U.S. patent application number 10/934320 was filed with the patent office on 2005-08-18 for collapsible laundry rack.
This patent application is currently assigned to La-La Imports LP. Invention is credited to Li, Xiangming.
Application Number | 20050178737 10/934320 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34841316 |
Filed Date | 2005-08-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050178737 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Li, Xiangming |
August 18, 2005 |
Collapsible laundry rack
Abstract
A collapsible laundry rack is provided that can be formed from a
pair of collapsible legs and a plurality of cross members extending
between the legs. A connector is provided between the cross members
and the legs to secure the cross members relative to the legs. The
connector is configured to allow for sequential assembly and
disassembly of the cross members relative to the legs in order to
simply assembly and disassembly operations.
Inventors: |
Li, Xiangming; (Guangdong,
CN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FITCH EVEN TABIN AND FLANNERY
120 SOUTH LA SALLE STREET
SUITE 1600
CHICAGO
IL
60603-3406
US
|
Assignee: |
La-La Imports LP
|
Family ID: |
34841316 |
Appl. No.: |
10/934320 |
Filed: |
September 3, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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10934320 |
Sep 3, 2004 |
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10664580 |
Sep 16, 2003 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
211/202 |
Current CPC
Class: |
D06F 57/10 20130101;
D06F 57/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/202 |
International
Class: |
A47F 007/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 3, 2003 |
CN |
2003274133.2 |
Oct 17, 2003 |
CN |
200320117101.4 |
Claims
What is claimed is
1. A collapsible laundry rack convertible between an expanded
position and a collapsed position, the rack comprising: a pair of
collapsible legs spaced a predetermined distance apart, each of the
legs comprising a plurality of members configured in a scissor
linkage arrangement; a plurality of connector tabs attached to each
of the pair of collapsible legs, the connector tabs on one of the
pair of collapsible legs being aligned with the connector tabs
attached to the other of the pair of collapsible legs; and a
plurality of cross members extending between the pair of
collapsible legs, each of the cross members having a connector
socket attachable to the aligned connector tabs on the collapsible
legs while the legs are spaced the predetermined distance apart to
selectively secure the cross members to the collapsible legs.
2. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 1, wherein
the connector tabs include a disc and a stem portion extending from
the disc, the stem portion being adapted to connect the connector
tab to the collapsible legs, the connector sockets each have a
first opening and a second opening, the first opening having a
cross section adapted to receive the stem of the connector tab
therethrough, the second opening being adapted to receive the disc
of the connector tab and selectively secure the cross member
relative to the collapsible leg.
3. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 2, wherein
the connector socket is generally U-shaped.
4. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 2, wherein
the connector sockets each have a pocket configured for receiving
the connector tab, the pocket being defined by a first and second
opposing end walls and at least one sidewall connecting the end
walls, the first end wall being secured adjacent the end of one of
the cross members, the second end wall being positioned to face
away from the cross member and having the first opening formed
therein.
5. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 4, wherein
the first opening is sized larger than a cross section of the stem
portion to allow the stem portion to pass therethrough and smaller
than a cross section of the disc of the connector tab to prevent
the disc from passing therethrough in order to retain the disc
between the first and second opposing end walls.
6. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 5, wherein
the sidewall defines the second opening, the second opening being
sized to allow for the connector tab to be inserted therethrough
and positioned between the opposing end walls.
7. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 3, wherein
the plurality of members configured in a scissor linkage
arrangement of the legs further comprises at least a pair of
members pivotably connected between ends thereof by a pin, the pin
securing the stem of one of at least one of the connector tabs
adjacent one of the pair of collapsible legs relative to the pair
of members.
8. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 1, further
comprising: at least one linkage forming at least part of each of
the legs, each of the linkages having a pair of members being
pivotably connected between their ends to convert the laundry rack
between a expanded position and a collapsed position; one of the
cross members extending between ends of one of the members of each
of the linkages of the legs; a support arm having first and second
ends, the first end being pivotably attached to an end of one of
the members of at least one of the linkages, the member having the
support arm attached being different than the member having the
cross member, the support arm being pivotable between a
configuration allowing the linkages to shift to the collapsed
position and a configuration maintaining the linkage in the
expanded position by engagement of the second end of the support
arm and the cross member to maintain a predetermined spacing
between the pair of members forming the linkages of the legs; and a
clasp pivotably connected to the second end of the support arm, the
clasp being pivotable between a locking position securing the
support arm to the cross member when the support arm is in the
configuration securing the pair of collapsible legs in the expanded
configuration.
9. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 1, wherein
at least one of the cross members can be selectively attached and
removed from between the pair of legs without disengaging another
of the cross members from the pair of legs, thereby maintaining the
predetermined distance between the pair of legs.
10. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 4, wherein
the first end wall is secured adjacent the end of a cross member
and includes a stem extending therefrom, the stem having a cross
section sized to be press fit into the cross member.
11. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 4, wherein
the first end wall of the connector socket secured adjacent the end
of a cross member and includes a socket extending from the first
end wall, the socket having a cross section sized to receive the
cross member and adapted to secure the connector socket
thereto.
12. A collapsible laundry rack convertible between an expanded
position and a collapsed position, the rack comprising: a pair of
collapsible legs, each of the legs comprising a plurality of
members configured in a scissor linkage arrangement; a plurality of
connector tabs attached to each of the pair of collapsible legs,
each connector tab having a disc and a stem extending therefrom
adapted to attach the connector tab to the collapsible legs, the
connector tabs on one of the pair of collapsible legs being aligned
with the connector tabs on the other of the pair of collapsible
legs; and a plurality of cross members extending between the pair
of collapsible legs, each of the cross members having a pair of
connector sockets at opposite ends thereof, the connector sockets
having a first opening facing away from the cross member, each of
the connector sockets being attachable to the aligned connector
tabs on the collapsible legs through a second opening of the
connector socket to position the stem through the first opening of
the socket to selectively secure the cross members to the
collapsible legs.
13. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 12, wherein
at least one of the cross members has the connector sockets
selectively removable from and attachable to the connector tabs
between the pair of legs without disengaging the connector sockets
of another of the cross members from the connector tabs between the
pair of legs, thereby maintaining a predetermined distance between
the legs.
14. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 10, wherein
the connector sockets each have a pocket configured for receiving
the connector tab, the pocket being defined by a first and second
opposing end walls and at least one sidewall connecting the first
and second end walls, the first end wall being secured to one end
of one of the cross members, the second end wall being positioned
to face away from the cross member and having a first opening
formed therein.
15. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 14, wherein
the first opening is sized larger than a cross section of the stem
extending from the disc of the connector tab to allow the stem to
pass therethrough and smaller than a cross section of the disc to
prevent the disc from passing therethrough in order to retain the
disc between the first and second opposing end walls.
16. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 15,
including a second opening, the second opening being sized to allow
for the disc to be inserted therethrough and positioned between the
opposing end walls.
17. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 14, wherein
the first end wall of the connector socket is attached to the cross
member and includes a stem extending therefrom, the stem having a
cross section sized to be press fit into the cross member.
18. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 14, wherein
the first end wall of the connector socket is attached to the cross
member and includes a pocket extending therefrom, the pocket having
a cross section sized to receive the cross member and adapted to
secure the connector socket thereto.
19. A collapsible laundry rack in accordance with claim 12, further
comprising: at least one linkage forming at least part of each of
the legs, each of the linkages having a pair of members being
pivotably connected between their ends to convert the laundry rack
between a expanded position and a collapsed position; one of the
cross members extending between ends of one of the members of each
of the linkages of the legs; a support arm having first and second
ends, the first end being pivotably attached to an end of one of
the members of at least one of the linkages, the member having the
support arm attached being different than the member having the
cross member, the support arm being pivotable between a
configuration allowing the linkages to shift to the collapsed
position and a configuration maintaining the linkage in the
expanded position by engagement of the second end of the support
arm and the cross member to maintain a predetermined spacing
between the pair of members forming the linkages of the legs; and a
clasp pivotably connected to the second end of the support arm, the
clasp being pivotable between a locking position securing the
support arm to the cross member when the support arm is in the
configuration securing the pair of collapsible legs in the expanded
configuration.
20. A method of assembling a collapsible laundry rack from a set of
components, the components comprising a pair of collapsible legs
each having a plurality of members configured in a scissor linkage
arrangement, a plurality of connector tabs attached to each of the
pair of collapsible legs, the connector tabs on one of the pair of
collapsible legs being aligned with the connector tabs on the other
of the pair of collapsible legs, a plurality of cross members, and
a connector socket positioned on each of the ends of the cross
members removably attachable to the aligned connector tabs on the
collapsible legs to selectively secure the cross members to the
collapsible legs, the method comprising: spacing the pair of
collapsible legs a predetermined distance apart by attaching the
connector socket of a first one of the plurality of cross members
to a pair of aligned connector tabs attached to the pair of
collapsible legs; and attaching the connector socket of at least a
second one of the plurality of cross members to a pair of aligned
connector tabs attached to the pair of collapsible legs while the
collapsible legs are spaced the predetermined distance apart.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of application
Ser. No. 10/664,580, filed on Sep. 16, 2003.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates generally to connectors for connecting
components of laundry and storage devices, and particularly to
connectors for connecting components of a collapsible laundry
rack.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Laundry racks or drying racks typically consist of a pair of
legs connected by cross supports. The legs are formed of a
plurality of members in a scissor-type linkage arrangement,
allowing the legs, and thus the racks, to be converted from a
collapsed position to an expanded position. In the collapsed
position, the racks can be smaller in size than the expanded
position and more readily stored. In the expanded position, the
racks can be used to hang various articles, such as clothes, over
the legs and cross supports.
[0004] In one form of racks or stands, the cross supports are
permanently secured to the legs. While advantageously eliminating
assembly operations by the consumer, such racks, even in their
collapsed configurations, can be bulky. When shipping racks from
overseas, shipping costs can be higher for bulky, space consuming
racks in their collapsed states as compared to the disassembled
components of the racks. The bulkiness of collapsed racks having
the legs permanently connected to the cross supports can also
disadvantageously require an increased amount of shelf space in
stores as compared to the various components of the rack
disassembled.
[0005] To reduce the bulkiness of the racks during shipping and
when placed on a shelf in stores, the legs and cross supports of
the racks have been provided disassembled. However, assembly of
these racks can be difficult, requiring complex manipulations of
the components and sometimes tools to permit assembly by the
consumer or end user. For example, holes have been provided in the
legs for receiving ends of the cross supports. The cross supports
can each be inserted into the holes in a first of the pair of legs,
then inserted into the holes in the second of the pair of legs. Due
to the number of cross supports, typically three or more, insertion
of the cross supports into the holes in the second of the pair of
legs can be difficult, requiring that each of the holes
simultaneously be aligned with the ends of the cross supports
before any of the cross supports are inserted into the holes.
[0006] Once in the holes, a friction or interference fit can be
used to maintain the cross members in engagement with the legs.
However, the friction fits between each of the holes and cross
supports can vary, potentially causing difficulties in assembly or
in maintaining the components assembled. Screws or other fasteners
can be used to maintain the components in an assembled state, but
disadvantageously require additional assembly steps and sometimes
the use of tools by the consumer or end user.
[0007] Laundry racks or stands are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.
6,394,292 and 6,427,858 that are formed of a pair of legs having
cross supports extending therebetween. However, complex connection
mechanisms are required to secure the cross supports between the
legs. These complex connection mechanisms can require complicated
or multiple assembly steps by a consumer or end user, and can in
some instances are formed of multiple parts that must be assembled.
In addition, the configuration of these connection mechanisms
appears to require simultaneous alignment and assembly of the cross
supports to one of the pair of legs.
[0008] Another problem with typical collapsible laundry racks is
inadvertent shifting of the rack from an expanded configuration to
a collapsed configuration. Such inadvertent shifting can be
problematic, particularly when clothes or other articles are
hanging on the cross supports and can become dislodge. Moreover,
the weight of the articles, such as wet or damp clothes, can
increase the likelihood of inadvertent shifting of the rack from
the expanded configuration to the collapsed configuration. In order
to reduce the likelihood of the racks from inadvertent shifting,
support members are provided to assist in keeping each leg in its
expanded position. However, inadvertent shifting of the racks from
the expanded configuration to the collapsed configuration can still
occur.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] Apparatus and methods for an improved laundry rack are
provided that allow for simplified assembly and disassembly. The
laundry rack is convertible between an expanded position for use as
a drying rack or stand and a collapsed position for storage. The
laundry rack generally includes a pair of legs having cross members
extending therebetween. Each of the legs generally comprises one or
more scissor-type linkages that are pivotable between an expanded
position and a collapsed position, corresponding to the expanded
and collapsed positions of the rack. The cross members are
removably secured to the legs with connectors attached between the
ends of the cross members and the pair of legs.
[0010] The connectors are configured to allow for simplified
assembly of the cross members to the legs by allowing for the
spacing between the legs to be maintained during connection of the
cross members after a first cross member has been connected. The
connectors also are configured to provide for simplified assembly
and disassembly of the rack by allowing the cross members to be
connected and disconnected relative to the legs in a sequential, as
opposed to simultaneous, manner. To provide these features, the
connectors include a combination of connector sockets and connector
tabs attached to the legs and ends of cross members.
[0011] In addition, the components of the rack are provided in a
disassembled state such that minimal assembly steps are required to
be performed by a consumer or end user. Thus, the configuration of
the connectors allows for the components to be packaged in a
compact, yet easy to assemble arrangement, such that shipping costs
are minimized, minimal shelf space is occupied in stores, and
assembly by the end user is simplified.
[0012] In one aspect, the collapsible laundry rack comprises a pair
of legs spaced a predetermined distance apart. Each of the legs
comprises a plurality of linkage members configured in a scissor
linkage arrangement. A plurality of connector sockets are attached
to each of the pair of collapsible legs. The connector sockets on
one of the pair of collapsible legs are aligned with the connector
sockets on the other of the pair of collapsible legs. A plurality
of cross members extend between the pair of collapsible legs. Each
of the cross members has a connector tab secured to ends thereof.
The connector tabs are selectively insertable into the aligned
connector sockets on the collapsible legs while the legs are spaced
the predetermined distance apart to secure and unsecure the cross
members relative to the collapsible legs. Alternatively, the
connector sockets and connector tabs may be interchanged such that
the connector sockets are attached to the ends of the cross members
and the connector tabs are attached to each of the pair of
collapsible legs.
[0013] The connectors of the laundry rack may be configured such
that at least one of the cross members can be selectively inserted
and/or removed from between the pair of legs without disengaging
another of the cross members maintaining the predetermined distance
between the pair of legs.
[0014] The connector tabs generally include a stem and a disc. The
stem extends from the disc and generally has a smaller cross
section than the disc. Furthermore, the stem may have a cross
section that defines a key to retain a connector socket more
securely. The stem is adapted to attach the connector tab to the
end of a cross member or to a collapsible leg. When the stem is to
be used to attach the connector tab to the end of a cross member,
it generally has a cross section sized to be press fit into the end
of the hollow cross member. When the stem attaches the connector
tab to a collapsible leg, the stem offsets the disc from the
collapsible leg to allow a connector socket to attach thereto. The
disc is adapted to be inserted into a pocket of a corresponding
connector socket. The stem and disc are configured to maintain a
secure connection between the connector tab and the connector
socket.
[0015] The connector socket may be generally U-shaped, having a
pocket configured for receiving the disc of a connector tab. The
pocket may be defined by a pair of opposing end walls and at least
one side wall connecting the first and second end walls. The first
end wall is adapted to attach the connector socket to either a
collapsible leg or an end of a cross member. When attaching the
connector socket to the end of a cross member, the first end wall
may include a stem, much like the stem described above, having a
cross section sized and adapted to be press fit into the end of a
hollow cross member. Alternatively, the first end wall may include
a pocket adapted to receive the end of the cross member. When
configured to attach to a collapsible leg, the side of the first
end wall adjacent to the collapsible leg is adapted to the shape of
the collapsible leg.
[0016] The second end wall includes a first opening formed therein.
When the connector socket is attached to the end of a cross member,
the opening may be sized larger than the cross section of the stem
of a connector tab to allow the stem to pass therethrough. When the
connector socket is attached to a collapsible leg, the opening may
be sized larger than the cross section of a cross member to allow
the cross member to pass therethrough. However, in either
configuration, the first opening shall be sized smaller than the
cross section of the disc of the connector tab to prevent the disc
from passing therethrough. Thus, the second end wall at least
partially restrains the connector tab, via the disc, between the
pair of opposing end walls and in the pocket, reducing inadvertent
removal of the connector tab from the pocket of the connector
socket. The side wall may define a second opening, which may be
sized to allow for the disc of the connector tab to be inserted
therethrough and positioned between the opposing end walls.
[0017] When attached to a collapsible leg the connector socket or
connector tab is positioned to align with a corresponding connector
socket or connector tab, respectively, attached to the other of the
pair of collapsible legs.
[0018] The plurality of members configured in a scissor linkage
arrangement of the legs may further comprise at least a pair of
members pivotally connected between ends thereof by a pin. The pair
of members may be connected by the pin proximate their
mid-sections. Adjacent members of adjacent linkages may also be
connected by pins. The pins may also be used to secure connector
sockets or connector tabs to the legs.
[0019] The rack may include at least one scissor-type linkage
forming at least part of each of the legs. Each of the linkages may
have a pair of members being pivotally connected between their ends
to convert the laundry rack between an expanded position and a
collapsed position. The linkages may be in a generally X-type
configuration when in their expanded position, where the members of
the linkage are in a generally perpendicular orientation. The
linkages may have their members generally parallel when in the
collapsed position, thereby reducing the amount of space occupied
by the legs and thus the rack.
[0020] One of the cross members may extend between ends of one of
the linkage members of each of the linkages of the legs. A support
arm may be pivotally attached to an end of the members of at least
one of the linkages. The linkage member having a support arm
attached may be different than a linkage member having the cross
member attached. The support arm is pivotable between a
configuration allowing the linkage to shift to the collapsed
position and a configuration maintaining the linkage in the
expanded position by engagement between an end of the support arm
opposite the pivot and the cross member to maintain a predetermined
spacing between the pair of linkage members forming the
linkage.
[0021] A clasp may be provided and pivotally connected to an end of
the support arm opposite the end pivotally connected to the leg.
The clasp may be pivotable between a locking position securing the
support arm to the cross member for securing the leg linkage, and
thus the rack, in the expanded position.
[0022] It is another aspect of a collapsible laundry rack that the
discs of the connector tabs are insertable into corresponding
connector sockets through the second openings of the connector
sockets to selectively secure the cross members to and between the
collapsible legs.
[0023] At least one of the cross members includes connector tabs
selectively removable and insertable from the connector sockets
between the pair of legs without disengaging the connector tabs of
another of the cross members from the connector sockets between the
pair of legs, thereby permitting sequential connection of each of
the cross members to the pair of legs independent of the other
cross members. Alternatively, the collapsible legs may include the
connector tabs and the ends of the cross members may include the
connector sockets configured such that the cross members may be
selectively removed from or inserted between the collapsible
legs.
[0024] In another aspect, the collapsible laundry rack is
convertible between an expanded position and a collapsed position,
and a support arm is provided to maintain the laundry rack in the
expanded position. The laundry rack comprises a pair of collapsible
legs. Each of the legs comprises a plurality of members configured
in a scissor linkage arrangement. Each of the pair of legs may have
a first and second upper members each having upper ends spaced a
distance apart. A plurality of cross members are provided that
extend between a pair of collapsible legs. One of the cross members
extends between the upper ends of the first of the upper members. A
support arm is pivotally attached at one end to the upper end of
one of the second upper members. The support arm is pivotable
between a configuration allowing the pair of collapsible legs to
shift to the collapsed position and a configuration maintaining the
pair of collapsible legs in the expanded position. A clasp is
connected to an end of a support arm opposite the end pivotally
connected to the second upper member. The clasp is pivotable
between a locking position at least partially around one of the
cross members when the support arm is in a configuration securing
the pair of collapsible legs in the expanded configuration to
secure the support arm relative to the one of the cross
members.
[0025] The end of a support arm having the clasp pivotally attached
may have a notched formed therein for at least partially receiving
one of the cross members extending between the upper ends of the
first upper members. The notch may generally be U-shaped, and may
generally be inclined at an angle. The clasp may be generally
C-shaped and maybe configured to retain the one of the cross
members in the notch when in the locking position.
[0026] A method of assembling a collapsible laundry rack from a set
of components is also provided. The components may comprise a pair
of collapsible legs each having a plurality of members configured
in a scissor linkage arrangement, a plurality of connector sockets
attached to each of the pair of collapsible legs, the sockets one
of the pair of collapsible legs being aligned with the connector
sockets on the other of the pair of collapsible legs, a plurality
of cross members, and connector tabs positioned on each of the ends
of the cross members and removably insertable into the aligned
connector sockets on the collapsible legs to selectively secure the
cross members to the collapsible legs. The method may include
spacing the pair of collapsible legs a predetermined distance apart
by inserting the discs of a first one of the plurality of cross
members into a pair of aligned connector sockets attached to the
pair of collapsible legs. The method may further include the step
of inserting the discs of at least a second one of the plurality of
cross members into a pair of aligned connector sockets attached to
the pair of collapsible legs while the collapsible legs are spaced
the predetermined distance apart by the first one of the plurality
of cross members. The components may be provided such that the only
assembly steps that may be required of a consumer or other end user
is connecting each of the cross members to the legs using
connections that are already provided on the cross members and/or
the legs. Alternatively, the plurality of connector tabs may be
attached to the collapsible legs and the plurality of connector
sockets may be attached to the end of the cross members.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 is a perspective view a laundry rack in accordance
with an embodiment thereof, showing the laundry rack in an expanded
position;
[0028] FIG. 2 is an elevation view of a leg of the laundry rack of
FIG. 1, showing the leg in an expanded position;
[0029] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the laundry rack of FIG. 1,
showing the laundry rack in a collapsed position;
[0030] FIG. 4 is an elevation view of a connector socket on one of
the legs of the laundry rack of FIG. 1;
[0031] FIG. 5 is a plan view of the connector socket of FIG. 4;
[0032] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a top rack of the laundry
rack of FIG. 1, showing the top rack in an unsecured position;
[0033] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the top rack of the laundry
rack of FIG. 1, showing the top rack in a secured position;
[0034] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a support arm of the
top rack of the laundry rack of FIG. 1, showing the support arm
unsecured relative to a cross member;
[0035] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the support arm of the
top rack of the laundry rack of FIG. 1, showing the support arm
secured relative to the cross member;
[0036] FIG. 10 is a plan view of components of the laundry rack of
FIG. 1 is a disassembled configuration;
[0037] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a connector socket for use
in attaching to a cross member;
[0038] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a connector tab for use in
attaching to a leg; and
[0039] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the connector socket of
FIG. 11 attached to a leg of a laundry rack and the connector tab
of FIG. 12 attached to the cross member.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0040] The laundry rack 5 is preferably embodied in a collapsible
rack 5 having a pair of legs 10 connected by cross members 20. The
connections between the cross members 20 and legs 10 are configured
for simplified assembly and disassembly. Preferred embodiments of
the laundry rack 5 are disclosed below. FIGS. 1-13 illustrate a
laundry rack 5 having connectors between cross members 20 and legs
10 that promote simplified assembly and disassembly of the
components. These components include a pair of legs 10 connected by
cross members 20, as shown in FIG. 1. In the illustrated
embodiment, the legs 10 are vertically extending and the cross
members 20 are horizontally extending between the legs 10.
[0041] The drying rack 5 is shiftable between a collapsed position,
as shown in FIG. 3, and an expanded or upright position as shown in
FIG. 1. The collapsed position allows for simplified storage of the
drying rack 5, as it can take up less space than the expanded
configuration. The expanded configuration, however, is configured
to allow for articles, such as clothes, to be hung from the cross
members 20 of the rack 5 for drying or other purposes. The cross
members 20 are provided at varying heights along the legs 10 in
order to provide multiple positions for articles to be supported.
For example, the drying rack 5 illustrated in FIG. 1 has six
different elevations of cross members 20 that allow for articles of
clothing to be hung therefrom.
[0042] Each of the legs 10 is convertible between a collapsed
position and an extended position, the latter of which is shown in
FIG. 2. When the laundry rack 5 is in the collapsed position, each
of the legs 10 is also in the collapsed position. Similarly, when
each of the legs 10 is in the expanded position, the laundry rack 5
is in its expanded position. The laundry rack 5 includes a top rack
portion 30 that is pivotable relative to the legs 10. The top rack
portion 30 can be pivoted into a generally horizontal
configuration, as shown in FIG. 7, whereby support arms 32 can
secure the laundry rack 5 in its expanded position, as will be
described in greater detail hereinbelow. When the top rack 30 is
pivoted away from its horizontal position, as shown in FIG. 6, the
laundry rack 5 is able to shift to its collapsed position from its
expanded position.
[0043] Each of the legs 10 is formed from a plurality of linkages
12, as shown in FIG. 2. Each of the linkages 12, in turn, is formed
from a pair of linkage members 14. Each of the linkage members 14
is attached approximate its midpoint to another of the linkage
members 14 forming the linkages 12 about a central pivot pin 16.
When the linkages 12 are assembled, each has an inner linkage
member 14 facing the opposing leg 10 and an outer linkage member 14
facing away from the opposing leg 10.
[0044] In the expanded position of the laundry rack 5, the linkage
members 14 of a linkage 12 are in an essentially perpendicular
orientation, forming a generally X-type configuration, as shown in
FIG. 2. When the linkages 12 are in their collapsed configuration
corresponding to the collapsed configuration of the laundry rack 5,
the linkage members 14 of each linkage 12 are pivoted about the
central pivot pin 16 of their midsections into a generally parallel
configuration, as shown in FIG. 10. Ends of the linkages 14 are
pivotably connected via pivot pins 18 to ends of adjacent linkages
12. More particularly, the ends of a pair of linkages members 14
forming a linkage 12 may be pivotably connected via the linkage
pivot pins 18 to ends of linkage members 14 of an adjacent linkage
12. Multiple linkages 12 may then be connected to each other. When
the laundry rack 5 is in its expanded state, the adjacent linkages
12 and more particularly the adjacent linkage members 14 of each
linkage 12 are in a generally perpendicular relationship about the
pivot pins 18. However, when shifted to the collapsed position, the
linkage members 14 of adjacent linkages 12 are shifted about their
pivot pins 18 to a generally parallel relationship. The assembly of
each linkage 12 provides for a scissor-type linkage arrangement. As
shown in FIG. 2, three linkages 12 form each leg 10, where each
linkage 12 has two linkage members 14. However, other numbers of
linkages 12 may also be used in accordance with the laundry rack
5.
[0045] Connectors are provided in order to allow for connection of
cross members 20 between the legs 10 to form the drying rack 5. The
connection between the cross members 20 and the legs 10 comprises a
two-part connector. In this embodiment, the first part of the
connector is a connector socket 40 that is attachable to the legs
10. The second part of the connector is a connector tab 50 that is
provided on each end of each of the cross members 20.
Alternatively, as described hereinbelow with reference to FIGS.
11-13, the first part of the connector may be a connector tab 150
attachable to the legs 110 while the second part of the connector
is a connector socket 140 that is provided on each end of each of
the cross members 120.
[0046] Generally, the connectors are configured such that the cross
members 20 can be selectively inserted into and removed from
engagement with the legs 10 while the legs 10 are maintained a
predetermined distance apart. For example, when assembling the
laundry rack 5, one of the cross members 20 can be connected to
each of the legs 10 of the rack 5 to thereby maintain each leg 10
of the drying rack 5 a predetermined distance apart from the other
leg. Subsequent cross members 20 can be inserted between the legs
10 and engaged via the connectors without changing the
predetermined distance spacing the legs 10 apart. Such an assembly
method advantageously allows for the cross members 20 to be
connected to each of the legs 10 in a sequential manner. That is, a
first of the cross members 20 can be positioned between the first
and second legs 10. Then, subsequent cross members 20 can be
positioned between the legs 10.
[0047] The connector sockets 40 that is attached to the legs 10 of
the laundry rack 5 have two openings 47 and 48. A first opening 48
allows for insertion of the connector tabs 50 attached to the ends
of the cross members 20. The second opening 47 of the connector
socket allows for the cross member 20 to extend from within the
connector socket 40 when the connector tab 50 is inserted through
the first opening 48 thereof. The first opening 48 of the connector
socket 40 is positioned to allow for insertion of the connector tab
50 of the cross member 20 without changing the predetermined
spacing between the legs 10 of the laundry rack 5.
[0048] Turning to more of the details of the connector socket 40,
the connector socket 40 is generally U-shaped, as shown in FIG. 4.
The connector socket 40 has a pocket, as shown in FIG. 5, for
receiving the connector tab 50 through the first opening 48. The
pocket is defined by a pair of end walls 42 and 44 spaced apart by
a side wall 46. One of the end walls 42 is positioned adjacent the
support arm 32 or leg 10. The other of the end walls 44 faces the
opposing connector socket 40 on the opposite leg 10. The other of
the walls 44, facing the opposite leg, has the second opening 47
formed therein. The second opening 47 is configured to be larger
than the cross section of the cross member 20 to allow the cross
member 20 to be inserted therethrough. The second opening 47,
however, is also sized to be smaller than a cross section of the
connector tab 50 in order to prevent the connector tab 50 from
passing therethrough. In this manner, the connector tab 50 is held
in the pocket of the connector socket 40 by the end wall 44 facing
the opposing leg 10. The first opening 48 of the connector socket
40 is sized to allow for the connector tab 50 to pass therethrough
to allow for insertion and removal of the connector tab 50 and thus
the cross member 20. A depression 41 may be formed in the end wall
42 adjacent the leg 10 or support arm 32 in order to provide
clearance between the connector tab 50 when inserted in the pocket
and a pin or pivot 60 securing the connector socket 40 relative to
the leg 10.
[0049] The tab 50 may comprise a circular disc, as shown in FIG.
10, that is attached on each end of the cross member 20. In a
preferred embodiment, the tab 50 comprises a circular disc having a
stem. The stem is insertable into a hollow end of the cross member
20. The cross member 20 can be crimped around the stem of the
connector tab 50 in order to secure the connector tab 50 relative
to the cross member 20. The disc on the end of the connector tab 50
is preferably sized larger than the cross section of the cross
member 20, while the stem is preferably sized smaller than the
interior diameter of the cross member 20. In this manner, the stem
can readily be inserted into the cross member 20 and the cross
member 20 secured to the stem while the disc remains external to
the cross member 20 and positioned for engagement within the pocket
of the connector socket 40.
[0050] While each of the pins 60 secures the connector socket 40
relative to the support arm 32 or linkage member 14, some of the
pins 60, when also extending between linkage members 14 of a
linkage 12, may comprise pins 16 and 18. By using some of the pivot
pins 16 and 18 to secure the connector sockets 40 to the legs
and/or support arms 32, the number of separate pieces required to
form the rack 5 can be reduced.
[0051] An additional embodiment of a laundry rack pursuant to the
present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 11-13. The laundry rack
of this embodiment is generally similar to the previously described
embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 1-10
[0052] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-10, the connectors
include connector sockets 40 attached to the collapsible legs 10
and connector tabs 50 attached to the ends of cross members 20. In
the additional embodiment, illustrated in FIGS. 11-13, the
connectors include connector sockets 140 attached to cross members
120 and connector tabs 150 attached to the collapsible legs 110.
The connector sockets 140 and connector tabs 150, best illustrated
in FIGS. 11 and 12 respectively, are generally similar to the
connector sockets 40 and connector tabs 50 in FIGS. 5 and 6. In
this embodiment, the connector tabs 150 are provided on each of the
legs 110 and aligned with connector tabs 150 on opposing legs 110
to allow for connection of cross members 120 between the legs 110
to form the a drying rack.
[0053] The connector tabs 150 include a stem 151 that extends from
a disc 154, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13. The stem 151 offsets
the disc 154 from the leg 110 to allow the connector socket 150 to
attach thereto. Furthermore, the stem 151 also includes an enlarged
key portion 157 that allows the connector socket 140 to more
securely snap-fit onto the connector tab 150. Similar to the
connector sockets of the previous embodiment, the connector tabs
150, generally, are attached to the legs 110 by the pins that hinge
the support arms of the legs 110 together. In the illustrated
embodiment, the connector tabs 150 include a through hole 156. The
through hole 156 is adapted to receive the pin that connects the
support arms. Alternatively, a screw, bolt or other securement
devices or structures may be used to secure the connector tabs 150
to a leg 110.
[0054] The connector sockets 140 are generally similar to the
connector sockets 40 of the previous embodiment. The connector
sockets 140 attach to the ends of the cross members 120 of the
laundry rack and have a pocket defined between a first and second
end wall 142, 144, a side wall 146 separating the end walls 142,
144, two openings 147, 148 and a stem 149.
[0055] The first end wall 142 is positioned adjacent the end of a
cross member 120. In the illustrated embodiment, the stem 149
extends from the end wall 142. The stem 149 has a cross section
adapted to be inserted into a hollow cross member 120. Generally,
the cross member 120 and stem 149 are sized such that the stem 149
may be inserted into the end of the cross member 120 and either
press-fit or having the cross member 120 crimped around the stem
149. The end wall 142 from which the stem 149 extends is preferably
sized larger than the cross section of the cross member 120, while
the stem 149 is preferably sized smaller than the interior diameter
of the cross member 120. In this manner, the stem 149 can readily
be inserted into the cross member 120 and the cross member 120
secured to the stem 149 while the pocket and end walls 142 and 144
remain external to the cross member 120 and positioned for
engagement within the connector tab 150. In other embodiments, the
stem 149 includes a pocket being adapted such that the end of a
cross member 120 may be friction-fit therein.
[0056] The second end wall 144 faces away from the cross member 120
and includes the first opening 147. The first opening 147 being
sized larger than the cross section of the stem 151 of the
connector tabs 150 to receive the stem 151 therethrough. However,
the first opening 147 is also sized and adapted to be smaller than
a cross section of the disc 154 of the connector tab 150 in order
to prevent the disc 154 from passing therethrough. The second
opening 148 is defined between the first and second end walls 142,
144. The second opening 148 of the connector socket 150 is sized
larger than the disc 154 of the connector tab 150 to receive the
discs 154 therethrough such that the disc 154 may be inserted into
the pocket. Furthermore, if the stem 151 of the connector tab 150
includes the enlarged key portion 157, the first opening is
configured to mate with and snap-fit to the cross section of the
stem 151 to provide a more secure connection between the connector
socket 140 and connector tab 150.
[0057] In this manner, the disc 154 is held securely in the pocket
of the connector socket 140 by the end wall 144 facing away from
the cross member 120. This allows the connector socket 140, and
particularly the cross member 120, to be selectively attached and
removed from the connector tab 150, and thus the leg 110, without
changing the predetermined spacing between the legs 110 of the
laundry rack or other apparatus.
[0058] The subsequent discussion applies generally to all
embodiments, but it will be described generally with reference to
the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-10. As discussed above, the
support arms 32 of the top rack portion 30 of the rack 5 may be
pivoted between a position preventing the rack 5 from collapsing
and a position allowing the rack 5 to collapse. Each of the support
arms 32 is pivotably attached at one end to an upper end of a
linkage element 14 of an uppermost linkage 12 of the leg 10, as
shown in FIG. 6. The other end of the support arm 32 has a notch 34
configured to at least partially be placed around a cross member 22
extending between another linkage member 14 of the uppermost
linkage 12 of the leg 10. When the notch 34 of the support arm 32
is placed over the cross member 22, the linkage elements 14 of the
uppermost linkage 12 are prevented from collapsing, and thus the
rack 5 is maintained in its expanded configuration.
[0059] To prevent inadvertent removal of the support arm 32 from
the cross member 22, a clasp 36 can be secured around the cross
member 22. The clasp 36 is pivotably connected to the support arm
32 via a pivot pin or screw 38. If a screw is used, it can be
tightened to maintain the clasp 36 is a predetermined orientation.
The clasp 36 can be rotated from a open position, shown in FIG. 8,
to a closed position, shown in FIG. 9. In the open position, the
cross member 22 can be inserted into the notch 34 of the support
arm 32. In the closed position, a C-shaped portion 37 of the clasp
36 can surround a portion of the cross member 22 not surrounded by
the notch 34, thereby securing the cross member 22 between the
notch 34 and the clasp 36 to prevent inadvertent removal of the
cross member 22 from within the notch 34 and collapsing of the rack
5.
[0060] While the openings 48 of the connector sockets 40 can
generally be positioned in any direction, it is preferably that
most are positioned such that a downward force, such as due to the
weight of an article, on the cross member 22 secured via the
connector tab 50 will not cause the connector tab 50 to dislodge
from the pocket of the socket 40. However, the ones of the
connector sockets 50 attached to the uppermost linkages 12 and on
the linkage members 14 opposite the linkage members 14 having the
support arms 32 connected thereto preferably have openings 48
facing in a generally downward direction. When the rack 5 is
heavily weighted with articles, the ends of the uppermost linkage
members 14 on each leg 10 tend to want to shift toward their
collapsed configurations. Having the openings 48 facing in an
opposite direction can prevent the connector tab 50 of cross member
22 from inadvertently becoming dislodged from the pocket of the
socket 50. When using the second embodiment (FIGS. 11-13), the
cross members 120 should be positioned such that the first openings
147 of the connector sockets 140 are positioned to prevent this
problem. To assist in retaining the uppermost linkages 12 in their
expanded positions, and the cross member 22 in the notches 34 of
the support arms 32, the notches 34 may be inclined in a direction
such that the linkage forces toward the collapsed configuration of
the linkages 12 urges the cross member 22 at an angle into the
notch 34.
[0061] The components of the laundry rack or stand 5 may be
provided in a disassembled configuration suitable for packaging in
a state having a reduced size as compared to the rack in its
collapsed state. Such a state advantageously can reduce shipping
costs by minimizing the volume occupied by the components as
compared to the volume occupied by the rack in its collapsed state.
Similarly, such a state can also advantageously reduce the amount
of shelf space in a store occupied by the rack. The disassembled
configuration, as shown in FIG. 10, comprises two basic components,
the legs 10 and the cross members 20. The connector tabs 50 and the
connector sockets 40 are preferably supplied preattached to the
cross members 20 and legs 10, respectively. In the second
embodiment, the connector sockets 140 and connector tabs 150 are
preferably supplied preattached to the cross members 120 and legs
110, respectively. In addition, the support arms 32 are preattached
to the legs 10.
[0062] Thus, the only assembly steps required of the consumer or
other end user are insertion of the connector tabs 50, 150 into the
connector sockets 40, 140, respectively. The connector tabs 50 and
150 and sockets 40 and 140 are preferably sized such that, when
mated, a secure connection is provided that resists inadvertent
disconnection while allowing intentional disconnection upon
application of a suitable amount of force. Preferably, no tools or
other components are required to secure the connection between the
cross members 20 and the legs 10.
[0063] Three different lengths of cross members 20 are provided, as
illustrated in FIG. 10. The three shortest cross members 23 are
sized to extend between the support arms 32 to form the top rack
portion 30. The eight middle-length cross members 24 are sized to
extend between the inner linkage members 14 of the legs 10. The
single longest cross member 22 is sized to extend between the outer
linkage members 14 of the legs proximate the upper end of the rack
5 and is the cross member 22 to which the support arms 32 of the
upper rack portion 30 are engageable.
[0064] The cross members 20, support arms 32, and legs 10 are
preferably formed of metal, and are preferably hollow. The various
pivot pins and connecting pins are also preferably metal. The
connector tabs 50, 150 and connector sockets 40, 140 are preferably
formed of plastic. Plastic end caps may also be provided and
inserted into exposed hollow ends of the cross members 20, support
arms 32, and legs 10. However, other materials can also be used.
For example, the cross members 20, support arms 32, and/or legs 10
may be formed of solid wood, solid plastic, or hollow plastic
materials.
[0065] The rack 5 in its expanded position is preferably between
about 36 and 48 inches tall, between about 12 and 16 inches wide,
and between about 24 and 36 inches long. In its collapsed position
or configuration, the rack 5 is preferably between about 3 and 5
inches high, between about 18 and 22 inches wide, and between about
24 and 36 inches long. Each of the linkage members 14 of the legs
10 is preferably between about 16 and 24 inches in length, and more
preferably about 20 inches in length. The shortest cross members 23
are preferably between about 24 and 27 inches in length, and are
more preferably about 25.5 inches in length. The medium-sized cross
members 24 are preferably between about 25 and 28 inches in length,
and are more preferably about 26.5 inches in length. The longest
cross member 22 is preferably between about 26 and 29 inches in
length, and are more preferably about 27.5 inches in length. The
cross members 20 preferably have a diameter of between about 0.4
and 0.5 inches. The discs of the connector tabs 50, 150 preferably
have a diameter of about 0.7 inches, and a thickness of about 0.1
inches. The pockets of the connector sockets 40, 140 are sized to
accommodate insertion and removal of the discs of the connector
tabs 50, 150.
[0066] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that an improved
connection for components of a rack are provided providing for
simplified assembly by allowing for sequential assembly of
components as opposed to simultaneous assembly, reducing the number
of assembly steps to be performed by an end user, and allowing for
the volume occupied by the components to be minimized, such as
during shipping and display on shelves in a store. The inventions
are not limited to the embodiments described hereinabove or to any
particular embodiments. Various modifications to the aforementioned
construction, component materials, and component dimensions will
result in substantially the same inventions. For instance the
connections for components described herein are not limited to use
on laundry racks, but can be used for the simplified joining of
components of other devices and items.
* * * * *