storage compartments having a plurality of straps attached to each flexible shell. Each of the first connectors are attached to the top end of one of the straps.

[0015] One embodiment of the collapsible storage compartment further includes a plurality of second connectors, with each of the second connectors attached to the bottom end of one of the straps. Each of the second connectors is adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment. Each of the first connectors is adapted to removably connect with both a frame or with one of the second connectors.

[0016] One embodiment of the collapsible storage compartment further includes at least four straps, and the flexible shell includes a rectangular cross section having four vertical edges. Each of the four straps is secured adjacent to a different vertical edge.

[0017] One embodiment of the collapsible storage compartment includes a flexible shell having self supporting sides.

[0018] One embodiment of the collapsible storage compartment includes straps that provide support to the flexible shell such that the flexible shell is self supporting.

[0019] The present invention also provides a kit for a collapsible storage device including a frame and a plurality of collapsible storage compartments attachable to the frame. Each of the collapsible storage compartments has a flexible shell having an opening and a plurality of first connectors. Each of the first connectors is removably connectable between the flexible shell and the frame.

[0020] One embodiment of the kit for the collapsible storage device further includes a plurality of second connectors attached to each of the collapsible storage compartments. Each of the second connectors is adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment. Each of the first connectors is adapted to removably connect with both the frame or one of the second connectors.

[0021] One embodiment of the kit for the collapsible storage device further includes collapsible storage compartments having a plurality of straps attached to each flexible shell. Each of the first connectors is attached to the top end of one of the straps.

[0022] One embodiment of the kit for the collapsible storage device further includes a plurality of second connectors with each of the second connectors attached to the bottom end of one of the straps. Each of the second connectors are adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment. Each of the first connectors is adapted to removably connect with the frame or with one of the second connectors.

[0023] The present invention provides a collapsible storage device that does not take up space when not being used, allows for transport of the compartment with the contents remaining in the collapsible compartment, and allows access to multiple compartments at the same time.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a collapsible storage device of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a collapsible storage compartment for use with the collapsible storage device.

[0026] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a top of the collapsible storage device with dividers attached in the collapsible storage compartments.

[0027] FIG. 4 is an enlarged perspective view of the top of the collapsible storage compartment illustrating attachment of the divider.

[0028] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another configuration of the collapsible storage device with a plurality of collapsible storage compartments attached thereto.

[0029] FIG. 6 is perspective view of the collapsible storage device from FIG. 5 illustrating attachment of collapsible storage compartments to a frame and to other collapsible storage compartments.

[0030] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the collapsible storage compartment illustrating a bottom reinforcing portion.

[0031] FIG. 8 is an enlarged perspective view of the collapsible storage compartment illustrating a strap and connectors.

[0032] FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of the collapsible storage compartment attached to the frame.

[0033] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the collapsible storage compartment in a storage configuration.

[0034] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another collapsible storage compartment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0035] In the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. It is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0036] A collapsible storage device according to the present invention is illustrated at 8 in FIG. 1. The collapsible storage device 8 generally includes a frame 10 and at least one collapsible storage compartment 20. The collapsible storage compartments 20 are preferably fabricated from a flexible shell 22. The flexible shell 22 is preferably a flexible material, such as a woven material, so that the storage compartments 20 are easily collapsible. The woven material, such as canvas, provides flexibility so that the storage compartment 20 may be folded into a flat package. The woven material also provides some rigidity to support sides 24 of the storage compartment 20.

[0037] The flexible shell 22 preferably includes at least one partially transparent region 36 that permits a person to view the objects that are in the storage compartment 20. The partially transparent region 36 is preferably located intermediate the upper and lower ends of the storage compartment 20.

[0038] The flexible shell 22 has a top opening 28 that provides easy access to the interior of the storage compartment 20, such as when the storage compartment 20 is connected or hung from the frame 10.

[0039] The storage compartments 20 are removably attachable to the frame 10 and are portable. The storage compartments 20 may be removed from the frame 10, as illustrated in FIG. 2, with materials inside the storage compartments 20 for transport to another location. The collapsible nature of the storage compartment 20 provides for easier transportability than a rigid compartment. The storage compartment 20 collapses around the materials, reducing the bulkiness of the storage compartment 20 for transport. The storage compartments 20 may be removed from the frame 10 and collapsed for storage. The storage compartments 20 are easier to store and take up less space than a rigid storage compartment.

[0040] The frame 10, such as shown in FIG. 1, provides support for attaching the storage compartments 20. The frame 10, is shown as but not limited to, a rigid frame with four legs 12. The frame 10 preferably includes an upper frame portion 14 and at least one shelf 16. The upper frame portion 14 has a substantially rectangular configuration and is preferably positioned proximate an upper end of the legs 12 so that the upper support maintains the legs in a desired orientation. The upper frame portion 14 has a perimeter edge 18 attached to the legs 12.

[0041] The frame 10 is preferably adjustable in size. For example, the shelf 16 may be adjusted in height or the legs 12 may adjustable in height. The frame 10 is optionally collapsible and portable.

[0042] The frame 10 is adapted for removable attachment of the storage compartments 20. At least one retaining flap 40 extends from the storage compartment 20 proximate an upper end of the storage compartment 20. An inner surface of the retaining flap 40 has a fastening device 42 that is adapted to engage a complementary fastening device 42 on an outer surface of the storage compartment 20. One suitable fastening device 42 for use with the present invention is a hook and loop fastener, such as is available under the designation VELCRO.

[0043] When attaching the storage compartment 20 to the frame 10, the retaining flap 40 is extended over the perimeter edge 18 and then placed against the body of the storage compartment 20 so that the fastening devices 42 engage each other. The storage compartment 20 is thereby retained in a substantially fixed position with respect to the frame 10 to permit items to be placed into and removed from the storage compartment 20.

[0044] The storage compartment 20 also preferably includes a string 44 or other similar device that extends substantially around the upper end of the storage compartment 20. The string 44 permits the upper end of the storage compartment 20 to be at least partially closed to thereby retain objects in the storage compartment 20. The string 44 is particularly useful when transporting the storage compartment 20 to a location where the items in the storage compartment 20 are to be used.

[0045] Ends of the string 44 preferably extend through an adjustable fastening mechanism 46. The adjustable fastening mechanism 46 has a closed position and an open position. When in the closed position, the adjustable fastening mechanism 46 prevents the string 44 from moving with respect to the adjustable fastening mechanism 46 such as when it is desired to transport the storage compartment 20 with the upper end closed. The adjustable fastening device 46 is preferably biased to the closed position.

[0046] To facilitate maintaining items placed in the storage compartment 20 in a desired position, the storage compartment 20 preferably includes at least one divider 50 removably placed therein, as illustrated in FIG. 3. The divider 50 preferably extends substantially from the upper end to the lower end of the storage compartment 20. The divider 50 also preferably extends substantially between opposite sides of the storage compartment 20.

[0047] The divider 50 is preferably removably attached to the storage compartment 20 with a removable fastening device 52. The removable fastening device 52 is preferably a hook and loop fastener such as is available under the designation VELCRO. The removable fastening device 52 may permit positioning the divider 50 at only discrete locations in the storage compartment 20. Alternatively, the removable fastening device 52 may permit positioning the divider 50 at numerous locations in the storage compartment 20.

[0048] Another embodiment of a collapsible storage device 100 of the present invention includes a frame 110, and at least one collapsible storage compartment 120, as illustrated in FIG. 5. The collapsible storage compartments 120 preferably each have a flexible shell 122. The flexible shell 122 is preferably fabricated of a flexible material, such as a woven material, so that the storage compartments 120 are easily collapsible.

[0049] The woven material, such as canvas, provides flexibility so that the storage compartment 120 may be folded into a flat package. The woven material also provides some rigidity to support the sides 124 of the storage compartment 120. The flexible shell 122 has a front opening 126 and a top opening 128. The front opening 126 and top opening 128 join together at the top front edge of the storage compartment 120. The front opening 126 provides easy access to the interior of the storage compartment 120, such as when the storage compartment 120 is connected or hung from the frame 110. The storage compartments 120 may be of different sizes.

[0050] To provide additional structural rigidity to the storage compartment 120, the storage compartment 120 preferably includes a substantially rigid reinforcing portion 123 along a bottom surface thereof, as illustrated in FIG. 7. The reinforcing portion 123 may be a plastic sheet. Alternatively, the reinforcing portion 123 may be fabricated from wood or metal. Preferably, the reinforcing portion 123 has a wood core that is covered with a layer of poly vinyl chloride.

[0051] The storage compartment 120 includes a plurality of straps 130, first connectors 140, and second connectors 150, as illustrated in FIG. 5. Details of the straps 130 and connectors 140, 150 are explained in more detail below.

[0052] The storage compartments 120 are removably attachable to the frame 110 and are portable. The storage compartments 120 may be removed from the frame with materials inside the storage compartments 120 for transport to another location. The collapsible nature of the storage compartment 120 provides for easier transportability than a rigid compartment. The storage compartment 120 collapses around the materials, reducing the bulkiness of the compartment 120 for transport. The storage compartments 120 may be removed from the frame 110 and collapsed for storage. The storage compartments 120 are easier to store and take up less space than a rigid storage compartment.

[0053] The frame 110, such as shown in FIG. 5, provides support for attaching the storage compartments 120. The frame 110, is shown as but not limited to, a rigid frame with four legs 112. The frame 110 optionally includes solid shelves 114 or open shelves 116. The frame 110 optionally is adjustable in size, for example, the shelves 114, 116 may be adjusted in height or the legs 112 may adjustable in height. The frame 110 is optionally collapsible and portable.

[0054] The frame 110 is adapted for removable attachment of the storage compartments 120. The frame has a perimeter edge 118 attached to the legs 112. The first connectors 140 removably attach to the perimeter edge 118 of the frame 110. The storage compartments 120 are shown attached to the perimeter edge 118 adjacent to solid shelf 114, however, the storage compartments 120 may also be connected to open shelf 116 or to a perimeter edge 118 not in conjunction with a shelf 114, 116.

[0055] The perimeter edge 118 includes a rod portion 119 such that first connector 140 hooks onto the rod portion 119. Perimeter edge 118 includes at least one rod portion 119, or multiple rod portions 119. The first connector 140 attaches to any of the rod portions 119. For example, first connector 140 attaches to a different rod portion 119 in FIG. 5 than in FIG. 6.

[0056] FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of the collapsible storage device 200. Collapsible storage device 200 shows two open shelves 116, the lower of the two shelves, low shelf 117 is adjusted to a low position. Additional storage compartments 121 are removably attached to storage compartments 120. Additional storage compartments 121 are the same as storage compartments 120 except that additional storage compartments 121 removably attach to storage compartments 120 instead of directly to the frame 110. The first connectors 140 of additional storage compartments 121 removably attach to the second connectors 150 of storage compartments 120. Each of the first connectors 140 are adapted to removably connect with both the frame 110 or a second connector 150.

[0057] FIG. 9 shows an enlarged view of one embodiment of the collapsible storage device 100 including a strap 130, a first connector 140 and a second connector 150. A substantial portion of the strap 130 is secured to flexible shell 122 so that the straps 130 support the weight of storage compartment 120 and its contents, such as materials. The storage compartment 120 optionally includes a rigid base 180, as illustrated in FIG. 7. The rigid base 180 may be removable or permanently attached to the flexible shell 122.

[0058] FIG. 8 shows a perspective view of one embodiment of a collapsible storage compartment 120. The storage compartment 120 includes a flexible shell 122 and a plurality of straps 130 attached to the shell 122. The flexible shell 122 is shown as, but not limited to, a rectangular shape or cross section. The flexible shell 122 has a plurality of vertical edges 190, the number of which depends on the shape of the flexible shell 122. Storage compartment 120 is shown having, but is not limited to including, four straps 130 and a flexible shell 122 having a rectangular cross section having four vertical edges 190, with each of the four straps 130 adjacent to a different vertical edge 190.

[0059] The straps 130 have a top end 131 and a bottom end 132. The storage compartment 120 also includes a plurality of first connectors 140 attached to the top end 131 of each strap 130 and a plurality of second connectors 150 attached to the bottom end 132 of each strap 130.

[0060] As previously described, the first connectors 140 removably attach to either the frame 110 (See FIG. 5) or to a second connector 150. The first connector 140 is comprised of, but not limited to plastic, and has a hook portion 142 and a strap connection portion 144. The hook portion 142 is adapted to removably attach to the rod portion 119 of a perimeter edge 118 of the frame 110 (See FIG. 9). The hook portion 142 is also adapted to removably attach to a second connector 150. (See FIG. 6). The strap connection portion 144 is adapted to attach the strap 130 to the first connector 140. The strap connection portion 144 includes a strap opening 146. The strap 130 is looped through the strap opening 146 securing the first connector 140 to the strap 130.

[0061] The second connector 150 is also comprised of, but not limited to, plastic. The second connector 150 is adapted to removably attach to a first connector 140 of an additional collapsible storage compartment 121 as previously described. The second connector 150 is shown as, but not limited to a loop 152 having an opening 154. The strap 130 is looped through the opening 154 securing the second connector 150 to the strap 130. The opening 154 is adapted and sized to receive hook portion 142 of first connection 140.

[0062] The straps 130 are secured with stitching 134 to the flexible shell 122. A substantial portion of the strap 130 is sewn to the flexible shell 122. The plurality of straps 130 provide support to the flexible shell 122 such that the flexible shell 122 has self supporting sides 124.

[0063] FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of a kit for a collapsible storage device 300 including a frame 110, and a plurality of collapsible storage compartments 120. The storage compartments 120 may be of different sizes. The storage compartments 120 are collapsed and folded for easy portability and storage. Frame 110 is shown assembled, but may be collapsed or disassembled to provide easier portability.

[0064] Another configuration of the storage compartment 220 is particularly suited for attachment to a side of the frame 110, as illustrated in FIG. 5. The storage compartment 220 is preferably attached to the frame 110 using a connector 240 that has a configuration that is similar to the first connector 140 used in conjunction with the storage compartment 120.

[0065] The storage compartment 220 has a main body 230 and a plurality of pockets 232 attached to the main body 230. The pockets 232 are preferably configured to have an upwardly directed opening 234 that permits objects to be placed therein. Preferably, the pockets 232 are arranged in at least two rows.

[0066] The main body 230 and the pockets 232 are preferably fabricated from a flexible material that permits the storage compartment 220 to be rolled up when it is desired to transport the storage compartment 220, as illustrated in FIG. 11. Rolling up the storage compartment 220 not only reduces the size of the storage compartment but also reduces the likelihood that objects will fall out of the pockets 232.

[0067] To maintain the storage compartment 220 in a rolled up configuration, the storage compartment 220 preferably includes at least one strap 236 that is extended around the storage compartment 220 and then tied.

[0068] To facilitate carrying the storage compartment 220 in either an extended configuration or a rolled up configuration, the storage compartment 220 preferably includes a handle 238.

[0069] It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

1. A collapsible storage device comprising:

a frame; and

at least one collapsible storage compartment comprising:

a main shell having a partially enclosed region with an open end;

at least one flap extending from the main shell proximate the open end, wherein the at least one flap enables the at least one collapsible storage compartment to be attached to the frame; and

a closure mechanism proximate the open end for at least partially closing the open end.

2. The collapsible storage device of claim 1, wherein the frame has a top perimeter, and wherein the at least one flap extends over the top perimeter to attach the at least one collapsible storage compartment to the frame.

3. The collapsible storage device of claim 1, and further comprising a fastening device for attaching the flap to the main shell, wherein the fastening device retains the frame between the flap and the main shell.

4. The collapsible storage device of claim 3, wherein the fastening device is a hoop and loop fastener.

5. The collapsible storage device of claim 1, wherein the closure mechanism comprises a string that at least partially extends around the open end.

6. The collapsible storage device of claim 5, and further comprising an adjustable fastening mechanism that engages the string.

7. The collapsible storage device of claim 1, and further comprising at least one divider attached to the at least one storage compartment, wherein the at least one divider divides the at least one storage compartment into at least two regions.

8. The collapsible storage device of claim 7, wherein the at least one divider is attached to the at least one storage compartment with a fastening device.

9. The collapsible storage device of claim 8, wherein the fastening device is a hoop and loop fastener.

10. The collapsible storage device of claim 1, wherein the frame is collapsible and portable.

11. The collapsible storage device of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the main shell is at least partially transparent.

12. A collapsible storage device comprising:

a frame; and

at least one collapsible storage compartment attachable to the frame, wherein each of the at least one collapsible storage compartment has a flexible shell, wherein the flexible shell have an opening, wherein each of the at least collapsible storage compartment has a plurality of first connectors, and wherein each of the plurality of first connectors are removably connectable between the flexible shell and the frame.

13. The collapsible storage device of claim 12, and further comprising a plurality of second connectors attached to each of the at least one collapsible storage compartment, wherein each of the plurality of second connectors are adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment, wherein each of the plurality of first connectors are adapted to removably connect with the frame and are adapted to removably connect with one of the plurality of the second connectors.

14. The collapsible storage device of claim 12, wherein each of the at least one collapsible storage compartment has a plurality of straps attached to each flexible shell, wherein each of the plurality of straps has a top end and a bottom end, and wherein each of the plurality of first connectors is attached to the top end of one of the plurality of straps.

15. The collapsible storage device of claim 14, and further comprising a plurality of second connectors, wherein each of the plurality of second connectors is attached to the bottom end of one of the plurality of straps, wherein each of the plurality of second connectors is adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment; and wherein each of the plurality of first connectors is adapted to removably connect with the frame and are adapted to removably connect with one of the plurality of the second connectors.

16. The collapsible storage device of claim 12, wherein the frame is adjustable.

17. The collapsible storage device of claim 12, wherein the frame is collapsible and portable.

18. The collapsible storage device of claim 12, wherein the frame is adapted for removable attachment of the first connectors.

19. The collapsible storage device of claim 12, wherein the first connectors are removably attachable to a top perimeter of the frame.

20. The collapsible storage device of claim 12, and further comprising a rigid shelf attached to the frame.

21. The collapsible storage device of claim 12, wherein the plurality of collapsible storage compartments comprise more than one size.

22. A collapsible storage compartment comprising:

a flexible shell having an opening; and

a plurality of first connectors attached to the flexible shell, wherein the plurality of first connectors is adapted for removable attachment of the collapsible storage compartment to a frame.

23. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 22, and further comprising a plurality of second connectors attached to the flexible shell, wherein each of the plurality of second connectors adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment; and wherein each of the plurality of first connectors is adapted to removably connect with the frame and is adapted to removably connect with one of the plurality of second connectors.

24. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 22, and further comprising:

a plurality of straps attached to the flexible shell, each of the plurality of straps having a top end and a bottom end; and

each of the plurality of first connectors attached to the top end of one of the plurality of straps.

25. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 24, and further comprising a plurality of second connectors, wherein each of the plurality of second connectors is attached to the bottom end of one of the plurality of straps, wherein each of the plurality of second connectors is adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment; and wherein each of the plurality of first connectors are adapted to removably connect with the frame and are adapted to removably connect with one of the plurality of second connectors.

26. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 24, wherein the flexible shell is comprised of a woven material.

27. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 24, wherein a substantial portion of the strap is secured to the flexible shell.

28. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 24, wherein at least one of the plurality of straps is secured adjacent to a vertical edge of the flexible shell.

29. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 28, wherein the plurality of straps comprise at least four straps, wherein the flexible shell comprises a rectangular cross section having four vertical edges, and wherein each of the four straps is secured adjacent to a different vertical edge.

30. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 22, and further comprising a rigid base.

31. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 30, wherein the rigid base is removable.

32. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 22, wherein each of the plurality of first connectors comprises a hook.

33. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 22, wherein each of the plurality of second connectors comprises a loop.

34. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 22, wherein the opening in the flexible shell is a top opening and further comprising a front opening.

35. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 22, wherein the flexible shell comprises self supporting sides.

36. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 35, wherein the plurality of straps provide support to the flexible shell such that the flexible shell has self supporting sides.

37. A kit for a collapsible storage unit comprising:

a frame;

a plurality of collapsible storage compartments attachable to the frame;

wherein each of the plurality of collapsible storage compartments has a flexible shell, wherein the flexible shell has an opening, wherein each of the plurality of collapsible storage compartments has a plurality of first connectors, and wherein each of the plurality of first connectors is removably connectable between the flexible shell and the frame.

38. The kit of claim 37, and further comprising a plurality of second connectors attached to each of the plurality of collapsible storage compartments, wherein each of the plurality of second connectors is adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment; and wherein each of the plurality of first connectors is adapted to removably connect with the frame and is adapted to removably connect with one of the plurality of the second connectors.

39. The kit of claim 37, wherein each of the plurality of collapsible storage compartments has a plurality of straps attached to each flexible shell, wherein each of the plurality of straps has a top end and a bottom end, and wherein each of the plurality of first connectors is attached to the top end of one of the plurality of straps.

40. The kit of claim 39, and further comprising a plurality of second connectors, wherein each of the plurality of second connectors is attached to the bottom end of one of the plurality of straps, wherein each of the plurality of second connectors is adapted for removably connecting with an additional first connector of an additional collapsible storage compartment; and wherein each of the plurality of first connectors is adapted to removably connect with the frame and are adapted to removably connect with one of the plurality of the second connectors.

41. The kit of claim 37, wherein the frame is collapsible and portable.

42. The kit of claim 37, wherein at least one of the plurality of straps is secured adjacent to a vertical edge of the flexible shell.

43. The kit of claim 42, wherein the plurality of straps comprise at least four straps, wherein the flexible shell comprises a rectangular cross section having four vertical edges, and wherein each of the four of straps is secured adjacent to a different vertical edge.

44. The kit of claim 37, and further comprising a rigid base.

45. The kit of claim 37, wherein the flexible shell comprises self supporting sides.

46. The kit of claim 45, wherein the plurality of straps provide support to the flexible shell such that the flexible shell has self supporting sides.

47. The kit of claim 45, wherein the plurality of collapsible storage compartments comprise more than one size.

48. A collapsible storage compartment comprising:

main body;

a plurality of pockets attached to the main body; and

at least one connector attached to the main body for attaching the collapsible storage compartment to a frame.

49. The collapsible storage compartment of claim 48, wherein the collapsible storage compartment is positionable in an extended position and in a rolled up position, wherein the extended position permits items to be placed into an removed from the pockets, and wherein the rolled up position substantially retains items in the pockets.