U.S. PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
Information Products Division |
U.S. Patent Classification System - Classification Definitions
as of June 30, 2000
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(definitions have been obtained from the
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Electronic Products Branch)
Class 383
FLEXIBLE BAGS
Class Definition:
This is the residual class for receptacles comprised of a
peripheral wall made of flaccid or flexible material, with at
least one closed end, and having an access opening, which may
be an open end of the receptacle or which may be provided in
the peripheral wall or closed end of the receptacle.
Receptacles of this class type must function, by disclosure,
to hold contents which in turn are to be eventually removed
from the receptacle.
(1) Note. The peripheral wall is the surrounding external
boundary of the bag which, together with a closed end, forms
a structure intended to confine or hold contents.
(2) Note. An access opening must be intended to permit
insertion of removal of bag content, and may be closed or
closable.
(3) Note. A blank intended to be made into a bag of this
class type is classified with the bag. A blank is defined as
a piece of stock material cut into final shape prior to being
folded and secured in usable bag form.
(4) Note. The flaccid or flexible bag material may be
strengthened or reinforced to prevent tearing, or to aid in
maintaining the bag in a given configuration.
(5) Note. Patents issued before 1900 have been placed
hereunder by total disclosure.
SCOPE OF THE CLASS
This class admits all bags not provided for elsewhere which
satisfy the general statement in the Class Definition above.
LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
RELATION TO RECEPTACLE CLASSES
See References to Other Classes, below, for related
receptacle classes.
RELATION TO SUPPORT CLASSES:
In general, as between the receptacle classes and the support
classes, the receptacle classes provide for the combination
of a receptacle plus support; except, the support classes
will accept a claim to a support combined with a receptacle,
wherein the claim (1) nominally recites the receptacles, or
(2) recites only so much of the receptacle structure as is
needed to cooperate with the support, or (3) recites only
those receptacle features which have been modified
specifically to cooperate with the support. See related
support classes in the References to Other Classes, below.
RELATION TO HEAT TRANSFER CLASSES:
(A) Related Classes. See References to Other Classes, for
related heat transfer classes
(B) Bag Feature Summary "Common" hot water or ice bag, whose
contents are intended to be removed before the bag is reused.
Class 383, Flexible Bags. See References to Other Classes,
for related heat transfer classes with bag feature.
REFERENCES TO OTHER CLASSES
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
5, Beds, for a water bed bag or a pillow.
16, Miscellaneous Hardware, subclasses 110+ for handles,
per se.
24, Buckles, Buttons, Clasps, etc., for fasteners, per se,
particularly subclass 30.5 for a bag fastener, per se, and
subclasses 572+ for a rib and groove fastener.
29, Metal Working, for methods of assembly in general.
40, Card, Picture, or Sign Exhibiting, subclass 299.01 for a
check, label or tag, per se.
52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), subclass 2.11 for
an inflatable building.
55, Gas Separation, subclass 361 for a bag-like filter.
56, Harvesters, subclasses 361+ for a bag-like device
especially adapted for use in gathering fruit or nuts.
62, Refrigeration, subclass 4 for baglike refrigeration
apparatus which produces a refrigeration effect by (1) a
chemical reaction or (2) dissolving a solid in a liquid;
subclass 259.3 for a baglike refrigeration apparatus having
means for attaching it to a living body for the purpose of
cooling it, and not limited to therapeutic use; subclasses
529 and 530 for a baglike refrigeration apparatus in which
the enclosed coolant or refrigerant is disclosed as being for
reuse within the apparatus (e.g., sealed and
refreezable).(related heat transfer class)
62, Refrigeration, subclass 259.3, is the locus of patents
directed to a nontherapeutic ice bag having means to attach
it to the body. (related heat transfer class)
62, Refrigeration, subclass 529 and 530, for cold appliance
which is reusable without removing the coolant. (related heat
transfer class with bag feature)
62, Refrigeration, subclass 259.3. for cold appliance which
is supported on the body but not limited by claimed structure
to therapeutic use. (related heat transfer class with bag
feature)
62, Refrigeration, subclass 4, for cold appliance utilizing
an endothermic process (e.g., chemical reaction, solid
dissolved by or in a liquid, crystallization, etc.) (related
heat transfer class with bag feature)
70, Locks, subclasses 64+ for a bag combined with a lock of
that class type (e.g., key, combination, etc.), wherein the
modification of the bag is only of a character to accommodate
the lock.
73, Measuring and Testing, subclass 863.91 for a sample
holder.
99, Foods and Beverages: Apparatus, subclass 646 for a silo
breather bag.
106, Compositions: Coating or Plastic, for flexible material
of that class type nominally claimed as a bag. This Class,
383, provides for specific material combined with significant
bag structure.
116, Signals and Indicators, subclasses 200+ for
indicators, per se.
119, Animal Husbandry, subclasses 65+ for a feed bag
particularly configured to be employed in feeding an animal.
126, Stoves and Furnaces, subclasses 204+ and subclasses
263.01+ for chemical heaters, and see related heat transfer
classes
128, Surgery, appropriate subclasses, for a hot water or ice
bag combined with claimed structure limited to therapeutic
use. Such structure may for example: (1) Apply substances to
the body; (2) Absorb substances from the body; (3) Permit
insertion into a body cavity, and see related heat transfer
classes.
126, Stoves and Furnaces, subclasses 204+ for a baglike
heating apparatus, which has its own source of heat, and is
used for warming the body, hand, or foot; subclasses 263.01+
for a baglike heating apparatus wherein the source of heat
includes chemicals or chemical compositions which generate
heat without flame when they are (1) brought into contact
with one another or (2) mixed with water. (related heat
transfer class)
126, Stoves and Furnaces, Hot appliance utilizing an
exothermic process (e.g., combustion or other chemical
reaction, solid dissolved by or in a liquid, crystallization,
etc.), in particular subclasses 204+ for body warmers and
subclass 263 for flameless chemical heaters. (related heat
transfer class with bag feature)
128, Surgery, appropriate subclasses (including the
subdivision represented as Class 604) for a hot water or ice
bag limited by claimed structure to therapeutic use. The
structure may, for example, be used to: (1) Apply substances
to the body. (2) Absorb substances from the body. (3) Permit
insertion into a body cavity. (related heat transfer class)
141, Fluent Material Handling, With Receiver or Receiver
Coacting Means, subclass 390 and 391 for a bag having a
separate filling aid which is disclosed as being removable
from the bag when not in use.
150, Purses, Wallets, and Protective Covers, subclasses 100+
for a purse (i.e., a container which is used to carry
personal items, such as money, keys, or identification, on
one's person) and subclasses 154+ for a flaccid protective
cover which is configured for and supported by the article it
protects. Although purses and wallets provided for in Class
150 are also used to transport personal items while
traveling, they customarily remain with or near the person.
(related receptacle class)
150, Purses, Wallets, and Protective Covers, for a purse,
wallet, and coin purse or protective article cover, and see
related receptacle classes.
156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
for adhesive bonding in general and particularly, subclasses
69+ for securing end closure to containers.
165, Heat Exchange, for heat exchange appliance (hot or cold)
having both an inlet and outlet, or a means to circulate a
heat exchange medium, or an appliance utilizing both heating
and cooling. (related heat transfer class with bag feature)
165, Heat Exchange, subclass 46 for a nonrigid bag-like heat
exchange device having an inlet and an outlet for circulating
heat exchange medium, and see related heat transfer classes.
165, Heat Exchange, appropriate subclasses, in particular
subclass 46 for a baglike heat transfer apparatus having
either (1) both an inlet and an outlet disclosed for a
circulating heat exchange medium or (2) means for circulating
a heat exchange medium. (related heat transfer class)
190, Trunks and Hand-Carried Luggage, subclasses 100+ for a
hand carried suitcase, briefcase, or other container which is
used for transporting personal items while traveling. The
suitcases and briefcases provided for in Class 190 normally
remain at one's destination (e.g., hotel or office) after the
traveling has been completed. (related receptacle class)
190, Trunks and Hand-Carried Luggage, for traveling
containers of that type, and see related receptacle classes.
206, Special Receptacle or Package, for a bag having a
specialized use provided for in that class or a bag having
content therein; and see related receptacle classes.
206, Special Receptacle or Package, for a bag having a
specialized use or feature provided for in that class, or a
bag having content therein, and in particular, subclass 69
for a container for a rubber bag (e.g., hot water bottle,
fountain syringe, etc.); subclasses 219+ for a bag which has
been modified to permit mixing of two or more separated
materials therein; subclass 245 for a laminate wall bag
having tobacco therein; subclass 260 for a pouch having
tobacco therein; subclasses 286+ for a bag having an interior
member for supporting an article of clothing and a second
member for attachment to an external support; subclasses
315.1+ for golf bags or arrow quivers; subclasses 363+ for a
bag for a tool employed for medical or dental purposes;
subclass 390 for plural bags connected together and wound
into a roll; subclasses 438+ for a bag for an object or
substance adapted for use in the treatment of wounds or
diseased portions of the body; subclasses 457+ for a bag
having ornamentation or a bag which simulates the appearance
of a disparate object; subclass 459.1 for a bag having an
indicator; subclass 459.5 for a bag having indicia; subclass
466 for a bag attached to a panel and used as an enclosing
cover for a content item; subclasses 484+ for a bag having
content therein and formed by two sheets sealed together
completely around the content; subclass 497 for a bag which
is shrunk around its content; subclasses 521+ for a bag which
includes means for protecting its content against shock;
subclass 524.8 for a bag that has been evacuated; subclasses
525+ for a miscellaneous bag having content therein; subclass
554 for a container for two or more bags; subclass 568 for a
bag adapted to contain two or more separate, particular
materials disclosed for commingling externally of the bag;
subclass 620 for a bag for an electrical component which is
made of static electricity shielding material; subclass 802
for a cross-reference art collection of shirred casings.
(related receptacle class)
206, Special Receptacle and Package, subclasses 219+ for
other types of compartmented containers disclosed as
permitting commingling of two or more initially separated
materials. (related heat transfer class)
206, Special Receptacle and Package, subclasses 219+ for
other types of compartmented containers disclosed as
permitting commingling of two or more initially separated
materials. (related heat transfer class)
210, Liquid Purification or Separation, subclasses 348+ for
a filter bag of that class type.
211, Supports: Racks, subclasses 126+ for a bag embodied as
regular parts of a rack, and see related support classes.
211, Supports: Racks, for a built-up open framework for
supporting a plurality of bags. (related support class)
215, Bottles and Jars, subclass 400 for plastic bottles, and
subclass 11.1 for a bag used as a nursing bottle liner, and
see related receptacle classes.
215, Bottles and Jars, subclass 400 for a plastic bottle and
subclasses 11.1+ for a bag used as a nursing bottle liner.
(related receptacle class)
220, Receptacles, subclass 495.06 for a bag which is a
separable liner combined with a rigid receptacle, and
subclass 62.21 for a receptacle having multi-layer walls
including a permanent bag lining and see related receptacle
classes.
220, Receptacles, subclass 9.1 and 9.4+ for a bag united
with a three-dimensional self-sustaining framework,
subclasses 495.06+ for a bag which is a separable liner
combined with a rigid receptacle, and subclass 62.21 for a
receptacle having multi-layer walls including a permanent bag
lining. (related receptacle class)
222, Dispensing, subclasses 92+ for a collapsible wall
type, subclasses 206+ for a dispensing supply container
having a resilient wall, subclasses 460+ for a dispensing
container having a funnel-type outlet, subclasses 544+ for a
dispensing supply container having a flow controller for the
discharge outlet, and subclasses 566+ for a dispensing supply
container having a nozzle, spout, or other pouring device.
224, Package and Article Carriers, for a bag having a strap
or other means which is intended for supporting the bag on
the bearer's body while allowing the bearer's hands to remain
free. Any bag of this type is proper for Class 224 even if it
also includes an element which optionally may be gripped by
the bearer's hand. This Class (383) includes bags having
handles which are intended to be grasped by the hand. The
test to be used is: As long as the bearer's hand must remain
occupied in order to carry the bag it is proper for this
Class 383 even if it is also intended to be simultaneously
slung over the bearer's shoulder.
229, Envelopes, Wrappers, and Paperboard Boxes, subclasses
400+ for paper cups and subclasses 68.1+ for envelopes.
(related receptacle class)
229, Envelopes, Wrappers, and Paperboard Boxes, subclasses
400+ for paper cups and see related receptacle classes.
232, Deposit and Collection Receptacles, subclasses 30+ for
a bag which cooperates with a mail collection box, and
subclasses 43.1+ for a bag intended to be filled with content
items one at a time through one opening and intended to be
emptied of its contents all at once through a different
opening.
244, Aeronautics, subclass 31 for aeronautical balloons.
248, Supports, for a device which carries the weight of a bag
or otherwise holds it or steadies it against the pull of
gravity, and in particular, subclasses 95+ for bag holders.
(related support class)
248, Supports, subclasses 95+ for a bag support, per se, or
a bag support combined with a nominally claimed bag, and see
related support classes.
251, Valves and Valve Actuation, for a valve, per se.
252, Compositions, for compositions of that class type
nominally claimed as a bag.
264, Plastic and Nonmetallic Article Shaping or Treating:
Processes, appropriate subclasses, for a process of making a
bag by molding, casting, or shaping.
280, Land Vehicles, appropriate subclasses, for a bag
combined with a wheel.
294, Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements, subclasses
137+ for hand carried article carriers which are not bags,
and subclasses 152+ for a sling-type article carrier.
425, Plastic Article or Earthenware Shaping or Treating:
Apparatus, appropriate subclasses for an apparatus of that
class type which is used to make a bag.
426, Food or Edible Material: Processes, Compositions, and
Products, subclasses 106+ for a bag having food content
therein, and subclass 138 for a bag or casing, per se,
disclosed as being edible.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, appropriate
subclasses, and in particular, subclass 34.1 for stock
material nominally claimed as a bag and subclasses 34.1+ for
an edible food casing having a closed end.
441, Buoys, Rafts, and Aquatic Devices, subclasses 88-125
for an inflatable bag used as a personal flotation device.
446, Amusement Devices: Toys, subclasses 220+ for an
inflatable toy.
454, Ventilation, for ventilation features, per se.
473, Games Using Tangible Projectile, subclasses 569+ for
an inflatable projectile (e.g., a basketball, football,
soccerball, etc.) used in a game or sport.
493, Manufacturing Container or Tube From Paper; Other
Manufacturing From a Sheet or Web, appropriate subclasses,
for a method or apparatus of that class type for making a
bag, and in particular, subclasses 186+ for pliable
container making and subclasses 309+ for container or tube
erecting.
604, Surgery, for other medical or surgical bags, especially
subclass 262 for a medical bag which includes an injection
element which is for insertion into the body, subclass 408
for a bag which is intended solely for storing blood or body
treating fluids, and subclasses 317+ for a bag which is
intended solely for receiving body fluids or waste products
from the body. (related heat transfer class).
607, Surgery: Light, Thermal, and Electrical Application,
subclass 96 is a collecting point for all hot water bags
which have means for attachment to the body and 108 is a
collecting point for those which are specifically configured
for a body part. (related heat transfer class)
607, Surgery: Light, Thermal, and Electrical Application,
subclass 96 for cold appliance (e.g., icebag) limited by
claimed structure to therapeutic use. (related heat transfer
class with bag feature)
607, Surgery: Light, Thermal, and Electrical Application,
subclass 96, for hot appliance (e.g., hot water bag) limited
by claimed structure to therapeutic use. (related heat
transfer class with bag feature)
607, Surgery: Light, Thermal, and Electrical Application
subclasses 108+, for hot appliance supported on the body or
configured to support part of the body, even if not for a
therapeutic use. (related heat transfer class with bag
feature)
SUBCLASSES
Subclass:
1
BIODEGRADABLE FEATURE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein at least a portion of the bag is made of a
material disclosed as being readily decomposable or
disintegratable when exposed to the elements.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
220, Receptacles, Digest 30, for a biodegradable container
not provided for elsewhere.
Subclass:
2
SELECTIVELY ADJUSTABLE VOLUME:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes means which permit the size
of the bag to be optionally changed from one distinct content
holding configuration to another, and back.
(1) Note. To be proper for this subclass the bag must be
capable of being converted back and forth from one volume
configuration to another (i.e., smaller to larger), and
include means for positively maintaining the bag in its
smaller configuration.
(2) Note. Bags provided with means for allowing a one-time
increase in volume to accommodate increased contents are
classified on other features.
(3) Note. Bags which are designed to go from a collapsed,
nonuse configuration to a one-size content holding
configuration are classified on other features.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
190, Trunks and Hand-Carried Luggage, subclasses 103+ for
an article of hand carried luggage having means for changing
the volume.
Subclass:
3
INFLATABLE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag or a portion thereof is disclosed as
being fillable with, and retaining, gas at or above
atmospheric pressure.
(1) Note. The gas can be either the contents of the bag or
gas which is used to inflate a portion of the bag, such as a
wall area.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings), subclass 2.11 for a
structure, or a component thereof, of that class which is
shaped, supported or strengthened by an enclosed fluid, and
see (1) Note. of subclass 2.11 for other locations of
inflatable devices, elements, members, structures, etc.
99, Foods and Beverages: Apparatus, subclass 646 for a silo
breather bag.
244, Aeronautics, subclasses 31+ for lighter-than-air
balloons.
441, Buoys, Rafts, and Aquatic Devices, subclass 125 for an
inflatable baglike device which functions as a personal
flotation device.
446, Amusement Devices: Toys, subclasses 87+ for inflatable
amusement devices and toys.
473, Games Using Tangible Projectile, subclasses 569+ for
an inflatable projectile (e.g., a basketball, football,
soccerball, etc.) used in a game or sport.
Subclass:
4
CONVERTIBLE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag is disclosed as being transformable
into a nonbag device.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
190, Trunks and Hand-Carried Luggage, subclasses 1+ for an
article of luggage which is convertible to or from nonluggage
device.
Subclass:
5
TAMPER INDICATING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes means which reveals that an
unauthorized person has attempted to gain or has gained
access to the bag.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
116, Signals and Indicators, for indicators, per se, which
may be used to indicate tampering.
206, Special Receptacle or Package, subclass 807 for a
cross-reference art collections of tamper resistant
containers.
Subclass:
6
LIFTING OR SUSPENDING ELEMENT (E.G., HANDLE):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes structure designed to
cooperate directly with an unclaimed, extraneous support for
the purpose of pendantly supporting the bag on said support.
(1) Note. "Pendantly supporting" is defined as either
hanging or lifting the bag against the pull of gravity.
(2) Note. An "extraneous support" may be a peg, a hook, a
clothesline, a human hand, etc.
(3) Note. The part of the bag which is deemed to be the
"lifting or suspending element" is always the claimed
structure which engages directly with the unclaimed,
extraneous support.
(4) Note. The claimed combination of a bag with (for
example) a detachable handle or hook, etc., is properly
classified in this or indented subclasses if the handle or
hook is used for engagement with an unclaimed extraneous
support.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
16, Miscellaneous Hardware, subclasses 110+ for a handle,
per se.
190, Trunks and Hand-Carried Luggage, subclass 39 for a
trunk combined with a handle, and subclasses 115+, for an
article of hand carried luggage combined with a handle.
Subclass:
7
Unitary with bag (e.g., element formed by hand hole):
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein the lifting or suspending element is one piece with
the bag.
(1) Note. Structure combined with, and reinforcing, a
unitary lifting or suspending element is included here.
Subclass:
8
Loop extending between opposite walls:
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Subject matter
wherein the unitary lifting or suspending element is a strip
of bag material which is connected at its ends to two opposed
portions of the peripheral wall, e.g., front and rear walls.
Subclass:
9
Bag material includes aperture for rodlike support:
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes an opening in the material thereof,
which opening is by disclosure to receive a slender,
elongated, cylindrically-shaped support or like element.
(1) Note. A bag which includes a plurality of openings, each
of which is sized to receive a rodlike support, is classified
here.
(2) Note. The "lifting or suspending element" is considered
to be that part of the bag, above the hand opening, which is
engaged by the hand.
(3) Note. A bag having a slit which defines the perimeter of
a flap which can be folded out of the plane of the bag wall
to form an aperture is proper for this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
7 for a bag having a unitary folded portion which can
receive a rodlike support under the fold.
10 for a bag which includes an opening sized to receive more
than one finger.
Subclass:
10
Bag material includes hand-receiving aperture:
This subclass is indented under subclass 7. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes an opening in the bag material which
is intended, by disclosure, to receive a hand.
(1) Note. A bag having an opening which is sized to receive
more than one finger but not a whole hand is classified
here.
(2) Note. The "lifting or suspending element" is considered
to be that part of the bag, above the hand opening, which is
engaged by the hand.
(3) Note. A bag having a slit which defines the perimeter of
a flap which can be folded out of the plane of the bag wall
to form an aperture is proper for this subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
9 for similar subject matter wherein an aperture is sized to
receive only one finger.
Subclass:
11
Magnetic or adhesive-type element (includes
Velcro&4121;):
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein the lifting or suspending element is attached to the
extraneous support by an adhesive, Velcro&4121; or
magnetic-type coupling.
(1) Note. The bag is normally easily removed from the
support.
Subclass:
12
Attached to bag frame:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein the lifting or suspending element is connected to a
rigid element or plurality of elements which form a closed
geometrical configuration and maintain part of the bag in a
given configuration, e.g., mouth frame.
Subclass:
13
Detachable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
including means permitting the element to be removed from the
bag.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
190, Trunks and Hand-Carried Luggage, subclass 116 for an
article of hand carried luggage combined with a detachable
handle.
Subclass:
14
With provision for positioning element in nonuse location:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein the bag or the lifting or suspending element is
provided with specified means which maintains the lifting or
suspending element in a given position or configuration from
which (or out of which)it must be at least partially moved or
removed before it can function as a handle.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
D3, Travel Goods and Personal Belongings, subclass 72 for a
design patent for a container having a recessed handle which
extends to an operative position.
Subclass:
15
Plural interengaging elements:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein at least two lifting or suspending elements include
means which hold them together during the lifting or
suspending function.
(1) Note. A bag having two lifting or suspending elements
which are merely grasped simultaneously with one hand are
classified on other features.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
25 for a single lifting or suspending loop which passes
through a smaller loop to close the bag mouth.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
190, Trunks and Hand-Carried Luggage, subclass 117 for an
article of hand carried luggage combined with a handle having
plural interengaging elements.
Subclass:
16
Plural elements located at diverse bag regions (i.e., bag
bottom, bag middle, and/or bag top):
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein at least two lifting or suspending elements are
provided, each of which has a gripping portion which is
located at a different bag area from the other.
(1) Note. For purposes of this definition a bag is
considered to have three distinct areas or regions: The bag
top being located at or adjacent the access opening, the bag
bottom being opposite the bag top, and the bag middle being
in between the top and bottom.
Subclass:
17
Including reinforcement or stress distribution means attached
to or adjacent element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein the bag or element includes structure which enhances
the transfer of the bag load to the lifting or suspending
element.
(1) Note. Included in this and indented subclasses are
arrangements that: (1) Strengthen the attachment of the
element to the bag, (frequently by increasing the area of
contact or reinforcing that area) and/or (2) effectively
extend the handle down the sides of the bag or completely
under the bag bottom (either as an extension of the handle
material itself or as a reinforced strip).
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 7+ for similar features combined with a unitary
element.
903 for stress relief features not involving the lifting or
suspending element.
Subclass:
18
Extending across bag bottom:
This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Subject matter
wherein the element either traverses, or is attached to a
reinforcing means which traverses, the bottom of the bag.
(1) Note. The reinforcement or stress distribution means may
be located either inside or outside the bag.
Subclass:
19
Extending axially through bag interior to bag bottom:
This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Subject matter
wherein an elongated member extends centrally through the
inside of the bag and is attached to the bag at a plurality
of vertically spaced places at least one of which is at or
adjacent the bottom.
Subclass:
20
Additional layer of material at element attachment location:
This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Subject matter
wherein the reinforcement or stress distribution means is an
additional layer of material at the place of attachment of
the lifting or suspending element.
(1) Note. The reinforcement or stress distribution means may
be a folded section of bag material.
Subclass:
21
Attached to distinct end wall:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein the lifting or suspending element is attached to an
end of the bag which has clearly discernible boundaries,
e.g., fold lines.
Subclass:
22
Hanging element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein the element, by disclosure, is used for suspending
the bag from an inanimate, usually stationary support.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 7+ for a bag having a hanging element which is
unitary therewith.
Subclass:
23
Hook-type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter
wherein the suspending element is bent or curved to form an
open-sided geometrical configuration with the open side
facing generally downwardly.
Subclass:
24
Closed loop:
This subclass is indented under subclass 22. Subject matter
wherein the suspending element includes a double-over
portion, the ends of which are secured to one another and the
bag.
Subclass:
25
Single element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 6. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes only one lifting or suspending
element.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 7+ for a bag having a single element which is
unitary therewith.
Subclass:
26
Bag includes opening through bag material to receive
element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 25. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes a gap or hole in the material
thereof which is adapted to receive the lifting or suspending
element.
Subclass:
27
Opening extending through fold or folded bag portion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 26. Subject matter
wherein part of the bag is folded along a fold line, and a
gap or hole adapted to receive the lifting or suspending
element is located within the fold.
Subclass:
28
Secured to bag interior:
This subclass is indented under subclass 25. Subject matter
wherein the element is attached to the inside portion of the
bag.
Subclass:
29
Straddles bag mouth:
This subclass is indented under subclass 25. Subject matter
wherein the lifting or suspending element extends across the
access opening and has portions which overlap the exterior of
opposed peripheral wall portions.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
8 for a lifting or suspending element which straddles the
bag mouth and is unitary with the bag.
Subclass:
30
Secured to folded bag closure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 25. Subject matter
wherein the element is attached to a portion of the bag which
is foldable or has been folded to close the bag mouth.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 88+ for bags that are closed by the folding wall
portions on a common fold line.
Subclass:
31
Closure flap:
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Subject matter
wherein the folded bag portion includes a piece of bag
material which extends from one bag wall across the access
opening, and overlies a portion of the opposed bag wall when
the bag mouth is closed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 84+ for a closure flap, per se.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
190, Trunks and Hand-Carried Luggage, subclass 902 for a
brief case having a closure flap.
Subclass:
32
WITH STACKING FEATURE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes means to aid in maintaining
the relative position of it and at least one other bag, one
on top of the other.
(1) Note. Included herein is a bag whose exterior surface is
made to be tacky to provide slip resistance between it and a
vertically positioned bag.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
206, Special Receptacle or Package, subclasses 503+ for
special receptacles or packages of that class type having
structural features or vertical stacking of similar
receptacles.
Subclass:
33
WITH MEANS TO MAINTAIN THE BAG MOUTH IN A OPEN
CONFIGURATION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter including means associated with the bag access opening
to hold it open during insertion or removal of bag contents.
(1) Note. Included here are reinforcing elements around the
bag mouth to maintain it in a given geometrical shape during
filling.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
43 for resilient closing means. 104, for free-standing bags
which may inherently provide open mouths but do not have
means specifically associated with the bag mouths.
119 for other bag wall reinforcements.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
141, Fluent Material Handling, With Receiver or Receiver
Coacting Means, subclass 390 and 391 for a bag having a
separate filling aid which is disclosed as being removable
from the bag when not in use.
190, Trunks and Hand-Carried Luggage, subclass 106 for an
article of hand carried luggage having means to bias the
luggage mouth into an open configuration.
Subclass:
34
Hinged mouth stiffeners:
This subclass is indented under subclass 33. Subject matter
wherein the access opening includes reinforcing elements
which are articulated to one another.
Subclass:
34.1
Stiffeners include four or more hinged segments:
This subclass is indented under subclass 34. Subject matter
including four or more reinforcing elements articulated at
four or more joints.
Subclass:
35
WITH MEANS TO FACILITATE MANUAL SEPARATION OF FLATTENED BAG
WALLS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes means which air in separating
flatten peripheral wall portions from one another by hand.
(1) Note. Tabs or other elements which are grasped for the
purpose of pulling apart closure elements (e.g., rib and
groove elements) are classified with the particular closure.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
33 for means which maintain the access opening in the open
position.
73 for a bag having a drawstring-type securing element and a
mouth opening aid.
Subclass:
36
WITH INTEGRAL FUNNEL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag mouth is surrounded by tapered
structure, usually cone shaped, which directs a flow of
material into the bag.
(1) Note. The tapered structure must be permanently attached
to the bag.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
141, Fluent Material Handling, With Receiver or Receiver
Coacting Means, for a bag having a separate filling aid which
is designed to be removed from the bag when not in use.
Subclass:
37
PLURAL:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter comprising more than one bag.
(1) Note. Plural bags connected together or to a common
element are included herein if they are separable and
independently usable.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
38 for a bag having more than one compartment, or plural
bags permanently attached to a common support or to each
other.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
206, Special Receptacle or Package, subclass 390 for plural
bags connected in series in roll form and subclass 554 for a
package of plural bags.
Subclass:
38
COMPARTMENTED:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes means forming two content
holding sections which are separated from one another.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
190, Trunks and Hand-Carried Luggage, subclasses 109+ for a
compartmented article of hand carried luggage.
206, Special Receptacle or Package, subclasses 219+ for a
compartmented bag designed to permit mixing of separated
materials, subclass 216 for a compartmented bag for two or
more diverse articles or materials, and subclass 568 for a
bag for two or more separate, particular materials disclosed
for commingling externally of the bag.
Subclass:
39
Compartment-forming member secured to backing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 38. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes a first planar element seamed to a
second element at three or more spaced locations in order to
form compartments between adjacent seams.
Subclass:
40
Including auxiliary compartment:
This subclass is indented under subclass 38. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes a main or primary bag section or
compartment and another, secondary compartment.
(1) Note. The main compartment must be either significantly
larger than the auxiliary or disclosed as a main or primary
compartment.
(2) Note. The auxiliary compartment is usually designed to
receive contents which are different from those received by
the main compartment.
Subclass:
41
WITH PLURAL ACCESS OPENINGS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein two or more openings in the bag are claimed
which are independently usable for insertion or removal of
content.
(1) Note. A portion of the bag, presently sealed, which is
claimed as a past opening (e.g., filling) or future opening
(e.g., emptying) is considered to be an opening for this
subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
61 for multiple independent closures for a single access
opening.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
190, Trunks and Hand-Carried Luggage, subclass 112 for an
article of hand carried luggage having more than one access
opening.
Subclass:
42
WITH CLOSURE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes means for preventing
insertion or removal of content through the same access
opening.
(1) Note. Where the closure for the access opening (e.g.,
top) and end structure (e.g., bottom) are not
distinguishable, the reference is classified hereunder.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
121 for end structure which does not close the access
opening.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
24, Buckles, Buttons, Clasps, etc., subclass 30.5 for a bag
closure, per se.
Subclass:
43
Self-closing type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein the closure functions to close the access opening
without manual manipulation.
(1) Note. A claimed bag closure which is inherently
self-closing is classified hereunder.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
33 for means to maintain the bag mouth in an open
configuration which may also be self-closing.
103 for bag vents having closures.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
206, Special Receptacle on Package, subclass 260 and 266 for
tobacco containing pouches which may be self-closing.
Subclass:
44
Responsive to content (e.g., valve):
This subclass is indented under subclass 43. Subject matter
wherein the weight or pressure of the content forces the
closure into its closed configuration.
(1) Note. A claimed bag closure which inherently closed by
the content (i.e., valve bag) is classified in this and
indented subclasses.
Subclass:
45
With vent:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Subject matter
wherein the bag further includes means for relieving any
pressure differential between the bag interior and exterior.
(1) Note. A bag having a vent which allows the escape of air
while the bag is being filled is classified here.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 100+ for a nonvalve bag with a vent.
Subclass:
46
With closure reinforcing or stiffening means:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Subject matter
wherein the bag closure includes means for increasing its
strength or rigidity.
Subclass:
47
With means to facilitate opening closure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Subject matter
wherein the bag is provided with means which aid in opening
the closure during filling.
Subclass:
48
With supplemental closing feature:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes means which, in addition to the
weight or pressure of the content, aid in closing the access
opening.
(1) Note. The supplemental feature may be a unitary part of
the closing means.
Subclass:
49
Resilient:
This subclass is indented under subclass 48. Subject matter
wherein the closure is elastically biased toward the closed
condition.
(1) Note. The elasticity may be an inherent property of the
closure, per se.
Subclass:
50
Reversely folded portion of closure element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 48. Subject matter
wherein the supplemental closing feature comprises a portion
of the closure which is intended to be folded upon the
remainder thereof.
Subclass:
51
Slit or slot:
This subclass is indented under subclass 48. Subject matter
wherein an elongated cut or opening extends through the
material of the closure for the purpose of increasing its
flexibility to enhance closing.
Subclass:
52
Adhesive:
This subclass is indented under subclass 48. Subject matter
wherein the supplemental closing feature is an adherent.
Subclass:
53
In distinct end wall:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Subject matter
wherein the closure is located in an end of the bag, said end
having clearly discernible boundaries e.g., fold lines.
Subclass:
54
Including separate closure element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 53. Subject matter
wherein the closure includes an initially separate member
which has been secured to the bag.
Subclass:
55
Folded bag corner:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Subject matter
wherein the closure includes a portion of the bag which is
bounded on two sides by intersecting bag edges and has been
doubled over.
Subclass:
56
Including separate closure element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Subject matter
wherein the closure includes an initially separate member
which has been secured to the bag.
Subclass:
57
Closure includes inwardly folded bag wall portions:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Subject matter
wherein the closure comprises two parts of the peripheral
wall which have been folded into the bag interior and which
form opposing portions of the periphery of the bag mouth.
Subclass:
58
Overlying access opening in bag material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 44. Subject matter
wherein the closure element covers a slit or hole in the bag
through which the bag is intended to be filled or emptied.
Subclass:
59
Including auxiliary means for forming leakproof closure
seal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes means, in addition to the closure,
for preventing the ingress of gas or liquid, or egress of bag
contents around the element.
Subclass:
60
Annular gasket:
This subclass is indented under subclass 59. Subject matter
wherein the auxiliary means is a distinct sealing ring
interposed between the closure and the bag.
Subclass:
61
Multiple independent closures for single access opening:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein a single access opening includes more than one
closure element, each of which is capable of closing the
access opening by itself.
Subclass:
62
With provision for positioning closure element in nonuse
location:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes specified means for maintaining the
closure element in a given position or configuration from
which (or out of which) it must be at least partially moved
or removed before it can function as a closure.
Subclass:
63
Rib and groove:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein the closure includes a projection which is integral
with and extends along at least a portion of the opening and
which interlocks with a mating recess extending along an
opposite portion of the opening.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
24, Buckles, Buttons, Clasps, etc., subclasses 588+ for rib
and groove elements, per se.
Subclass:
64
With sliding element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes an element which straddles the rib
and groove closing means and is slideable there along for the
purpose of pressing or holding the rib and groove in
interlocking relationship.
Subclass:
65
Including means to facilitate disengagement:
This subclass is indented under subclass 63. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes means (e.g., pull tabs) which aid in
the separation of the rib and groove during opening of the
bag.
Subclass:
66
For access opening in sidewall:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein the peripheral wall of the bag includes an access
opening which can be closed by the closure.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
190, Trunks and Hand-Carried Luggage, subclass 113 for an
article of hand carried luggage having a closure panel struck
from the luggage wall.
Subclass:
67
For access opening in bag bottom:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein the part of the bag which is lowermost during normal
usage thereof is provided with an access opening which can be
closed by the closure.
Subclass:
68
Elongated clamping elements:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein the closure includes two, essentially rigid members
which extend substantially completely along the opposite
sides of the bag mouth with means cooperating with the
members to press or hold the bag mouth shut.
(1) Note. The members can be separate bars or opposed
portions of a one piece clip.
(2) Note. The clamping action must perform the closing
function not merely secure the closing means to the bag.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
905 for ductile clamp-like devices.
Subclass:
69
Sliding:
This subclass is indented under subclass 68. Subject matter
wherein the closure includes an element which slides relative
to, and in engagement with bag material in order to effect
bag closure.
Subclass:
70
Twisted bag mouth:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
having means to facilitate closing the bag by turning a
portion of the bag so as to form a spiral.
Subclass:
71
Gathered bag mouth:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
having means whereby the material surrounding the access
opening is "bunched-up" together to close the opening.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
96 for a plug-type closure which may have the bag mouth
gathered about it.
Subclass:
72
Including drawstring-type securing element:
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Subject matter
wherein the bag mouth is gathered together by a cord or
beltlike element.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
D3, Travel Goods, and Personal Belongings, and Storage or
Carrying Articles, subclass 41 for design patents for cases
having drawstrings.
Subclass:
73
With mouth opening aid:
This subclass is indented under subclass 72. Subject matter
wherein means is provided to facilitate the opening of the
bag after it has been closed by the drawstring.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
35 for a bar having means to facilitate manual separation of
flattened bag walls.
Subclass:
74
With means to maintaining the securing element in closed
configuration:
This subclass is indented under subclass 72. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes means which retards or prevent the
drawstring from returning to its open-bag configuration after
it has been used to close the bag.
Subclass:
75
In bag hem:
This subclass is indented under subclass 72. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes a folded portion of bag material
which has been secured to the peripheral wall around the
access opening and wherein the drawstring extends between the
folded portion and the bag wall.
Subclass:
76
Through bag openings:
This subclass is indented under subclass 72. Subject matter
wherein the drawstring extends through holes in the bag
material or interstices of its weave and alternates between
the interior and exterior of the bag.
Subclass:
77
Securing element consisting of unitary bag portion:
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Subject matter
wherein the closing means includes an element which is of
"one-piece" with the bag.
Subclass:
78
Including separate closure element for straddling bag mouth
(i.e., overlaps exterior portions of opposed bag walls):
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein the closure includes an initially unattached element
which is disclosed as being for directly overlying the access
opening and overlapping the exterior or opposed peripheral
wall portions when the bag is closed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
84 for a bag with a similar closure which does not straddle
(i.e., overlap exterior portions of) the mouth.
88 for a bag closed by folding or rolling the bag walls
together and then securing it by means of an element secured
to two opposing bag walls.
Subclass:
79
Including securing element designed to extend through aligned
openings in closure element (e.g., stitching):
This subclass is indented under subclass 78. Subject matter
wherein element extends through aligned holes in opposed
portions of the closure element (or interstices in the weave)
when the bag mouth is closed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
903 for similar subject matter which is designed to relieve
stress at particular locations of a bag.
Subclass:
80
Cap-type:
This subclass is indented under subclass 78. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes a closure element which is designed
to overlie the access opening and has a depending skirt to
flange which is designed to surround the mouth and to overlap
adjacent areas of the peripheral wall.
(1) Note. This subclass does not include bags having access
openings whose walls are flattened together before being
covered.
Subclass:
81
Reusable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 76. Subject matter
wherein the closure element can be used to close the bag more
than once.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
80 for a reusable cap-type closure element.
86 for similar subject matter for a flap type closure which
does not straddle the bag mouth (i.e., overlap exterior
portions).
Subclass:
82
Bag walls designed to be rolled together or folded on common
fold line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 81. Subject matter
wherein opposing portions of the peripheral bag wall (e.g.,
front and rear walls are either doubled-over along the same
line or curled up together when the bag mouth is closed.
Subclass:
83
Bag walls designed to be rolled together or folded on common
fold line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 78. Subject matter
wherein opposing portions of the peripheral bag wall are
either doubled-over along the same line or are curled up
together when the bag mouth is closed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
85 for similar subject matter involving a closure flap which
does not straddle (i.e., overlap exterior portions of) the
bag mouth.
88 for bags which are closed by folding the bag walls along
a common fold line but do not have an element straddling the
access opening.
Subclass:
84
Including closure flap which overlaps sidewall exterior when
closed:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein the closure comprises a piece of material which
extends from one bag wall, across the access opening, and
overlies a portion of the opposed wall when the bag mouth is
in the closed configuration.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
78 for a bag having a closure flap which straddles (i.e.,
overlaps exterior portions of) the bag mouth.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
224, Package and Article Carriers, subclasses 236+ for an
article receiver of that class type having a closure flap.
Subclass:
85
Bag walls designed to be rolled together or folded on common
fold line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Subject matter
wherein opposing peripheral wall portions are either doubled
over along the same line or are curled up together when the
bag mouth is closed.
Subclass:
86
Reusable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Subject matter
wherein the closure flap can be used to close the bag mouth
more than once.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
85 for a bag which has an openable closure flap as well as
bag walls which are designed to be rolled together or folded
on a common fold line.
Subclass:
86.1
Including fastening element removably extending through
aperture in bag material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Subject matter
including a securing member having an element which passes
through a hole in the bag material adjacent the bag mouth to
keep it closed.
Subclass:
86.2
Aperture extends through closure flap:
This subclass is indented under subclass 86.1. Subject matter
wherein the hole in the bag material is located in the
closure flap.
Subclass:
87
Flap side edges permanently secured to bag (e.g., sandwich
bag type):
This subclass is indented under subclass 86. Subject matter
wherein the sides of the flap are permanently secured to and
extend along the bag walls so as to hold the flap in
overlapped position with respect to the peripheral bag wall.
Subclass:
88
Bag walls designed to be rolled together or folded on common
fold line:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein opposing portions of the peripheral bag wall (e.g.,
front and rear walls) are either doubled-over along the same
line or are curled up together when the bag mouth is closed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
82 for bags which are closed by a closure element which
straddles the access opening and which have their bag walls
folded on a common fold line or rolled together.
Subclass:
89
With separate securing element for roll or fold:
This subclass is indented under subclass 88. Subject matter
including means additional to and distinct from bag material,
for maintaining the rolled or folded portions of the bag
walls in position when the bag is closed.
(1) Note. The "additional" means may be, for example, an
adhesive.
Subclass:
90
Element extends substantially 180 or more around roll or
fold:
This subclass is indented under subclass 89. Subject matter
wherein the securing element is folded approximately 180 or
more around the rolled or folded bag walls.
Subclass:
91
Element extends around side edge:
This subclass is indented under subclass 90. Subject matter
wherein the securing element is folded around a lateral bag
edge in a direction which is generally parallel with the
extent of the bag mouth.
Subclass:
92
Including securing element designed to extend through aligned
openings in bag material (e.g., stitching):
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein an element extends through aligned holes in opposed
portions of the peripheral wall (or interstices of its weave)
when the bag mouth is closed.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 71+ for similar subject matter which gathers the
bag mouth.
79 for similar subject matter wherein the securing element
additionally extends through a separate closure element.
Subclass:
93
Closure within bag:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein the means for closing the access opening is located
inside the bag peripheral walls.
(1) Note. The closure means may be either a separate element
or an integral connection between bag walls, e.g., heat
seal.
Subclass:
94
Heat seal:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Subject matter
wherein the closure includes portions of bag material which
have been welded together.
Subclass:
95
Reusable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 93. Subject matter
wherein the closure can be used to close the bag more than
once.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
81 and 86, for reusable closures which straddle or fold
across the bag mouth, respectively.
Subclass:
96
Stopper or plug:
This subclass is indented under subclass 95. Subject matter
wherein the closure is a plug or stopper type.
Subclass:
97
Zipper:
This subclass is indented under subclass 95. Subject matter
wherein the closure comprises a plurality of complementary,
interlocking hook members which cooperate with a slider or
runner which functions to interconnect or separate the hook
members.
Subclass:
98
Overlapped flaps:
This subclass is indented under subclass 42. Subject matter
wherein the closure includes at least two flaps which overlap
one another when the bag mouth is closed.
(1) Note. The flaps are usually folded portions of the
peripheral wall.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
125 for a bag end structure comprising overlapped flaps.
Subclass:
99
Reusable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 98. Subject matter
wherein the flaps can be used to close the bag more than
once.
Subclass:
100
WITH VENTING OR VENTILATION MEANS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag comprises either (1) means for
relieving positive or negative pressure inside the bag (or
bag structure), or (2) means which allow circulation of fluid
(e.g., air) into and out of the bag.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
45 for a bag having a content responsive closure and a
vent.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
55, Gas Separation, subclass 429 and Digest 2 for vacuum
cleaner bags.
220, Receptacles, subclass 203.01 for a receptacle closure
comprising a pressure responsive vent or valve.
Subclass:
101
Fluid circulates between bag plies:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein the vented fluid travels, at least in part, between
two layers of a multi-layer bag.
Subclass:
102
Previous material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein the element or elements through which the venting or
ventilating function is effected are made from a material
which is permeable to the vented fluid.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
103 for a bag having a venting or ventilating opening which
is not a pore or interstice of the material through which the
vented fluid passes.
Subclass:
103
Opening in bag material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 100. Subject matter
wherein the vented fluid passes through an aperture or slit
in the bag.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 43+ for a valve bag, which is filled or emptied
through the opening.
102 for bags which are vented or ventilated through the
permeable material, (i.e., passes through pores or
interstices of the material).
Subclass:
104
FREE-STANDING:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter including means to maintain the bag in an upright
configuration.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
33 for bags having means which specifically maintain the bag
mouth in an open configuration (i.e., more than the
incidental result of being free-standing).
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
220, Receptacles, subclass 9.1 and 9.4 for a bag united with
a three-dimensional self-sustaining framework, and subclasses
495.06+ for a removable bag combined with a support, wherein
the bag is more than nominally claimed.
248, Supports, subclass 95 for a bag support, per se, or a
removable bag support combined with a bag, wherein the claim
(1) nominally recites the bag, (2) recites only those bag
features necessary to cooperate specifically with the
support, or (3) recited only those bag features which have
been modified specifically to cooperate with the support.
Subclass:
105
WALL DETAILS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the peripheral side wall includes a specified
feature.
(1) Note. The mere recitation of, for example, a "sidewall"
or "wall panel" is not considered to be a specified feature.
Subclass:
106
Transparent portion or window:
This subclass is indented under subclass 105. Subject matter
wherein the peripheral wall is provided with means for
viewing a portion of the bag content.
(1) Note. A "window" may be nothing more than an aperture
through the bag material.
Subclass:
107
Specified seam structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 105. Subject matter
including details of a joint which connects two parts of the
peripheral wall.
(1) Note. The mere recitation of a "seam" or "connection" is
not included here.
Subclass:
108
Waterproof:
This subclass is indented under subclass 107. Subject matter
wherein the seam is constructed so as to prevent the passage
of liquid through it.
Subclass:
109
Multi-layer or ply:
This subclass is indented under subclass 105. Subject matter
wherein the bag material includes more than one layer of
material over substantially the entire surface area of the
bag.
(1) Note. A coating is considered to be a "layer" or "ply".
Subclass:
110
Insulated:
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Subject matter
wherein one of the layers is designed to retard the transfer
of heat therethrough.
Subclass:
111
Removable ply:
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Subject matter
wherein provision is made to allow one of the layers to be
separated from another.
Subclass:
112
Stretchable layer or ply:
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Subject matter
wherein one of the layers is designed to be extended.
(1) Note. A stretchable material may be either elastic or
inelastic.
Subclass:
113
Barrier layer or ply (e.g., waterproof):
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Subject matter
wherein one of the plies prevents a specified substance from
penetrating it.
Subclass:
114
Including specified end structure:
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Subject matter
including details of the bag bottom.
Subclass:
115
Overlapping extension formed by cuts in bag wall:
This subclass is indented under subclass 114. Subject matter
wherein portions of the peripheral wall located opposite one
another, can be folded so as to partially lie one over the
other; and wherein one of the portions is formed by a pair of
slits or slots.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
126 for similar end structure where the bag wall is formed
of a single layer of ply.
Subclass:
116
Coating or lamination:
This subclass is indented under subclass 109. Subject matter
wherein at least two layers are substantially coextensively
bonded to one another.
Subclass:
117
Woven or mesh-type material:
This subclass is indented under subclass 105. Subject matter
wherein the bag is made from a material which is formed from
interengaged or interconnected strands.
Subclass:
118
Stretchable:
This subclass is indented under subclass 105. Subject matter
wherein the bag wall material is designed to be extended.
(1) Note. A stretchable material may be either elastic or
inelastic.
Subclass:
119
Reinforced:
This subclass is indented under subclass 105. Subject matter
wherein the peripheral wall of the bag includes means which
strengthen or stiffen it.
(1) Note. This subclass is not intended to be a complete
collection of reinforced bags. Therefore, search the
appropriate preceding subclass for a bag having a
reinforcement located in or on a particular element which is
provided for in that subclass.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
104 for a free standing bag having a reinforced peripheral
wall.
Subclass:
120
Pleated or gusseted:
This subclass is indented under subclass 105. Subject matter
wherein a portion of the peripheral side wall is doubled over
or folded.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, subclass 118.1 for an open
ended casing which is not disclosed as being edible.
206, Special Receptacle or Package, subclass 802 for a
Cross-Reference Art Collection of shirred casings.
426, Food or Edible Material: Processes, Compositions, and
Products, subclasses 106+ for a casing containing food, and
subclasses 138+ for a casing, either closed or open ended,
which is disclosed as being edible.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclass 35.1
for an inedible food casing having a closed end.
Subclass:
121
END STRUCTURE (E.G. BOTTOM):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes a specified feature of the
closed end.
Subclass:
121.1
Rigid bottom:
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter
wherein the bag bottom is made of stiff, inflexible
material.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
220, Receptacles, subclass 904 for a cross- reference art
collection of buckets and pails.
Subclass:
122
Seamless:
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter
wherein the bag bottom is a continuous, unitary segment of
two opposing peripheral wall portions.
(1) Note. While no seams are used to form the bottom, other
portions of the bag may be secured to it by seams.
Subclass:
123
Formed by folding bag walls on common fold line and joining
together:
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter
wherein the bag bottom is formed by initially doubling over
opposed bag walls along a common fold line and securing
(e.g., gluing) them together.
Subclass:
124
Foldable to form distinct end wall:
This subclass is indented under subclass 123. Subject matter
wherein the bag bottom has areas which can be overlapped to
produce a discernible bottom wall.
Subclass:
125
Overlapping extensions of opposed walls:
This subclass is indented under subclass 121. Subject matter
wherein portions of the peripheral wall located opposite one
another can be folded so as to partially lay over one
another.
Subclass:
126
Extension formed by cuts in bag wall:
This subclass is indented under subclass 125. Subject matter
wherein one of the overlapping extensions is disclosed as
being formed by a pair of slits or slots in the peripheral
wall.
Subclass:
127
MISCELLANEOUS:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter comprising a bag not provided for else where.
Subclass:
200
BAG HAVING MEANS TO FACILITATE OPENING IT BY SEVERING BAG
MATERIAL OR BAG PART (E.G., TEARING, CUTTING, PIERCING,
ETC.):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes means which facilitate
forming an access opening by splitting or puncturing the bag
material or a bag part.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
229, Envelopes, Wrappers, and Paperboard Boxes, subclass
87.05 for a wrapper having severing means, subclasses 307+
for an envelope with severing means, and subclass 210 for a
box having a closure secured by a releasable or frangible
bond.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclass 43
for a sheet, web, or layer which has been weakened to
facilitate tearing and subclasses 131+, particularly subclass
136, for sheet material having slits or apertures.
Subclass:
201
Tearing facilitated by specified fiber or molecular
orientation:
This subclass is indented under subclass 200. Subject matter
wherein the bag material or an attached tearing means
includes either filaments or molecules arranged in a
particular way to make it easier to tear open the bag.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
908 for an art collection of bags made from material having
a specified grain direction or molecular orientation.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
229, Envelopes, Wrappers, and Paperboard Boxes, subclass 205
for a box having a specified fiber or molecular orientation.
428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, subclasses
105+ for grain, strips, or filamentary elements in
respective layers, or components in angular relation,
subclass 114 for grain, strips, or filamentary elements in
different layers, or components in parallel relation, and
subclass 910 for a cross-reference art collection of products
made from material having molecular orientation.
Subclass:
202
Combined with, or modified for opening by, a sharp-edged
cutting implement or a piercing implement:
This subclass is indented under subclass 200. Subject matter
combined with, or modified for opening by, an instrument
having a keen edge or a fine point.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
205 for a bag having a separate tearing element (e.g., tear
string) which is gripped and pulled to open the bag.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
30, Cutlery, for a cutting implement, per se.
220, Receptacles, subclasses 277+ for a closure having
cutting, punching, or cutter-accommodating means.
221, Article Dispensing, subclasses 31+ for a dispensing
means having a cutter or punch for forming an outlet
opening.
222, Dispensing, subclasses 81+ for a dispensing means
having a cutter or punch for forming a dispensing opening in
a container.
229, Envelopes, Wrappers, and Paperboard Boxes, subclass 204
for a box combined with, or modified for opening by, a
cutting implement, and subclass 308 for an envelope combined
with, or modified for opening by, a cutting implement.
Subclass:
203
Including means for reclosing the bag:
This subclass is indented under subclass 200. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes structure for closing it after it
has been opened.
Subclass:
204
Including a bag portion which is completely separated from
the bag during tearing (e.g., tear strip)
This subclass is indented under subclass 203. Subject matter
wherein the bag is torn open by detaching part of the bag
from the remainder of the bag.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
209 for a bag having a line of weakness which delineates
substantially the entire tearing path and having a portion
which is completely separated during tearing.
Subclass:
205
Including a separate tearing element which is gripped and
pulled to open the bag:
This subclass is indented under subclass 200. Subject matter
wherein the opening means includes a member which is not of
one-piece construction with the bag but is attached to it and
is manually grasped and drawn away from the bag during
tearing.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
215, Bottles and Jars, subclasses 254+ for a bottle or jar
closure which is opened by pulling a separate tearing
element.
220, Receptacles, subclasses 279+ for a closure which is
opened by pulling a separate tearing element.
229, Envelopes, Wrappers, and Paperboard Boxes, subclasses
238+ for a box which is openable by pulling a separate
tearing element and subclasses 309+ for an envelope which is
openable by pulling a separate tearing element.
Subclass:
206
Cord, string, wire, or thread:
This subclass is indented under subclass 205. Subject matter
wherein the separate tearing element is a slender, flexible,
filamentlike element.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
215, Bottles and Jars, subclass 257 for a bottle or jar
closure having a wire or string rip cord.
220, Receptacles, subclasses 279+ for a closure having a
thread, string, cord, or wire for tearing it open.
229, Envelopes, Wrappers, and Paperboard Boxes, subclass 239
for a box having a thread, string, cord, or wire for tearing
it open and subclass 311 for an envelope having a thread,
string, cord, or wire for tearing it open.
Subclass:
207
Line of weakness delineates substantially the entire tearing
path:
This subclass is indented under subclass 200. Subject matter
wherein the bag includes a line of reduced strength which
defines almost all of the extent of the tearing.
Subclass:
208
Line of perforations having means for preventing leakage
before opening:
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter
wherein the line of weakness is a series of holes or
incisions through the bag material and wherein the bag
includes structure to prevent passage of fluent material
through the holes or incisions.
Subclass:
209
Bag portion completely separated from the bag during
tearing:
This subclass is indented under subclass 207. Subject matter
wherein the bag is torn open by detaching part of the bag
from the remainder of the bag.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
204 for a reclosable bag having a portion which is
completely separated during tearing.
Subclass:
210
BAG CLOSURE SECURED BY A RELEASABLE OR FRANGIBLE BOND (E.G.,
PEEL SEAL):
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein at least two parts of the bag are secured
together by a peelable or frangible adhering means (e.g.,
glue, heat seal, etc.) so that the parts may be easily
separated without tearing the bag or the bag closure to gain
access to the contents of the bag.
SEE OR SEARCH CLASS:
229, Envelopes, Wrappers, and Paperboard Boxes, subclass 80.5
for an envelope having a releasable or frangible bond,
subclass 123.1 for a box having a separate peelable closure
or securing element, and subclasses 245+ for releasably
bonded box parts.
Subclass:
211
Adhesive bond:
This subclass is indented under subclass 210. Subject matter
wherein the releasable or frangible bond is formed by means
of a sticky substance (e.g., glue) which has been applied to
the bag or closure.
CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS
Subclass:
901
HOT WATER OR ICE BAG:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag is intended to be used to hold a hot
or cold substance, usually to warm or cool a portion of a
users body.
Subclass:
902
HAVING NONBAG USE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag is intended to be used for something
other than holding contents intended to be removed.
Subclass:
903
STRESS RELIEF:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes means for preventing strains
from occurring or means for distributing strains to prevent
tearing.
Subclass:
904
FILLING TUBE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes a conduit through which
contents are inserted.
SEE OR SEARCH THIS CLASS, SUBCLASS:
subclasses 39+ for "valve bags".
Subclass:
905
DEAD FOLD (DUCTILE) CLOSURE ELEMENT:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes a closing means made of
malleable material so that it will stay in a given position.
Subclass:
906
DISPENSING FEATURE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag includes specified means for
facilitating the removal of contents.
Subclass:
907
PECULIAR, PARTICULAR SHAPE:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag has an unusual, specified shape.
Subclass:
908
MATERIAL HAVING SPECIFIED GRAIN DIRECTION OR MOLECULAR
ORIENTATION:
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Subject
matter wherein the bag is made from a material which has
either fibers or molecules aligned in a specified direction.
Information Products Division -- Contacts
Questions regarding this report should be directed to:
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Information Products Division
PK3- Suite 441
Washington, DC 20231
tel: (703) 306-2600
FAX: (703) 306-2737
email: oeip@uspto.gov
Last Modified: 6 October 2000