U.S. patent application number 09/746115 was filed with the patent office on 2001-05-17 for laundry drying rack.
Invention is credited to Sabounjian, Azad.
Application Number | 20010001199 09/746115 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 24999539 |
Filed Date | 2001-05-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010001199 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sabounjian, Azad |
May 17, 2001 |
Laundry drying rack
Abstract
A laundry drying rack has an elongate leg member having an
opening. The laundry drying rack further has a connecting rod
having a connecting rod distal end. In an embodiment of the present
invention, the laundry drying rack is further provided with an end
connector having a resilient pronged end and a post end. A tubular
coupling is further provided having a coupling distal end, an
opposing coupling proximal end, and an internal ridge formed
circumferentially therein. The coupling proximal end receives the
connecting rod distal end. The coupling distal end receives the
resilient pronged end which the internal ridge for rotatable
engagement of the tubular coupling thereabout. In another
embodiment of present invention, the laundry drying rack further
has a cylindrical connector which has an external groove which
engages an elastic retaining ring for connecting the elongate leg
member and the connecting rod.
Inventors: |
Sabounjian, Azad; (Aneheim
Hills, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Lowell Anderson
Stetina Brunda, Garred & Brucker
75 Enterprise, Suite 250
Aliso Viejo
CA
92656
US
|
Family ID: |
24999539 |
Appl. No.: |
09/746115 |
Filed: |
December 21, 2000 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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09746115 |
Dec 21, 2000 |
|
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09483585 |
Jan 14, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
211/202 ;
248/166 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 57/08 20130101;
F16B 7/0486 20130101; F16B 7/0473 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/202 ;
248/166 |
International
Class: |
A47B 043/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A laundry drying rack having a plurality of elongate leg members
rotatably joined to form two opposing scissor-legs, with a
plurality of connecting rods extending between the legs to form the
drying rack, comprising: an opening formed laterally in at least
one leg member; an end connector having an end with resilient
prongs and an opposing post end, the post end extending into an
opening in at least one of the elongate leg members to connect the
at least one leg member to the end connector; and a tubular
coupling having a proximal end engaging a distal end of one of the
rods, the coupling having an opposing distal end and an internal
engaging surface, the distal end being sized and configured to
axially receive the prongs therein, the internal engaging surface
being configured and located to engage the prongs to connect the
coupling and its engaged rod to the end connector.
2. The laundry drying rack of claim 1 wherein the post end of the
end connector has a post that extends through two end members so
the members can rotate relative to each other about the post.
3. The laundry drying rack of claim 2 wherein the proximal end of
the coupling forms a press fit with the distal end of the rod
inserted into the proximal end.
4. The laundry drying rack of claim 1 wherein the engaging surface
comprises a flange extending inward toward a longitudinal axis of
the coupling.
5. The laundry drying rack of claim 1 wherein the end connector has
a flange extending away from a longitudinal axis of the connector
and located between the pronged end and the post end, the flange
located to abut the elongate leg member adjacent the opening
through which the post of the connector is inserted.
6. The laundry drying rack of claim 1, further comprising a flange
from which the pronged end extends, the flange sized and configured
to engage an interior of the distal end of the coupling when the
prongs engage the engaging surface of the coupling.
7. The laundry drying rack of claim 1 wherein the prongs comprise
opposing sides of a cylindrical member having a lengthwise slot
defining the resilient prongs in spaced relation to the slot.
8. The laundry drying rack of claim 7, wherein the engaging surface
of the coupling comprises a ledge and wherein the prongs each
terminate with a prong head engaging the ledge when the pronged end
is axially received within the coupling distal end.
9. The laundry drying rack of claim 7 wherein the distal end of the
coupling has an interior surface tapering towards the engaging
surface.
10. The laundry drying rack of claim 1 wherein there are two second
elongate leg members each having an opening formed laterally
therein, and wherein the post of the end connector extends through
at least one of the two leg members and into engages both leg
members so the two legs can rotate relative to each other about the
post.
11. The laundry drying rack of claim 1 further comprising: a
cylindrical connector having an open end, an opposing flanged end,
and a post section disposed therebetween, the cylindrical connector
being inserted through an opening of a leg member with the flanged
end preventing passage of the cylindrical connector through the leg
member, the open end having a recess formed therein extending
axially toward the flanged end, the recess receiving a distal end
of one of the connecting therein, the cylindrical connector having
an external groove extending around its circumference and a
retaining member sized and configured to engage the groove and
prevent passage of the cylindrical connector through an opening of
a leg member.
12. The laundry drying rack of claim 11 wherein the cylindrical
connector is placed through aligned openings in two leg members
with the flange abutting an exterior of one leg member and the
retaining member abutting an exterior surface of the other of the
two leg members.
13. A laundry drying rack comprising: two collapsible legs, each
leg having at least one pair of elongate leg members, each leg
member having an opening formed laterally therein at a location
about which the leg members rotate to collapse the legs; a
plurality of connecting rods each having distal ends connected to
different legs; an end connector having an end with resilient
prongs and having an opposing, post end that extends into an
opening in a member connected to the drying rack; a coupling having
a distal end and an opposing proximal end engaging one of the
distal ends of the connecting rods, the coupling having an internal
ridge in communication with a recess into which the resilient
prongs are inserted to engage the ridge.
14. The drying rack of claim 13, wherein the member with the post
end comprises a cross-bar extending between and connecting two leg
members.
15. The laundry drying rack of claim 13, wherein the member with
the post end comprises a leg member.
16. The laundry drying rack of claim 13, wherein the post end
extends through openings at the location about which the two leg
members rotate to collapse the legs.
17. The laundry drying rack of claim 14, further comprising a
cylindrical connector extending through an opening in one of the
leg members until a flanged end of the connector abuts the leg
member with the opening through which the connector is inserted,
the connector having an opposing end with a recess around an
exterior circumference of the connector and a retaining member in
that recess to prevent removal of the connector from the opening
though which the connector is inserted, the connector having an
open end opposite the flanged end with a recess in the open end
into which recess one of the connecting rods is inserted.
18. The laundry drying rack of claim 17, wherein the connector
extends through openings at the location about which the two leg
members rotate to collapse the legs.
19. A laundry drying rack having two collapsible legs, each leg
having at least one pair of elongate leg members, each leg member
having an opening formed laterally therein at a location about
which the leg members are joined and rotate to collapse the legs,
the rack having a plurality of connecting rods each having distal
ends connected to different legs, comprising: a cylindrical
connector having an open end, an opposing flanged end, and a post
section disposed therebetween, the open end having a recess formed
therein extending axially toward the flanged end with a distal end
of one of the connecting rods being placed in the recess, the
flanged end being sized so it does not pass through an opening in
one of the leg members through which the connector is inserted, the
post section having an external groove with the post section being
sized so the groove is located adjacent a leg member through which
the post is inserted but on an opposing side of the leg member as
the flanged end, and a retaining member resiliently engaging the
groove to prevent removal of the connector from the opening through
which the connector is inserted.
20. The laundry drying rack of claim 19, wherein the retaining
member comprises a plastic ring having a tapered opening to help
slide the ring over the open end and into the groove.
21. The laundry drying rack of claim 19, wherein the recess is
tapered and sized and configured to engage the connecting rod in
press-fit engagement.
22. The laundry drying rack of claim 19, wherein the connector
extends through openings at the location about which two leg
members rotate to collapse the legs.
23. The laundry drying rack of claim 19, further comprising: an end
connector having an end with resilient prongs and a post end, the
post end being sized and configured to extend within an opening an
elongated member connected to the drying rack; and a tubular
coupling having a distal end, an opposing proximal end, and an
internal ridge formed circumferentially therein, the proximal end
being sized and configured to axially receive a distal end of one
of the connecting rods therein, the distal end being sized and
configured to axially receive the prongs therein, the internal
ridge being sized and configured to engage the resilient prongs and
restrain removal of the prongs from the coupling.
24. A laundry drying rack comprising: two collapsible legs each
having a pair of elongate leg members rotating about a common axis
to collapse and expand, each leg member having an opening formed
laterally therein; a connecting rod having opposing distal ends
each connecting to a different one of the collapsible legs; a
cylindrical connector having an open end, an opposing flanged end,
and a post section disposed therebetween, the open end having a
recess formed therein extending axially toward the flanged end, a
distal end of a connecting rod being received in the recess, the
flanged end having a flange that prevents passage of the connector
through an opening in a leg member through which the connector is
inserted, the post section having an external groove
circumferentially formed therein, the post section being sized to
place the groove on a side of the leg member through which the
connector is inserted that is opposite the flanged end of the
connector; and an elastic retaining ring sized and configured to
receive the open end of the cylindrical connector therethrough and
engage the groove to capture the elongate leg member through which
the connector is inserted between the flange and the ring.
25. The laundry drying rack of claim 24, wherein the connector is
inserted through two leg members at the location about which the
two members rotate to collapse the legs.
26. A kit for a laundry drying rack, comprising: two collapsible
legs each having at least a pair of elongate leg members joined to
rotate about a common axis to collapse and expand the legs, each
leg member having an opening formed laterally therein; a plurality
of connecting rods having opposing distal ends and sized so the
opposing ends can connect to a different one of the collapsible
legs; a plurality of cylindrical connectors each having an open
end, an opposing flanged end, and a post section disposed
therebetween, the open end having a recess formed therein extending
axially toward the flanged end, a distal end configured to receive
a connecting rod in the recess when the laundry rack is assembled,
the flanged end having a flange that prevents passage of the
connector through an opening in a leg member through which the
connector is inserted during use, the post section having an
external groove circumferentially formed therein, the post section
being sized to place the groove on a side of the leg member through
which the connector is inserted that is opposite the flanged end of
the connector, one of the cylindrical connectors and connecting
members being inserted through openings in the leg members to join
the leg members so they rotate about the common axis to collapse
and expand the legs, each leg having correspondingly located
cylindrical connectors; a plurality of elastic retaining rings
sized and configured to receive the open end of the cylindrical
connector therethrough and engage the groove to capture the
elongate leg member through which the connector is inserted between
the flange and the ring when the laundry rack is assembled; at
least one pronged connector fastened to each leg, each end
connector having an end with resilient prongs and a post end, the
post end being sized and configured to extend through an opening of
an elongated member on each leg to fasten the connector to each
leg, each leg having correspondingly located pronged connectors;
and at least two tubular couplings each having a distal end, an
opposing proximal end, and an internal engaging surface therein,
the proximal end of the at least two couplings being connected to
opposing ends of a connecting rod, the distal end being sized and
configured to axially receive the prongs therein, the internal
ridge being configured and located to engage the resilient prongs
and restrain removal of the prongs from the coupling.
27. The kit of claim 26, wherein there are a plurality of
connecting rods with couplings on opposing ends of the rods, and
wherein there are a corresponding plurality of pronged connectors
correspondingly located on opposing legs.
28. A method of assembling a laundry drying rack, comprising:
providing two collapsible legs each having at least a pair of
elongate leg members joined to rotate about a common axis to
collapse and expand the legs, each leg having at least one
correspondingly located cylindrical connector at one of the common
axis of rotation, the connector comprising an open end, an opposing
flanged end abutting a first side of the leg member through which
the connector is inserted, and a retaining member on an opposing
side of the leg member through which the connector is inserted, the
retaining member engaging the connector to prevent removal of the
connector from the leg, the open end having a recess therein, and
further providing each leg with correspondingly located pronged
connectors, the pronged connectors each having an from which
extends resilient prongs and an opposing post end, each post end
being inserted through an opening in at least one of the leg
members to fasten the pronged connector to the leg member;
providing at least one connecting rod with a tubular coupling on
opposing ends of the rod, each tubular coupling having a proximal
end connected to one end of the rod and also having a distal end
and an internal engaging surface, the distal end being sized and
configured to axially receive the prongs therein, the internal
engaging surface being sized and configured to engage the resilient
prongs and restrain removal of the prongs from the coupling;
inserting distal ends of a connecting rod into the recesses of
corresponding connectors on both legs to connect the legs together;
inserting distal ends of the couplings on the at least one
connecting rod over the corresponding prongs on opposing legs to
engage the prongs with the internal recess of the engaged coupling
to restrain the legs from moving away from each other along a
longitudinal axis of the rod having the couplings.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
1. This is a continuation in part of U.S. application Ser. No.
09/483,585, filed Jan. 14, 2000, the entire contents of which are
incorporated herein by reference, which is a continuation in part
of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/233,275 filed Jan. 19, 1999, now
abandoned, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
2. The present invention relates generally to laundry drying racks,
and more particularly to a laundry drying rack having collapsible
legs.
3. Conventional laundry drying racks are used to dry laundered
items. Laundry drying racks have particular application when the
laundered items are too delicate to be placed in an electric dryer
or may shrink therein. Laundry drying racks may also be used for
temporary storage such as during folding or ironing tasks.
4. In order to minimize the costs of such laundry drying racks to
end consumers, it is desirable that the laundry drying racks be
shipped and packaged in a disassembled state. Such disassembly
allows for the components of such laundry drying rack to be
compactly packaged thereby lowering shipping costs. Further
avoidance of assembly by the manufacturer avoids the associated
assembly costs, the saving of which may be passed along to the
consumer. Conventional laundry drying racks, however, frequently
comprise numerous components which makes assembly difficult and
time consuming. Further, use of fasteners for the assembly may
further require tools for the attachment thereof.
5. Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an improved laundry
drying rack which is structurally stable, easy to assemble, and has
components which are relatively low in cost to manufacture, in
comparison to the prior art.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
6. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, there
is provided a laundry drying rack. The laundry drying rack has an
elongate leg member having an opening formed laterally therein. The
laundry drying rack is further provided with a connecting rod
having a connecting rod distal end thereof. The laundry drying rack
is further provided with an end connector having a resilient
pronged end and a post end. The post end is sized and configured to
extend within the opening of the elongate leg member for rotatably
connecting the elongate leg member to the end connector. The
laundry drying rack is further provided with a tubular coupling
having a coupling distal end, an opposing coupling proximal end,
and an internal ridge formed circumferentially therein. The
coupling proximal end is sized and configured to axially receive
the connecting rod distal end therein. The coupling distal end is
sized and configured to axially receive the resilient pronged end
of the end connector therein. The internal ridge is sized and
configured to concentrically engage the resilient pronged end of
the end connector for rotatable engagement of the tubular coupling
thereabout.
7. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the post
end of the end connector has a post. The post is sized and
configured to extend within the opening of the elongate leg member
for radially connecting the elongate leg member to the end
connector. The post may be sized and configured for press-fit
engagement with the opening of the elongate leg member. Further,
the end connector may have a radially extending flange disposed
between the resilient pronged end and the post end. The flange is
sized and configured to abut the elongate leg member adjacent the
opening when the post end is extended therewithin. The flange is
further sized and configured to abut the coupling distal end when
the resilient pronged end is axially received therewithin.
8. The resilient pronged end of the end connector preferably has a
pair of resilient prongs, the resilient prongs are sized and
configured to expand radially outward to engage the tubular
coupling adjacent the internal ridge when axially received within
the coupling distal end. The resilient prongs comprise opposing
sides of a cylindrical member having a lengthwise slot defining the
resilient prongs in spaced relation thereto. The resilient prongs
are sized and configured to contract radially inward within the
lengthwise slot during axial insertion into the coupling distal
end. The resilient prongs each terminate with a prong head thereof.
The prong heads each have an engagement surface for engaging the
tubular coupling adjacent the internal ridge when the pronged end
is axially received within the coupling distal end. The coupling
distal end of the tubular coupling has a distal end inner surface
tapering towards and terminating at the internal ridge. The
resilient prongs are sized and configured to contract radially
inward in slidable engagement with the distal end inner surface
during axial insertion into the coupling distal end.
9. In addition, the coupling distal end of the tubular coupling may
have a distal end inner surface tapering towards and terminating at
the internal ridge. The resilient pronged end of the end connector
is sized and configured to contract radially inward in slidable
engagement with the distal end inner surface during insertion
thereof into the coupling distal end. The end connector may have a
plug which is sized and configured to extend within the coupling
distal end when the pronged end is axially received within the
coupling distal end. The plug is sized and configured to engage the
coupling distal end in press-fit engagement therewith. The coupling
proximal end may be sized and configured to engage the connecting
rod distal end in press-fit engagement therewith. The coupling
proximal end has a proximal end inner surface tapering towards the
coupling distal end for axially receiving the connecting rod distal
end in press-fit engagement.
10. The laundry drying rack may further include a second elongate
leg member having an opening formed laterally therein. The post end
of the end connector is sized and configured to extend within the
openings of the leg members for rotatably connecting the leg
members to each other. The elongate leg members cooperatively
forming a collapsible leg of the laundry drying rack. The opening
of each elongate leg member may be disposed adjacent a respective
distal end thereof. The opening of each elongate leg member may
alternately be disposed adjacent a center segment thereof.
11. In another embodiment of the present invention, there is
provided a laundry drying rack having an elongate leg member having
an opening formed laterally therein. The laundry drying rack is
further provided with a connecting rod having a connecting rod
distal end thereof. The laundry drying rack is further provided
with a cylindrical connector having an open end, an opposing
flanged end, and a post section disposed therebetween. The open end
has a recess formed therein extending axially toward the flanged
end. The recess is sized and configured to axially receive the
connecting rod distal end therein for engagement of the cylindrical
connector to the connecting rod. The flanged end has a flange
extending radially therefrom. The post section is sized and
configured to extend through the opening of the elongate leg member
with the flange abutting the elongate leg member adjacent the
opening. The post section has an external groove circumferentially
formed therein. The laundry drying rack further has an elastic
retaining ring sized and configured to receive the open end of the
cylindrical connector therethrough. The elastic retaining ring is
further sized and configured to concentrically engage the external
groove, for capturing the elongate leg member between the flange
and the elastic retaining ring about the post section.
12. Preferably, the cylindrical connector is sized and configured
to engage the connecting rod distal end in press-fit engagement
therewith. The recess is tapered toward the flanged end for axially
receiving the connecting rod distal end in press-fit engagement.
Further, the cylindrical connector has an outer surface tapering
from the external groove towards the open end for receiving the
retaining ring thereover. The elastic retaining ring may be sized
and configured to radially expand in slidable engagement over the
outer surface of the cylindrical connector towards the external
groove. The elastic retaining ring has ring inner surface tapering
towards the open end of the cylindrical connector when the elastic
retaining ring is engaged with the external groove.
13. The laundry drying rack may further include a second elongate
leg member having an opening formed laterally therein. The post
section is sized and configured to extend within the openings of
the leg members for rotatably connecting the leg members to each
other. The elongate leg members cooperatively form a collapsible
leg of the laundry drying rack. The opening of each elongate leg
member is disposed adjacent a respective distal end thereof. The
opening of each elongate leg member may alternately be disposed
adjacent a center segment thereof.
14. As such, based on the foregoing, the present invention is
believed to mitigate the inefficiencies and limitations associated
with prior art laundry drying racks. Accordingly, the present
invention represents a significant advance in the art. This
advancement will be better appreciated in view of the following
discussion and drawings in which like numbers refer to like parts
through.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
15. The appended drawings contain figures of preferred embodiments
of the present laundry stand. The above-mentioned features of the
laundry stand, as well as other features, will be described in
connection with the preferred embodiments; however, the illustrated
embodiments are only intended to illustrate the invention and not
to limit the invention. The drawings contain the following
figures:
16. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the laundry stand in accordance
with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
17. FIG. 2 is an enlarged top view along lines 2-2 of a portion of
the laundry stand shown in FIG. 1, illustrating the latching
leg;
18. FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross sectional side view along lines 3-3
of a portion of the laundry stand in FIG. 1, illustrating a portion
of the latching leg;
19. FIG. 4 is an exploded, enlarged perspective view of a preferred
embodiment of a connector configured to extend through two leg
members or a leg member and a cross bar;
20. FIG. 5 is a cross sectional side view of the connector shown in
FIG. 4 attached to a connecting rod, with a portion of the
connecting rod cut away;
21. FIG. 6 is an exploded, enlarged perspective view of the
connector shown in FIG. 4, illustrating a connector configured to
extend through the cross bar;
22. FIG. 7a is a front view of the body of the connector shown in
FIG. 4;
23. FIG. 7b is a side view of the body of the connector shown in
FIG. 7a;
24. FIG. 7c is a back view of the body of the connector shown in
FIG. 7a;
25. FIG. 8a is a front view of the pin of the connector shown in
FIG. 4;
26. FIG. 8b is a side view of the pin of the connector shown in
FIG. 8a;
27. FIG. 8c is a back view of the pin of the connector shown in
FIG. 8a;
28. FIG. 9 is an exploded, enlarged perspective view of another
preferred embodiment of a connector, illustrating a connector
configured to extend through two leg members or a leg member and a
cross bar;
29. FIG. 10 is a cross sectional side view of the connector shown
in FIG. 9 attached to a connecting rod, with a portion of the
connector and connecting rod cut away;
30. FIG. 11 is an exploded, enlarged perspective view of a portion
of the connector shown in FIG. 9, illustrating a connector
configured to extend through the cross bar;
31. FIG. 12a is a front view of the body of the connector shown in
FIG. 9;
32. FIG. 12b is a side view of the body of the connector shown in
FIG. 12a;
33. FIG. 12c is a back view of the body of the connector shown in
FIG. 12a;
34. FIG. 13a is a front view of the pin of the connector shown in
FIG. 9;
35. FIG. 13b is a side view of the pin of the connector shown in
FIG. 13a;
36. FIG. 13c is a back view of the pin of the connector shown in
FIG. 13a;
37. FIG. 14 is an exploded, enlarged perspective view of another
preferred embodiment of a connector, illustrating a connector
configured to extend through two leg members or a leg member and a
cross bar;
38. FIG. 15 is a cross sectional side view of the connector shown
in FIG. 14 attached to a connecting rod, with a portion of the
connecting rod cut away;
39. FIG. 16 is an exploded, enlarged perspective view of a portion
of the connector shown in FIG. 14, illustrating a connector
configured to extend through the cross bar;
40. FIG. 17a is a front view of the body of the connector shown in
FIG. 14;
41. FIG. 17b is a left side view of the connector shown in FIG.
17a;
42. FIG. 17c is a right side view of the connector shown in FIG.
17a;
43. FIG. 17d is a top view of the body of the connector shown in
FIG. 17a;
44. FIG. 18 is an exploded, enlarged perspective view of another
preferred embodiment of a connector, illustrating a connector
configured to extend through two leg members or a leg member and a
cross bar;
45. FIG. 19 is a cross sectional side view of the connector shown
in FIG. 18 attached to a connecting rod, with a portion of the
connecting rod cut away;
46. FIG. 20 is an exploded, enlarged perspective view of a portion
of the connector shown in FIG. 18, illustrating a connector
configured to extend through the cross bar;
47. FIG. 21a is a front view of the body of the connector shown in
FIG. 18;
48. FIG. 21b is a left side view of the connector shown in FIG.
21a;
49. FIG. 21c is a right side view of the connectors shown in FIG.
21a;
50. FIG. 21d is a top view of the body of the connector shown in
FIG. 21a;
51. FIG. 22 is a partial sectional view of an alternative
embodiment of a connector assembly of this invention;
52. FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the connector assembly of FIG.
22;
53. FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the connector assembly of FIG.
22;
54. FIG. 24B is a perspective view of a laundry drying rack of the
present invention;
55. FIG. 25 is a side view of the laundry drying rack of FIG.
24B;
56. FIG. 26 is a side view of a disengaged end connector set of an
aspect of the present invention;
57. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of an end connector set
as shown engaged with a connecting rod (partially depicted) and leg
members (partially depicted) of the laundry drying rack of FIG. 24B
as seen along axis 24B-24B;
58. FIG. 28 is a perspective exploded view of the end connector
set, connecting rod and leg members of FIG. 24B;
59. FIG. 29 is a side view of a disengaged cylindrical connector
set of an aspect of the present invention;
60. FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional side view of a cylindrical
connector as shown engaged with a connecting rod (partially
depicted) and leg members (partially depicted) of the laundry
drying rack of FIG. 24B as seen along axis 30-30; and
61. FIG. 31 is a perspective exploded view of the cylindrical
connector set, connecting rod and leg members of FIG. 30.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
62. The present invention involves an improved laundry stand. The
principles of the present invention, however, are not limited to
laundry stands and it will be understood that, in light of the
present disclosure, the laundry stand disclosed herein can be
successfully used in connection with other types of stands and
supports.
63. Additionally, to assist in the description of the components of
the laundry stand, words such as left, right, up, down, front and
rear are used to describe the accompanying figures. It will be
appreciated, however, that the laundry stand can be located in a
variety of different positions and orientations--including at
various angles, sideways and even upside down. A detailed
description of the laundry stand now follows.
64. FIG. 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the laundry stand
10. In general, the laundry stand 10 includes oppositely disposed
first and second legs 12 and 14 which are interconnected by one or
more connecting rods 16. As described below, the connecting rods 16
may be attached to the upper portion 18 and/or lower portion 20 of
the laundry stand 10. The legs 12 and 14 are preferably fastened
together by connectors 22 that are advantageously configured to
receive an end of the connecting rods 16. It will be understood
that the connector 22 is used to generally refer to any of the
various connectors used in conjunction with the laundry stand 10
and in particular to the connectors 50, 80, and 100 described in
more detail below.
65. In greater detail, the legs 12 and 14 of the laundry stand 10
are preferably foldable or collapsible for purposes such as storage
or transport. More preferably, the legs 12 and 14 are scissor
linkages 24 which are expandable into an open configuration as
shown in FIG. 1 but, as known, the scissor linkages may also be
collapsed into a closed position. As seen in FIG. 1, each scissor
linkage 24 includes first and second elongated members 26 and 28
which are pivotably connected near the center of the members by a
connector 22. As best seen in FIGS. 4, 9 and 14, the elongated
members 26 and 28 include an opening 30 located near the middle of
each elongated member. In the expanded or open position, the
members 26 and 28 are generally aligned at about a right angle to
form a generally X-shaped configuration, but the members may also
be aligned at other angles. Although not shown in the accompanying
figures, in the closed position the members 26 and 28 are placed
generally parallel or adjacent to each other. It will be understood
that other types of legs, such as straight, curved, telescoping,
etc., may be used with the laundry stand 10.
66. The elongated members 26 and 28 of the scissor linkages 24 are
preferably between about 6 inches and 36 inches in length, and more
preferably the elongated members are about 19 inches in length, but
the members may also be longer or shorter. The elongated members 26
and 28 preferably have a body portion having a width of about 7/8of
an inch and legs having a length of about 1/2of an inch, but the
members may have any desired configuration and dimensions
depending, for example, upon the type of material used to construct
the members and the intended use of the laundry stand 10.
67. The components of the laundry stand 10 are preferably
constructed from plastic, and more preferably from a thermoplastic
resin such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), but other types of plastics
such as polyethylene, polypropylene or ABS may also be used. The
plastic components are preferably designed to withstand
temperatures of over 120.degree. F. so that the stand does not melt
or deform it when used outdoors and the plastic is preferably
treated by known means to resist damage from the sun, including
protection from ultraviolet (UV) and infrared radiation.
Advantageously, the plastic components increase the life expectancy
of the laundry stand 10 and the stand can be used both indoors and
outdoors. It will be understood that the laundry stand 10 can also
be constructed from other types of plastics and other materials
such metals or composites. As discussed below, the stand 10 may
also include components constructed of wood.
68. As seen in FIG. 1, scissor linkages 24 are pivotably fastened
together by connectors 22 to form the first leg 12 and the second
leg 14. The multiple scissor linkages 24 are interconnected by
inserting a connector 22 through aligned openings 32 located near
the ends of the elongated members 26 and 28. The connectors 22 thus
pivotably connect the scissor linkages 24. For example, as seen in
FIG. 1, the first leg 12 and second leg 14 include three
interconnected scissor linkages 24 with a lower scissor linkage 25
and an upper scissor linkage 27, but the legs may have more or
fewer scissor linkages. The lower ends 34 and 36 of the lowermost
scissor linkages 25 include openings 32 but these openings are not
used because this portion of the scissor linkage contacts a support
surface and it is not connected to another scissor linkage.
69. The distal ends of elongated members 26 and 28 of the uppermost
scissor linkages 27 are joined by cross bars 38. The cross bars 38
are preferably about 14 inches in length and the cross bars have a
generally C-shaped cross section with a body portion having a width
of about 7/8of an inch and legs have a length of about 1/2of an
inch, but the cross bars may have different configurations and
dimensions. Each cross bar 38 preferably includes one or more
openings 39 (shown in FIGS. 6, 11 and 16) which are spaced apart at
a predetermined interval. More preferably, the openings 39 in the
cross bar 38 attached to the first leg 12 are generally aligned
with the openings in the cross bar attached to the second leg
14.
70. The cross bar 38, when it is connected to the distal ends of
the elongated members 26 and 28, holds the scissor linkage 24 in
the open position. On the other hand, when the cross bar 38 is
disconnected from one or both ends of the elongated members 26 and
28, the scissor linkages 24 may collapse into a closed
position.
71. There are several ways to connect the cross bars 38 to the
distal ends of the scissor linkages 26 and 28. For example, in one
embodiment, the first end 40 of the cross bar 38 may be pivotably
connected to the end of the elongated member 28 of the uppermost
scissor linkage 27 by a connector 22. The second end 42 of the
cross bar 38 includes a downwardly extending generally U-shaped
cutout section 44 configured to be placed over and in contact with
connector 22 attached to the end of the elongated member 26 of the
uppermost scissor linkage 27. Advantageously, the cutout section 44
has a narrower opening that is sized to snap over the piece
inserted into the cutout section 44 and lock into place. In another
embodiment, the cross bar 38 can include an opening rather than a
cutout section 44 and the second end 42 of the cross bar can be
connected by a connector 22 to the uppermost scissor linkage 27. In
yet another embodiment, the distal ends 40 and 42 of cross bars 38
can include openings which are aligned with openings 32 at the ends
of the linkages 26 and 28. An interlocking snap fastener, such as
the fastener 48 described below, can be inserted through the
aligned openings to connect the cross bar 48 to the linkages 26 and
28. In still another embodiment, the distal ends of cross bars 38
can be angled as shown in FIG. 1 to conform to the angle of
inclination of the scissor linkages 26, 28, with an interlocking
snap fastener 48 of the type described below passing through a hole
in the edge of ends 40, 42 of linkages 26, 28.
72. As shown in FIGS. 1-3, the elongated members 26 and 28 of the
lower scissor linkages 25 are interconnected by a latching leg 46
to further secure the legs in the desired position. In particular,
the distal ends of the latching leg 46 are connected to the
elongated members 26 and 28 of the scissor linkage 25 by a fastener
48. As best seen in FIGS. 2-3, the fastener 48 includes a body 49b
with a head 49a at one end and an enlarged projection or bulb 49c
located at the other end. The fastener 48 is sized and configured
to allow the body 49b and bulb 49c to be inserted through an
opening in the latching leg 46 and a corresponding opening in the
elongated members 26 or 28, but the head 49a is sized larger than
the openings to prevent the fastener 48 from passing through the
openings. Because the bulb 49c is sized slightly larger than the
openings, the latching leg 46 is snap connected to the cross
members 26 and 28 of the scissor linkage 25 to securely lock the
leg 12 into position. It will be understood that any type of
desired fastener including, for example, the fasteners used to
connect cross bars 38 and elongated members 26, 28 (and vice
versa), threaded fasteners such as bolts and screws, etc. may be
used to connect the latching leg 46 to the legs 12 and/or 14.
Additionally, fasteners could be integrally formed as part of the
latching leg 46.
73. The latching leg 46 is desirably about 8 inches in length, and
it has a generally rectangular cross section with a width of about
3/4of an inch and a thickness of about 3/8of an inch, but the leg
may have any desired size and shape. As shown in FIG. 1, the
latching leg 46 is attached about 4 inches above the intersection
of the elongated members 26 and 28 of the lowermost scissor linkage
25 of the first leg 12, but the latching leg may be attached in any
desired portion and to any of the scissor linkages. It will be
appreciated that the latching leg 47 may be attached to either or
both legs 12 and 14, but the latching leg is not required.
74. The connecting rods 16 which interconnect the first leg 12 and
the second leg 14 are preferably between about 12 inches and 60
inches in length and more preferably about 29 inches in length, but
the connecting rods may be longer or shorter. The connecting rods
16 are preferably plastic tubes with walls about {fraction
(1/16)}of an inch thick and the rods have an outside diameter of
about 3/8of an inch, but the rods may have any desired
configuration and size. The connecting rods 16 are preferably
hollow tubes for decreased weight, but the rods may also be solid
for increased strength. Additionally, the rods 16 have a generally
smooth cylindrical exterior surface to prevent laundry from
snagging or catching on the rods. Alternatively, the rods 16 may
have any desired shape, such as square or rectangular, and the rods
may be constructed from other materials such as wood or metal. The
rods 16 may also include a coating or layer of material, for
example, to help prevent laundry from catching or snagging on the
rods.
75. The components of the laundry stand 10, including the
connecting rods 16, elongated members 26 and 28, latching leg 46
and connectors 22, desirably fit into a small bag or enclosure for
shipping and storage. For example, if the stand 10 is unassembled,
the components will fit into a bag having a length of about a 30
inch length and a width of about 5 inches and about a 3 inch
height. Additionally, if the stand 10 is partially assembled with
the scissor linkages 24 interconnected to form the legs 12 and 14,
the components of the stand will fit into a bag having a length of
about 30 inches, a width of about 20 inches and a height of about 5
inches. Because the unassembled or partially assembled stand fits
within a small, compact bag or enclosure, this significantly
reduces shipping, transportation and storage costs.
76. The connectors 22 allow the connecting rods 16 to connect the
legs 12 and 14 in a variety of different locations. As seen in FIG.
1, for example, an exemplary connecting rods 16 are shown on the
front edge of the lower portion 20 of the stand and four connecting
rods extend across the upper portion 18 of the stand, but any
number of connecting rods may be positioned between any generally
aligned connectors 22. Advantageously, this allows laundry to be
supported in a variety of different locations and, for example, at
different distance from the support surface.
77. As seen in FIGS. 4-6, a preferred embodiment of the connector
22 used in conjunction with the laundry stand 10 is a connector 50.
The connector 50 includes an elongated body 52 with a first end 54
and a second end 56. The first end 54 is sized and configured to be
inserted into the end 58 of the connecting rod 16. The connecting
rod 16 and connector 50 are preferably interconnected by a friction
or interference fit and, more preferably, a fastener 60 is used to
securely connect the rod and the connector. The fastener 60,
comprises a projection or protuberance 62 which extends radially
outwardly from the connector 50 and the end 58 of the rod 16
includes an opening or detent 64 configured to receive the
protuberance. The positioning of the protuberance 62 in the opening
64 securely connects or locks the rod 16 to the connector 50, but
it will be appreciated that the rod and connector may be attached
by any known means, such as bolts, screws, adhesives, etc.
Advantageously, while the fastener 60 securely attaches the
connector 50 and the rod 16, the fastener is releasable to permit
disassembly of the laundry stand 10.
78. The connector 50 also has a second end 56 which is configured
to be inserted through aligned openings 30 formed in a pair of
adjacent elongated members 26 and 28 (as seen in FIG. 4) to form a
scissor linkage; or the connector can be inserted through aligned
openings 32 located near the distal ends of a pair of elongated
members to interconnect a pair of scissor linkages (as seen in FIG.
1). The second end 36 of the connector 50 may also be configured to
extend through an opening 32 at a distal end of an elongated member
16 and through an aligned opening 51 in the cross bar 38 (as seen
in the upper portion of FIG. 1). Alternatively, the second end 56
of the connector 50 may be configured to extend through an opening
39 in a cross bar 38 (as seen in FIG. 6).
79. The first end 54 of the connector 50 preferably has a length of
about 5/8of an inch and an outside diameter of about 1/4of an inch,
and this first end is sized and configured to be inserted into the
end 58 of the connecting rod 16. The second end 56 of the connector
50 has a length of about 3/4of an inch and an outside diameter of
about 1/4of an inch which is configured to be inserted through an
aligned pair of openings 30, 32 or single opening 39 as discussed
above. A flange or collar 70 with an outside diameter of about
1/2of an inch divides the connector 50 into the first end 54 and
second end 56. The collar 70 advantageously provides a surface
which may contact the outer surface of the elongated members 26 or
28 and the end 54 of the rod 16. Preferably the flange or collar 70
extends around the entire periphery of the connector 22, but need
not do so. The flange 70 is advantageously configured to prevent
passage of the flange through openings 30, 32 or 39.
80. As best seen in FIGS. 4, 6, 7 and 8, the second end 56 of the
connector 50 includes an opening 72 configured to receive a locking
device such as a fastener 74 with a head 76 and an elongated shaft
78. The opening 72 has a diameter of about 1/8of an inch and it
extends approximately the entire length of the second end 56 of the
body 52. The head 76 of the fastener 74 has an outside diameter of
about 1/2of an inch and the shaft 78 is about 1/8of an inch in
diameter and about 3/8of an inch in length, but the fastener 74 can
have any desired dimensions. The head 76 is preferably sized larger
than the opening 30, 32, 39 in the elongated members 26, 28 or
cross bar 38 to prevent the fastener 74 from passing through the
openings. Alternatively, the head 76 could be shaped differently
than the opening so that the head would not normally fit through
the opening.
81. Whether it is the size or the shape of the head 76, the head is
configured so that the head does not readily pass through the
opening 30, 32, 39 and instead restrains movement of the connector
22. The shaft 78 is configured to be press fit into the opening 72
in the second end 64 of the connector 50, but the elongated shaft
of the fastener 74 could be configured to fit over the second end
56 of the connector 50. The fastener 74 allows the connector 50 to
be fastened to the pair of elongated members 26 and 28 or an
elongated member and cross bar 38 combination, and restrains
removal of the members 26 and 28.
82. Referring to FIG. 4, the second end 56 of the connector 50 is
inserted through the opening 30 in members 26 and 28. The shoulder
or collar 70 abuts the member 26 to limit motion of the connector
50. The shaft 78 of fastener 74 is inserted into the opening 72 and
pressed until it locks, preferably with fastener head 76 abutting
the side of member 28, and with collar 70 abutting the opposing
side of the member 26, 28 or 38 through which the second end 56
extends. The press fit locks the connector 50 to the members 26 25
and 28. The end 58 of a connecting rod 16 is then attached to the
first end 54 of the connector 50 and the fastener 74 securely locks
the connecting rod to the fastener.
83. The connector 50 may also be configured to extend through a
single elongated member 26 or 28, or cross bar 38 as shown in the
accompanying FIG. 6. In this embodiment, the second end 56 of the
connector 50 has a length of about 1/2of an inch or less, depending
upon the thickness of the members 26, 28, or 38. This allows the
connector 50 to be attached in any desired location to the members
26, 28 and 38. As seen in FIG. 1, for example, fasteners 50 are
used to attach two connecting rods 16 to the cross bars 38. It will
be appreciated that the fasteners 50 may be placed in any desired
location and any number of connecting rods 16 may be used in
conjunction with the fasteners.
84. Thus, the connector 50 includes two opposing ends 54 and 56,
preferably with the same outside diameter, one of which mates with
connecting rod 16 with the other end extending through a member of
one of the scissor legs 12, 14 to engage a fastener 74 that
cooperates with flange 70 to prevent removal of the connector from
the engaged scissor leg 12, 14.
85. In a preferred embodiment of constructing the laundry stand, a
pair of elongated members 26 and 28 are positioned with the central
openings 30 generally aligned. The second end 56 of the elongated
body 52 of the connector 50 is inserted through the aligned
openings 30 and a fastener 74 is inserted into the opening 72 in
the end of the connector to pivotably connect the elongated members
26 and 28 into a scissor linkage 24. Additional scissor linkages 24
are constructed in a similar manner and the scissor linkages are
interconnected by additional connectors 50 to form the first leg 12
and second leg 14. The legs 12 and 14 are constructed with the
first ends 54 of the connectors 22 pointed in the same direction,
and the legs 12 and 14 are positioned with the connectors generally
aligned. Cross bars 38 are then attached to the upper portion 18 of
the legs 12 and 14 to secure the legs in an open position, and the
connecting rods 16 are attached to the first ends 54 of the
connectors 50 to connect the first and second legs to form the
laundry stand 10.
86. A disassembled or partially assembled laundry stand can be
placed into a small, lightweight bundle for shipping.
Advantageously, all parts can be shipped in an unassembled stated.
But if desired, the scissor legs 12 and 14 could be assembled and
placed with the remaining parts unassembled, for shipping.
87. It will also be understood that the connector 22 may have other
shapes and configurations. For example, the connector 50 may
include an end 54 which fits inside the connecting rod 16, but the
connector could also have a cavity which fits around the outside of
connecting rod 16, with the locking protrusion 62 extending inward
instead of outward as shown in FIGS. 4-6. Alternatively, the
protrusion 56 could be formed on connecting rod 16 with the
engaging aperture or recess being formed on or in one end of
connector 22. The press fit of the shaft 78 of the fastener 74 into
the opening 72 of connector 22 could also be replaced by an
engaging and locking protrusion 62 on either the shaft 78 or end
56, and a recess 64 being formed in either the shaft 78 or end 56.
Further, the shaft 78 of fastener 74 is shown as being press fit
into a cavity in end 56 of connector 50, but the fastener 74 could
be formed to have a hollow end 78 that fits around end 64 of
connector 55.
88. It will be understood that the fastener 74 can all take various
forms and shapes. For example, one additional configuration is that
shaft 78 could be threaded and cooperate with mating threads on the
interior cavity of end 64 of connector 22. Further, the exterior of
the end 64 could be threaded and shaft 78 could have internal
threads configured to engage the exterior threads on shaft 78.
89. In a further embodiment of the laundry stand 10, the collar or
flange 70 could be omitted so that the connector 22 extends through
the hole or opening in the members of one of the scissor ends 12,
14 and is restrained from being pulled toward the opposing scissor
member by head 76 of fastener 74, but is not restrained from moving
in the opposite direction along the axis of the connecting rod
16.
90. There is thus advantageously provided a connector 50 for use
with a laundry stand 10 in which the connector has a body 52 with a
first end 54 and a second end 56. A cavity 72 is in one of the
ends, and an outwardly extending flange is placed between the ends.
A radially extending protrusion 62 is placed adjacent a distal end
of one of the first and second ends. Preferably the first and
second ends are cylindrical and of substantially the same diameter.
Further, the flange 70 preferably comprises an annular flange and
the protrusion 62 extends radially outward from a portion of the
first end 54 which is not tubular. There is advantageously a
fastener 74 with an enlarged head 76, and with a shaft 78
configured to be press fit into the cavity 72 which is located in
the second end 56 of the connector. The second end 56 of the
connector body 52 is inserted through an opening in at least one
member of a laundry stand 10, and the opening is configured so
neither the flange 70 nor the enlarged head 76 of the fastener 74
readily pass through the opening when the shaft of the fastener is
inserted into the cavity. Preferably, a connecting rod 16 engages
the first end 54 of the connector 50 and the protrusion 62
restrains relative motion of the rod and connector. The protrusion
62 and recess 64 restrain disengagement of the rod 16 and engaged
connector 50.
91. The improved laundry stand 10 also comprises a rack with
opposing scissor ends and connector rods 16 extending between the
ends, in which there are first means for connecting a first end of
the connector 22 to a distal end of the connecting rod and
restraining relative motion between, or removal of, the connector
and rod after they are connected. There is also provided a second
means for connecting a second end of the connector 22 to one of the
scissor ends and restraining removal of the second means from the
scissor end after they are connected. Advantageously, the first
means comprises a cylindrical member having a radial protrusion at
a distal end of the member, and the second means comprises a
tubular member into which, in the installed configuration, is press
fit a mating shaft having an enlarged distal end that remains
outside of the tubular member when assembled to the scissor end. As
discussed above, other fastening mechanisms can be used for the
second means, including threaded connections, pins, stakes, etc.,
which prevent removal of the connector from the connected members
of the laundry stand. The first means is preferably connected to
one connecting rod of the laundry stand and the second means is
connected to one scissor end of the rack.
92. There is also advantageously provided a kit for constructing a
laundry stand. The kit includes a plurality of connectors 22, each
of the connectors having a body with a first annular portion sized
to mate with a correspondingly shaped end of a rod 16 of the
laundry stand 10. The connectors 22 also have a second annular
portion sized to be inserted through an opening in at least one
member of the laundry stand 10. Scissor linkages are formed from a
plurality of pairs of elongated members having aligned openings
through which the connectors 22 can be inserted to pivotably
connect the pairs of members to form the scissor linkages. The ends
of the scissor linkages have openings through which the connectors
can be inserted to join two scissor linkages. At least two scissor
linkages are joined to form a first leg, and at least two scissor
linkages being joined to form a second leg. A plurality of
connecting rods are configured to interconnect the first leg and
the second leg by connecting to the connectors.
93. A plurality of fasteners prevent removal of the connectors. The
fasteners advantageously have a shaft configured to engage the
second end of the connectors, with an enlarged head on the shaft
being configured to restrain passage through the holes. Similarly,
there is advantageously a protrusion on one of the rod or connector
and a recess on the other of the rod or connector, with the
protrusion and recess being configured and located so that when
assembled the protrusion enters the recess to restrain relative
motion between the connector and rod. This also restrains removal
of the engaged rod and connector. Preferably, the kit further
includes a cross bar configured to be connected to distal ends of a
scissor linkage on one of the legs. This helps to prevent the
laundry stand from collapsing, as does a latching leg configured to
be attached to two members of a scissor linkage--which is also
preferably included in the kit.
94. Another aspect of this invention includes a method for
constructing a laundry stand 10. The method includes the steps of
connecting a plurality of pairs of elongated members having aligned
holes by placing connectors through the holes to pivotably connect
the pairs of members and form scissor linkages. Ends of the scissor
linkages are connected by placing connectors through holes in the
ends to join two adjacent scissor linkages. At least two scissor
linkages are joined to form a first leg, and at least two scissor
linkages being joined to form a second, opposing leg. A plurality
of the connectors 22 on one leg have a free end extending toward
the opposing leg and are alignable with a free end of a connector
on the opposing leg. The connectors 22 are fastened to the joined
members to allow rotation of the members and prevent removal of the
connectors.
95. Advantageously, connectors 22 on opposing legs are aligned, and
a rod 16 is fastened between a plurality of pairs of the aligned
free ends of the connectors. The rods 16 are preferably fastened by
having them engage a mating surface of the connector. Preferably
the connector 22 has a cylindrical end that fits inside a hollow
end of the rod. Desirably, there is a recess on an end of the rod
16 or connector 22 with a protrusion on the other of the rod or
connector to restrain the rod from being disengaged. Further, the
connectors 22 are fastened to the joined members by placing the
joined members between a flange on the connector and a head of a
fastener connected to connector, where the flange and head are too
large to pass through the holes in the members through which the
connector is inserted. This prevents removal of the connector from
the scissor legs.
96. As shown in FIGS. 9-13, another preferred embodiment of the
connector 22 used in conjunction with the laundry stand 10 is the
connector 80. The connector 80 includes a body portion 82 with a
generally cylindrical configuration. The body portion 82 includes a
first end 84 with an opening 86 configured to receive the end 58 of
connecting rod 16. The connector 80 also has a second end 88
configured to be inserted through aligned central openings 30
formed in a pair of adjacent elongated members 26, 28 (as seen in
FIG. 9); or aligned openings 32 near the ends of a pair of
elongated members (as shown in FIG. 1). The second end 88 may also
be configured to extend through an opening 32 at an end of an
elongated member 16 and an opening 39 in the cross bar 38 (as seen
in the upper portion of FIG. 1).
97. The first end 84 of the connector 80 preferably has a length of
about 5/8of an inch, an outside diameter of about 1/2of an inch,
and an inside diameter of about 3/8of an inch. Located on the inner
surface of the opening 86 in the first end 84 of the body portion
82 are a plurality of inwardly extending ribs or projections 90 (as
seen in FIGS. 9, 10, 11 and 12a). The ribs 90 have a height in the
range of about {fraction (1/32)}to about {fraction (1/16)}of an
inch and the ribs are configured to grippingly engage the end 58 of
the connecting rod 16. More preferably, the ribs 66 and the end 58
of the connecting rod 16 have an interference or press fit to hold
the components securely, but releasably, in the desired
position.
98. The second end 88 of the connector 90 has a length and shape
which is configured to be inserted through an aligned pair of
openings 30, 32 and 39 as discussed above. The second end 88
preferably has a length of about 3/4of an inch and an outside
diameter of about 1/4of an inch--which is smaller than the outside
diameter of the first end 84 of the connector 80 to create an
abutment surface 92. The abutment surface 92 advantageously
prevents the entire connector 80 from being inserted through the
openings 30, 32 or 39 in the elongated members 26, 28 and/or cross
member 38.
99. The second end 88 of the connector 22 includes an opening 94
(shown in FIG. 12c) configured to receive a locking device such as
a fastener 96 with a head 98 and an elongated shaft 100 (best shown
in FIGS. 13a-13c). The opening 94 has a diameter of about 1/8of an
inch and it extends approximately the entire length of the second
end 88 of the body 82. The head 98 of the fastener 96 has an
outside diameter of about 1/2of an inch and the shaft 100 is about
1/8of an inch in diameter and about 3/8of an inch in length but the
fastener 96 can have any desired dimensions. The head 98 is
preferably sized larger than the openings 30, 32 or 39 in the
elongated members 26, 28 or cross bar 38 to prevent the fastener 96
from passing through the openings. The shaft 100 is configured to
be press fit into the opening 94 in the second end 88 of the
connector 80, but the elongated shaft of the fastener 96 could be
configured to fit over the second end of the connector. The
fastener 96 allows the connector 80 to be fastened to the pair of
elongated members 26, 28 or an elongated member and cross bar 38
combination.
100. Referring to FIGS. 9 and 11, the second end 88 is inserted
through one of the openings 30, 32 or 39 in members 26, 28, or 38.
The abutment surface 92 abuts the members 26, 28 or 38 to limit
motion of the connector 80. The shaft 100 of fastener 96 is
inserted into the opening 94 and pressed until it locks, preferably
with fastener head 98 abutting one side of member 26, 28 or 38, and
with abutment surface 92 abutting the opposing side of the member
26, 28 or 38 through which the second end 88 extends. The press fit
locks the connector 80 to the member 26, 28 or 38. The end 58 of a
rod 16 is then inserted into the opening 86 of connector 80. A
plurality of such connections results in the laundry rack 10. As
shown in FIG. 11, the connector 80 may also be configured to extend
through only a single elongated member 26, 28 or cross bar 38,
47.
101. The connector 80 preferably includes a fastener 102 configured
to lock the connecting rod 16 to the connector. The fastener 102
includes a projection or protuberance 104 which extends outwardly
from the end 58 of the connecting rod 16 and the connector 80
includes an opening or detent 106 configured to receive the
protuberance. The positioning of the protuberance 104 in the
opening 106 securely connects the rod 16 to the connector 80, but
it will be appreciated that the rod and connector may be attached
in various means. For example, the rod 16 and connector 80 may be
attached be a press or interference fit by inserting the end 58 of
the rod into the opening 86 in the connector. The distal end 58 of
the rod 16 contain a tapered section to facilitate attachment of
the rod to the connector 80, but the rod does not have to be
tapered. It will be appreciated that the rod 16 may be attached to
the connector 22 by other means, such as bolts, screws, adhesives,
etc.
102. In preferred embodiment of constructing the laundry stand
shown in FIG. 9, a pair of elongated members 26 and 28 are
positioned with the central openings 30 generally aligned. The body
portion 82 of the connector 80 is inserted through the aligned
openings 30 and a fastener 96 is inserted into the opening 94 in
the end of the connector to pivotably connect the elongated members
26 and 28 into a scissor linkage 24. Similar to that described
above, additional scissor linkages 24 may be constructed in a
similar manner and the scissor linkages may be interconnected by
additional connectors 80 to form the first leg 12 and second leg
14. The legs 12 and 14 are preferably constructed with the first
ends 84 of the connectors 80 pointed in the same direction, and the
legs 12 and 14 are positioned with the connectors generally
aligned. The cross bars 38 are then attached to the upper portion
18 of the legs 12 and 14 to secure the legs in an open position,
and one or more connecting rods 16 are attached to the connectors
80 to connect the first and second legs to form the laundry stand
10.
103. In another preferred embodiment of the connector 22, as shown
in FIGS. 14-17, the connector 110 may include a body 112 with a
generally cylindrical configuration. Longitudinally extending from
one end of the body 112 is a pair of legs 114 and 116 which are
separated by a gap 118. The outer surfaces of the legs 114 and 116
are preferably cylindrical and generally aligned with the outer
surface of the body 112. Radially outwardly extending from each of
the legs 114 and 116 are projections 120 and 122, respectively,
which are sized and configured to be inserted into holes or
recesses 124 and 126 in the end 58 of the rod 16.
104. Longitudinally extending from the other end of the body 112 is
a shaft 128 with a disk 130 mounted to the end of the shaft. The
shaft 128 and disk 130 are advantageously configured to fit into
the U-shaped cut-out section 44 and the end of cross bar 38 so that
the cross bar can be attached the leg 12 or 14. It will be
understood that the cross bar 38 may be attached to the connector
110 in any known manner, including those previously described. The
connector 110 of course does not require the shaft 128 or disk
130.
105. The connector 110 shown in FIGS. 14-17 are preferably
constructed from a resilient material such as PVC, polyethylene or
polypropylene, but any material, whether or not plastic, with
suitable characteristics may be used to construct the connector. In
particular, the legs 114 and 116 are preferably resilient so that
they can be inserted into the end 58 of a connecting rod 16. The
gap 118 between the legs 114 and 116 is at least large enough to
allow the legs to sufficiently deflect to allow the legs to be
inserted into the rod 16. The connector 110 and rod 16 are then
positioned to insert the projections 120 and 122 with the recesses
124 and 126 respectively. Because the connector 110 is constructed
of a resilient material, the projections 120 and 122 snap into the
recesses 124 and 126 to securely connect the rod 16 to the
connector. In order to detach the connector 110 from the rod 16,
the projections 120 and 122 must be displaced from the recesses 122
and 124 and the connector removed from the rod. Advantageously, the
connector 110 creates a very secure connection of the rod and the
connector. Alternatively, in another preferred embodiment not shown
in the accompanying figures, the end 58 of the rod 16 may be
inserted into an opening between legs 114 and 116 and the
projections 120 and 122 may be inwardly extending to resiliently
engage the recesses 124 and 126 in the rod.
106. As shown in FIGS. 18-21, another preferred embodiment of the
connector 22 includes a body 112 with a generally circular
configuration. One end of the connector 22 includes a pair of legs
114 and 116 which are separated by a gap 118. Projections 1 20 and
122 are positioned near the ends of the legs 114 and 116,
respectively, and the projections are sized and configured to be
inserted into holes or recesses 124 and 126 in the end 58 of the
rod 16. It will be understood that the connector 22 may include any
number of projections and these projections may be inserted into
any desired hole or recess. For example, the connector 22 may
include one or more projections which may be inserted into a single
hole or the connector may include a single projection which may be
inserted into a plurality of holes.
107. The other end of the connector 22 includes an outwardly
extending flange 140. The flange 140 is preferably generally
circular and sized to prevent the connector from passing through
elongated members 26 and 28 or cross bar 38. The connector 22 may
also include an enlarged portion 142 which may be placed in any
desired position along the length of the body 112 of the connector.
The enlarged portion 142 is preferably generally circular with an
outer diameter generally equal to the inside diameter of the
opening 30 in the elongated members 26 and 28 or opening 39 in the
cross bar so that the connector is press-fit into the opening. This
enlarged portion 142 helps prevent the unintended removal of the
connector 22 from the elongated members 26 and 28 or cross bar
38.
108. A further embodiment is shown in FIGS. 22-24. The connector
180 corresponds to connector 80 described relative to FIGS. 9 and
12, but without the locking projection 102. The connector 180
includes a body portion that preferably has a generally
cylindrical, exterior configuration, but could have other exterior
shapes. The connector 180 includes a first end 184 with an opening
186 configured to receive the end 58 of connecting rod 16. The
connector 180 also has a second end 188 configured to be inserted
through aligned central openings 30 formed in the pair of adjacent
elongated members 26, 28 (see also FIG. 9); or aligned openings 32
near the ends of a pair of elongated members (as shown in FIG. 1).
The second end 188 may also be configured to extend through an
opening 32 at an end of an elongated member 16 and an opening 39 in
the cross bar 38 (as seen in the upper portion of FIG. 1).
109. The first end 184 of the connector 180 preferably has a length
of about 5/8of an inch, an outside diameter of about 1/2of an inch,
and an inside diameter of about 3/8of an inch. It is advantageously
large enough to have an opening 186 sized to receive the end 58 of
the rod 16 and retain that end during use without breaking. Located
on the inner surface of the opening 186 in the first end 184 of the
connector are a plurality of inwardly extending ribs or projections
190 (also as seen in FIGS. 9, 10, 11 and 12a as part 90). The ribs
190 have a height in the range of about {fraction (1/32)}to about
{fraction (1/16)}of an inch and the ribs are configured to
grippingly engage the end 58 of the connecting rod 16. They may be
of various shape. More preferably, the ribs 190 and the end 58 of
the connecting rod 16 have an interference or press fit to hold the
components securely, but releasably, in the desired position during
use.
110. The second end 188 of the connector 180 has a length and shape
which is configured to be inserted through an aligned pair of
openings 30, 32 and 39 as discussed above. The second end 188
preferably has a length of about 3/4of an inch and an outside
diameter of about 1/4of an inch .quadrature. which is smaller than
the outside diameter of the first end 184 of the connector 180 to
create an abutment surface 192. The abutment surface 192
advantageously prevents the entire connector 180 from being
inserted through the openings 30, 32 or 39 in the elongated members
26, 28 and/or cross member 38.
111. Preferably, the openings 30, 32 or 39 are stepped recesses
having a larger diameter on the surface adjacent the rod 16, but
ending at a bottom surface 193 internal to the parts 26 (or 28, 38
etc.) in which the recess or opening is formed. A smaller hole
extends through the part to form an internal bottom 193 of the
recess against which the abutment surface 192 rests when inserted
in to the openings. The second end 188 of the connector 180 extends
through the members 26, 28 (or cross bar 38). Preferably the first
end 184 forms a press fit with the recess in member 26, or is
otherwise fastened to form a secure connection between the first
end 184 and the adjacent member 26 in which the first end is
received. Gluing, nailing, staking or other fastening means could
also be used to connect these two parts.
112. The second end 188 of the connector 22 includes an opening 94
(shown in FIG. 12c) configured to receive a locking device such as
a fastener 96 with a head 98 and an elongated shaft 100 (best shown
in FIGS. 13a-13c). The opening 94 has a diameter of about 1/8of an
inch and it extends approximately the entire length of the second
end 88 of the body 82. The head 98 of the fastener 96 has an
outside diameter of about 1/2of an inch and the shaft 100 is about
1/8of an inch in diameter and about 3/8of an inch in length but the
fastener 96 can have any desired dimensions. The head 98 is
preferably sized larger than the openings 30, 32 or 39 in the
elongated members 26, 28 or cross bar 38 to prevent the fastener 96
from passing through the openings. The shaft 100 is configured to
be press fit into the opening 94 in the second end 88 of the
connector 80, but the elongated shaft of the fastener 96 could be
configured to fit over the second end of the connector. The
fastener 96 allows the connector 80 to be fastened to the pair of
elongated members 26, 28 or an elongated member and cross bar 38
combination.
113. The second end 188 is inserted through one of the openings 30,
32 or 39 in members 26, 28, or 38. Preferably the abutment surface
192 abuts the shoulder 193 in members 26 to limit motion of the
connector 180 and prevent it from passing through the member. It is
possible, but less preferred, to have the first portion 184 extend
completely through the member 26 (or 38) and fastened to that
member to prevent relative motion along the length of the rod 16.
The second end 188 preferably is secured to the second member 28. A
press fit, nailing, gluing, staking or other fastening means can be
used to prevent relative motion of the end 188 relative to the
member 28. But the fastening of the first end 184 and second end
188 to their adjacent members 26 (or 38), 28 respectively, must be
such as to allow one of the members 26, 28 (or 38) to rotate
relative to the other member.
114. The end 58 of a rod 16 is then inserted into the opening 186
of connector 180. A plurality of such connections results in the
laundry rack 10. Further, in a manner analogous to that shown in
FIG. 11, the connector 180 may also be configured to extend through
only a single elongated member 26, 28 or cross bar 38, 47.
115. In use, the connector 180 has a first end 184 fastened to one
leg 26 of the collapsible end of the laundry rack 10. The second
end 188 is fastened to the other leg 28 of the collapsible end of
the laundry rack 10. A rod 16 is inserted into the connector 180
and preferably fastened to the connector by gluing, nailing etc.,
although it is possible that a press fit or even a loose connection
could be used between the first end 184 and rod 16. As the laundry
rack 10 is folded and unfolded, the members 26, 28 rotate relative
to each other on at least one of the ends 184, 188 of connector
180--which act as a pivot. This allows a collapsible rack, while
the allowing the rack to be shipped unassembled to reduce shipping
space and costs. The rack is easily assembled for use.
116. In this alternative embodiment, the rods 16 are preferably
made of wood, as are the members 26, 28, 38, 46, but they could be
made from other materials. The connector 180 is preferably made of
plastic, and forms an interference fit with the members that engage
the respective ends 184, 188 of the connector 180.
117. Basically, the connector 180 has a female socket formed in
first end 184 into which the end 58 of rod 14 is inserted. The
female socket is inserted into a recess of the member 26 and held
there. A second, male end 189 of the connector extends through the
adjacent member 28 and is held there. The members 26, 28 pivot
about the connector 180 as the ends of the laundry stand 10
collapse and expand. It is possible to have one end 184, 188 fixed
to its respective member 26, 28 so there is no relative rotation
between those parts, but if both ends 184, 188 are fixed to their
respective members 26, 28, then the laundry stand 10 cannot
collapse as rotation about connector 180 is restrained. Thus, the
ends 184, 188 must be held in members 26, 28, but must allow
rotation to collapse the laundry stand. Similar connections are
made with the cross pieces 38.
118. In a further embodiment best seen in FIG. 23, the connector
180 can have a second end 188 like the ends 56 or 88 shown and
described in FIGS. 4-11, in which a recess 94 in the second end 188
receives a fastener to hold the member 28 onto the second end 188.
In those figures shaft 100 of fastener 74 or 96 is inserted into
the opening 94
119. Formed in what would be end 188, and pressed until it locks,
preferably with fastener head 98 abutting one side of member 28 or
38, and with abutment surface 192 abutting the recessed surface 193
to lock the members together. The press fit and fasteners 74, 96
lock the connector 180 to the member 26, 28 or 38.
120. A further embodiment of an improved drying rack is shown in
FIGS. 24B-31. Referring now to FIG. 24B, a collapsible laundry
drying rack 210 is shown. The laundry drying rack may be provided
with two opposing collapsible legs 212, 214 which are joined by a
plurality of connecting rods 216. Laundry is hung on the connecting
rods 216 to dry the laundry during use of the laundry drying rack
210.
121. Referring now additionally to FIG. 25, the collapsible legs
212, 214 may be formed by a series of scissor linkages 218. The
scissor linkages 218 allow the legs 212, 214 to collapse for ease
of shipment and storage, and to expand for subsequent usage of the
laundry drying rack 210.
122. Each of the scissor linkages 218 include a pair of crossed
elongate leg members 220. The elongate leg members 220 preferably
include central openings 222 and distal openings 224 laterally
disposed therethrough. As discussed in detail below, selective
usage of end connector sets 226 (FIGS. 26-28) and cylindrical
connector sets 228 (FIGS. 29-31) in conjunction with the openings
222, 224 are used to rotatably connect the leg members 220 to each
other as well as to the connecting rods 216. In this regard, the
end connector sets 226 and cylindrically connector sets 228 allow
joining of a pair of the elongate leg members 220 at their
respective central openings 222 to form a given scissor linkage
218. Further, the end connector sets 226 and cylindrically
connector sets 228 further allow interconnection of adjacent
scissor linkages 218 by joining the distal openings of the leg
members 220 of such adjacent scissor linkages 218. As is depicted,
three such scissor linkages 218 are used to form each leg 212, 214,
but the number can vary. Usually, two to four such scissor linkages
218 are joined, depending upon the desired size of the laundry
drying rack 210.
123. At the top of the laundry drying rack 210, on each leg 212,
214 is a cross bar 230 which connects the ends of the leg members
220 of the top-most scissor linkage 218. The cross bars 230 also
stabilize the legs 212, 214 and lock them into position because the
fixed connection of the central and distal openings 222, 224 form a
triangular arrangement of fixed dimension. Each cross bar 230 may
further include a distal opening 232 laterally formed in a distal
end thereof and a notch 234 formed in an opposing distal end
thereof. The notch 234 (FIG. 25) is used to releasably engage the
cross bar 230 from the distal end of the adjacent leg member 220.
As such, the cross bar 230 may be disengaged and rotated to allow
the legs 212, 214 to be collapsed, as depicted in FIG. 25. Other
ways to releasably connect a stabilizing bar 230 can be used.
Further, additional, or fewer, openings, 236 may be formed in the
cross bar 230 between the distal opening 232 and the notch 234 for
attachment of the connecting rods 216 across the top of the laundry
drying rack 210.
124. On one of the scissor linkages 218, typically on the
bottom-most scissor linkage 218, a locking bar 238 is provided. The
locking bar 238 connects to opposing leg members 220 of the scissor
linkages 218 in order to hold them in a fixed relative position and
thereby further stabilized the laundry drying rack 210 in the
expanded position. The locking bar 238 is preferably provided on
each of the legs 212,214 as shown, but could be on only one of the
legs 212, 214. The locking bar 238 can comprise an elongated member
that has ends configured to engaged the abutting leg members 220.
The engagement can be by through the use of pins 239, as shown, in
order to fix the locking bar 238 to the adjacent leg members 220.
Other engagement arrangements may be used, such as a mating
projection and slot arrangement, in which one of the leg members
220 or the locking bar 238 has a slot and the other has a
protrusion that engages the slot to restrict relative motion of the
engaged parts. Alternatively, one end of the locking bar 38 can be
rotatably connected to one of the leg members 20 and the other end
of the locking bar 238 can releasably engage the other leg member
220.
125. The connecting rods 216 preferably comprise wooden dowels 240
coated with a thin plastic coating 242. A polyvinylchloride (PVC),
polyethylene or polypropylene or other plastic coating could be
used. The plastic coating 242 is preferably thin relative to the
diameter of the dowel 240. A thickness of a few thousandths of an
inch is believed suitable. The wooden dowels 240 could be dipped in
plastic to form the plastic coating 242. The plastic coating 242
provides a relatively smooth, snag-free exterior, while the wooden
dowel 240 provides strength for the connecting rod 216. The coating
is provides the connecting rods 216 with water-proof and insulative
qualities so as to mitigate the adverse effects of moisture from
laundry placed on the connecting rods 216. Latex or oil based
paints could be used, but are preferably not used for the plastic
coating 242 as they lack sufficient water-proof or durability
characteristics.
126. As mentioned above, various components of the connector sets
226, 228 (FIGS. 26-28) are selectively used to the leg members 220
to each other as well as to the connecting rods 216. The end
connectors 226 and cylindrical connectors 228 and associated
components are advantageously integrally molded of
polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon,
Teflon.RTM. or other plastic materials so that each component forms
a single piece upon completion of molding of that piece.
127. Preferably, end connector sets 226 are disposed through the
distal openings 224 of the leg members 220 of the top-most scissor
linkages 218 and the associated adjacent cross bar 230. Further,
the end connector sets 26 are preferably used to attach the two
cross bars 230 to each other with interposed connecting rods 216.
The end connector sets 226 also preferably interconnect the leg
members 220 about their respective central openings 222 to form the
bottom-most scissor linkage 218. As discussed further below, the
cylindrical connector sets 226 are used to rotatably connect leg
members 220 at the various other unconnected central and distal
openings 222, 224.
128. As discussed below, the end connector sets 226 have a
relatively high resistance to being axially disengaged in
comparison the to the cylindrical connector sets 228 FIGS. 29-31).
In this regard, usage of the end connector sets 226 at all of the
central and distal openings 222, 224 of the leg members 220 is
desirable and is contemplated to result in a comparably stable
structure of the laundry drying rack 210. However, it is further
contemplated that the end connector sets 226 are more structurally
complex, and therefore more expensive to manufacture in comparison
to the cylindrical connector sets 228. As such, the selective usage
of the end connector sets 226, as described above, is a preferred
balance between component utility and cost. While not a desirable,
it is believed possible to use only end connector sets 226, or only
end connector sets 228, for the entire laundry stand.
129. Referring now to FIGS. 26-28, an end connector set 226 is
depicted. In particular, FIG. 26 depicts a side view of a
disengaged end connector set 226 of an aspect of the present
invention. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional side view of the end
connector set 226 as shown engaged with a connecting rod 216
(partially depicted) and leg members 220 (partially depicted) of
the laundry drying rack 210 of FIG. 24B as seen along axis 27-27.
FIG. 28 is a perspective exploded view of the end connector set
226, connecting rod 216 and leg members 220 of FIG. 27 as they
extend along longitudinal axis 245.
130. Each end connector set 226 includes an end connector 244 and a
tubular coupling 246. The end connector 244 has an end 248 with
resilient prongs and a post end 250. The post end 250 may be sized
and configured to extend within the central opening 222 (as well as
distal opening 224 and the openings 232, 236 of the cross-bar 230,
though not shown) of the elongate leg member 220 for connecting the
elongate leg member 220 to the end connector 244.
131. The post end 250 is preferably nailed, staked, glued or
otherwise fastened to one of the members 220, but not fastened to
both in order to allow joined members 220 to rotate about the
common post 250. The tubular coupling 246 has a coupling distal end
252, an opposing coupling proximal end 254, and an engaging surface
256 that advantageously takes the form of an internal ridge, or
recess. The engaging surface 256 is illustrated as an interval
ridge 256 and will be referred to as such in the remaining
description. The ridge preferably extends around the entire
interior circumference of the coupling 246. The coupling proximal
end 254 is sized and configured to axially receive a connecting rod
distal end 258 of the connecting rod 216 therein. The coupling
distal end 252 is sized and configured to axially receive the
pronged end 248 of the end connector 244 therein. The engaging
surface 256 is sized and configured to engage the pronged end 248
of the end connector 244 and preferably, but optionally to allow
rotatable engagement of the tubular coupling 246.
132. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the post
end 250 has a post 260. The post 260 is sized and configured to
extend within the openings 222 of the elongate leg members 220 for
connecting the elongate leg members 220 to the end connector 226.
The post 260 may be sized and configured for press-fit engagement
with the openings 222 of the elongate leg member 220. The end
connector 244 may have a radially extending flange 262 disposed
between the pronged end 248 and the post end 250. The flange 262 is
sized and configured to abut the adjacent-most leg member 220
adjacent the opening 222 thereof when the post end 250 is extended
therewithin, as shown in FIG. 27. The flange 262 is preferably, but
optionally further sized and configured to abut the coupling distal
end 252 of the tubular coupling 246 when the pronged end 248 is
axially received therewithin, as further shown in FIG. 27.
133. The pronged end 248 preferably includes a pair of resilient
prongs 264. The resilient prongs 264 may comprise opposing sides of
a cylindrical member having a lengthwise slot 268 defining the
resilient prongs 264 in spaced relation thereto. The resilient
prongs 264 each terminate with a prong head 266 thereof. The prong
heads 266 each have an engagement surface 270 for engaging the
tubular coupling 246 adjacent the engaging surface 256 formed of
internal ridge, or recess 256 when the pronged end 248, and more
particularly the resilient prongs 264, are axially received within
the coupling distal end 252.
134. The coupling distal end 252 of the tubular coupling 246 has a
distal end inner surface 276 that preferably, but optionally tapers
towards and terminates adjacent to the internal ridge 256. The
surface 276 could be cylindrical, forming a ledge 256 to engage
prongs 264, or forming a recess to engage prongs 256. In this
regard, during insertion of the prongs 264 into the coupling distal
end 252, the prongs 264 are sized and configured to expand radially
outward as the prongs slid along the distal end inner surface 276
towards the internal ridge 256. Thus, the resiliency of the prongs
264 allow them to resiliently engage the tubular coupling 246
adjacent the internal ridge 256 when axially received within the
coupling distal end 252.
135. The resilient prongs 264 are further sized and configured to
contract radially inward in slidable engagement with the distal end
inner surface 276 during axial insertion into the coupling distal
end 252. The coupling distal end 252 of the tubular coupling 246
has a distal end inner surface 276 tapering towards and terminating
at the internal ridge 256. The pronged end 248 of the end connector
244 is sized and configured to contract radially inward in slidable
engagement with the distal end inner surface 276 during insertion
thereof into the coupling distal end 252. As such, once the prongs
264 have cleared the internal ridge 256 the resiliency of the
prongs 264 allow the prongs 264 to contract radially inward within
the lengthwise slot 268 during axial insertion into the coupling
distal end 252 beyond the internal ridge 256. Such contraction
allows the engagement surfaces 270 of the prong heads 266 to
securely engage the tubular coupling 246 adjacent the internal
ridge 256 thereby locking the end connector 244 to the tubular
coupling 246.
136. The end connector 244 also preferably, but optionally, has a
plug 272. The plug 272 is sized and configured to extend within the
coupling distal end 252 when the pronged end 248 is axially
received within the coupling distal end 252. In this regard, the
resilient prongs 264 extend from the plug 272. The plug 272 is
preferably sized and configured to engage the coupling distal end
252 in press-fit engagement therewith.
137. The coupling proximal end 254 is sized and configured to
receive the connecting rod distal end 258. The coupling proximal
end 252 preferably, but optionally, has a proximal end inner
surface 274 tapering inward towards the coupling distal end 252,
for axially receiving the connecting rod distal end 258 in
press-fit engagement.
138. If the distal end of the rod 216 were too close to the
engaging surface 256, then the rod 216 could prevent engagement of
the prongs 264 with the engaging surface 256. Advantageously, an
impediment to passage of the rod 216 is provided in order to limit
the insertion of the rod into the coupling 246. An internal ledge
275 (FIG. 26) extending around the inner circumference of the
coupling, can be easily formed in the coupling 246 as it is molded
in order to limit the insertion depth of the rod 216. In order to
further, positively secure attachment of the connecting rod distal
end 258 to the tubular coupling 246, a nail, staple, adhesive or
other mechanism may further be used. A staple is shown in FIG.
27.
139. The end connector 244 and coupling 246 allow the use of solid
rods 216, and allow easy connection to the legs forming the laundry
drying rack. It is believed advantageous to fasten the distal end
of post 260 to the leg member 220 through which that distal end is
inserted. That prevents the post 260 from being pulled out of the
member 220 along the longitudinal axis 245. As shown in FIG. 5,
this can be achieved by a nail or staple being driven through the
leg member 220 into the post 260, or it could be a screw or glue or
other fastening mechanism.
140. The tapered end of the prongs 264, and/or the tapered walls
276 of the coupling 246 forming the recess into which the prongs
264 are inserted, make it easy to connect the rods 216 to the leg
members 220. The connector 244 can be fastened to the leg members
220 at the factory, and the coupling 246 can be fastened to the
rods 216 at the factory. Both are preferably fastened using nails,
brads, staples or such in order to provide for a fast but
inexpensive and sturdy connection. The coupling 246 and connector
244 still allow a compact assembly of parts for shipment. The
couplings 246 only add a couple of inches to the length of the rods
216. While the connectors 244 extend perpendicular to the collapsed
legs formed by scissor linkages 218, the connectors are short and
do not take up much room.
141. Upon receipt, the prongs 64 need only be inserted into
couplings 246 in order to fasten the rods 216 to the legs of the
laundry rack and thereby prevent separation of the laundry rack
along longitudinal axis 245 that runs along the length of each rod
216. The parts snap together, with the tapered surfaces making the
insertion and assembly easy to achieve.
142. Referring now to FIGS. 29-31, a cylindrical connector set 228
is depicted. In particular, FIG. 29 depicts a side view of a
disengaged cylindrical connector set 228 of an aspect of the
present invention. FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional side view of a
cylindrical connector set 228 as shown engaged with a connecting
rod 216 (partially depicted) and leg members 220 (partially
depicted) of the laundry drying rack 210 of FIG. 24B as seen along
axis 30-30. FIG. 31 is a perspective exploded view of the
cylindrical connector set 228, connecting rod 216 and leg members
220 of FIG. 30 along longitudinal axis 245.
143. Each cylindrical connector set 228 is provided with a
cylindrical connector 278 held to the leg member 220 through which
the connector 278 is inserted by a retaining member 292. The
retaining member 292 can comprise any of a variety of fasteners
that hold the connector 278 to the leg member 220 and prevent
removal from the opening in that leg member through which the
connector 278 is inserted. Nails, screws and other such fasteners
can be used. Preferably, a snap ring, lock ring, or other member
that engages a mating recess 286 to prevent movement of the part
containing the recess along longitudinal axis 245 (FIG. 8) is used
because they allow easy assembly by the user.
144. Advantageously the retaining member 292 comprises a retaining
ring 292. The cylindrical connector 278 has an open end 280, an
opposing flanged end 282, and a post section 284 disposed
therebetween. The open end 280 has a recess 286 formed therein
extending axially toward the flanged end 282. The recess 286 is
sized and configured to axially receive the connecting rod distal
end 258 therein for engagement of the cylindrical connector 278 to
the connecting rod 216. The flanged end 282 has a flange 288
extending radially therefrom.
145. The post section 284 is sized and configured to extend through
the distal openings 224 (as well as the cental openings 222, though
not shown) of the elongate leg members 220 with the flange 288
abutting the elongate leg member 220 adjacent the distal opening
224 of the adjacent-most leg member 220. The post section 284 has
an external groove 284 circumferentially formed therein. In this
regard, the post section 284 has an outer surface 300 which
slidably interfaces with the leg members 220 at the distal openings
222 thereof. The retaining ring 292 is sized and configured to
receive the open end 280 of the cylindrical connector 278
therethrough. The retaining ring 292 is further sized and
configured to concentrically engage the external groove 284, for
capturing the elongate leg member 220 between the flange 288 and
the retaining ring 292 about the post section 284.
146. In the preferred embodiment, the cylindrical connector 278 is
sized and configured to engage the connecting rod distal end 258 in
press-fit engagement therewith. As such, the recess 286 may be
tapered outward toward the open end 280 for axially receiving the
connecting rod distal end 258 in press-fit engagement. The end 58
of the rod 216 may also be tapered. The cylindrical connector 228
has an outer surface 298 tapering from the external groove 290
towards the open end 280 for receiving the retaining ring 292
thereover. The elastic retaining ring 292 is sized and configured
to radially expand in slidable engagement over the outer surface
298 of the cylindrical connector towards the external groove
290.
147. The elastic retaining ring 292 has a ring inner surface 294
tapering towards the open end 280 of the cylindrical connector 278
when the elastic retaining ring 292 is engaged with the external
groove 290. Having slid the retaining ring 292 over the outer
surface 298 of cylindrical connector 278, the retaining ring 292
radially expands as the mating tapered surfaces 294, 298 slide over
each other, and then the ring snugly engages the external groove
290. Such engagement is contemplated to radially constrict the open
end 280 of the cylindrical connector 278 about the connecting rod
distal end 258. Further, it is contemplated that the sizing of the
retaining ring 292 is configured to resist removal from such
engagement with the external groove 90 thereby securing the leg
members 220 between the retaining ring 292 and the flange 288. Such
removal is further resisted with the particular tapering of the
inner surface 294.
148. In addition, it is contemplated that the above described
components comprising the various embodiments of the laundry drying
rack 210 may be provided unassembled or partially assembled to an
end user. Such unassembled or partially assembled components may
therefore comprise a kit for constructing the laundry drying rack
210. It is contemplated that such disassembled state allows for
easy shipping and packaging and avoidance of assembly/manufacturing
costs.
149. In order to aid an end user with the assembly of such kit
constructing the laundry drying rack 210, the various components
thereof may be particularly sized and even color coded in order to
ensure proper assembly thereof. In this regard, the end connector
set 226, the cylindrically connector sets 228, and opening 222,224
etc. may be sized differently so as to only fit within selected
ones of the distal and central openings 224, 222 of the leg members
220, as well as the distal openings 232, notch 234 and additional
openings 236 of the cross bar 230.
150. In this regard, the post end 250 of the end connector 244 and
the post section 284 of the cylindrical connector 278 may be sized
differently so as to correspond to respective selective ones of the
distal and central openings 224, 222 of the leg members 220, as
well as the distal openings 232, notch 234 and additional openings
236 of the cross bar 230.
151. The above parts can be provided in the form of a kit for
compact shipping, and assembled by the user or by a retailer. Each
kit advantageously includes two collapsible legs each having at
least a pair of elongate leg members joined to rotate about a
common axis to collapse and expand the legs. The kit also includes
a plurality of connecting rods having opposing distal ends and
sized so the opposing ends can connect to a different one of the
collapsible legs.
152. Further, the kit includes a plurality of connectors each
having an open end, an opposing flanged end, and a post section
disposed therebetween. The open end has a recess formed therein
extending axially toward the flanged end, and a distal end
configured to receive a connecting rod in the recess when the
laundry rack is assembled. The flanged end has a flange that
prevents passage of the connector through an opening in a leg
member through which the connector is inserted during use. The post
end having an external groove circumferentially formed therein, the
post section being sized to place the groove on a side of the leg
member through which the connector is inserted that is opposite the
flanged end of the connector. One of the cylindrical connectors and
connecting members is inserted through openings in the leg members
to join the leg members so they rotate about the common axis to
collapse and expand the legs, each leg having correspondingly
located cylindrical connectors.
153. The kit also includes a plurality of retaining members,
preferably taking the form of elastic retaining rings sized and
configured to receive the open end of the cylindrical connector
therethrough and engage the groove to capture the elongate leg
member through which the connector is inserted between the flange
and the ring when the laundry rack is assembled. Moreover, the kit
includes at least one pronged connector fastened to each leg. Each
pronged connector has an end with resilient prongs and a post end.
The post end is sized and configured to extend through an opening
of an elongated member on each leg to fasten the connector to each
leg. Each leg has correspondingly located pronged connectors.
154. Finally, each kit has at least two tubular couplings each
having a distal end, an opposing proximal end, and an internal
engaging surface therein. The proximal end of the at least two
couplings is connected to opposing ends of a connecting rod, with
the distal end being sized and configured to axially receive the
prongs therein. The internal ridge or engaging surface is
configured and located to engage the resilient prongs and restrain
removal of the prongs from the coupling.
155. When the kit comprising the various components of the laundry
drying rack is provided, there is also provided a simple and fast
method of forming a laundry drying rack. The method comprises
inserting distal ends of a connecting rod into the recesses of
corresponding connectors on both legs to connect the legs together,
and inserting distal ends of the couplings on the at least one
connecting rod over the corresponding prongs on opposing legs to
engage the prongs with the internal recess of the engaged coupling
to restrain the legs from moving away from each other along a
longitudinal axis of the rod having the couplings.
156. Even the assembly of various sub-components at the factor
level is simplified with the above invention. The flanged
connectors 278 can be inserted into the openings through the end
members 220 from only one side in order to assemble the scissor
sections 218 forming each of the two opposing legs 212, 214 of the
drying rack. The length of the post 300 will vary depending on the
dimensions of the members 220 through which the connector 278 is
inserted. The size of the openings in the end members 220 can be
varied and correlated with the size of the connectors 278 in order
to ensure the correct parts are placed through the correct
openings. That allows easy and fast assembly of the legs 212, 214.
The couplings 246 are easily inserted onto and fastened to the
connecting rods 16. The pronged end connectors 244 are easily
inserted into appropriate openings 222, 224 and fastened to the
appropriate member 220.
157. The above description is given by way of example, and not
limitation. Further, the various features of this invention can be
used alone, or in varying combinations with each other and are not
intended to be limited to the specific combination described
herein. Thus, the connectors can be used by themselves in other
applications. The unassembled parts can be provided by themselves
in kit form. The parts when assembled together to form a laundry
stand, or laundry drying rack forms yet another advantageous
combination.
158. Further, the prongs 264 and pronged end 248 could be formed on
or connected to a distal end of the connecting rods 216, and the
couplings 246 have an additional internal engaging surface to
connect the pronged end 248. Further, the pronged end 248 on the
connector 2248 could be replaced with the tubular end 252 having an
internal engaging surface such as ridge 256 to engage a pronged end
248 located on a rod 216. Additionally, for the parts benefitting
from a press-fit, the press-fit can be achieved by using the raised
ridges or the tapered surfaces described in various embodiments of
this disclosure.
159. Additional modifications and improvements of the present
invention may also be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the
art. Thus, the particular combination of parts described and
illustrated herein is intended to represent only one embodiment of
the present invention, and is not intended to serve as limitations
of alternative devices within the spirit and scope of the
invention. Moreover, the invention is not to be limited by the
illustrated embodiments but is to be defined by the following
claims when read in the broadest reasonable manner to preserve the
validity of the claims.
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