U.S. patent application number 10/982663 was filed with the patent office on 2005-09-08 for flexible trouser hanger.
This patent application is currently assigned to Spotless Plastics PTY., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Petrou, Nicoleon.
Application Number | 20050194412 10/982663 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34916367 |
Filed Date | 2005-09-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050194412 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Petrou, Nicoleon |
September 8, 2005 |
Flexible trouser hanger
Abstract
A hanger having a first hook portion extending above a central
body portion and has two arms extending laterally outward from the
central body portion to distal ends. A locking bar has a first end
and is secured along the first arm extending adjacent the first arm
to a second end. Additionally, a support bar can be provided having
a third end and secured along the first arm extending beneath the
locking bar to a fourth end secured along the second arm. A latch
is provided between the support bar and the locking bar, adjacent
the second end of the locking bar. The locking bar deflects under
the weight of the hung article to engage the latch and to secure
the hung article between the locking bar and the support bar.
Inventors: |
Petrou, Nicoleon; (San
Diego, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SCULLY SCOTT MURPHY & PRESSER, PC
400 GARDEN CITY PLAZA
SUITE 300
GARDEN CITY
NY
11530
US
|
Assignee: |
Spotless Plastics PTY.,
Ltd.
Moorabin
AU
|
Family ID: |
34916367 |
Appl. No.: |
10/982663 |
Filed: |
November 5, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10982663 |
Nov 5, 2004 |
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10606516 |
Jun 26, 2003 |
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60551879 |
Mar 10, 2004 |
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60583502 |
Jun 28, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
223/95 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47G 25/487 20130101;
A47G 25/30 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
223/095 |
International
Class: |
A41D 027/22 |
Claims
1. A hanger comprising: a first hook portion extending above a
central body portion; first and second arms, each extending
laterally outward from the central body portion to a respective
first and second distal end; a first locking bar having a first end
secured along the first arm and extending inward beneath the first
arm to a second end; and a first support bar having a third end
secured along the first arm and extending beneath the first locking
bar to a fourth end secured along the second arm.
2. The hanger according to claim 1, further comprising a latch
between the first locking bar and the first support bar, adjacent
the second end of the first locking bar.
3. The hanger according to claim 2, the latch comprising an
upstanding web.
4. The hanger according to claim 3, the latch further comprising a
lateral cap at the top of the upstanding web.
5. The hanger according to claim 4, wherein the locking bar has, at
the second end thereof, a reduced width relative to at least one
other point having a greater width along the length of the locking
bar.
6. The hanger according to claim 5, wherein the reduced width is no
greater than approximately the distance between a side of the
upstanding web and the lateral extent of the lateral cap.
7. The hanger according to claim 2, wherein the latch is secured to
the support bar.
8. The hanger according to claim 1, wherein the width of the
locking bar varies along its length.
9. The hanger according to claim 8, wherein the locking bar has, at
the second end thereof, a reduced width relative to at least one
other point having a greater width along the length of the locking
bar.
10. The hanger according to claim 9, wherein the locking bar has a
minimum width at the second end.
11. The hanger according to claim 8, wherein the locking bar has
one of a stepwise transition and a taper transition between the
varied widths.
12. The hanger according to claim 1, further comprising a raised
surface rising above one of the first and second arms along a side
of the central body portion.
13. The hanger according to claim 1, further comprising a flange
along the top surface of one of the first and second arms.
14. The hanger according to claim 13, wherein the flange has a
greater width in the region of the first or second distal end then
in the region of the central body portion.
15. The hangar according to claim 1, further comprising an
injection molded plastic material.
16. The hanger according to claim 1, wherein the locking bar is
dimensioned to deflect to interface the supporting bar under a
predetermined minimum force.
17. The hanger according to claim 1, wherein the supporting bar and
locking bar are dimensioned to support together a predetermined
maximum force.
18. A method for hanging a flexible article, the method comprising:
(a) providing a hanger having at least a hook portion, a support
bar beneath the hook portion, a flexible locking bar between the
support bar and the hook portion, the flexible locking bar having a
free end, and a latch between the support bar and the flexible
locking bar adjacent the free end of the flexible locking bar; (b)
folding the flexible article over itself at least once; (c)
positioning one side of the folded article to extend from the space
between the locking bar and the support bar to a first side of the
support bar; (d) positioning another side of the folded article to
extend from the space above the locking bar to the first side of
the support bar; (e) positioning the free end of the flexible
locking bar locking bar adjacent the latch on a second side of the
support bar, opposite the first side; (f) allowing the weight of
the article to deflect the locking bar into engagement with the
support, and to deflect the free end of the flexible locking bar
into engagement with the latch, thereby securing the side of the
folded article.
19. The method for hanging a flexible article according to claim
18, further comprising suspending the hanger from a support by the
hook portion.
20. A hanger comprising: a first hook portion extending above a
central body portion; first and second arms, each extending
laterally outward from the central body portion to a respective
first and second distal end; a first locking bar having a first end
secured distally along the first arm and extending inward towards
the central body portion beneath the first arm to a second end; a
first support bar having a third end secured distally along the
first arm and extending inward towards the central body portion
beneath the first locking bar to a fourth end; and a second support
bar having a fifth end secured distally along the second arm and
extending inward towards the central body portion beneath the
second arm to a sixth end.
21. The hanger according to claim 20, further comprising a second
locking bar having a seventh end secured distally along the second
arm and extending inward towards the central body portion beneath
the second arm and above the second support bar to an eighth
end.
22. The hanger according to claim 20, wherein the second end of the
first locking bar extends further inward towards the central body
portion than the fourth end of the first support bar.
23. The hanger according to claim 20, wherein one of the fourth end
of the first support bar and the sixth end of the second support
bar is secured to the hanger.
24. The hanger according to claim 20, wherein a lower surface of
the first locking bar and an upper surface of the first support bar
are provided with complementary profiles.
25. The hanger according to claim 20, wherein the width of the
first locking bar narrows from the first end to the second end.
26. The hanger according to claim 20, wherein at least one of the
first and second arms is swept downward.
27. The hanger according to claim 20, wherein the first locking bar
is swept upward, whereby the second end is above the first end.
28. The hanger according to claim 20, wherein at least one of the
first and second support bars is swept upward, whereby the fourth
or sixth end is above the third or fifth end, respectively.
29. The hanger according to claim 20, further comprising an
inclined edge rising above one of the first and second arms along a
side of the central body portion.
30. The hanger according to claim 20, further comprising a recess
formed in a top surface of one of the first and second arms.
31. The hanger according to claim 20, further comprising a flange
along the top surface of one of the first and second arms.
32. The hanger according to claim 31, wherein the flange has a
greater width in the region of the first or second distal end then
in the region of the central body portion.
33. The hanger according to claim 20, further comprising a second
hook extending beneath the first or second arm.
34. The hangar according to claim 20, further comprising an
injection molded plastic material.
35. The hangar according to claim 20, wherein the second end of the
first locking bar extends at least to the sixth end of the second
support bar and above the second support bar.
36. A hanger comprising: a first hook portion extending above a
central body portion; first and second arms, each extending
laterally outward from the central body portion to a respective
first and second distal end; a first locking bar having a first end
secured along the first arm and extending inward toward the central
body portion and beneath the first arm to a second end; and a first
support bar having a third end secured along the second arm and
extending inward towards the central body portion at least to the
first end of the first locking bar and beneath the first locking
bar to a fourth end.
37. The hanger according to claim 36, wherein the locking bar is
dimensioned to deflect to interface the supporting bar under a
predetermined minimum force.
38. The hanger according to claim 36, wherein the supporting bar
and locking bar are dimensioned to support together a predetermined
maximum force.
39. The hanger according to claim 36, wherein a lower surface of
the locking bar and an upper surface of the first support bar are
provided with complementary profiles.
40. A hanger comprising: a first hook portion extending above a
central body portion; a first arm extending laterally outward from
the central body portion to a first distal end; a first locking bar
having a first fixed end secured along the first arm and extending
inward beyond a midpoint of the hanger and beneath the first arm to
a first free end; and a first support bar having a second fixed end
secured along the first arm and extending inward beyond a midpoint
of the hanger and beneath the first locking bar to a second free
end.
41. The hanger according to claim 40 wherein the locking bar is
dimensioned to deflect to interface the supporting bar under a
predetermined minimum force.
42. The hanger according to claim 40, wherein the supporting bar
and locking bar are dimensioned to support together a predetermined
maximum force.
43. The hanger according to claim 40, wherein a lower surface of
the locking bar and an upper surface of the first support bar are
provided with complementary profiles.
44. A hanger comprising: a first hook portion extending above a
central body portion; first and second arms, each extending
laterally outward from the central body portion to respective first
and second distal ends; and a first locking bar having a first end
secured to the hanger and extending adjacent the first arm to a
second end, wherein the first locking bar is dimensioned to deflect
to interface a support under a predetermined minimum force.
45. The hanger according to claim 44, further comprising a second
locking bar having a third end secured to the hanger and extending
adjacent the second arm to a fourth end, wherein the second locking
bar is dimensioned to deflect to interface a support under a
predetermined minimum force.
46. The hanger according to claim 44, wherein the support comprises
one of the first arm, and a first support bar having a fifth end
secured to the hanger and extending adjacent the first locking bar
to a sixth end.
47. The hanger according to claim 44, wherein the first locking bar
is positioned above the first arm.
48. A method for hanging a flexible article, the method comprising:
(a) providing a hanger having at least a hook portion, a support
beneath the hook portion and a flexible locking bar between the
support and the hook portion; (b) folding the flexible article over
itself at least once; (c) positioning one side of the folded
article between the locking bar and the support; (d) positioning
another side of the folded article above the locking bar; and (e)
allowing the weight of the article to deflect the locking bar into
engagement with the support, thereby securing the side of the
folded article located therebetween.
49. The method for hanging a flexible article according to claim
48, further comprising suspending the hanger from a support by the
hook portion.
50. The method for hanging a flexible article according to claim
48, wherein a lower surface of the locking bar and an upper surface
of the support are provided with complementary profiles.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 120
as a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/606,516, filed Jun. 26, 2003, titled Hanger Having a Locking Bar
(attorney docket 16699), now pending, the complete disclosure of
which is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes. This
application also claims priority under 35 USC .sctn. 119(e) of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/551,879, filed Mar. 10,
2004, titled Flexible Trouser Hanger (attorney docket 17429), and
U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/583,502, filed Jun.
28, 2004, titled Flexible Trouser Hanger (attorney docket 17887),
the complete disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by
reference for all purposes.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to the field of hangers and
more particularly to a hanger having a locking bar for securely
suspending an article.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Many types of hangers have been developed for suspending a
folded article, e.g., a pair of trousers. For various reasons, all
have proven unsatisfactory. Taking first the most basic example, a
triangular-shaped twisted wire hanger. This proves incapable of
holding most folded articles, unless the article is precisely
balanced over lower the bar of the hanger, because of the narrow
diameter and smooth surface of the wire. To overcome this problem,
a paperboard insert is often placed over the bar. An adhesive or
friction-enhanced coating may also be applied to the upper side of
the insert. The width of the paperboard insert, in combination with
the increased friction of the surface, either natural or enhanced,
can accommodate some imbalance, thereby improving results, but not
to the desired holding capacity and reliability. It would also be
advantageous to provide a single piece hanger adequate to reliably
hold a folded article.
[0006] Another unsatisfactory solution is shown schematically in
the Prior Art example of FIG. 14. As shown in FIG. 14, a hanger,
generally 2, has solid lower bar 4 to support a folded article.
Provided beneath the lower bar 4 extending below the bar and inward
from each end are holding tabs 6. In use, the intent of this device
is that the article is folded over the lower bar 4, and then
positioned between the bar 4 and the tabs 6. It is presumed that
the friction of the article against both the lower bar 4, and the
tabs 6, and itself are adequate to prevent an unbalanced article
from sliding off the lower bar 4 in most circumstances. In
practice, however, results are unsatisfactory. First, there are
circumstances where the article is very sheer and simply does not
provide adequate friction to hold even the slightest imbalance.
Additionally, even for most garments that can provide nominal
friction, the tabs 6 are too short to appreciably hold the article.
In addition, the short length of the tabs 6 makes them largely
inflexible. It is therefore difficult to position the article
between the lower bar 4 and the tabs 6 as intended.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In order to overcome these and other drawbacks in the prior
art, provided herein is a hanger having a first hook portion
extending above a central body portion, first and second arms, each
extending laterally outward from the central body portion to a
respective first and second distal end. A first locking bar has a
first end and is secured distally along the first arm extending
inward towards the central body portion beneath the first arm to a
second end. A first support bar has a third end and is secured
distally along the first arm extending inward towards the central
body portion beneath the first locking bar to a fourth end. A
second support bar has a fifth end secured distally along the
second arm and extends inward towards the central body portion
beneath the second arm to a sixth end.
[0008] In a further embodiment, the hanger further includes a
second locking bar having a seventh end secured distally along the
second arm and extending inward towards the central body portion
beneath the second arm and above the second support bar to an
eights end.
[0009] In an alternate embodiment of a hanger according to the
present invention, the hanger comprises a first hook portion
extending above a central body portion, first and second arms, each
extending laterally outward from the central body portion to a
respective first and second distal end. A first locking bar having
a first end is secured along the first arm and extends inward
toward the central body portion and beneath the first arm to a
second end. A first support bar having a third end is secured along
the second arm and extends inward towards the central body portion
at least to the second end of the first locking bar and beneath the
first locking bar to a fourth end.
[0010] In yet another embodiment of a hanger according to the
present invention, the hanger comprises a first hook portion
extending above a central body portion, a first arm extending
laterally outward from the central body portion to a first distal
end. A first locking bar having a first fixed end is secured along
the first arm and extends inward beyond a midpoint of the hanger
and beneath the first arm to a first free end. A first support bar
having a second fixed end is secured distally along the first arm
and extends inward beyond a midpoint of the hanger and beneath the
first locking bar to a second free end.
[0011] In a further embodiment of the present invention, a lower
surface of the locking bar and/or an upper surface of the support
bar are provided with complementary profiles, such as flat, convex
or concave curvatures, saw-tooth, S-curves, or V-shapes.
[0012] In yet another embodiment of a hanger according to the
present invention, the hanger comprises a first hook portion
extending above a central body portion, and first and second arms,
each extending laterally outward from the central body portion to
respective first and second distal ends. A first locking bar has a
first end secured to the hanger and extends adjacent the first arm
to a second end, wherein the first locking bar is dimensioned to
deflect to interface a support under a predetermined minimum
force.
[0013] In a further embodiment, the support comprises one of the
first arm, and a first support bar having a fifth end secured to
the hanger and extending adjacent the first locking bar to a sixth
end. Also in a further embodiment, the first locking bar is
positioned above the first arm. A second similar locking bar may
also be provided.
[0014] In a further embodiment, a hanger has a first hook portion
extending above a central body portion, and has two arms extending
laterally outward from the central body portion to distal ends. A
locking bar has a first end and is secured along the first arm
extending adjacent the first arm to a second end. Additionally, a
support bar can be provided having a third end and secured along
the first arm extending beneath the locking bar to a fourth end
secured along the second arm. A latch is provided between the
support bar and the locking bar, adjacent the second end of the
locking bar. The locking bar deflects under the weight of the hung
article to engage the latch and to secure the hung article between
the locking bar and the support bar.
[0015] Also provided according to the present invention is method
for hanging a flexible article including providing a hanger having
at least a hook portion, a support bar beneath the hook portion and
a flexible locking bar between the support bar and the hook
portion, and folding the flexible article over itself at least
once. One side of the folded article is positioned between the
locking bar and the support bar; another side of the folded article
is positioned above the locking bar. The weight of the article
deflects the locking bar into engagement with the support bar,
thereby securing the side of the folded article located
therebetween.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] These and other features, advantages and benefits of the
present invention will be made apparent with reference to the
following specification and the accompanying drawings, where like
reference numerals refer to like structures across the several
views.
[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a hanger according to a first embodiment
of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 1a illustrates a second embodiment of the present
invention.
[0019] FIG. 1b illustrates a third embodiment of the present
invention.
[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates a hanger according to a fourth embodiment
of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the first
embodiment taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 1;
[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the alternate
embodiment taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2;
[0023] FIG. 5 illustrates a fifth embodiment of a hanger according
to the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 6 illustrates a sixth embodiment of a hanger according
to the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 7 illustrates a seventh embodiment of a hanger
according to the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 8 illustrates a eighth embodiment of a hanger according
to the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 9 illustrates a ninth embodiment of a hanger according
to the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the ninth
embodiment taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 9;
[0029] FIG. 11 illustrates a tenth embodiment of a hanger according
to the present invention;
[0030] FIG. 12 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the tenth
embodiment taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 11;
[0031] FIGS. 13A-C illustrate, in plan view, three embodiments of a
free end of a locking bar of the tenth hanger embodiment as shown
in FIGS. 11-12; and
[0032] FIG. 14 illustrates a hanger according to a known prior
art.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0033] Turning now to FIG. 1, a first embodiment of a hanger,
generally 10, according to the present invention is illustrated.
Hanger 10 has a first hook portion 12 for engaging a bar or other
support by which the hanger can be supported. Beneath the first
hook portion 12, a first arm 14 and a second arm 16 extend
laterally outward, typically, but not exclusively, in a coplanar
fashion, from a central body portion 18. Central body portion 18
need only be as large as necessary to join either of first and
second arms 14, 16 with the first hook portion 12. In this
particular embodiment, first and second arms 14, 16, respectively,
sweep downward beneath the first hook portion 12 and the central
body portion 18. This can differ, however, without departing from
the scope of the invention. For example, the arms 14, 16, may
extend outward from the central body portion in a level fashion, or
may even sweep upward. Either arm may sweep upward or downward, or
not at all, irrespective of any sweep of lack thereof in the other
arm.
[0034] First arm 14 extends laterally outward to a first distal end
20. Second arm 16 extends laterally outward to a second distal end
22. Secured at a distal point along first arm 14 is a first locking
bar 28. First locking bar 28 extends from a first fixed end 28a
inward towards central body portion 18 beneath first arm 14 to a
first free end 28b.
[0035] Secured at a distal point along first arm 14 is a first
support bar 24. First support bar 24 extends from a second fixed
end 24a inward towards central body portion 18 beneath first
locking bar 28 to a second free end 24b. Secured at a distal point
along second arm 16 is a second support bar 26. Second support bar
26 extends from a third fixed end 26a inward towards central body
portion 18 beneath second arm 16 to a third free end 26b.
[0036] Secured at a distal point along second arm 16 is a second
locking bar 30. Second locking bar 30 extends from a fourth fixed
end 30a inward towards central body portion 18 beneath second arm
16 and above second support bar 26 to a fourth free end 30b.
[0037] In this embodiment, first and second locking bars 28, 30,
respectively, and first and second support bars, 24, 26,
respectively sweep upward beneath the first and second arm 14, 16,
towards the central body portion 18. This is provided in the
preferred embodiment first, to anticipate the downward deflection
of the free ends, 24b, 26b, 28b, 30b, under the weight of the
article to be hung. As a result, the first and second locking bars
28, 30, respectively, and first and second support bars, 24, 26,
respectively, approach a level condition in use.
[0038] Additional sweep beyond what is necessary to anticipate
deflection can be provided in connection with closing the space 32
and space 34 at fixed ends 30a and 26a, respectively. As a result,
if the article were to slip from between the locking bar 30 and
support bar 26, it would tend to slide down the sweep into the
closed end of the space, and remain suspended from the hanger 10.
Similar closure can be provided at fixed ends 24a, 28a for similar
effect.
[0039] The direction or presence of sweep in the first and second
locking bars 28, 30, respectively, and first and second support
bars, 24, 26, can differ, however, without departing from the scope
of the invention. For example, the locking bars 28, 30, and the
support bars 24, 26, may extend inward toward the central body
portion in a level fashion, or may even sweep downward,
irrespective of any upward or downward sweep, or lack of sweep in
the arms 14, 16. Neither is it necessary for the locking bar and
support bar to be parallel or near parallel within the scope of the
present invention.
[0040] FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of hanger 10 taken
along line 3-3 of FIG. 1. It will be recognized by those skilled in
the art that the following examples are merely illustrative, and
variations are possible without departing from the scope of the
invention. In the exemplary embodiment, first arm 14 has the
general shape of an "I" beam, with an upper flange 50 and a lower
flange 52 connected by a web 54. Locking bar 28 has a generally
rectangular cross section, and may have some rounding of its
corners. It is advantageous for a locking bar to have a good deal
of flexibility in both the vertical and lateral directions, from
the viewpoint of FIG. 3. However, for additional strength, the
locking bar 28 can have an increased cross-sectional area in the
region of its fixed end.
[0041] As seen in FIG. 3, locking bar 28 has a wider dimension 56
in the region of first fixed end 28a than either along its length
or in the region of first free end 28b. At the point of connection
of the first fixed end 28a, however, the wider dimension 56 can
again be narrowed, in order to avoid stress concentrations.
[0042] In one embodiment, the lower surface 64 of locking bar 28
and/or the upper surface 66 of support bar 24 are generally flat,
providing one example of complementary profiles. This arrangement
has the advantage of providing more surface area, as compared to
cylindrical bars, for the engagement of the article between the
locking bar 28 and the support bar 24 when the locking bar 28 is
deflected downward under the weight of the hung article. This will
be explained further with respect to the operation of the present
invention, infra.
[0043] Alternately, the lower surface of the locking bar 28 and the
upper surface 66 of the support bar 24 can be provided with
complementary and/or mating non-flat profiles, such as convex or
concave curvatures, saw-tooth, S-curves, or V-shapes. Complementary
profiles are those deigned to enhance the engagement between the
locking bar 28 and the support bar 24, other examples of which
would be opposing V-shapes arranged to engage generally
point-to-point, and S-shapes or saw-tooth shapes arranged to engage
generally peak-to-peak. A subset of such complementary profiles are
those that mate together to substantially eliminate all space
between the two, such as V-shapes, S-shapes, or saw-tooth shapes
arranged to engage generally peak-to-valley.
[0044] At the point of FIG. 3, support bar 24 also exhibits an "I"
beam cross section, having an upper flange 58 and a lower flange 60
connected by web 62. The support bar also can benefit by additional
strength at the third fixed end 24a. In this case, that is
accomplished by varying the height of the web 62 along the length
of the support bar 24. The exemplary embodiment employs a
constant-stress method known in the art, varying the height of the
web linearly with distance from the third fixed end 24a. In the
region of third free end 24b, the height of web 62 shrinks to nil,
while the upper flange 58 and lower flange 60 converge.
[0045] Referring again to FIG. 1, shown in the region of first
distal end 20 is a secondary flange 21. The secondary flange
connects the lower flange 52 of first arm 14 with the upper flange
58 of support bar 24 to strengthen the junction. In FIG. 3, an
upper portion 21a and a lower portion 21b of secondary flange 21
can be seen. Second distal and 22 is also illustrated having a
secondary flange 23.
[0046] The use and operation of the present invention will be
described. A pair of trousers will be described as an archetypical
folded hanging article of clothing, however it will be recognized
that the present invention is equally applicable to any flexible
article, clothing or other articles. Such flexible articles can
include, but are not limited to, sweaters, skirts, tablecloths,
rugs, tapestries, unfinished textiles, and webs, sheets or films of
paper or other material.
[0047] Returning to the exemplary pair of trousers, it will be
folded at least one time over itself prior to hanging. One side of
this fold will be positioned in the space 32 above the locking bar
30. The other side of the fold will be positioned in the space 34
between the locking bar 30 and the support bar 26. In this
position, both sides of the folded article will be positioned on
the same side of the support bar 26. This process is repeated on
the opposite side of the hanger 10, with locking bar 28 and support
bar 24.
[0048] When suspended, the weight of the trousers will deflect the
locking bars 28, 30 downward into engagement with the support bars
24, 26, securely holding the trousers in place. Once the locking
bars 28, 30 and the support bars 24, 26, are engaged together under
the weight of the trousers, the combined vertical rigidity of the
locking bars 28, 30 and the support bars 24, 26, serve to support
the full weight of the trousers.
[0049] Other features of the hanger 10 add further utility. The
locking bars. 28, 30, are dimensioned to have flexibility to
deflect vertically under the weight of the trousers to engage the
support bar. It is also advantageous for the locking bar to exhibit
considerable flexibility in the lateral direction, as viewed in
FIG. 3, to aid in locating the article for secure hanging. This can
be accomplished with appropriate dimensioning of the locking bar
cross section in connection with the selection of a material having
a suitable modulus of elasticity.
[0050] To further assist in positioning the article, the first free
end 28b of the first locking bar 28 and/or the second free end 30b
of the second locking bar 30 are positioned further inward than the
third free end 24b of first support bar 24 and/or fourth free end
26b of second support bar 26, respectively. Therefore, the first
and second free ends 28b, 30b, are clear of the support bar which
could otherwise obstruct access.
[0051] FIG. 1a illustrates a second embodiment of the present
invention. This hanger, generally 45, differs from the hangar 10
primarily in that it has only one locking bar, 30, and a first and
second support bars, 24 and 26. In operation, the article will be
positioned generally as described above with respect to the
embodiment of FIG. 1. However, in the absence of locking bar 28,
the folded article is straddled over the support bar 24.
[0052] FIG. 1b illustrates a third embodiment of the present
invention. This hanger, generally 400, like hanger 45 has only one
locking bar, 31, and a first and second support, bars, 24 and 26.
Locking bar 31 extends from a fixed end 31a inward towards central
body portion 18 beneath second arm 16 and above second support bar
26. Locking bar 31 extends further beyond a midpoint of central
body 18, indicated by centerline 33, to a free end 31b.
[0053] In the embodiment shown, locking bar 31 has proximal portion
31e, proximal to the fixed end 31a, a medial portion 31f, and a
distal portion 31g. Where first or second support bars 24, 26 are
provided with upward or downward sweep, the portion of the locking
bar 31 that engages the respective support bar under the weight of
the article can be, but need not be, provided with complementary
sweep.
[0054] As shown in the example of FIG. 1b, proximal portion 31e is
swept upward to complement the sweep of support bar 26. Distal
portion 31g is swept to complement the sweep of support bar 24.
Medial portion 31f is shown to be horizontal, however it can also
have some other angle of inclination irrespective of the proximal
and distal portions 31e, 31g. Alternately, medial portion 31f may
be effectively eliminated, such that proximal and distal portions
31e, 31g meet at a point. Sweep need not be discontinuous, as
shown; it may take the form of a smooth curvature. In the use of
hanger 400, an article will be positioned generally as described
above with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0055] Referring now to FIG. 2, shown is a fourth embodiment of a
hanger, generally 100, according to the present invention. This
hanger will be seen to have many features similar to that of the
first embodiment shown in FIG. 1, therefore a detailed description
will be omitted.
[0056] Hanger 100 has a first hook portion 102 extending above a
central body portion 104. First arm 110 and second arm 112 extend
laterally outward from the central body portion 104. First arm 110
extends outward to a first distal end 122, and second arm 112
extends outward to a second distal end 124.
[0057] Secured at a distal point along first arm 110 is a first
locking bar 130. First locking bar 130 extends inward towards
central body portion 104 beneath first arm 110. Secured at a distal
point along second arm 112 is a second locking bar 132. Second
locking bar 132 extends inward towards central body portion 104
beneath second arm 112.
[0058] Secured at a distal point along first arm 110 is a first
support bar 126. First support bar 126 extends inward towards
central body portion 104 beneath first locking bar 130. Secured at
a distal point along second arm 112 is a second support bar 128.
Second support bar 128 extends inward towards central body portion
104 beneath second locking bar 132. It will be recognized that the
hanger 100 of this embodiment can be provided with only a single
locking-bar, in a manner similar to hanger 45, without departing
from the scope of the invention.
[0059] This second embodiment 100 has additional features that make
it suitable for supporting a wide variety of articles, particularly
clothing. Central body portion 104 has raised surfaces 106, 108, on
either side. These raised surfaces serve to support and to form the
collar portion of a collared shirt or blouse that may be hung from
the hanger 100. Further outward along either arm 110, 112, each arm
is provided with a recess 114, 116, respectively. The recess shown
is known in the art as a strap holder, and functions to hold the
shoulder straps of a garment to be hung which is so provided. The
recess 114, 116, may also by provided such that the upper surface
118, 120 overhangs at least a portion of the recess, in order to
more reliably hold the strap. Recess 114, 116, may also be provided
with a flange on its lower surface to provide additional width to
support the strap.
[0060] Referring now to FIG. 4, a cross-sectional view of hanger
100 taken along line 4-4 of FIG. 2. First arm 110 can be seen to
have an upper flange 150 and a lower flange 152, connected by a web
154. Upper flange 150 has a wider width 156 on its upper surface
118. A similar construction may be provided on upper surface 120 of
second arm 112. The wider width 156 is advantageous to support a
jacket or other article of clothing that would typically be
suspended over the arms of a hangar.
[0061] It is, however, also advantageous to limit the width of the
hanger 100, particularly at the hook. Therefore, according to the
present invention, the upper surface 118 of first arm 110 has a
greater width in the region of the first distal end 122 than in the
region adjacent the central body portion 104. In a more preferred
embodiment, the width of the upper surface 118 increases linearly
with the distance from the central body portion 104,
notwithstanding the opening for recess 114. In the more preferred
embodiment, where the recess 114 is provided with a flange on its
lower portion, the width of the flange is the same as what the
upper surface 118 is at that distance from the central body 104, or
would had been, but for the opening of the recess. Additionally, to
improve the strength of the first hook portion 102 while
maintaining a minimum width, the first hook portion can be provided
with an additional central rib 103.
[0062] Referring back to FIG. 2, a second hook portion 134 is
located along an underside of the first arm 110 in the region of
the first distal end 122. Additionally, a third hook portion 136 is
located along an underside of the second arm 112 in the region of
the second distal end 124. The second and third hook portions 134,
136, are useful to suspend certain garments of clothing, for
example ladies' skirts, which are often provided with loops for
that purpose.
[0063] Turning again to FIG. 4, the locking bar 130 has a greater
cross-sectional area at its fixed end than at the section line,
although the dimension does not exceed that of any other flange.
First support bar 126 is also shown having an upper flange 158, and
a lower flange 160, connected by a web 162. In this particular
embodiment, like the first embodiment, the height of the web 162
decreases linearly with the distance from the fixed end of the
support bar 126 to nil at the free end, thereby merging the upper
flange 158 and the lower flange 160. Additionally in this
embodiment, width of the lower flange 160 decreases linearly from
the free end of the support bar 126 to a width approximately that
of the second hook portion 134.
[0064] Also shown in FIG. 4 is the outline of a secondary flange
119, namely an upper portion 119a and a lower portion 119b of
secondary flange 119. Secondary flange 119 connects the lower
flange 152 of first arm 110 with the upper flange 158 of support
bar 126 to strengthen the junction. In FIG. 2, second distal and
124 is also illustrated having a secondary flange 121.
[0065] Turning now to FIG. 5, a fifth embodiment of a hanger,
generally 200, according to the present invention is illustrated.
This hanger will be seen to have many features similar to that of
the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, therefore a detailed
description will be omitted.
[0066] Hanger 200 has a first hook portion 202 extending above a
central body portion 204. First arm 206 and second arm 208 extend
laterally outward from the central body portion 204. First arm 206
extends outward to a first distal end 210, and second arm 208
extends outward to a second distal end 212.
[0067] Secured at a distal point along first arm 206 is a locking
bar 214. Locking bar 214 extends inward beyond a midpoint of
central body portion 204, indicated by centerline 216, beneath
first arm 206. Secured at a distal point along second arm 208 is a
support bar 218. Support bar 218 extends inward beyond a midpoint
of central body portion 204, indicated by centerline 216, beneath
locking bar 214. The length of the region of overlap 220 between
the locking bar 214 and support bar 218 can be varied, as can its
lateral position along the width of the hanger 200. A longer region
of overlap will improve the engagement of the article between the
locking bar 214 and the support bar 218, and will improve the ease
of use, because the locking bar can be made more flexible by
increasing its length.
[0068] Referring now to FIG. 6, a sixth embodiment of a hanger,
generally 300, according to the present invention is illustrated.
This hanger will be seen to have many features similar to that of
the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, therefore a detailed
description will be omitted.
[0069] Hanger 300 has a first hook portion 302 extending above a
central body portion 304. First arm 306 extends laterally outward
from the central body portion 304 to a first distal end 308.
Secured at a distal point along first arm 306 is a locking bar 310.
Locking bar 310 extends inward beyond a midpoint of central body
portion 304, indicated by centerline 312, beneath first arm 306.
Secured at a distal point along second arm 306 is a support bar
314. Support bar 314 extends inward beyond a midpoint of central
body portion 304, indicated by centerline 312, beneath locking bar
310.
[0070] Referring now to FIG. 7, a seventh embodiment of a hanger,
generally 500, according to the present invention is illustrated.
This hanger will be seen to have many features similar to that of
the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, therefore a detailed
description will be omitted.
[0071] Hanger 500 has a first hook portion 502 extending above a
central body portion 504. First arm 506 extends laterally outward
from the central body portion 504 to a first distal end 508. Second
arm 208 extends laterally outward from the central body portion 504
to a second distal end 512.
[0072] Secured along the length of first arm 506 is a first support
bar 514. First support bar 514 extends from a first fixed end 514a
inward towards central body portion 504 to a second fixed end 514b.
Secured along the length of second arm 510 is a second support bar
516. Second support bar 516 extends from a third fixed end 516a
inward towards central body portion 504 to a third fixed end
516b.
[0073] Also secured along first arm 506 is a first locking bar 518.
First locking bar 518 extends from a fifth fixed end 518a inward
towards central body portion 504 above first support bar 514 to a
first free end 518b. Secured along second arm 510 is a second
locking bar 520. Second locking bar 520 extends from a sixth fixed
end 520a inward towards central body portion 504 above second
support bar 516 to a second free end 520b. Hanger 500 operates in a
similar fashion to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, in that
the article to be suspended is placed both between a locking bar
and a support bar and above a locking bar. The weight of the
article will deflect the locking bar into engagement with the
support bar, securely holding the article by the portion
therebetween.
[0074] Referring now to FIG. 8, an eighth embodiment of a hanger,
generally 600, according to the present invention is illustrated.
This hanger will be seen to have many features similar to that of
the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, therefore a detailed
description will be omitted.
[0075] Hanger 600 has a first hook portion 602 extending above a
central body portion 604. First arm 606 extends laterally outward
from the central body portion 604 to a first distal end 608. Second
arm 610 extends laterally outward from the central body portion 504
to a second distal end 612.
[0076] Secured along first arm 606 is a first locking bar 614.
First locking bar 618 extends from a first fixed end 614a inward
towards central body portion 604 above first arm 614 to a first
free end 614b. Secured along second arm 610 is a second locking bar
616. Second locking bar 616 extends from a second fixed end 616a
inward towards central body portion 604 above second arm 610 to a
second free end 616b. Alternately, either or both of locking bars
610, 616 may be secured at a point proximal to the central body
portion, and extend outward to a distal free ends. In such an
embodiment, the arms 606, 610 may also be level or provided with
upward sweep.
[0077] Hanger 600 operates in a similar fashion to the embodiments
shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, except that in this embodiment, the arm
itself performs the function of the support bar. The article to be
suspended is placed both between a locking bar and an arm, and
above a locking bar. The weight of the article will deflect the
locking bar into engagement with arm, securely holding the article
by the portion therebetween.
[0078] Referring now to FIG. 9, a ninth embodiment of a hanger,
generally 700, according to the present invention is illustrated.
This hanger will be seen to have many features similar to that of
the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1, 1(b), 2 and 5, therefore a
detailed description of every feature will be omitted.
[0079] Hanger 700 has a first hook portion 702 extending above a
central body portion 704. First arm 706 and second arm 708 extend
laterally outward from the central body portion 704. First arm 706
extends outward to a first distal end 710, and second arm 708
extends outward to a second distal end 712.
[0080] Secured at a distal point along first arm 706 is a locking
bar 714. Locking bar 714 extends beneath first arm 706 from a first
fixed end 714a to a second free end 714b. A support bar 718 extends
between a first fixed end 718a secured at a distal point along
first arm 706 and second fixed end 718b secured at a distal point
along second arm 708. Support bar 718 extends beneath locking bar
714.
[0081] Preferably, locking bar 714 exhibits a high degree of
flexibility in the lateral direction, i.e., in or out of the plane
of the drawing in FIG. 9. This flexibility aids in the ease of
positioning the article to be hung. However, it is also
advantageous to provide a latch, generally 730, to prevent major
deflection of the locking bar 714.
[0082] Referring now to FIG. 10, shown is a cross section of the
hanger in FIG. 9. Features beyond the immediate vicinity of the
section plane have been omitted, for clarity. Arm 708 is configured
in an I-beam configuration, but other configurations as known in
the art may be substituted. It should be noted that the height of
the web 732 may be altered, particularly shortened, in the region
of second free end 714b, to provide additional clearance space 734,
as desired. Support bar 718 is also configured as an I-beam, but
like arm 708, alternate configurations are suitable. With respect
to FIG. 9, it will be seen that the height of web 733 varies along
the length of support bar 718, even approaching zero at certain
points.
[0083] In FIG. 10, latch 730 can be seen more clearly. Latch 730
includes an upstanding web portion 736, and may include a lateral
cap 738. In use, the weight of the hung article will deflect the
locking bar downward to engage the support bar. Recalling that the
article will generally hang to one side or the other of the support
bar, preferably, the second free end 714b of locking bar 714 is
positioned on the opposite side of web 736, in either of spaces
740a and 740b. Therefore, the second free end 714b will be held
against the web 736 by the weight of the article, and will
prevented from deflecting laterally away from the second fixed end
718b of the support bar 718. Cap 738 prevents any unwanted upward
deflection of the second free end 714b. Cap 738 is illustrated
being wider than the locking bar 714, but need not be. It is
recognized that cap 738 can provide a ledge for the second free end
714b of the locking bar 714, and its width can be enhanced for that
purpose.
[0084] Referring again to FIG. 9, this embodiment may additionally
include other features, described supra. For example, a second hook
portion 734 located along an underside of the first arm 706 in the
region of the first distal end 710, and a third hook portion 736
along an underside of the second arm 708 in the region of the
second distal end 712, which perform a similar function as
described with respect to FIG. 2. Further, each arm 716, 708 may
have a wider width, as compared to the remainder of the arm, along
at least a portion of its upper surface 720, 722, respectively. The
wider width may be particularly confined to the area of distal end
710, 712. Additionally, central body portion 704 may include raised
surfaces 726, 728, on either side. These raised surfaces serve to
support and to form the collar portion of a collared shirt or
blouse that may be hung from the hanger 700.
[0085] Referring now to FIG. 11, a tenth embodiment of a hanger,
generally 800, according to the present invention is illustrated.
This hanger will be seen to have many features similar to that of
the embodiments shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, therefore a detailed
description of every feature will be omitted.
[0086] Referring now to FIG. 12, shown is a cross section of the
hanger 800 taken along line 12-12 of FIG. 11. It will be seen to be
generally similar to that shown in FIG. 9. Latch 830 includes an
upstanding web portion 836, and may include a lateral cap 838. In
use, the weight of the hung article will deflect the locking bar
814 downward to engage the support bar 818. Recalling that the
article will generally hang to one side or the other of the support
bar, preferably, the second free end 814b of locking bar 814 is
positioned on the opposite side of web 836, in either of spaces
840a and 840b. Therefore, the second free end 814b will be held
against the web 836 by the weight of the article, and will
prevented from deflecting laterally away from the second fixed end
818b of the support bar 818. Cap 838 prevents any unwanted upward
deflection of the second free end 814b. Cap 838 is illustrated as
being wider than the locking bar 814, but need not be. It is
recognized that cap 838 can provide a ledge for the second free end
814b of the locking bar 814, and its width can be enhanced for that
purpose.
[0087] As shown in FIG. 12, the free end 814b of locking bar 814
has a narrowed width 840. Preferably, the narrowed width 840 is
approximately equal to or less than the width 842a or 842b, each
defined on one side by a side wall of web 836 and on an opposite
side by a lateral extent of cap 838. More preferably, widths 842a
and 842b are approximately equal.
[0088] As shown in FIG. 12, when the free end 814b of the locking
bar 814 is engaged with the latch 830, for example against the side
of the web 836, the free end 814b will extend laterally
approximately no further than the lateral extent of the cap 838.
Turning to FIGS. 13A-C, shown in plan view are various embodiments
of the free end 814b. The narrowed width 840 of the free end 814b
may be tapered from a wider width along the length of locking bar
814, as in FIG. 13A. Alternately, the width of the locking bar 814
may be step-wise truncated to a narrowed width, as shown in FIG.
13B. Alternately, the locking bar 814 is smoothly tapered along it
entire length, as shown in FIG. 13C. As shown in FIGS. 13A-C, the
width of the free end 814b is reduced approximately evenly from
both sides. In alternate embodiments, the width may be reduced more
from one side or the other, or entirely from only one side or the
other. A taper or step-wise transition may still be provided
between the narrowed portion and the remainder of the locking bar
814.
[0089] The narrowed width 840 of the free end 814b, and any taper
optionally provided, reduces the extent to which the locking bar
extends laterally when engaged with latch 830. Accordingly, this
reduces the potential that multiple hangers adjacent one another
would interfere with each other, for example during bulk shipment
and handling of Garment-On-Hanger (GOH) loads, or when articles are
displayed, as for retail sale.
[0090] In the above embodiments, the locking bars are generally
illustrated secured at distal points, and extend inward, as are the
support bars. However, either the support bars or the locking bars,
irrespective of each other or of a complementary support or locking
bar, may be secured at a proximal point, and extend distally,
without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0091] The exemplary material contemplated for hangers according to
the present invention is some form of plastic, particularly those
suitable for high-volume injection molding, including, polystyrene,
ABS, SAN, ADS, PPO, nylon, polypropylene, polyethylene, PET,
polycarbonates, acrylics and PVC, among numerous other plastic
compositions. Each composition may be provided with different
colorings in conformance with the specific demands of the customer.
Other materials are also suitable, including a variety of metals,
dictated principally by the particular material properties,
including but not limited to modulus of elasticity, and the
resulting necessary dimensions in order to support and secure a
range of anticipated loads to be suspended from the hanger. Such
metals may be formed into the present invention by processes
including casting, forging, bending, stamping, or powder
metallurgy.
[0092] The present invention has been described with respect to
certain exemplary and preferred embodiments. However, certain
alterations or modifications will be apparent to those skilled in
that art without departing from the scope of the invention. The
foregoing descriptions are meant to be illustrative, and not
limiting on the scope of the invention, which is defined by the
appended claims.
* * * * *