US Patent 8474640 Combined apparatus for storage

The present invention is a combined apparatus for storage for storing compressible articles. The combined apparatus including a combination of an expandable, air-tight storage bag and a soft-sided container for storing the storage bag therein. The soft-sided container having four side walls, a top portion, and a bottom portion defining a compact and low profile when in a collapsed state. A base support member is attached to the bottom portion of the container. At least one securing member is attached to the bottom portion of the container. In operation, as air within the storage bag is evacuated from the storage bag, the storage bag and the compressible articles stored therein collapse into the soft-sided container.