U.S. patent application number 12/897054 was filed with the patent office on 2012-04-05 for device for hanging items and method.
Invention is credited to Larry Shorty.
Application Number | 20120080394 12/897054 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45888899 |
Filed Date | 2012-04-05 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120080394 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Shorty; Larry |
April 5, 2012 |
DEVICE FOR HANGING ITEMS AND METHOD
Abstract
An apparatus for hanging items is disclosed. The apparatus may
include a first element configured to be fixed at an attachment end
thereof to a surface, and to be oriented, when attached to the
surface, in a direction substantially normal to the surface. The
apparatus may also include a second element having a longitudinal
axis. The second element may be coupled with the first element and
may be configured to translate in a direction substantially
parallel with the longitudinal axis away from and toward the
attachment end. The second element may be configured to hang the
items thereon.
Inventors: |
Shorty; Larry; (Los Angeles,
CA) |
Family ID: |
45888899 |
Appl. No.: |
12/897054 |
Filed: |
October 4, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
211/123 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 61/02 20130101;
A47G 25/0685 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/123 |
International
Class: |
A47B 96/00 20060101
A47B096/00 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for hanging items thereon, the apparatus
comprising: a first element configured to be fixed at an attachment
end thereof to a surface, and to be oriented, when attached to the
surface, in a direction substantially normal to the surface; and a
second element having a longitudinal axis, the second element
coupled with the first element and configured to translate in a
direction substantially parallel with the longitudinal axis away
from and toward the attachment end, the second element configured
to hang the items thereon.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a third element in
translational engagement with the first element, the third element
supporting the second element below and parallel with the third
element.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a one or more
support members fixed at a first location to the third element and
fixed a second location to the second element to support the second
element below the third element.
4. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a fourth element
between the first element and the third element, the fourth element
translationally engaged with the both the first element and the
third element.
5. The apparatus of claim 2, further comprising a fifth element,
the element located below and parallel with the second element, the
fifth element being elongated and configured to hang more of the
items thereon.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second element is
telescopically engaged with the first element.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second element is engaged
with the first element via one or more sets of roller bearings.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second element is disposed
in sliding engagement with the first element.
9. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the third element is a
substantially rail shaped element having a bearing or bearing race
configuration that is configured to interact in rolling engagement
with a corresponding bearing race or bearing configuration on the
first element.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a container for
containing objects fixed to the second element and configured to be
translated with the second element toward and away from the
surface.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: an additional
first elements and an additional second element each configured
similar to the first and second elements; the additional first
element configured to be attached to the surface parallel to and at
a spaced apart distance from the first and second elements; and a
container have a first edge and a second edge parallel with the
first edge, the container being attached at the first edge to the
second element and attached at the second edge to the additional
second element.
12. An apparatus for supporting hanging items comprising: a first
element configured to be fixed at an attachment end thereof; a
second element in translational engagement with the first element
and configured to translate away from the attachment end and toward
the attachment end; and an elongate third element coupled for
movement with the second element and configured for supporting the
hanging items thereon.
13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the first element attachment
end includes two hook shaped elements, and further comprising a
bracket member having at least two slots therein, and wherein the
two hook shaped elements can pass into the corresponding slots to
hook the first element to the bracket, and the bracket member is
configured to be fixed to a surface.
14. A method of providing an article for hanging items thereon, the
method comprising: providing a first element with an attachment
configuration at a first end thereof for directly, or indirectly,
attaching the first end to a fixed surface, and for orienting the
first element substantial normal to the fixed surface when attached
thereto; providing a second element the second element being
elongated, and configuring the second element for hanging items
thereon; coupling a third element with the second element; and
configuring the first and third elements for relative translational
engagement thereby enabling the second element to be moved away
from and toward the fixed surface.
15. The method of claim 14, further comprising; providing a fourth
element between the third element and the first element; and
configuring the fourth element for relative translational
engagement with both the third element and the first element.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein the coupling the second element
to the first element for translational engagement includes
providing a fourth element between the first element and the third
element.
17. The method of claim 14, further comprising: providing a fourth
element to couple the first element to the third element;
configuring the fourth element to translate relative to the first
element a first translational distance; and configuring the second
element to translate relative to the fourth element a second
translational distance wherein the second element is configured to
translate relative to the first element a total translational
distance substantially determined by a sum of the first
translational distance and the second translational distance.
18. The method of claim 14, wherein the second element has a first
end relatively closer to the fixed surface, and a second end
relatively further from the fixed surface, and further comprising
providing a handle at the second end and configuring the handle to
be held by a user to translate the second element away and toward
the first element.
19. The method of claim 14, further comprising attaching a
container for containing objects to the second element to be
translated with the second element.
20. The method of claim 14, further comprising: providing similarly
configured first, second, and third elements; attaching the
similarly configured first element to the fixed surface parallel to
and at a spaced apart distance from the first second and third
elements; providing a container have a first edge and a second edge
parallel with the first edge; attaching the first edge of the
container to the second element; and attaching the second edge of
the container to the similarly configured second element.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] This application relates generally to devices and methods of
providing articles for hanging items. More specifically, this
application relates to an apparatus and a method for hanging items
which may include a elongate member for hanging items thereon
disposed substantially normal to a surface and translatable away
from, and toward, the surface.
SUMMARY
[0002] Currently devices, and arrangements, for hanging items, such
as hanging clothing on clothes hangers, include a support rod
disposed substantially parallel with a an access face, such as a
closet doorway. Hangers are typically supported perpendicular with,
and by, the support rod. Arranging hangers on a support rod this
way becomes less efficient in cases where the clothes closet is
deeper than about the width of the items hung on the hangers as the
extra space behind, and/or in front of, the items is typically not
used. In addition, in cases where the depth of the closet, or
storage space it too shallow there is typically not enough room to
contain the rod with hangers, and garments hanging from it.
[0003] A typical clothes closet may be constructed to be about two
feet deep, and a typical clothes hanger is about 17 inches wide.
Using these typical dimensions then the support rod may be
installed in the closed roughly one foot from the back wall of the
closet, and one foot from the doorway. This leave a few inches on
either side of each clothes hanger for the material comprising the
sleeves of garments, and the liked, that are hung on cloth hangers.
Any storage space less than, or more than, two feet deep is likely
to include the inefficiencies discussed.
[0004] Therefore, there is a significant need for an apparatus, or
method, that utilizes as much space as possible in storage spaces
of all sizes. These and other needs may be addressed by one or more
embodiments according to the current disclosure.
[0005] This application discloses an apparatus, and a method for
hanging items that is economical to produce, of simple
construction, and capable of mass production, but also capable of
providing a more efficient means to support and/or hang, and/or
store items than is available with current systems.
[0006] In particular, this application discloses an apparatus that
may include a first element configured to be fixed at an attachment
end thereof to a surface, and to be oriented, when attached to the
surface, in a direction substantially normal to the surface. The
apparatus may also include a second element having a longitudinal
axis. The second element may be coupled with the first element and
may be configured to translate in a direction substantially
parallel with the longitudinal axis away from and toward the
attachment end. The second element may be configured to hang the
items thereon.
[0007] This application also discloses an apparatus for supporting
hanging items that may include a first element configured to be
fixed at an attachment end thereof, and a second element in
translational engagement with the first element and configured to
translate away from the attachment end and toward the attachment
end. In addition, the apparatus may include an elongate third
element coupled for movement with the second element and configured
for supporting the hanging items thereon.
[0008] Various operations may be described as multiple discrete
operations in turn, in a manner that may be helpful in
understanding embodiments of the present invention; however, the
order of description should not be necessarily be construed to
imply that these operations are order dependent.
[0009] Finally, this application discloses a method of providing an
article for hanging items thereon. The method may include providing
a first element with an attachment configuration at a first end
thereof for directly, or indirectly, attaching the first end to a
fixed surface, and for orienting the first element substantial
normal to the fixed surface when attached thereto. The method may
also include providing a second element the second element being
elongated, and configuring the second element for hanging items
thereon. The method may also include coupling a third element with
the second element. In addition, the method may also include
configuring the first and third elements for relative translational
engagement thereby enabling the second element to be moved away
from and toward the fixed surface.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The drawings, when considered in connection with the
following description, are presented for the purpose of
facilitating an understanding of the subject matter sought to be
protected.
[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic side view illustrating an example
apparatus for hanging items thereon in accordance with the current
disclosure;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating an
example attachment arrangement for attaching a first element to a
surface via a bracket.
[0013] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating
another example apparatus in accordance with the current disclosure
illustrating a second element telescopically engaged with a first
element;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a
roller bearing configuration according to the current
disclosure;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a schematic side view illustrating another example
apparatus in accordance with the current disclosure showing two
second elements for supporting items;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a front view illustrating an example embodiment
configured to include a container for containing items fixed above
an example element for hanging items thereon;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a front view illustrating an example embodiment
configured to include a container for containing items coupled
between two similarly configured example elements for hanging items
thereon;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a perspective right side view illustrating an
example apparatus for hanging items in a retracted state;
[0019] FIG. 9 is a perspective left side view illustrating an
example apparatus for hanging items in an extended state; and
[0020] FIG. 10 is a perspective top view illustrating an example
apparatus for hanging items in an extended state.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] While the present apparatus for supporting hanging items and
methods are described with reference to several illustrative
embodiments described herein, it should be clear that the present
invention should not be limited to such embodiments. Therefore, the
description of the embodiments provided herein is illustrative of
the present invention and should not limit the scope of the
invention as claimed. In addition, while the following description
references drawings showing particular interconnections, item
quantities, and arrangements, it will be appreciated that the
invention may be configured to have other interconnections, item
quantities, and arrangements.
[0022] Referring now to FIG. 1, a schematic diagram of a first
example embodiment of a apparatus for hanging items 5 thereon 10 is
disclosed. The apparatus 10 may include a first element 15
configured to be fixed at an attachment end 20 thereof to a surface
25, and to be oriented, when attached to the surface 25, in a
direction substantially normal to the surface 25. A second element
30 may have a longitudinal axis 35 and may be coupled with the
first element 15. The second element 30 may be configured to
translate in a direction substantially parallel with the
longitudinal axis 35 away from and toward the attachment end as
illustrated with arrow 40. The second element may be configured to
hang the items 5 thereon. The second element 30 may be an elongated
cylindrical element configured for supporting clothes hangers for
example.
[0023] In some embodiments, the apparatus 10 may include one or
more locking mechanisms that may be configured to lock the second
element in a retracted position closest to the surface 25, and/or
in an extended position furthest from the surface 25.
[0024] The second 30 element may be coupled first element 15 in
various translational engagements including, but not limited to
sliding engagement, rolling engagement, roller bearing engagement,
and the like.
[0025] The surface 25 may be, for example the back wall of a
closet, or the like. The attachment end 20 may be attached to the
surface 25 using various fastening arrangements. For example, the
attachment end 20 may be screwed, nailed, bolted, glued, or the
like to the surface.
[0026] FIG. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view illustrating an
example attachment arrangement for attaching a first element 15 to
a surface 25 via a bracket 45. In this example one more hooks 50
are fitted into the bracket 45 attached to the surface 25 via on or
more screws 55.
[0027] The apparatus 10 may also include a third element 60 in
translational engagement with the first element 15. The third
element 60 may be configured for supporting the second element 30
below and parallel with the third element 60. One or more support
members 65 may be fixed at a first location 70 to the third element
60 and fixed a second location 75 to the second element 30 to
support the second element 30 below the third element 60.
[0028] In some embodiments the apparatus 10 may include a fourth
element 80 between the first element 15 and the third element 60,
the fourth element 80 may be translationally engaged with the both
the first element 15 and the third element 60. In this way a
translational distance of the third element 60, and therefore the
second element 30 may substantially equal to a sum of a first
partial translational distance of the fourth element 80 relative to
the first element 15 and a second partial translational distance of
the third element 60 relative to the fourth element 80.
[0029] FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating
another example apparatus in accordance with the current disclosure
illustrating wherein the second element 30 may be telescopically
engaged with the first element 15. In another example embodiment
the second element 30 may be disposed in sliding engagement with
the first element 15. A stop arrangement 82, 84 may be included to
prevent the second element 30 from separating from the first
element 15. A protrusion 83 may be included at an end of the second
element 30 to keep the items 5 from falling off.
[0030] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a
roller bearing configuration according to the current disclosure.
In this example the second element 30 may be engaged with the first
element 15 via one or more sets of roller bearings 85. The
engagement may be direct or indirect. In an example direct
engagement case the third element 30 may be a substantially rail
shaped element having a bearing or bearing race configuration that
is configured to interact in rolling engagement with a
corresponding bearing race or bearing configuration on the first
element 15. In addition, or instead, the fourth element 80 may also
be substantially rail shaped and may have first bearing or bearing
race configuration 90 on an inboard side thereof that is configured
to interact in rolling engagement with a corresponding bearing race
or bearing configuration on the first element 15. The fourth
element 80 may also have a second bearing or bearing race
configuration 95, on an outboard side thereof that is configured to
interact in rolling engagement with a corresponding bearing race or
bearing configuration on the third element 60.
[0031] FIG. 5 is a schematic side view illustrating another example
apparatus in accordance with the current disclosure showing two
second elements 30 for supporting items 5. In this example case the
apparatus 10 may also include a fifth element 100. The fifth
element may be located below and parallel with the second element
30, the fifth element 100 being elongated and configured to hang
more of the items 5 thereon.
[0032] A second support configuration 105 may be used to couple the
fifth element 100 to the second 30 and/or third element 60. In one
example the support member 65 (FIG. 1) supporting the second
element 30 below the third element 60 may be configured to also
support the fifth element 100 below the second and third elements
30, 60.
[0033] In some cases the second element 60 may have a first end
relatively closer to the fixed surface 25, and a second end
relatively further from the fixed surface. A handle 110 may be
provided at a second end of the second element 60, or in the case
of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 the second element 30 may
have a handle 110 thereon. The handle 110 may be configured to be
held by a user to translate the second element 30 (both cases) away
and toward the first element 15.
[0034] FIG. 6 is a front view illustrating an example embodiment
configured to include a container for containing items fixed above
an example element for hanging items thereon. The container 120 may
be configured to be translated with the second element toward and
away from the surface 25. A handle 110 may be fixed to the
container 120. In this way a user may be able to extend and retract
the second element 30 to access clothing, and the like, hung
thereon, by pulling on or pushing on the handle 110, and at the
same time access the container 120.
[0035] FIG. 7 is a front view illustrating an example embodiment
configured to include a container for containing items coupled
between two similarly configured example elements for hanging items
thereon.
[0036] FIGS. 1 and 2 also illustrate an apparatus 10 for supporting
hanging items 5. The apparatus 10 may include a first element
configured to be fixed at an attachment end thereof; a second
element in translational engagement with the first element and
configured to translate away from the attachment end and toward the
attachment end; and an elongate third element coupled for movement
with the second element and configured for supporting the hanging
items thereon. The first element attachment end 20 includes may
include two hook shaped elements 50, and further comprising a
bracket member 45 having at least two slots 57 therein, and wherein
the two hook shaped elements may pass into the corresponding slots
57 to hook the first element to the bracket, and the bracket member
is configured to be fixed to a surface.
[0037] Various example embodiments provide various methods of
providing an article for hanging items thereon. The method may
include providing a first element with an attachment configuration
at a first end thereof for directly, or indirectly, attaching the
first end to a fixed surface, and for orienting the first element
substantial normal to the fixed surface when attached thereto;
[0038] providing a second element the second element being
elongated, and configuring the second element for hanging items
thereon;
[0039] coupling a third element with the second element; and
[0040] configuring the first and third elements for relative
translational engagement thereby enabling the second element to be
moved away from and toward the fixed surface.
[0041] Other example methods may include:
[0042] providing a fourth element between the third element and the
first element; and configuring the fourth element for relative
translational engagement with both the third element and the first
element.
[0043] The coupling the third element with the second element may
include fixing the second element to the third element with a
support member. The coupling the second element to the first
element for translational engagement may include providing a fourth
element between the first element and the third element.
[0044] The method may also include providing a fourth element to
couple the first element to the third element, configuring the
fourth element to translate relative to the first element a first
translational distance, and configuring the second element to
translate relative to the fourth element a second translational
distance wherein the second element is configured to translate
relative to the first element a total translational distance
substantially determined by a sum of the first translational
distance and the second translational distance. Including the
fourth element may increase a difference between the retracted
distance and the extended distance from the surface. In some
embodiments more than one element may be included between the first
and the third elements which may further increase the difference
between retracted distance and the extended distance.
[0045] The second element may have a first end relatively closer to
the fixed surface, and a second end relatively further from the
fixed surface. The method may also include providing a handle at
the second end and configuring the handle to be held by a user to
translate the second element away and toward the first element.
[0046] While the present disclosure has been described in
connection with what is considered the most practical and preferred
embodiment, it is understood that this disclosure is not limited to
the disclosed embodiments, but is intended to cover various
arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the broadest
interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and
equivalent arrangements.
* * * * *