U.S. patent application number 12/197008 was filed with the patent office on 2008-12-18 for dishwasher tine, tine extender and rack.
Invention is credited to Margaret A. Richardson.
Application Number | 20080308510 12/197008 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40131330 |
Filed Date | 2008-12-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080308510 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Richardson; Margaret A. |
December 18, 2008 |
DISHWASHER TINE, TINE EXTENDER AND RACK
Abstract
There is provided in one embodiment of the invention a
removable, adjustable-height dishwasher tine for holding objects in
an automatic dishwasher rack, where the dishwasher rack has at
least one receiving element for receiving the dishwasher tine and
where the tine comprises an elongated tube with a first end and a
second end, such that the first end has a securement means for
securely attaching the tine to the receiving element of the
dishwasher rack, and such that the elongated tube is adjustable in
height via an adjusting means. In another embodiment of the
invention there is provided a dishwasher rack for use in an
automatic dishwasher, where the dishwasher rack has a plurality of
spaced receiving elements for receiving a plurality of
corresponding removable dishwasher tines. The tines each comprise
an elongated tube with a first end and a second end, where the
first end has a securement means for securely attaching each tine
to the receiving element, such that the dishwasher tines can be
arranged to securely hold objects in the dishwasher rack.
Inventors: |
Richardson; Margaret A.;
(Los Angeles, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Dykema Gossett PLLC - Los Angeles, CA
333 S. Grand Avenue, Suite 2100
Los Angeles
CA
90071
US
|
Family ID: |
40131330 |
Appl. No.: |
12/197008 |
Filed: |
August 22, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11646788 |
Dec 28, 2006 |
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12197008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
211/41.9 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47L 15/505
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/41.9 |
International
Class: |
A47F 5/14 20060101
A47F005/14 |
Claims
1. A removable, adjustable-height dishwasher tine for holding
objects in an automatic dishwasher rack, wherein the dishwasher
rack has at least one receiving element for receiving the
dishwasher tine, the tine comprising an elongated tube with a first
end and a second end, wherein the first end has a securement means
for securely attaching the tine to the receiving element of the
dishwasher rack, and wherein the elongated tube is adjustable in
height via an adjusting means.
2. The dishwasher tine of claim 1 wherein the elongated tube is
rigid and securely attached to the receiving element of the
dishwasher rack in an upright position.
3. The dishwasher tine of claim 1 wherein the elongated tube is
flexible and securely attached to the receiving element of the
dishwasher rack.
4. The dishwasher tine of claim 1 wherein the elongated tube is
flexible, and wherein the second end has a securement means, such
that the second end is adapted to removably attach to a second
receiving element of the dishwasher rack.
5. The dishwasher tine of claim 1 wherein the securement means
comprises any one of the group of thread and screw portions,
resistance ridges, twist lock portions, plug and socket portions,
snap fit portions, clamp lock portions, and spring lock
portions.
6. The dishwasher tine of claim 1 wherein the adjusting means
comprises any one of the group of thread and screw portions,
telescoping portions, resistance ridges, twist lock portions, plug
and socket portions, snap fit portions, clamp lock portions, and
spring lock portions.
7. The dishwasher tine of claim 1 wherein the second end has at
least one gripping means for gripping a portion of the object.
8. The dishwasher tine of claim 1 wherein the tine has a decorative
element coupled to the tine.
9. The dishwasher tine of claim 1 wherein the elongated tube is
hinged in positions comprising vertical, horizontal, and
angled.
10. The dishwasher tine of claim 1 further comprising additional
elongated tubes and a flexible sheet connected between the
elongated tubes.
11. A dishwasher rack for use in an automatic dishwasher, wherein
the dishwasher rack has a plurality of spaced receiving elements
for receiving a plurality of corresponding removable dishwasher
tines, the tines each comprising an elongated tube with a first end
and a second end, wherein the first end has a securement means for
securely attaching each tine to the receiving element, such that
the dishwasher tines can be arranged to securely hold objects in
the dishwasher rack.
12. The dishwasher rack of claim 11 wherein the dishwasher rack is
removable from the automatic dishwasher.
13. The dishwasher rack of claim 11 wherein the dishwasher tines
are securely attached to the receiving elements of the dishwasher
rack in an upright position.
14. The dishwasher rack of claim 11 wherein the dishwasher tines
are flexible and securely attached to the receiving elements of the
dishwasher rack.
15. The dishwasher rack of claim 11 wherein the securement means
comprises any one of the group of thread and screw portions,
resistance ridges, twist lock portions, plug and socket portions,
snap fit portions, clamp lock portions, and spring lock
portions.
16. The dishwasher rack of claim 11 wherein the dishwasher tines
are of varying heights.
17. The dishwasher rack of claim 11 wherein the second end has at
least one gripping means for gripping a portion of the object.
18. The dishwasher rack of claim 11 wherein the elongated tube is
hinged in positions comprising vertical, horizontal, and
angled.
19. The dishwasher rack of claim 11 wherein one or more of the
dishwasher tines has at least one decorative element coupled to the
tine.
20. A removable dishwasher tine extender for holding objects in an
automatic dishwasher rack, the rack having a plurality of
upstanding tines, the extender comprising: an elongated telescoping
tube with a first end and a second end, wherein the first end has a
securement means adapted to receive a dishwasher tine, so that the
extender is securely mounted on the dishwasher tine, and wherein
the tube can be extended in a telescoping configuration to extend
the height of the dishwasher tine.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of published U.S.
utility publication number US 2008/0156750 A1, application Ser. No.
11/646,788, filed Dec. 28, 2006, entitled "Dishwasher Tine
Extender", currently pending, and which is incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] a. Field of the Invention
[0003] Embodiments of a dishwasher tine, tine extender and rack for
an automatic dishwasher are provided. More particularly, an
adjustable-height dishwasher tine and tine extender and a fixed
height dishwasher tine and tine extender for protecting and
supporting a variety of dishware, glassware, servingware,
plasticware, and stemware within an automatic dishwasher, as well
as a dishwasher rack for use with embodiments of said tines and
tine extenders, are provided.
[0004] b. Background Art
[0005] Automatic dishwashers, particularly those designed for home
use, accomplish the washing and rinsing of dishware, glassware,
servingware, plasticware, stemware, and the like, by spraying
pressurized streams of water mixed with a detergent over the
dishware, glassware, servingware, plasticware, and stemware. Such
streams of water are often powerful, so as to forcefully spray
dishware, glassware, serving-ware, plasticware, and stemware to
dislodge encrusted food and beverage particles. However, the
powerful water pressure can upset light items, such as crystal
glassware or plasticware, and especially items with a high center
of gravity, like stemware, where a large portion of the weight of
the item may be in its base and its stem rather than in the liquid
retaining bowl. Thus, these items may get dislodged from the
dishwasher rack and may break. Ordinary glassware may be broken by
collision, causing inconvenience to the user. Moreover, when fine
china or crystal is subjected to pressurized water, often
irreplaceable dishware of greater personal value may be ruined. In
addition, if stemware or glassware is lying on its side, the cup of
the stemware or glassware may collect a pool of dirty dishwasher
water that would then require that the stemware be hand washed.
These occurrences decrease the utility of the dishwasher.
[0006] Dishware and stemware protectors for automatic dishwashers
are known. Such known dishware and stemware protectors include a
separating device with longitudinal slots and perforated web
sheets, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,635,799. However, this
separating device is limited in where it can be positioned and
attached to the dishwasher rack due to its size and shape. In
addition, a known dishwasher rack clip for mounting in a dishwasher
rack to hold objects to be washed is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.
6,827,225. However, this known clip is not designed to attach over
a dishwasher tine to extend the dishwasher tine. In addition, a
known dishwasher accessory for securing and supporting stemware in
a dishwasher rack is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,394,285. However,
this known accessory has an elongated member that is not designed
to protect and support plateware, dishware or plasticware due to
its fixed horizontal position. Thus, known dishware and stemware
protector devices have not proven practical in application or are
widely adaptable to different shapes of dishware and designs of
dishwasher racks.
[0007] In addition, dishwasher racks for automatic dishwashers are
known. Such dishwasher racks typically have fixed, non-removable,
and inflexible dishwasher tines formed in a unitary configuration
with the rack. Thus, such racks with such fixed, non-removable, and
inflexible dishwasher tines are limited in their ability to protect
and support a variety of dishware, glassware, servingware,
plasticware, and stemware within an automatic dishwasher. Moreover,
such dishwasher racks cannot accommodate a variety of removable
tines of different lengths and configurations.
[0008] Accordingly, there is a need for a new and improved
dishwasher tine, tine extender and rack that does not have the
problems associated with known dishware and stemware protector
devices and known dishwasher racks and tines.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The need for a new and improved dishwasher tine, tine
extender and rack is satisfied. None of the known devices provide
all of the numerous advantages discussed herein. Embodiments of the
improved dishwasher tine extender may provide one or more of the
following advantages: it is simple and economical to manufacture,
use and maintain; it is durable and provides a long service life;
in an embodiment it is easily attached to and removed from a
standard dishwasher tine; it provides for the use of a variety of
interchangeable dishwasher tine extender designs, such as
adjustable-height, hinged, flexible, rigid, flexible double-sided,
center mounted, side grip, side cap, suction cup ended, and other
designs; it holds dishware, glassware, servingware, plasticware,
and stemware securely in an upright position; it is securely
mounted on a dishwasher tine to provide stability and lateral
support for dishware, glassware, servingware, plasticware, and
stemware; it is quick and easy to install; it prevents or minimizes
stemware and glassware from tipping, cracking, and breaking, or
ending up on their side full of dirty dishwasher water; it occupies
minimal space inside a dishwasher; in an embodiment it is removable
from the dishwasher when not in use; it provides in an embodiment a
one piece, unitary design; it provides in an embodiment a stemware
grip portion for added securement to stemware; and in an embodiment
it may be easily stored within an automatic dishwasher or removable
from the automatic dishwasher when not in use. Embodiments of the
improved dishwasher rack may provide one or more of the following
advantages: it provides a unique dishwasher rack with a plurality
of receiving elements for receiving and securing a variety of
removable, adjustable-height and fixed-height dishwasher tines to
protect and support a variety of dishware, glassware, servingware,
plasticware, and stemware within an automatic dishwasher; it
provides a dishwasher rack that may be customized to accommodate a
variety of different design options for including adjustable-height
and fixed-height dishwasher tines of varying sizes and heights; it
provides a dishwasher rack that may be fixed within or removable
from an automatic dishwasher; it is simple and economical to
manufacture, use and maintain; it increases space efficiency for a
variety of dishware, glassware, servingware, plasticware, and
stemware within an automatic dishwasher; and, it is durable and
provides a long service life. Embodiments of the improved
dishwasher tine may provide one or more of the following
advantages: it provides for a variety of removable
adjustable-height and fixed-height tines that can be inserted into
the various receiving elements of the dishwasher rack disclosed
herein; it can be securely attached to the dishwasher rack
disclosed herein to provide stability and lateral support for
dishware, glassware, servingware, plasticware, and stemware; it is
quick and easy to install; it is simple and economical to
manufacture, use and maintain; it is easily attached to and removed
from the dishwasher rack disclosed herein; and it can be
repositioned in a variety of different ways and attached to any of
the receiving elements of the dishwasher rack disclosed herein.
Thus, it is the object of the invention to provide embodiments of a
new device which has many of the advantages of prior art devices
and many novel features which result in a new device that is not
anticipated, rendered obvious, suggested, or even implied by any of
the prior art devices, either alone or in any combination.
[0010] In one embodiment of the device there is provided a
removable, adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender for holding
objects in an automatic dishwasher rack, the rack having a
plurality of upstanding tines, the extender comprising: an
elongated tube with a first end and a second end, wherein the first
end has a securement means adapted to receive a dishwasher tine, so
that the extender is securely mounted on the dishwasher tine, and
wherein the elongated tube is adjustable in height via an adjusting
means.
[0011] In another embodiment of the device there is provided a
removable dishwasher tine extender for holding objects in an
automatic dishwasher rack, the rack having a plurality of
upstanding tines, the extender comprising: an elongated tube with a
first end and a second end, wherein the first end has a securement
means adapted to receive a dishwasher tine, so that the extender is
securely mounted on the dishwasher tine.
[0012] In another embodiment of the device there is provided a
fixed, adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender for holding
objects in an automatic dishwasher rack, the rack having a
plurality of upstanding tines, the extender comprising: an
elongated tube with a first end and a second end, wherein the first
end has a securement means adapted to receive a dishwasher tine, so
that the extender is securely and fixedly mounted on the dishwasher
tine, and wherein the elongated tube is adjustable in height via an
adjusting means.
[0013] In another embodiment of the device there is provided a
removable, adjustable-height dishwasher tine for holding objects in
an automatic dishwasher rack, wherein the dishwasher rack has at
least one receiving element for receiving the dishwasher tine, the
tine comprising an elongated tube with a first end and a second
end, wherein the first end has a securement means for securely
attaching the tine to the receiving element of the dishwasher rack,
and wherein the elongated tube is adjustable in height via an
adjusting means.
[0014] In another embodiment of the device there is provided a
dishwasher rack for use in an automatic dishwasher, wherein the
dishwasher rack has a plurality of spaced receiving elements for
receiving a plurality of corresponding removable dishwasher tines,
the tines each comprising an elongated tube with a first end and a
second end, wherein the first end has a securement means for
securely attaching each tine to the receiving element, such that
the dishwasher tines can be arranged to securely hold objects in
the dishwasher rack.
[0015] In another embodiment of the device there is provided a
removable dishwasher tine extender for holding objects in an
automatic dishwasher rack, the rack having a plurality of
upstanding tines, the extender comprising: an elongated telescoping
tube with a first end and a second end, wherein the first end has a
securement means adapted to receive a dishwasher tine, so that the
extender is securely mounted on the dishwasher tine, and wherein
the second end can be extended in a telescoping configuration to
extend the height of the dishwasher tine.
[0016] These and other features and advantages of the present
invention will become better understood from the following
description and appended claims and accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] Exemplary embodiments or versions of the present invention
are shown in the drawings, in which:
[0018] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an open automatic
dishwasher showing an embodiment of dishwasher tine extenders
attached to tines of a dishwasher rack;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a front perspective close-up view showing an
embodiment of dishwasher tine extenders attached to tines of a
dishwasher rack;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
flexible dishwasher tine extender of the invention attached to a
tine of a dishwasher rack;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
rigid dishwasher tine extender of the invention attached to a tine
of a dishwasher rack;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
flexible double-sided dishwasher tine extender of the invention
attached to tines of a dishwasher rack;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
center mount dishwasher tine extender of the invention attached to
a tine of a dishwasher rack;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
side grip dishwasher tine extender of the invention attached to a
tine of a dishwasher rack;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
side cap dishwasher tine extender of the invention attached to a
tine of a dishwasher rack;
[0026] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an
adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender of the invention
attached to a tine of a dishwasher;
[0027] FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the adjustable-height
dishwasher tine extender of FIG. 9 with a first portion in a
semi-extended stage;
[0028] FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the adjustable-height
dishwasher tine extender of FIG. 9 with a first portion in a fully
extended stage;
[0029] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of
an adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender of the invention
attached to a tine of a dishwasher;
[0030] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
hinged dishwasher tine extender attached to a tine of a
dishwasher,
[0031] FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an
adjustable-height hinged dishwasher tine extender of the invention
attached to a tine of a dishwasher;
[0032] FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the
hinged dishwasher tine extender of FIG. 13 with a stemware grip
portion;
[0033] FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of
FIG. 15 with the stemware grip portion gripping a stemware;
[0034] FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of
FIG. 15 with the stemware grip portion hinged downwardly;
[0035] FIG. 18 is a front view of an embodiment of a stemware grip
portion;
[0036] FIG. 19 is a front view of another embodiment of a stemware
grip portion;
[0037] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
dishwasher tine extender with a suction cup end portion;
[0038] FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of the
dishwasher tine of FIG. 20 with the suction cup end portion
attached to a stemware base;
[0039] FIG. 22 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of the
dishwasher tine of FIG. 20 with the suction cup end portion
attached to a glassware portion;
[0040] FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of a dishwasher tine
extender with multiple suction cup end portions;
[0041] FIG. 24 is a front perspective view of an embodiment a
dishwasher tine extender with a flexible sheet connected between
multiple elongated, hollow tubes;
[0042] FIG. 25A is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an
adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender in a telescoping
configuration;
[0043] FIG. 25B is a front perspective view of the
adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender of FIG. 25A in a
semi-extended stage;
[0044] FIG. 25C is a front perspective view of the
adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender of FIG. 25A in a fully
extended stage;
[0045] FIG. 26A is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
plurality of adjustable-height dishwasher tines having a
telescoping configuration and being fixedly attached to a
dishwasher rack;
[0046] FIG. 26B is a front perspective view of the
adjustable-height dishwasher tine of FIG. 26A in a semi-extended
stage;
[0047] FIG. 26C is a front perspective view of the
adjustable-height dishwasher tine of FIG. 26A in a fully extended
stage;
[0048] FIG. 27 is a front perspective view of an open automatic
dishwasher showing an embodiment of a dishwasher rack of the
invention with dishwasher tines removably attached to receiving
elements of the dishwasher rack;
[0049] FIG. 28 is a front perspective close-up view of the
dishwasher rack of FIG. 27 with dishwasher tines removably attached
to receiving elements of the dishwasher rack;
[0050] FIG. 29 is a front perspective view of the dishwasher rack
of FIG. 27 with receiving elements and no dishwasher tines
attached;
[0051] FIG. 30A is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
removable dishwasher tine and corresponding dishwasher rack
receiving element;
[0052] FIG. 30B is a front perspective view of another embodiment
of a removable dishwasher tine and corresponding dishwasher rack
receiving element;
[0053] FIG. 30C is a front perspective view of yet another
embodiment of a removable dishwasher tine and corresponding
dishwasher rack receiving element;
[0054] FIG. 31A is a front perspective close-up view of an
embodiment of the dishwasher rack of the invention with receiving
elements and no dishwasher tines attached;
[0055] FIG. 31B is a front perspective view of the dishwasher rack
of FIG. 31A with dishwasher tines of the same height removably
attached to the receiving elements of the dishwasher rack;
[0056] FIG. 31C is a front perspective view of the dishwasher rack
of FIG. 31A with dishwasher tines of varying heights removably
attached to the receiving elements of the dishwasher rack;
[0057] FIG. 32A is a front perspective view of an embodiment of an
adjustable-height dishwasher tine removably attached to a receiving
element of an embodiment of the dishwasher rack of the
invention;
[0058] FIG. 32B is a front perspective view of the
adjustable-height dishwasher tine of FIG. 32A with a second portion
in a semi-extended stage;
[0059] FIG. 32C is a front perspective view of the
adjustable-height dishwasher tine of FIG. 32A with a second portion
in a fully extended stage;
[0060] FIG. 33 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the
dishwasher tine extender of the invention having a first embodiment
of a decorative element;
[0061] FIG. 34 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the
dishwasher tine extender of the invention having a second
embodiment of a decorative element;
[0062] FIG. 35 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the
dishwasher tine extender of the invention having a third embodiment
of a decorative element;
[0063] FIG. 36 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the
dishwasher tine extender of the invention having a fourth
embodiment of a decorative element; and,
[0064] FIG. 37 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the
dishwasher tine extender of the invention having a fifth embodiment
of a decorative element.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0065] The invention is directed to a unique, novel, and nonobvious
dishwasher tine, tine extender and rack. In one embodiment, a
dishwasher tine extender for holding objects in an automatic
dishwasher rack is provided. Preferably, the rack has a plurality
of upstanding tines. With reference now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is
a front perspective view of an open automatic dishwasher 10 showing
an embodiment of dishwasher tine extenders 12 attached to tines 14
of a dishwasher rack 16. Plates 18 are held in place by the
dishwasher tine extenders 12. FIG. 2 is a front perspective
close-up view showing an embodiment of dishwasher tine extenders 12
of FIG. 1 attached to tines 14 of a dishwasher rack 16. The
dishwasher tine extender 12 comprises an elongated, hollow tube 20
with a first end 22 and a second end 24. Preferably, the tube is
formed of an elastomeric material, vinyl, rubber, nylon, plastic,
or coated metal. However, the tube may also be made of other
suitable materials. The first end 22 has a securement means 26
adapted to receive a dishwasher tine, so that the extender is
securely mounted on the dishwasher tine. Preferably, the securement
means may comprise a suction type securement, an adhesive type
securement, a snap fit type securement, a fitted bore type
securement, or other suitable type securement means. Preferably,
the dishwasher tine extender is removable from and attachable to
the dishwasher tine. Preferably, the objects comprise dishware,
glassware, servingware, plasticware, and stemware. In one design of
this embodiment, the elongated, hollow tube is rigid and securely
mounted on the dishwasher tine in an upright position. Preferably,
the tube in this embodiment is of a unitary, continuous
configuration. FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of an embodiment
of a rigid dishwasher tine extender 28 of the invention attached to
a tine of a dishwasher rack. In another design of this embodiment,
the elongated, hollow tube is flexible and securely mounted on the
dishwasher tine. FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of an
embodiment of a flexible dishwasher tine extender 30 of the
invention attached to a tine of a dishwasher rack. The flexible
dishwasher tine extender is preferably mounted onto the tine in an
upright position and may be bent to the shape of various dishware
or glassware to securely hold and support the dishware or
glassware. FIG. 5 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
flexible double-sided dishwasher tine extender 32 of the invention
attached to two tines 14 of a dishwasher rack. In this design, an
elongated, hollow tube 34 is flexible, and has both a first end 36
having a first securement means 38 and a second end 40 having a
second securement means 42, such that both the first end and the
second end are adapted to receive a dishwasher tine 14. FIG. 6 is a
front perspective view of an embodiment of a center mount
dishwasher tine extender 44 of the invention attached to a tine 14
of a dishwasher rack. In this design, an elongated, hollow tube 46
has a center mounting portion 48 with a securement means 50 for
securely mounting the extender to the dishwasher tine. Preferably,
the center mounting portion is pressure fitted onto the dishwasher
tine and the securement means comprises graduated ridges and/or a
flexible interior wall within the hollow tube. FIG. 7 is a front
perspective view of an embodiment of a side grip dishwasher tine
extender 52 of the invention attached to a tine 14 of a dishwasher
rack. In this design, the securement means comprises a side
gripping means 54 attached to a side 56 of the first end 58 of the
tube. The side gripping means may be in the form of a clamp, clip,
hook, or latch. However, the side gripping means may also be in
other suitable forms. FIG. 8 is a front perspective view of an
embodiment of a side cap dishwasher tine extender 60 of the
invention attached to a tine of a dishwasher rack. In this design,
the securement means comprises a side cap attachment means 62
attached to a side 64 of a first end 66 of the tube.
[0066] Another embodiment of the dishwasher tine extender is shown
in FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of
an adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender 68 of the invention
attached to a tine 14 of a dishwasher. In this embodiment, a
removable, adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender for holding
objects in an automatic dishwasher rack is provided where the rack
has a plurality of upstanding tines. The extender comprises an
elongated tube with a first end and a second end, wherein the first
end has a securement means adapted to receive a dishwasher tine, so
that the extender is securely mounted on the dishwasher tine, and
wherein the elongated tube is adjustable in height via an adjusting
means. In the design of this embodiment as shown in FIG. 9, the
elongated, hollow tube is height adjustable and comprises a first
screw portion 70 and a second internally threaded portion 72. The
second threaded portion 72 can be extended from the first screw
portion 70 by twisting the second portion 72 away from the first
portion 70. The height may be adjusted by rotating the second
internally threaded portion away from the first screw portion. In
an alternate design, the first portion may have resistance ridges
and the second portion may be extended from the first portion by
applying pressure on or to the resistance ridges and extending the
second portion. FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the
adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender 68 of FIG. 9 with the
second portion 72 in a semi-extended stage. FIG. 11 is a front
perspective view of the adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender
68 of FIG. 9 with the second portion 72 in a fully extended
stage.
[0067] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of
an adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender 74 of the invention
attached to a tine 14 of a dishwasher. In this design, the
elongated, hollow tube is of an adjustable-height and comprises a
first portion 76 that can be attachable to and detachable from a
second portion 78 via an attachment element 80. Preferably, the
attachment element comprises twist lock portions or a twist lock
assembly. Preferably, the first portion has a series of openings 81
for receiving the attachment means to attach the second portion to
the first portion. The attachment element may further comprise
clamp lock portions or spring lock portions.
[0068] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of a
dishwasher tine extender 82 with a gripping means 84 for gripping a
portion of the object. The gripping means 84 is attached to a first
end 86 of hollow tube 88. A second end 90 has securement means 92.
Preferably, the gripping means is a suction cup end portion. FIG.
21 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of the dishwasher
tine of FIG. 20 with the gripping means 84 in the form of a suction
cup end portion attached to a base 94 of a stemware 96. FIG. 22 is
a front perspective view of the embodiment of the dishwasher tine
of FIG. 20 with the gripping means 84 in the form of a suction cup
end portion attached to a side 98 of a glassware 100. FIG. 23 is a
front perspective view of a dishwasher tine extender 102 having
multiple gripping means 84. Preferably, the gripping means
comprises a plurality of suction cups. Preferably, the gripping
means secures the stemware, glassware, or dish-ware in a preferred
cleaning orientation and is designed for detachable engagement with
the stemware, glassware or dishware.
[0069] Another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 13
which is a front view of an embodiment of a hinged dishwasher tine
extender 104 attached to a tine 14 of a dishwasher. This embodiment
provides for a dishwasher tine extender for holding objects in an
automatic dishwasher rack having a plurality of upstanding tines,
where the extender comprises an elongated hinged tube 106 with a
first end 108 having a securement means 110, a second end 112, and
hinged portion 114. In this design, the hinged tube may be height
adjustable. Preferably, the elongated tube is hinged in positions
comprising vertical, horizontal, and angled. That is, the hinged
tube has multiple functions and maintains at least three
positions-a vertical position for supporting and holding objects
such as glassware, a horizontal position for supporting and holding
objects such as stemware, and an angled position for supporting and
holding objects such as plasticware. The securement means of the
first end is adapted to receive a dishwasher tine 14, so that the
extender is securely mounted on the dishwasher tine. Preferably,
the objects comprise any one of the group of dishware, glassware,
servingware, plasticware, and stemware. FIG. 14 is a front
perspective view of an embodiment of an adjustable-height hinged
dishwasher tine extender 116 of the invention attached to a tine 14
of a dishwasher. This design has a height adjustable element 118
for adjusting the height of the tine extender. FIG. 15 is a front
perspective view of an embodiment of a hinged dishwasher tine
extender 104 of FIG. 13 with a stemware grip portion 120 formed in
the second end 112 for gripping a stem of a stemware. Preferably,
the second end of the hinged tube has a stemware grip portion to
secure and hold the stem of a stemware. FIG. 16 is a front
perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 15 with the stemware
grip portion 120 gripping a stem 122 of a stemware 124. FIG. 17 is
a front perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 15 with the
stemware grip portion 120 hinged downwardly against a dishware 126.
FIG. 18 is a front view of an embodiment of a stemware grip portion
128. FIG. 19 is a front view of another embodiment of a stemware
grip portion 120 as shown in FIGS. 15-17.
[0070] Another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 24,
which is a front perspective view of an embodiment a dishwasher
tine extender assembly 130 with a flexible sheet 132 connected
between multiple elongated, hollow tubes 134. This embodiment
provides for either a removable, adjustable-height dishwasher tine
extender with additional elongated tubes and a flexible sheet
connected between the elongated tubes, or a removable fixed-height
dishwasher tine extender with additional elongated tubes and a
flexible sheet connected between the elongated tubes. This
embodiment provides for a dishwasher tine extender assembly for
holding objects in an automatic dishwasher rack having a plurality
of upstanding tines, where the extender comprises multiple,
elongated, hollow tubes where each tube has a first end 136 and a
second end 138. The first end has a securement means 140 adapted to
receive a dishwasher tine, so that the extender is securely mounted
on the dishwasher tine. Preferably, the flexible sheet comprises a
plastic netting material. This embodiment provides for a flexible
and customizable wall to protect and support non-linear dishware
when the dishwasher tine extender is mounted vertically onto the
dishwasher tine. Preferably, each end of the elongated, hollow
tubes 134 has an entry or opening that allows for a double-sided
securement of the tube to two dishwasher tines, and that allows the
flexible sheet to be used in a horizontal position. Preferably, the
objects comprise any one of the group of dishware, glassware,
servingware, plasticware, and stemware. The assembly acts to
support in an upright position stemware and glassware with the bowl
facing down into the flow of the stream of water and detergent
typically directed upwardly from the water distribution means
present in the automatic dishwasher.
[0071] In another embodiment, there is provided a fixed,
adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender for holding objects in
an automatic dishwasher rack, the rack having a plurality of
upstanding tines similar to the extender shown in FIG. 9 and other
Figures. The extender of this embodiment comprises an elongated
tube with a first end and a second end, wherein the first end has a
securement means adapted to receive a dishwasher tine, so that the
extender is securely and fixedly mounted on the dishwasher tine,
and wherein the elongated tube is adjustable in height via an
adjusting means. However, the extender of this embodiment is
preferably retrofitted to existing dishwasher tines within the
automatic dishwasher via an epoxy or secure gripping means or may
be produced by an automatic dishwasher manufacturer as a new
dishwasher rack with adjustable-height tines. The adjusting means
of the extender may comprise thread and screw portions, resistance
ridges such as in FIG. 9, twist lock portions such as in FIG. 12,
clamp lock portions (not shown), or spring lock portions (not
shown).
[0072] Another embodiment of the dishwasher tine extender is shown
in FIGS. 25A-25C. In this embodiment of the device there is
provided a removable dishwasher tine extender 142 for holding
objects in an automatic dishwasher rack 16. FIG. 25A is a front
perspective view of the adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender
142 attached to tine 14 of dishwasher rack 16. FIG. 25B is a front
perspective view of the adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender
142 of FIG. 25A in a semi-extended stage. FIG. 25C is a front
perspective view of the adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender
142 of FIG. 25A in a fully extended stage. In this embodiment, the
removable, adjustable-height dishwasher tine extender 142 for
holding objects in an automatic dishwasher rack is provided where
the rack 16 has a plurality of upstanding tines 14. The dishwasher
tine extender 142 comprises an elongated, hollow, telescoping tube
144 having a first end 146 and a second end 148, wherein the first
end 146 has a securement means 150 adapted to receive a dishwasher
tine, so that the extender is securely mounted on the dishwasher
tine, and wherein the elongated tube can be extended in a
telescoping configuration to extend the height of the dishwasher
tine. In the design of this embodiment as shown in FIGS. 25A-25C,
the elongated, hollow telescoping tube is height adjustable in a
telescoped configuration that comprises a first portion 152, a
second portion 154 that is telescoping, and a third portion 156
that is telescoping (see FIG. 25C). This embodiment may comprise
one or more telescoping portions. The third portion 156 that is
telescoping can be extended from the second portion 154 that is
telescoping and can be moved into a secure, locked position,
preferably by twisting or rotating the third portion 156. The
second portion 154 that is telescoping can be extended from the
first portion 152 and can be moved into a secure, locked position,
preferably by twisting or rotating the second portion 154.
[0073] One of the embodiments of the dishwasher tines is shown in
FIGS. 26A-26C. FIG. 26A is a front perspective view of an
embodiment of a plurality of adjustable-height dishwasher tines 158
having a telescoping configuration and being fixedly attached to a
dishwasher rack 160. FIG. 26B is a front perspective view of the
adjustable-height dishwasher tines 158 of FIG. 26A in a
semi-extended stage. FIG. 26C is a front perspective view of the
adjustable-height dishwasher tines 158 of FIG. 26A in a fully
extended stage. In this embodiment, a fixed, adjustable-height
dishwasher tine extender 158 for holding objects in an automatic
dishwasher rack is provided where the rack has a plurality of such
tines 158. The tine 158 comprises an elongated telescoping tube 162
with a first end 164 and a second end 166, wherein the first end
164 is secured to the dishwasher rack 160 itself. Alternatively,
the tine may be secured to an existing dishwasher tine or
retrofitted into the dishwasher rack. Preferably, the elongated
tube 162 is adjustable in height via an adjusting means. In the
design of this embodiment as shown in FIGS. 26A-26C, the elongated
tube is height adjustable in a telescoped configuration, such that
the adjusting means comprises a first portion 168, a second portion
170 that is telescoping, and a third portion 172 that is
telescoping (see FIG. 26C). This embodiment may comprise one or
more telescoping portions. The third portion 172 that is
telescoping can be extended from the second portion 170 that is
telescoping and can be moved into a secure, locked position,
preferably by twisting or rotating the third portion 172. The
second portion 170 that is telescoping can be extended from the
first portion 168 and can be moved into a secure, locked position,
preferably by twisting or rotating the second portion 170.
[0074] In another embodiment of the invention there is provided a
unique dishwasher rack for use in an automatic dishwasher. The
dishwasher rack may be fixed to or removable from an automatic
dishwasher. The dishwasher rack preferably has a plurality of
spaced receiving elements for receiving and securing a plurality of
corresponding removable dishwasher tines. The tines each comprise
an elongated tube with a first end and a second end, wherein the
first end has a securement means for securely attaching each tine
to the receiving element, such that the dishwasher tines can be
arranged to securely hold objects in the dishwasher rack.
Preferably, the objects comprise dishware, glassware, servingware,
plasticware, and stemware. Preferably, the securement means
comprise thread and screw portions, resistance ridges, twist lock
portions, snap fit portions, clamp lock portions, spring lock
portions, or another suitable securement means. The tines may be
adjustable-height via an adjusting means or fixed in height. The
adjusting means may comprise thread and screw portions, telescoping
portions, resistance ridges, twist lock portions, plug and socket
portions, snap fit portions, clamp lock portions, spring lock
portions, or another suitable adjusting means. FIG. 27 is a front
perspective view of an open automatic dishwasher 174 showing an
embodiment of a dishwasher rack 176 of the invention with an
embodiment of dishwasher tines 178 removably attached to receiving
elements 180 of the dishwasher rack. FIG. 28 is a front perspective
close-up view of the dishwasher rack 176 of FIG. 27 with the
dishwasher tines 178 removably attached to the receiving elements
180 of the dishwasher rack. Plates 18 are held in place by the
dishwasher tines 178. Each tine 178 may comprise an elongated,
hollow tube with a first end 181a and a second end 181b, where the
first end is securely attached to the receiving element via any
number of suitable securement means as discussed below. Preferably,
the tine is formed of an elastomeric material, vinyl, rubber,
nylon, plastic, or coated metal. However, the tube may also be made
of other suitable materials. FIG. 29 is a front perspective view of
the dishwasher rack 176 of FIG. 27 showing the receiving elements
180 and no dishwasher tines attached. Preferably, the dishwasher
rack is formed of a coated metal, metal, plastic, nylon or
polymeric material. However, the rack may also be made of other
suitable materials. The dishwasher tines may be securely attached
to the receiving elements of the dishwasher rack in an upright
position or they may be flexible and securely attached to the
receiving elements of the dishwasher rack. The dishwasher tines may
be of varying heights or of the same height. In another embodiment
the second end of one or more of the dishwasher tines may have at
least one gripping means for gripping a portion of an object.
Preferably, the gripping means is a suction cup. In another
embodiment the elongated tube of the dishwasher tine is hinged in
positions comprising vertical, horizontal, and angled. Optionally,
one or more of the dishwasher tines may have at least one
decorative element coupled to the tine (see FIGS. 33-37).
Preferably, the decorative element is coupled to or attached to the
top of the dishwasher tine.
[0075] In another embodiment of the device there is provided a
removable, adjustable-height dishwasher tine for holding objects in
an automatic dishwasher rack. The dishwasher rack has at least one
receiving element for receiving the dishwasher tine. The tine
preferably comprises an elongated tube with a first end and a
second end, wherein the first end has a securement means for
securely attaching the tine to the receiving element of the
dishwasher rack, and wherein the elongated tube is adjustable in
height via an adjusting means. Preferably, the adjusting means
comprises thread and screw portions, telescoping portions,
resistance ridges, twist lock portions, snap fit portions, clamp
lock portions, spring lock portions, or another suitable adjusting
means. FIGS. 30A-30C show several embodiments of a removable
dishwasher tine 182 and corresponding dishwasher rack receiving
element 184 in the dishwasher rack 176, where the tine 182 has a
securement means comprising a male portion 186 that may be inserted
into and attached to a female portion 188 in the rack receiving
element 184. FIG. 30A is a front perspective view of one of the
embodiments of dishwasher tine 182 and corresponding dishwasher
rack receiving element 184 with the securement means in a thread
and screw type configuration. In this embodiment the male portion
186 comprises a screw portion 190 and the female portion 188
comprises an internally threaded portion 192. The tine 182 can be
securely attached to the receiving element 184 by twisting the
screw portion 190 into the internally threaded portion 192. FIG.
30B is a front perspective view of another embodiment of dishwasher
tine 182 and corresponding dishwasher rack receiving element 184
with the securement means in a plug and socket type configuration.
In this embodiment the male portion 186 comprises a plug portion
194 and the female portion 188 comprises a socket or receptacle
portion 196. The tine 182 can be securely attached to the receiving
element 184 by inserting the plug portion 194 into the socket
portion 196 and twisting the plug portion to securely lock the plug
portion into the socket portion to securely lock the tine in place.
FIG. 30C is a front perspective view of another embodiment of
dishwasher tine 182 and corresponding dishwasher rack receiving
element 184 with the securement means in a snap fit type
configuration. In this embodiment the male portion 186 comprises a
snap bead portion 198 and the female portion 188 comprises a snap
lock portion 200. The tine 182 can be securely attached to the
receiving element 184 by inserting and applying pressure to snap
lock the snap bead portion 198 into the snap lock portion 200 to
securely lock the tine in place. The securement means may comprise
thread and screw portions, plug and socket portions, snap fit
portions, resistance ridges, twist lock portions, clamp lock
portions, spring lock portions, suction type securement, fitted
bore type securement, or another suitable securement means.
Preferably, the dishwasher tine is removable from and attachable to
the receiving element in the dishwasher rack. The removable
dishwasher tines are designed to securely hold and support objects
in the dishwasher rack. Preferably, the objects comprise dishware,
glassware, servingware, plasticware, and stemware. The elongated
tube of the dishwasher tine may be rigid and securely attached to
the receiving element of the dishwasher rack in an upright position
or the elongated tube of the dishwasher tine may be flexible and
securely attached to the receiving element of the dishwasher rack.
In another embodiment the elongated tube is flexible, and the
second end has a securement means, such that the second end is
adapted to removably attach to a second receiving element of the
dishwasher rack. In another embodiment the second end of the
elongated tube has at least one gripping means for gripping a
portion of the object. Preferably, the gripping means is a suction
cup. In another embodiment the elongated tube is hinged in
positions comprising vertical, horizontal, and angled. In another
embodiment the elongated tube is hinged in positions comprising
vertical, horizontal, and angled, and the second end has a stemware
grip portion. In another embodiment the device comprises additional
elongated tubes and a flexible sheet connected between the
elongated tubes. Optionally, one or more of the dishwasher tines
may have at least one decorative element coupled to the tine (see
FIGS. 33-37). Preferably, the decorative element is coupled to or
attached to the top of the dishwasher tine.
[0076] FIGS. 31A-31C show an embodiment of removable dishwasher
rack 176 with receiving elements 180 for receiving removable
dishwasher tines 182 of varying heights. FIG. 31A is a front
perspective close-up view of an embodiment of dishwasher rack 176
with receiving elements 180 and with no dishwasher tines attached.
FIG. 31B is a front perspective view of the dishwasher rack of FIG.
31A with dishwasher tines 182 of the same height removably attached
to the receiving elements 180 of the dishwasher rack. In this
configuration, the dishwasher tines are rigid and securely mounted
on the dishwasher rack in an upright position. Preferably, the
tines in this embodiment are of a unitary, continuous
configuration. FIG. 31C is a front perspective view of the
dishwasher rack of FIG. 31A with dishwasher tines 182 of varying
heights removably attached to the receiving elements 180 of the
dishwasher rack. In this configuration, the dishwasher tines are
rigid and securely mounted on the dishwasher rack in an upright
position. Preferably, the tines in this embodiment are of a
unitary, continuous configuration and are manufactured in various
heights and lengths.
[0077] FIGS. 32A-32C show another embodiment of the removable
dishwasher rack 176 with receiving elements 180 for receiving
another embodiment of a removable adjustable-height dishwasher tine
202. Preferably, the tine is rigid and securely mounted on the
dishwasher rack in an upright position and is adjustable in height
via a height adjusting means. The height adjusting means of the
tine may comprise thread and screw portions, resistance ridges,
twist lock portion, clamp lock portions, spring lock portion, or
another suitable height adjusting means. FIG. 32A is a front
perspective view of the adjustable-height dishwasher tine 202
removably attached to receiving element 180 of dishwasher rack 176.
In this embodiment, the tine 202 preferably comprises an elongated
tube 204 with a first end 206 and a second end 208, wherein the
first end has a male portion that is adapted to be inserted into a
female portion of the receiving element 180 to secure the tine in
place on the dishwasher rack 176, and wherein the elongated tube is
adjustable in height via an adjusting means. In the design of this
embodiment as shown in FIG. 32A, the elongated, hollow tube is
height adjustable and comprises a first ridged portion 210 and a
second corresponding portion 212. In order to adjust the height of
the tube, the second portion 212 can be extended from the first
portion 210 by pulling the second portion 212 up and away from the
first portion 210. In an alternate design, the first portion may
have a screw portion and the second portion may have an internally
threaded portion, and the second portion may be extended from the
first portion by twisting the second portion up and away from the
first portion. FIG. 32B is a front perspective view of the
adjustable-height dishwasher tine 202 of FIG. 32A with the second
portion 212 in a semi-extended stage. FIG. 32C is a front
perspective view of the adjustable-height dishwasher tine of FIG.
32A with the second portion 212 in a fully extended stage.
[0078] FIGS. 33-37 show either the removable dishwasher tine or
removable dishwasher tine extender having various embodiments of
decorative elements at the top or extending from the bottom to the
top of the dishwasher tine or tine extender. FIG. 33 is a front
perspective view of an embodiment of the dishwasher tine extender
of the invention having a first embodiment of a decorative element
214. FIG. 34 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the
dishwasher tine extender of the invention having a second
embodiment of a decorative element 216. FIG. 35 is a front
perspective view of an embodiment of the dishwasher tine of the
invention with screw portion having a third embodiment of a
decorative element 218. FIG. 36 is a front perspective view of an
embodiment of the dishwasher tine of the invention with plug
portion having a fourth embodiment of a decorative element 220.
FIG. 37 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the
dishwasher tine of the invention with snap bead portion having a
fifth embodiment of a decorative element 222.
[0079] With respect to the above description, it is to be realized
that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the
invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form,
function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed
readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all
equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and
described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by
the present invention.
[0080] Although the invention has been described with reference to
certain referred versions thereof, other versions of the invention
are possible. In compliance with the statute, the invention
described herein has been described in language more or less
specific as to structural features. It should be understood,
however, that the invention is not limited to the embodiments
described herein or to specific features shown, since the means and
construction shown, is comprised only of the preferred embodiments
for putting the invention into effect. It is also understood that
the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose
of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
* * * * *