CA2116486A1 - Laundry area organizer disposed between a clothes washer and dryer - Google Patents
Laundry area organizer disposed between a clothes washer and dryerInfo
- Publication number
- CA2116486A1 CA2116486A1 CA 2116486 CA2116486A CA2116486A1 CA 2116486 A1 CA2116486 A1 CA 2116486A1 CA 2116486 CA2116486 CA 2116486 CA 2116486 A CA2116486 A CA 2116486A CA 2116486 A1 CA2116486 A1 CA 2116486A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- bin
- leg
- refuse container
- laundry area
- opening
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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- Detail Structures Of Washing Machines And Dryers (AREA)
Abstract
LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER DISPOSED BETWEEN
A CLOTHES WASHER AND DRYER
Abstract of the Disclosure LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER configured to be located between a clothes washer and dryer. The LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER includes a bin having a front, a back, andfirst and second side walls, the first side wall of the bin being juxtaposed to and abutted with a side wall of one of the clothes washer and dryer and the second side wall of the bin being juxtaposed to and abutted with a side wall of the other of the clothes washer and dryer so that the bin is disposed between and laterally supported by the clothes washer and dryer. The LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER also includes a cover for the bin, the cover having a top surface, the cover being manipulable to an open position for providing access to the interior of the bin and, alternatively, to a closed position for precluding access to the interior of the bin. Finally, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER
includes a plurality of legs for the bin for vertically supporting the bin so that the top surface of the cover is at about the same height as the top surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer so that the top surfaces of the cover and the clothes washer and dryer lie approximately in a plane. Therefore, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER is disposed between and laterally supported by the clothes washer and dryer with the top surface of the cover preferably at the same height as the top surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer to provide a continuous work surface. Preferably, dividers can be slid into slots within the interior of the bin to provide separate compartments for storage of different laundry agents. Also, a dispenser for sheet goods can be disposed in the front leg of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER such that sheet material can be dispensed through a slot provided in the front of the dispenser and such that the dispenser can be easily removed from the front leg for replacement of the sheet material roll. Also, a refuse container can be disposed in the front leg of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER. Furthermore, the refuse container can be provided with a bracket on the interior and a spindle attached to the bracket on which sheet material can be held such that the sheet material can be dispensed through a slot provided in the front of the refuse container.
A CLOTHES WASHER AND DRYER
Abstract of the Disclosure LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER configured to be located between a clothes washer and dryer. The LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER includes a bin having a front, a back, andfirst and second side walls, the first side wall of the bin being juxtaposed to and abutted with a side wall of one of the clothes washer and dryer and the second side wall of the bin being juxtaposed to and abutted with a side wall of the other of the clothes washer and dryer so that the bin is disposed between and laterally supported by the clothes washer and dryer. The LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER also includes a cover for the bin, the cover having a top surface, the cover being manipulable to an open position for providing access to the interior of the bin and, alternatively, to a closed position for precluding access to the interior of the bin. Finally, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER
includes a plurality of legs for the bin for vertically supporting the bin so that the top surface of the cover is at about the same height as the top surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer so that the top surfaces of the cover and the clothes washer and dryer lie approximately in a plane. Therefore, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER is disposed between and laterally supported by the clothes washer and dryer with the top surface of the cover preferably at the same height as the top surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer to provide a continuous work surface. Preferably, dividers can be slid into slots within the interior of the bin to provide separate compartments for storage of different laundry agents. Also, a dispenser for sheet goods can be disposed in the front leg of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER such that sheet material can be dispensed through a slot provided in the front of the dispenser and such that the dispenser can be easily removed from the front leg for replacement of the sheet material roll. Also, a refuse container can be disposed in the front leg of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER. Furthermore, the refuse container can be provided with a bracket on the interior and a spindle attached to the bracket on which sheet material can be held such that the sheet material can be dispensed through a slot provided in the front of the refuse container.
Description
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LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER DISPOSED BETWEEN
A CLOTHES WASHER AND DRYER
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BACKGROUND - FIELD OF INVENTION
This invention relates to storage and bin-type receptacles; more particularly, to receptacles for storage of powdered and liquid detergents, fabric softening agents, bleaching and stain removing agents, and the like, prior to use, and for facilitating their dispensing and use. Specifically, one embodiment of the invention is directed to a LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER for laundering agents that is configured to be positionedbetween and laterally supported by a clothes washer and dryer to provide storage of and, when open, convenient access to the laundering agents, and a continuous work surface when closed.
BACKGROUND - HISTORY
For over 50 years powdered-form detergents have been packaged for domestic consumer use mainly in relatively small cardboard cartons. For many years, a 6-pound package of detergent was considered large, or "giant economy size" in the vernacular of the advertising world. These modest sized cartons were stored on shelves, in cabinets, or on the counter or floor near the clothes washer or on top of the clothes dryer. The user typically dispensed detergent by pouring through a "punch-out" opening on the side or top of the carton into a measuring cup, then pouring the measured amount into the clothes washer. This process was a bit awkward, and spills were common when the ~"~",-~:,,,".,,..,,,~
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carton was accidentally knocked over. A sprinkling of detergent Gn washer top, counter, and floor was the norm.
In an attempt ~o improve or simply vary this pr~cess, manufacturers tried compressing detergent into one load tablets. They also began to market liquid form detergent. The tablets seem not to have been widely accepted, but liquid detergent has become commonplac0.
In the last 30 years, the available types of detergents haven't changed. Likewise, there has been little change in the options offered to consumers for storing and dispensing laundry agents. However, the way detergent is marketed has changed dramatically, and the variety of agents available has multiplied. As a result the problems of storing and using these laundry agents have multiplied, and until now no comprehensive solution has emerged .
Sears and Roebuck has for many years quietly marketed powdered detergent in 20- to 40-pound containers. This appealed to consumers wanting the economy of this bulk purchase and the convenience of seldom running out. However, storage and dispensing were much greater problems than with the common, smaller cartons.
The 1980's brought something of a revolution in retailing with the advent of "warehouse"-type outlets that combine large purchasing power with multiple or bulk packaging to reward the shopper with lower per-unit prices. Acceptance of this form of retailing has been widespread: there are now nearly 1000 of these "warehouse" stores in the United States alone, with their numbers rapidly increasing in Canada and many other areas of the world.
Detergent fit naturally into this scheme of merchandising, and today, powdered detergent is widely sold through this type of retail operation in 10- to 50-pound cartons or plastic buckets. Initially, this was "private label" detergent. In response, most major detergent brands have added 18- to 24-pound units now found in most large supermarkets as well as the "warehouse" stores.
Liquid detergent has "grown" too. 64-oz. bottles are common everywhere, and 2-gallon (256 oz.) bottles that push the practical limit for dispensing can be found in most .. ,., . - - ,.,., ,.. ;
LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER DISPOSED BETWEEN
A CLOTHES WASHER AND DRYER
* ~ ~ * ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ * ~ ~ ~
BACKGROUND - FIELD OF INVENTION
This invention relates to storage and bin-type receptacles; more particularly, to receptacles for storage of powdered and liquid detergents, fabric softening agents, bleaching and stain removing agents, and the like, prior to use, and for facilitating their dispensing and use. Specifically, one embodiment of the invention is directed to a LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER for laundering agents that is configured to be positionedbetween and laterally supported by a clothes washer and dryer to provide storage of and, when open, convenient access to the laundering agents, and a continuous work surface when closed.
BACKGROUND - HISTORY
For over 50 years powdered-form detergents have been packaged for domestic consumer use mainly in relatively small cardboard cartons. For many years, a 6-pound package of detergent was considered large, or "giant economy size" in the vernacular of the advertising world. These modest sized cartons were stored on shelves, in cabinets, or on the counter or floor near the clothes washer or on top of the clothes dryer. The user typically dispensed detergent by pouring through a "punch-out" opening on the side or top of the carton into a measuring cup, then pouring the measured amount into the clothes washer. This process was a bit awkward, and spills were common when the ~"~",-~:,,,".,,..,,,~
, ' 21~6~8~
carton was accidentally knocked over. A sprinkling of detergent Gn washer top, counter, and floor was the norm.
In an attempt ~o improve or simply vary this pr~cess, manufacturers tried compressing detergent into one load tablets. They also began to market liquid form detergent. The tablets seem not to have been widely accepted, but liquid detergent has become commonplac0.
In the last 30 years, the available types of detergents haven't changed. Likewise, there has been little change in the options offered to consumers for storing and dispensing laundry agents. However, the way detergent is marketed has changed dramatically, and the variety of agents available has multiplied. As a result the problems of storing and using these laundry agents have multiplied, and until now no comprehensive solution has emerged .
Sears and Roebuck has for many years quietly marketed powdered detergent in 20- to 40-pound containers. This appealed to consumers wanting the economy of this bulk purchase and the convenience of seldom running out. However, storage and dispensing were much greater problems than with the common, smaller cartons.
The 1980's brought something of a revolution in retailing with the advent of "warehouse"-type outlets that combine large purchasing power with multiple or bulk packaging to reward the shopper with lower per-unit prices. Acceptance of this form of retailing has been widespread: there are now nearly 1000 of these "warehouse" stores in the United States alone, with their numbers rapidly increasing in Canada and many other areas of the world.
Detergent fit naturally into this scheme of merchandising, and today, powdered detergent is widely sold through this type of retail operation in 10- to 50-pound cartons or plastic buckets. Initially, this was "private label" detergent. In response, most major detergent brands have added 18- to 24-pound units now found in most large supermarkets as well as the "warehouse" stores.
Liquid detergent has "grown" too. 64-oz. bottles are common everywhere, and 2-gallon (256 oz.) bottles that push the practical limit for dispensing can be found in most .. ,., . - - ,.,., ,.. ;
2~ 1~486 .
"warehouse" stores. Bleaches in liquid and powdered form, liquid and ~dryer sheet~' fabric softening agents and stain removers are also available in large units and are now commonplace in the home laundry room.
To the consumer, the availability of these larger units means economy, fewer trips to the store and seldom running out of these "necessities". It also means a proliferation of large containers in the laundry area that are difficult to store accessibly, and new or significantly increased dispensing problems.
Most shelves and cabinets in the home don~t work well for storing these large containers, particularly the powdered detergent containers. 20- to 40-pound units are especially difficult to manage and take up a lot of valuable work space on top of the dryer or counter. Therefore, they are often left on the floor where they are, at the least, an obstacle and, at worst pose a hazard to small children. A container on the floor may require tedious opening and closing with each use. Additionally, the user must bend over to scoop detergent at near floor level. Some of the detergent invariably is scattered about the area.
The organization of the area and the real work of transferring clothes to the appliances, sorting, and folding the laundry is impeded by the presence of this multitude of large containers. These real problems now exist without solution, while millions of consumers struggle with them ~aily. The perception of these problems no doubt keeps many more consumers from enjoying the savings and other benefits offered by purchasing laundry agents in bulk.
PRIOR ART
The crowded fields of Receptacles and Cabinets disclose many examples of prior art structurally similar to the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER of the current application.
For example, Fragale, US Patent 2,895,782 (Laundry hamper), Prowse, US Patent 3,261,651 (Nursery Bathette), Ullman, US Patent 2,401,526 (Cabinet and Machine Support), Stamp, US Patent 5,090,785 (Multi-compartment Container), and Ward, USPatent 1,573,466 (Storage Case) all disclose cabinets with covers or tops that lift to allow access to one or more top compartments. All provide for access to the space below.
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2~ 16486 Unlike, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER, these references are intended for freestanding use and therefore fundamentally different in support structure. Theapplicants are unaware of any prior art that relates to a cabinet or receptacle designed to conserve floor space by fitting juxtaposed, in between, and laterally supported by, a clothes washer and dryer.
Prior art discloses receptacles intended for holding laundry agents. For example, Shindo et al., US Patent No. 4,976,369 discloses a container for holding powders.
Detergents are now commonly sold in this type of container. Ikeda discloses a dry detergent dispenser mechanism integrated in a washing machine. This device is limited to functioning with dry detergents in relatively limited amounts. Additionally, it will not serve those using washers not manufactured with such a device.
Prior art discloses receptacles for the laundry area. For example, Fragle, U.S.
Patent No. 2,895,782, discloses a clothes hamper having compartments for sorting soiled clothes into single sized loads for a clothes washer and is therefore not adapted to contain laundering agents. Moreover, the resulting clothes hamper disclosed in this patent is free-standing and necessarily occupies a substantial amount of floor space in the home laundry area.
No prior art receptacles or cabinets known to the applicants are intended to contain laundering agents in an environment sirnilar to that of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER.
Indeed, no known prior art discloses a similar use of environment, i.e. juxtaposed and in between a clothes washer and dryer, for any utility.
OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES
Accordingly, one embodiment of the invention provides a LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER to provide a solution for these problems. The objectives are to provide to the user of domestic laundry appliances a means for storing relatively large quantities of various laundry agents in readiness prior to use that:
A. Is in the most convenient location possible considering the intended use of the stored agents auxtaposed and in between a clothes washer and dryer);
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B. Is of sufficient narrowness that the clothes washer and dryer remain in closeproximity so that the movement of clothes between appliances is unimpeded, yet wide enough to provide easy access and the required capacity (for example, 5" is a practical inside minimum width). The LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER of the presen~ invention, due to this narrowness relies on the clothes washer and dryer for lateral support and stability;
C. Is easy to load from the large cartons and buckets of powdered detergent available;
D. Is quick and easy to open, dispense from, and close;
E. Allows the storage of up to about 50 pounds of powdered detergent so a user need not store partial containers or;
F. Allows users the option to store a variety of agents in separate chambers andallows users to adjust the number and capacity of these separate chambers;
G. Stores these agents at approximately the level of use (e.g., top of the clothes washer) with a maximum depth allowing most adults to retrieve detergent with little or no bending or excessive reaching (about 36" in height equals that of standard domestic laundry appliances in use in the USA and Canada). For example, 14" to 16" has proved to be a practical depth for the bin of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER;
H. Is attractive and harmonious when placed between a clothes washer and dryer;
therefore the current embodiment closely replicates the height (about 36"), depth (about 26") and finish of these appliances; also, the finish of some or all exposed areas of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER could replicate that of the cabinet work in the area;
I. Provides an approximate continuation of the upper work surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer, so that with the cover in place, this overall work surfac~ is, for practical purposes, continuous and usable;
J. Is easy-to-use, versatile, inexpensive to manufacture, and usable in the majority of home laundry areas;
,.. , . . . , . . , - .. . -. . -.. . . .
2116~86 K. Offers storage areas inaccessible to small children;
L. Is adaptable to a variety of construction materials and methods;
M. Allows clearance for plumbing, dryer ducts, and electrical wiring;
N. Eliminates the need to store con~ainers on the floor in front of appliances or on top of the appliances or adjacent counter tops where work space is always at a premium;
O. Could become the centerpiece of a system of containers of laundry agents designed as"drop-in" loads;
P. Could allow use of space in the support area under the bin for additional storage, a holder to allow dispensing of fabric softener "dryer sheets" or other sheet goods, or a built-in refuse container especially adapted for the discarding of dryer lint;
embodiments of the current invention allow storage and dispensing of "dryer sheets"
and/or disposal of lint and refuse just inches from the dryer access;
Q. Could reduce environmentally unsound, wasteful packaging;
R. Helps to organize the laundry area thus making a job millions execute daily go smoother.
One embodiment of the invention provides a LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER for use with a clothes washer and dryer, each of the clothes washer and dryer having a top surface and side walls, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER configured to be located between the clothes washer and dryer. The LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER comprises a bin that includes a front, a back, and first and second side walls, the firs~ side wall of the bin being juxtaposed to and abutted with a side wall of one of the clothes washer and dryer and the second side wall of the bin being juxtaposed to and abutted with a side wall of the other of the clothes washer and dryer so that the bin is disposed between and laterally stabilized and supported by the clothes washer and dryer, the front, back, and flrst and second side walls of the bin defining an interior chamber. This embodiment of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER also includes a cover for the bin, the cover having atop surface, the cover being manipulable to an open position for providing access to the ~116~86 interior of the bin and, alternatively, to a closed position for precluding access to the interior of the bin. Finally, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER includes a plurality of legs for vertically supporting the bin so that the top surface of the cover is at about the same height as the top surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer so that the top surfaces of the cover and the clothes washer and dryer lie approximately in a plane. Therefore, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER is disposed between and laterally supported by the clothes washer and dryer with the top surface of the cover preferably at the same height as the top surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer to provide a continuous work surface.
Preferably, dividers can be slid into slots within the interior chamber to provide separate compartments for storage of different laundry agents. Furthermore, a dispenser, preferably removable, can be disposed in the front of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER, preferably in the front leg, comprising a front panel with vertical slot, preferably with an enlarged circular portion at the upper end of the slot to allow easy removal of the dispenser and facilitate loading, having a horizontal bracket affixed to its inward surface below the slot, and a spindle attached to the bracket on which sheet material can be held such that the sheet material can be dispensed through the slot provided in the front panel. Also, a refuse container can be disposed in the front leg of the LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER. Furthermore, the front of the refuse container can be provided with the above described sheet material dispenser or one of similar design more particularly adapted to the refuse container such that the interior space for refuse is partitioned off from the sheet goods space.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In FIG. 1 the broken lines showing the clothes washer and dryer are for the purpose of illustrating the requisite environment only.
FIG. 1 is a front top perspective of the present preferred embodiment of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER as it might appear if manufactured by plastic injection molding, shown in the requisite environment.
FIG. 2 is a front top perspective exploded view of the LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER of FIG. 1. Bolts and nuts have been omitted for clarity.
FIG 3 is a cross sectional view of the bin and upper front leg assembly of FIG.
1 at "3 - 3".
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FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of the lower bin and upper front leg assembly of FIG. 1 at "4- - 4" showing a removable sheet goods dispenser incorporated in the front leg.
FIG 5 is a front top perspective exploded view of a front leg incorporating a refuse container in a frontal rectangular opening, with a sheet goods dispenser arrangement incorporated in the refuse container.
FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the assembled leg and refuse container of FIG.
5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The broken lines in FIG. 1 showing the clothes washer and dryer indicate the requisite environment of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER. While the clothes washer and dryer are not part of the present invention, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER is reliant on disposition between these appliances for lateral support and stability, as will be described in more detail below.
FIG. 1 shows a LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, in the requisite environment, comprising a one piece molded cover 10 with integral handle 11, a one piece bin 20, detachable legs 30 and 40 as a supporting means, and internal parts and hardware not seen here. A visually continuous vertical front is thus formed by the front leg 40 and the front 21 of the bin 20.
The resulting appearance of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER, in white or almond colored molded plas~ic, is aesthetically very compatible with appliances of similar colors between which the assembly is disposed. The front leg 40 accommodates a removable sheet goods dispenser 50 in a rectangular opening. Legs 30 and 40 are preferablyinterchangeable allowing the option to not use the sheet goods dispenser 40. The bin back 22 preferably slopes inwardly toward the front of the assembly, effectively insetting the rear leg 30 thereby providing clearance for plumbing, dryer ducts, and electrical connections that might otherwise pravent the assembly from being situated as near to the wall behind as might be desired.
The combined height H of the assembly is approximately equal to a U.S. standard laundry appliance, or about 36" so that the top surface of the cover coincides with the top 211~486 surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer as shown in FIG. 1. While the height of a laundry appliance may vary with the use of the leveling feet with which most such appliances are provided, in practice, achieving an exact match with the height of the appliances is not a requirement of the serviceability or visual compatibility of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER. Therefore, a leveling or height adjusting means, while possible, has not be incorporated into the present preferred embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 1, the height H is substantially greater than the width W of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER. For example, while height H is approximately 36", the width W can be as little as 6". This allows the clothes washer and dryer to remain in close proximity so the transfer of clothes from the washer to the dryer is not substantially impeded. Furthermore, this narrow width W allows the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER
to fit in many laundry areas where space availability would preclude use of a unit wide enough to be considered freestanding.
Additionally, when the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER is filled with laundering agents, such as detergents, bleach, and fabric softener, the LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER has a high center of gravity, approximately at C. Therefore, the LAUNDRY
AREA ORGANIZER relies on abutting contact at its widest points with the juxtaposed walls of the clothes washer and dryer shown in FIG. 1 for lateral stability and support.
In the current preferred embodiment this contact is made upon the bin 20 sides, specifically upon the bin side channels 23. Contact may also be made between the sides of legs 30 and 4~ and the walls of the clothes washer and dryer adding further to the stability of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER.
FIG. 2 illustrates the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER of FIG. 1 in exploded view.
The one piece molding of the cover 10 includes an integral handle 11 that facilitates opening and closing of the cover 10, and guides 12 that, by projecting downwardly into the bin interior, iocate the cover 10 on the bin 20 as the cover 10 is lowered after dispensing or replaced after removal for loading laundry agents. These guides 12 also function as structural components adding stiffness to the cover 10. As the cover 10 is lifted by the handle 11, these guides 12 bear on the interior of the back 22 of the bin 20, the upper portion of which is preferably substantially vertical, allowing the cover 10 to be lifted almost vertical, and well beyond the required elevation for dispensing, before the guides 12 lose their bearing on the back 22.
. , .... ;, . , - . : -2116~86 ", The bin 20 illustrated is a one piece molding. Side channels 23 are preferably provided to resist the pressures imposed by the contents on the opening of the bin 20.
Additionally, pairs of vertical interior ribs 25 provide the required structural rigidity to the sides of the bin 20, as well as serve to locate and retain divider panels 21 that provide the option of dividing the bin interior into a plurality of compartments. Two divider locations are herein illustrated: more or less would of course be possible, depending on requirements.
The front 21 of the bin 20 as shown is vertical and of uniform width. The front of the leg 40 is also vertical and of the same width. In the assembly process, the legs 30 and 40 and the bin 20 are aligned by locating ribs 42 in between which the bin 20 tightly fits. In the embodiment illustrated, large locating bosses or circular ribs 33 are molded on the top of the legs 30 and 40 which mate with locating recesses or holes 29 in the bottom of the bin 20. In the injection molding process employed to manufacture the current preferred embodiment, these holes 29 are produced by pins that also prevent shifting of the Gore within the cavity during the molding of the bin 20. Preferably holes 42 are provided in the legs 30 and 40 and bin 20 through which bolts can pass to be secured by wingnuts, omitted here for clarity. A visually continuous vertical front is thus formed by the Front leg 40 (or 30 if the dispenser is not used) and the front 21 of the bin 20. Other means of alignment and assembly could be employed, according to preference or requirement. Ribs 31 are incorporated as required for strength.
As shown, a removable sheet goods dispenser 50 is fitted to the front leg 40, having a holding means, preferably a spindle 54 attached in a vertical position by a screw 55, so that a roll of sheet goods, fabric softening dryer sheets for example, placed upon it can freely rotate when pulled through the vertical slot 51 for dispensing. A hole 52 at the top of the slot 51 facilitates the removal and loading of the dispenser 50. Flanges 43 on either side of the rectangular opening 41 in the leg 40 act as stops to position the front of the dispenser 50 flush with the front of the leg 40.
FIG. 3 shows a front sectional view of the assembled LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER at "4-4" with cover 10 above. The cover guides 12 align the cover 10 as it is lowered into position on the bin 20. Ribs 13 are added as required. A section at the top of the front leg 40 is shown, displaying the attachment to the bin 20 with bolts 34 and wingnuts 35. In practice, nylon wing nuts 35 mated to carriage bolts 34 (Fig. 3) have 21~6~8~
proved easy to install without tools and vibration resistant, as required in the intended environment. A divider panel 24 is shown close to fully lowered position in the slots created by pairs of interior ribs 25 that oppose each other on the walls of the bin 20.
When fully lowered, the divider panel 24 will effectively create an isolated compartment on either side. Cap ribs 26 on top of the dividers form handles to facilitate insertion and removal of the dividers, and return a small distance down each side of the dividers to engage seats ~7 at the top of the interior ribs 25 when the divider panel 24 is fully lowered. This position helps to keep the divider panel in place and resists lateral spreading of the bin 20 due to pressures imposed by its contents. The side channels 23 with their bridging ribs 28 also combine to resist spreading in between or in the absence of the divider panels 24.
Assembly amounts to attaching the legs 30 and 40 to the bin 2~ with carriage bolts 34 and wing nuts 35. Depending on preference, leg 30 or leg 40 can be installed in front.
The locating ribs 32, locating bosses 33, and locating holes 29 align the parts. The divider panels 24 can then be slid in the divider panel slots between the interior ribs 25 to configure the bin 20 interior as desired.
Following assembly, the clothes washer and dryer are moved apart as required to create adequate space between them for the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER, which can then be slid into the space thus created. A very workable embodiment of th~ present invention may require 6" or less of space. This is an appropriate time to check and level the appliances as required per the manufacturer's instructions to achieve reasonable alignment of the upper surfaces of the three units. The appliances can then be moved in to provide the lateral support and stability required by the LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER.
The divider panel 24 conflguration should be considered relative to intended use.
As needs change so can the configuration of the panels. For example, if one compartment is filled with powdered detergent and a bit more room is required to empty the package so it can be disposed of, a divider panel can be removed to instantly create a larger compartment.
The capacity of the bin of the preferred embodiment described is adequate for holding a 40-pound 5 gallon bucket of powdered detergent with some reserve. In this ~. . . ~ ... - ~. . . . ..
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':: ' , . . .. , : ' ' ,.. : - ~.~ ,.", .,, ,.,::' -2116~6 use, the rear divider can be inserted to hold a sizeable reserve. When the front area is empty, it's time to think about restocking. However the reserve makes running out before a trip to the store unlikely, even for rural residents who might go to town only once a month .
With one divider in either position, the larger compartment thus formed will hold most units of powdered detergent in the 18- to 24-pound range with a reserve. Any of the smaller compartments possible in the embodiment described wil~ hold units ofpowdered detergent or dry bleach up to about 18 pounds, depending on density. Any of the three compartments will also accommodate many of the 64-oz. Iiquid units of detergent, fabric softener, or pre-wash stain removers commonly available. A very large roll of 150 dryer sheets stores neatly in any compartment.
The options are varied. If softener, dryer sheets, etc. are used in addition to powdered detergent, one divider panel 24 can be inserted, the front compartment filled, and any surplus put where it is well out of the way, as a large supply is now on hand inches from the washer. The middle compartment can hold dry bleach or liquid softener, with dryer sheets, etc. in the rear.
If liquid detergent is used, a 64-oz. plastic jug can be stored in any compartment, holding a several week's supply. This is a handy size and easy to dispense from. Most come with a measuring cap. Even more economy can sometimes be had by purchasing up to 2-gallon jugs. These can be stored well out of the way and used to refill the 64-oz.
jug kept in the LAUNDRY AREA ORt:;ANlZER. Liquid fabric softener can likewise bepurchased in larger units and used to refill the handier size.
One softener manufacturer now offers refills in milk carton type packaging, in both ready to use and concentrate forms, to refill their 60-oz. plastic jug with dispenser cap.
The LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER of the current invention is perfectly suited to encourage this sort of environmental friendly packaging. As such, common use of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER might be expected to significantly reduce the overall useof laundry product packaging materials, particularly non-biodegradable forms.
The cover 10 can be removed completely for loading. Loading powdered agents is easy to control, even from very large containers, as the weight can be born by the top 2116~6 of the washer or dryer. Loading is facilitated, especially if pouring into one of the small compartments, by placing a single sheet of newspaper on top of the opposite appliance and allowed it to hang into the compartment a few inches, wrapping around the front and back a bit. This has a funnel affect, guiding the powder into the compartment that might otherwise go past or to the sides.
Dispensing powders is done with the appropriate size scoop while holding the cover 10 in a raised position. The current embodiment i5so configured size-wise that most adults can easily access any possible compartment, top to bottom. After dispensing, the scoop can be dropped in, ready for the next use, and the cover returned to place. The guides 12 facilitate this.
While the present preferred embodiment incorporates the features just described,additional variations can be effected to further increase the usefulness and versatility of the LAUNDRYAREAORGANIZER. Two of these embodiments are directed at making use of the space beneath the bin 20.
FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of the lower bin 20 and upper front leg 40 assembly of FIG. 1 and FIG 2 at "4- - 4" showing a removable sheet goods dispenser 50 incorporated in a rectangular opening in the front leg 40. The dispenser 50, retained in closed position by the lower flange 44 and the nib 53, can be snapped out for loading by pulling on the finger hole 52. Inserting the bottom flange 44 first and giving the dispenser 50 a rap near the top returns it to place in and preferably flush with the front of the leg 40. The spindle 54 shown is also designed for injection molding as a separate piece to be secured to the horizontal portion S6 of the dispenser 50 by a sheet metal screw 55.
FIG. 5 is a front top perspective exploded view of a front leg 38 incorporating a removable tilt-out refuse container 60 in a frontal redangular opening '~". A further improvement contemplated and shown allows dispensing of dryer sheets from a rollthrough a slot 61 in the refuse containerfront. In the embodiment shown, the roll is held on a removable sheet goods dispenser assembly 67 incorporated in the interior of the refuse container 60, comprising a vertical portion and a horizontal portion having a spindle 54. Vertical side flanges 37 on each side of the opening '~" stop the front 65 of ~ ~ , i-; ' ., .................. ' :' '':
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the refuse container flush with the front of the leg as it is manipulated to a closed position.
A refuse container here would prove a handy place to dispose of dryer lint, and to accomplish this, would not have to be of large capacity. Such a container could be fitted in a six inch wide unit. A somewhat wider embodiment of the LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER, of eight to nine inches in width for example, would require less height in the bin to achieve the same capacities. Such a unit could have a refuse container of 6 to 7 inches in width and of greater height that could accommodate the general refuse created in a laundry area. A LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER of eight to nine inches would not be considered a safe freestanding unit and would rely on the lateral support provided by the requisite environment juxtaposed the clothes washer and dryer.
FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the front leg 38 of FIG. 5. The design of this arrangement relies on a pivot step 66 which allows the refuse container 60 to be inserted into the opening '~" by holding it level and sliding it in until the pivot step 66 drops over the bottom edge 36 of the opening '~"in the leg 38. In practice, this drop may be approximately 1/4". The edge 36 then effectively becomes a pivot point. The container 60 may be tilted out, preferably by a handle 69 shown here or by the finger hole 62 if the handle 69 is not provided, until the top of the container back 63 acts as a stop against the leg 38. The distance from the pivot point 36 to the top of the back 63 must be greater than to the top of the opening '~".
Once tilted out, the refuse container 60 will stay open. Given a nudge, it will close with the refuse container front stopping against the side flanges 37 of opening '~", where the front surfaces of the leg 38 and the refuse container front are preferably flush, presenting a visually harmonious appearance. The refuse container 60 is easily removed for emptying by lifting up the approximatsly 1/4" required for the pivot step 66 to clear the opening bottom edge 36 then pulling the container out level. Clearance '~" between the refuse container sides in the closed position and the top of opening "O" must be greater than the vertical distance required to clear the step pivot.
A roll of sheets could be dropped onto a spindle 54, here shown secured with a screw 55 to the dispenser 67, which slides into slots created by opposing pairs of retainer ribs 64 on the interior side walls of the refuse container 60. Preferably, a cap rib '' i~ ~ ' , : ., , ' :. ' .
68 arrangement on the top of the dispenser 67 similar to that of the divider panel 24 in FIG. 3 would vertically position the divider such that sheet goods on the spindle 54 would feed smoothly through the slot 61. The horizontal and vertical components of thedispenser 67 also serve to keep the contents of the refuse container segregated from the sheet goods. The dispenser assembly 67 can be quickly removed for loading or before emptying the refuse container 60.
The foregoing has described the preferred embodiment and several alternative configurations of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER. It is understood that a skilled workman would be able to further alter the invention to suit particular needs and circumstances without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the cover 10 can be hinged at a distal edge to the back panel. Also, the legs can be provided with holes to accommodate screw-in rubber capped feet or other means to offer adjustment of height. Accordingly the protection to be afforded this invention is to be determined from the claims appended hereto.
The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:
": . :
"warehouse" stores. Bleaches in liquid and powdered form, liquid and ~dryer sheet~' fabric softening agents and stain removers are also available in large units and are now commonplace in the home laundry room.
To the consumer, the availability of these larger units means economy, fewer trips to the store and seldom running out of these "necessities". It also means a proliferation of large containers in the laundry area that are difficult to store accessibly, and new or significantly increased dispensing problems.
Most shelves and cabinets in the home don~t work well for storing these large containers, particularly the powdered detergent containers. 20- to 40-pound units are especially difficult to manage and take up a lot of valuable work space on top of the dryer or counter. Therefore, they are often left on the floor where they are, at the least, an obstacle and, at worst pose a hazard to small children. A container on the floor may require tedious opening and closing with each use. Additionally, the user must bend over to scoop detergent at near floor level. Some of the detergent invariably is scattered about the area.
The organization of the area and the real work of transferring clothes to the appliances, sorting, and folding the laundry is impeded by the presence of this multitude of large containers. These real problems now exist without solution, while millions of consumers struggle with them ~aily. The perception of these problems no doubt keeps many more consumers from enjoying the savings and other benefits offered by purchasing laundry agents in bulk.
PRIOR ART
The crowded fields of Receptacles and Cabinets disclose many examples of prior art structurally similar to the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER of the current application.
For example, Fragale, US Patent 2,895,782 (Laundry hamper), Prowse, US Patent 3,261,651 (Nursery Bathette), Ullman, US Patent 2,401,526 (Cabinet and Machine Support), Stamp, US Patent 5,090,785 (Multi-compartment Container), and Ward, USPatent 1,573,466 (Storage Case) all disclose cabinets with covers or tops that lift to allow access to one or more top compartments. All provide for access to the space below.
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2~ 16486 Unlike, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER, these references are intended for freestanding use and therefore fundamentally different in support structure. Theapplicants are unaware of any prior art that relates to a cabinet or receptacle designed to conserve floor space by fitting juxtaposed, in between, and laterally supported by, a clothes washer and dryer.
Prior art discloses receptacles intended for holding laundry agents. For example, Shindo et al., US Patent No. 4,976,369 discloses a container for holding powders.
Detergents are now commonly sold in this type of container. Ikeda discloses a dry detergent dispenser mechanism integrated in a washing machine. This device is limited to functioning with dry detergents in relatively limited amounts. Additionally, it will not serve those using washers not manufactured with such a device.
Prior art discloses receptacles for the laundry area. For example, Fragle, U.S.
Patent No. 2,895,782, discloses a clothes hamper having compartments for sorting soiled clothes into single sized loads for a clothes washer and is therefore not adapted to contain laundering agents. Moreover, the resulting clothes hamper disclosed in this patent is free-standing and necessarily occupies a substantial amount of floor space in the home laundry area.
No prior art receptacles or cabinets known to the applicants are intended to contain laundering agents in an environment sirnilar to that of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER.
Indeed, no known prior art discloses a similar use of environment, i.e. juxtaposed and in between a clothes washer and dryer, for any utility.
OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES
Accordingly, one embodiment of the invention provides a LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER to provide a solution for these problems. The objectives are to provide to the user of domestic laundry appliances a means for storing relatively large quantities of various laundry agents in readiness prior to use that:
A. Is in the most convenient location possible considering the intended use of the stored agents auxtaposed and in between a clothes washer and dryer);
2~48~
B. Is of sufficient narrowness that the clothes washer and dryer remain in closeproximity so that the movement of clothes between appliances is unimpeded, yet wide enough to provide easy access and the required capacity (for example, 5" is a practical inside minimum width). The LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER of the presen~ invention, due to this narrowness relies on the clothes washer and dryer for lateral support and stability;
C. Is easy to load from the large cartons and buckets of powdered detergent available;
D. Is quick and easy to open, dispense from, and close;
E. Allows the storage of up to about 50 pounds of powdered detergent so a user need not store partial containers or;
F. Allows users the option to store a variety of agents in separate chambers andallows users to adjust the number and capacity of these separate chambers;
G. Stores these agents at approximately the level of use (e.g., top of the clothes washer) with a maximum depth allowing most adults to retrieve detergent with little or no bending or excessive reaching (about 36" in height equals that of standard domestic laundry appliances in use in the USA and Canada). For example, 14" to 16" has proved to be a practical depth for the bin of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER;
H. Is attractive and harmonious when placed between a clothes washer and dryer;
therefore the current embodiment closely replicates the height (about 36"), depth (about 26") and finish of these appliances; also, the finish of some or all exposed areas of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER could replicate that of the cabinet work in the area;
I. Provides an approximate continuation of the upper work surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer, so that with the cover in place, this overall work surfac~ is, for practical purposes, continuous and usable;
J. Is easy-to-use, versatile, inexpensive to manufacture, and usable in the majority of home laundry areas;
,.. , . . . , . . , - .. . -. . -.. . . .
2116~86 K. Offers storage areas inaccessible to small children;
L. Is adaptable to a variety of construction materials and methods;
M. Allows clearance for plumbing, dryer ducts, and electrical wiring;
N. Eliminates the need to store con~ainers on the floor in front of appliances or on top of the appliances or adjacent counter tops where work space is always at a premium;
O. Could become the centerpiece of a system of containers of laundry agents designed as"drop-in" loads;
P. Could allow use of space in the support area under the bin for additional storage, a holder to allow dispensing of fabric softener "dryer sheets" or other sheet goods, or a built-in refuse container especially adapted for the discarding of dryer lint;
embodiments of the current invention allow storage and dispensing of "dryer sheets"
and/or disposal of lint and refuse just inches from the dryer access;
Q. Could reduce environmentally unsound, wasteful packaging;
R. Helps to organize the laundry area thus making a job millions execute daily go smoother.
One embodiment of the invention provides a LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER for use with a clothes washer and dryer, each of the clothes washer and dryer having a top surface and side walls, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER configured to be located between the clothes washer and dryer. The LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER comprises a bin that includes a front, a back, and first and second side walls, the firs~ side wall of the bin being juxtaposed to and abutted with a side wall of one of the clothes washer and dryer and the second side wall of the bin being juxtaposed to and abutted with a side wall of the other of the clothes washer and dryer so that the bin is disposed between and laterally stabilized and supported by the clothes washer and dryer, the front, back, and flrst and second side walls of the bin defining an interior chamber. This embodiment of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER also includes a cover for the bin, the cover having atop surface, the cover being manipulable to an open position for providing access to the ~116~86 interior of the bin and, alternatively, to a closed position for precluding access to the interior of the bin. Finally, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER includes a plurality of legs for vertically supporting the bin so that the top surface of the cover is at about the same height as the top surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer so that the top surfaces of the cover and the clothes washer and dryer lie approximately in a plane. Therefore, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER is disposed between and laterally supported by the clothes washer and dryer with the top surface of the cover preferably at the same height as the top surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer to provide a continuous work surface.
Preferably, dividers can be slid into slots within the interior chamber to provide separate compartments for storage of different laundry agents. Furthermore, a dispenser, preferably removable, can be disposed in the front of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER, preferably in the front leg, comprising a front panel with vertical slot, preferably with an enlarged circular portion at the upper end of the slot to allow easy removal of the dispenser and facilitate loading, having a horizontal bracket affixed to its inward surface below the slot, and a spindle attached to the bracket on which sheet material can be held such that the sheet material can be dispensed through the slot provided in the front panel. Also, a refuse container can be disposed in the front leg of the LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER. Furthermore, the front of the refuse container can be provided with the above described sheet material dispenser or one of similar design more particularly adapted to the refuse container such that the interior space for refuse is partitioned off from the sheet goods space.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In FIG. 1 the broken lines showing the clothes washer and dryer are for the purpose of illustrating the requisite environment only.
FIG. 1 is a front top perspective of the present preferred embodiment of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER as it might appear if manufactured by plastic injection molding, shown in the requisite environment.
FIG. 2 is a front top perspective exploded view of the LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER of FIG. 1. Bolts and nuts have been omitted for clarity.
FIG 3 is a cross sectional view of the bin and upper front leg assembly of FIG.
1 at "3 - 3".
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FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of the lower bin and upper front leg assembly of FIG. 1 at "4- - 4" showing a removable sheet goods dispenser incorporated in the front leg.
FIG 5 is a front top perspective exploded view of a front leg incorporating a refuse container in a frontal rectangular opening, with a sheet goods dispenser arrangement incorporated in the refuse container.
FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the assembled leg and refuse container of FIG.
5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The broken lines in FIG. 1 showing the clothes washer and dryer indicate the requisite environment of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER. While the clothes washer and dryer are not part of the present invention, the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER is reliant on disposition between these appliances for lateral support and stability, as will be described in more detail below.
FIG. 1 shows a LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention, in the requisite environment, comprising a one piece molded cover 10 with integral handle 11, a one piece bin 20, detachable legs 30 and 40 as a supporting means, and internal parts and hardware not seen here. A visually continuous vertical front is thus formed by the front leg 40 and the front 21 of the bin 20.
The resulting appearance of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER, in white or almond colored molded plas~ic, is aesthetically very compatible with appliances of similar colors between which the assembly is disposed. The front leg 40 accommodates a removable sheet goods dispenser 50 in a rectangular opening. Legs 30 and 40 are preferablyinterchangeable allowing the option to not use the sheet goods dispenser 40. The bin back 22 preferably slopes inwardly toward the front of the assembly, effectively insetting the rear leg 30 thereby providing clearance for plumbing, dryer ducts, and electrical connections that might otherwise pravent the assembly from being situated as near to the wall behind as might be desired.
The combined height H of the assembly is approximately equal to a U.S. standard laundry appliance, or about 36" so that the top surface of the cover coincides with the top 211~486 surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer as shown in FIG. 1. While the height of a laundry appliance may vary with the use of the leveling feet with which most such appliances are provided, in practice, achieving an exact match with the height of the appliances is not a requirement of the serviceability or visual compatibility of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER. Therefore, a leveling or height adjusting means, while possible, has not be incorporated into the present preferred embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 1, the height H is substantially greater than the width W of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER. For example, while height H is approximately 36", the width W can be as little as 6". This allows the clothes washer and dryer to remain in close proximity so the transfer of clothes from the washer to the dryer is not substantially impeded. Furthermore, this narrow width W allows the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER
to fit in many laundry areas where space availability would preclude use of a unit wide enough to be considered freestanding.
Additionally, when the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER is filled with laundering agents, such as detergents, bleach, and fabric softener, the LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER has a high center of gravity, approximately at C. Therefore, the LAUNDRY
AREA ORGANIZER relies on abutting contact at its widest points with the juxtaposed walls of the clothes washer and dryer shown in FIG. 1 for lateral stability and support.
In the current preferred embodiment this contact is made upon the bin 20 sides, specifically upon the bin side channels 23. Contact may also be made between the sides of legs 30 and 4~ and the walls of the clothes washer and dryer adding further to the stability of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER.
FIG. 2 illustrates the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER of FIG. 1 in exploded view.
The one piece molding of the cover 10 includes an integral handle 11 that facilitates opening and closing of the cover 10, and guides 12 that, by projecting downwardly into the bin interior, iocate the cover 10 on the bin 20 as the cover 10 is lowered after dispensing or replaced after removal for loading laundry agents. These guides 12 also function as structural components adding stiffness to the cover 10. As the cover 10 is lifted by the handle 11, these guides 12 bear on the interior of the back 22 of the bin 20, the upper portion of which is preferably substantially vertical, allowing the cover 10 to be lifted almost vertical, and well beyond the required elevation for dispensing, before the guides 12 lose their bearing on the back 22.
. , .... ;, . , - . : -2116~86 ", The bin 20 illustrated is a one piece molding. Side channels 23 are preferably provided to resist the pressures imposed by the contents on the opening of the bin 20.
Additionally, pairs of vertical interior ribs 25 provide the required structural rigidity to the sides of the bin 20, as well as serve to locate and retain divider panels 21 that provide the option of dividing the bin interior into a plurality of compartments. Two divider locations are herein illustrated: more or less would of course be possible, depending on requirements.
The front 21 of the bin 20 as shown is vertical and of uniform width. The front of the leg 40 is also vertical and of the same width. In the assembly process, the legs 30 and 40 and the bin 20 are aligned by locating ribs 42 in between which the bin 20 tightly fits. In the embodiment illustrated, large locating bosses or circular ribs 33 are molded on the top of the legs 30 and 40 which mate with locating recesses or holes 29 in the bottom of the bin 20. In the injection molding process employed to manufacture the current preferred embodiment, these holes 29 are produced by pins that also prevent shifting of the Gore within the cavity during the molding of the bin 20. Preferably holes 42 are provided in the legs 30 and 40 and bin 20 through which bolts can pass to be secured by wingnuts, omitted here for clarity. A visually continuous vertical front is thus formed by the Front leg 40 (or 30 if the dispenser is not used) and the front 21 of the bin 20. Other means of alignment and assembly could be employed, according to preference or requirement. Ribs 31 are incorporated as required for strength.
As shown, a removable sheet goods dispenser 50 is fitted to the front leg 40, having a holding means, preferably a spindle 54 attached in a vertical position by a screw 55, so that a roll of sheet goods, fabric softening dryer sheets for example, placed upon it can freely rotate when pulled through the vertical slot 51 for dispensing. A hole 52 at the top of the slot 51 facilitates the removal and loading of the dispenser 50. Flanges 43 on either side of the rectangular opening 41 in the leg 40 act as stops to position the front of the dispenser 50 flush with the front of the leg 40.
FIG. 3 shows a front sectional view of the assembled LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER at "4-4" with cover 10 above. The cover guides 12 align the cover 10 as it is lowered into position on the bin 20. Ribs 13 are added as required. A section at the top of the front leg 40 is shown, displaying the attachment to the bin 20 with bolts 34 and wingnuts 35. In practice, nylon wing nuts 35 mated to carriage bolts 34 (Fig. 3) have 21~6~8~
proved easy to install without tools and vibration resistant, as required in the intended environment. A divider panel 24 is shown close to fully lowered position in the slots created by pairs of interior ribs 25 that oppose each other on the walls of the bin 20.
When fully lowered, the divider panel 24 will effectively create an isolated compartment on either side. Cap ribs 26 on top of the dividers form handles to facilitate insertion and removal of the dividers, and return a small distance down each side of the dividers to engage seats ~7 at the top of the interior ribs 25 when the divider panel 24 is fully lowered. This position helps to keep the divider panel in place and resists lateral spreading of the bin 20 due to pressures imposed by its contents. The side channels 23 with their bridging ribs 28 also combine to resist spreading in between or in the absence of the divider panels 24.
Assembly amounts to attaching the legs 30 and 40 to the bin 2~ with carriage bolts 34 and wing nuts 35. Depending on preference, leg 30 or leg 40 can be installed in front.
The locating ribs 32, locating bosses 33, and locating holes 29 align the parts. The divider panels 24 can then be slid in the divider panel slots between the interior ribs 25 to configure the bin 20 interior as desired.
Following assembly, the clothes washer and dryer are moved apart as required to create adequate space between them for the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER, which can then be slid into the space thus created. A very workable embodiment of th~ present invention may require 6" or less of space. This is an appropriate time to check and level the appliances as required per the manufacturer's instructions to achieve reasonable alignment of the upper surfaces of the three units. The appliances can then be moved in to provide the lateral support and stability required by the LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER.
The divider panel 24 conflguration should be considered relative to intended use.
As needs change so can the configuration of the panels. For example, if one compartment is filled with powdered detergent and a bit more room is required to empty the package so it can be disposed of, a divider panel can be removed to instantly create a larger compartment.
The capacity of the bin of the preferred embodiment described is adequate for holding a 40-pound 5 gallon bucket of powdered detergent with some reserve. In this ~. . . ~ ... - ~. . . . ..
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':: ' , . . .. , : ' ' ,.. : - ~.~ ,.", .,, ,.,::' -2116~6 use, the rear divider can be inserted to hold a sizeable reserve. When the front area is empty, it's time to think about restocking. However the reserve makes running out before a trip to the store unlikely, even for rural residents who might go to town only once a month .
With one divider in either position, the larger compartment thus formed will hold most units of powdered detergent in the 18- to 24-pound range with a reserve. Any of the smaller compartments possible in the embodiment described wil~ hold units ofpowdered detergent or dry bleach up to about 18 pounds, depending on density. Any of the three compartments will also accommodate many of the 64-oz. Iiquid units of detergent, fabric softener, or pre-wash stain removers commonly available. A very large roll of 150 dryer sheets stores neatly in any compartment.
The options are varied. If softener, dryer sheets, etc. are used in addition to powdered detergent, one divider panel 24 can be inserted, the front compartment filled, and any surplus put where it is well out of the way, as a large supply is now on hand inches from the washer. The middle compartment can hold dry bleach or liquid softener, with dryer sheets, etc. in the rear.
If liquid detergent is used, a 64-oz. plastic jug can be stored in any compartment, holding a several week's supply. This is a handy size and easy to dispense from. Most come with a measuring cap. Even more economy can sometimes be had by purchasing up to 2-gallon jugs. These can be stored well out of the way and used to refill the 64-oz.
jug kept in the LAUNDRY AREA ORt:;ANlZER. Liquid fabric softener can likewise bepurchased in larger units and used to refill the handier size.
One softener manufacturer now offers refills in milk carton type packaging, in both ready to use and concentrate forms, to refill their 60-oz. plastic jug with dispenser cap.
The LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER of the current invention is perfectly suited to encourage this sort of environmental friendly packaging. As such, common use of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER might be expected to significantly reduce the overall useof laundry product packaging materials, particularly non-biodegradable forms.
The cover 10 can be removed completely for loading. Loading powdered agents is easy to control, even from very large containers, as the weight can be born by the top 2116~6 of the washer or dryer. Loading is facilitated, especially if pouring into one of the small compartments, by placing a single sheet of newspaper on top of the opposite appliance and allowed it to hang into the compartment a few inches, wrapping around the front and back a bit. This has a funnel affect, guiding the powder into the compartment that might otherwise go past or to the sides.
Dispensing powders is done with the appropriate size scoop while holding the cover 10 in a raised position. The current embodiment i5so configured size-wise that most adults can easily access any possible compartment, top to bottom. After dispensing, the scoop can be dropped in, ready for the next use, and the cover returned to place. The guides 12 facilitate this.
While the present preferred embodiment incorporates the features just described,additional variations can be effected to further increase the usefulness and versatility of the LAUNDRYAREAORGANIZER. Two of these embodiments are directed at making use of the space beneath the bin 20.
FIG. 4 is a cross sectional view of the lower bin 20 and upper front leg 40 assembly of FIG. 1 and FIG 2 at "4- - 4" showing a removable sheet goods dispenser 50 incorporated in a rectangular opening in the front leg 40. The dispenser 50, retained in closed position by the lower flange 44 and the nib 53, can be snapped out for loading by pulling on the finger hole 52. Inserting the bottom flange 44 first and giving the dispenser 50 a rap near the top returns it to place in and preferably flush with the front of the leg 40. The spindle 54 shown is also designed for injection molding as a separate piece to be secured to the horizontal portion S6 of the dispenser 50 by a sheet metal screw 55.
FIG. 5 is a front top perspective exploded view of a front leg 38 incorporating a removable tilt-out refuse container 60 in a frontal redangular opening '~". A further improvement contemplated and shown allows dispensing of dryer sheets from a rollthrough a slot 61 in the refuse containerfront. In the embodiment shown, the roll is held on a removable sheet goods dispenser assembly 67 incorporated in the interior of the refuse container 60, comprising a vertical portion and a horizontal portion having a spindle 54. Vertical side flanges 37 on each side of the opening '~" stop the front 65 of ~ ~ , i-; ' ., .................. ' :' '':
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the refuse container flush with the front of the leg as it is manipulated to a closed position.
A refuse container here would prove a handy place to dispose of dryer lint, and to accomplish this, would not have to be of large capacity. Such a container could be fitted in a six inch wide unit. A somewhat wider embodiment of the LAUNDRY AREA
ORGANIZER, of eight to nine inches in width for example, would require less height in the bin to achieve the same capacities. Such a unit could have a refuse container of 6 to 7 inches in width and of greater height that could accommodate the general refuse created in a laundry area. A LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER of eight to nine inches would not be considered a safe freestanding unit and would rely on the lateral support provided by the requisite environment juxtaposed the clothes washer and dryer.
FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view of the front leg 38 of FIG. 5. The design of this arrangement relies on a pivot step 66 which allows the refuse container 60 to be inserted into the opening '~" by holding it level and sliding it in until the pivot step 66 drops over the bottom edge 36 of the opening '~"in the leg 38. In practice, this drop may be approximately 1/4". The edge 36 then effectively becomes a pivot point. The container 60 may be tilted out, preferably by a handle 69 shown here or by the finger hole 62 if the handle 69 is not provided, until the top of the container back 63 acts as a stop against the leg 38. The distance from the pivot point 36 to the top of the back 63 must be greater than to the top of the opening '~".
Once tilted out, the refuse container 60 will stay open. Given a nudge, it will close with the refuse container front stopping against the side flanges 37 of opening '~", where the front surfaces of the leg 38 and the refuse container front are preferably flush, presenting a visually harmonious appearance. The refuse container 60 is easily removed for emptying by lifting up the approximatsly 1/4" required for the pivot step 66 to clear the opening bottom edge 36 then pulling the container out level. Clearance '~" between the refuse container sides in the closed position and the top of opening "O" must be greater than the vertical distance required to clear the step pivot.
A roll of sheets could be dropped onto a spindle 54, here shown secured with a screw 55 to the dispenser 67, which slides into slots created by opposing pairs of retainer ribs 64 on the interior side walls of the refuse container 60. Preferably, a cap rib '' i~ ~ ' , : ., , ' :. ' .
68 arrangement on the top of the dispenser 67 similar to that of the divider panel 24 in FIG. 3 would vertically position the divider such that sheet goods on the spindle 54 would feed smoothly through the slot 61. The horizontal and vertical components of thedispenser 67 also serve to keep the contents of the refuse container segregated from the sheet goods. The dispenser assembly 67 can be quickly removed for loading or before emptying the refuse container 60.
The foregoing has described the preferred embodiment and several alternative configurations of the LAUNDRY AREA ORGANIZER. It is understood that a skilled workman would be able to further alter the invention to suit particular needs and circumstances without departing from the spirit of the invention. For example, the cover 10 can be hinged at a distal edge to the back panel. Also, the legs can be provided with holes to accommodate screw-in rubber capped feet or other means to offer adjustment of height. Accordingly the protection to be afforded this invention is to be determined from the claims appended hereto.
The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:
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Claims (21)
1. A laundry area organizer for use with a clothes washer and dryer, each of theclothes washer and dryer having a top surface and side walls, the laundry area organizer configured to be located between the clothes washer and dryer, the laundry area organizer comprising:
a bin comprising a front, a back, and first and second side walls, the first side wall of the bin being juxtaposed to and abutted with a side wall of one of the clothes washer and dryer and the second side wall of the bin being juxtaposed to and abutted with a side wall of the other of the clothes washer and dryer so that the bin is disposed between and laterally supported by the clothes washer and dryer, the front, back, and first and second side walls of the bin defining an interior chamber;
a cover for the bin, the cover having a top surface, the cover being manipulableto an open position for providing access to the interior of the bin and, alternatively, to a closed position for precluding access to the interior of the bin; and a plurality of legs for the bin for vertically supporting the bin so that the top surface of the cover is at about the same height as the top surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer so that the top surfaces of the cover and the clothes washer and dryer lieapproximately in a plane.
a bin comprising a front, a back, and first and second side walls, the first side wall of the bin being juxtaposed to and abutted with a side wall of one of the clothes washer and dryer and the second side wall of the bin being juxtaposed to and abutted with a side wall of the other of the clothes washer and dryer so that the bin is disposed between and laterally supported by the clothes washer and dryer, the front, back, and first and second side walls of the bin defining an interior chamber;
a cover for the bin, the cover having a top surface, the cover being manipulableto an open position for providing access to the interior of the bin and, alternatively, to a closed position for precluding access to the interior of the bin; and a plurality of legs for the bin for vertically supporting the bin so that the top surface of the cover is at about the same height as the top surfaces of the clothes washer and dryer so that the top surfaces of the cover and the clothes washer and dryer lieapproximately in a plane.
2. The laundry area organizer of claim 1 wherein the plurality of legs comprises:
a first leg selectively attached to the bin so that a front surface of the first leg is approximately flush with the front of the bin; and a second leg selectively attached to the bin so that the surface of the second leg is approximately flush with the back of the bin.
a first leg selectively attached to the bin so that a front surface of the first leg is approximately flush with the front of the bin; and a second leg selectively attached to the bin so that the surface of the second leg is approximately flush with the back of the bin.
3. The laundry area organizer of claim 1 wherein the back of the bin is inwardlydisposed towards the front of the bin, and wherein the plurality of legs comprises:
a first leg selectively attached to the bin so that a front surface of the first leg is approximately flush with the front of the bin; and a second leg selectively attached to the bin so that the surface of the second leg is inwardly disposed toward the first leg due to the inward disposition of the back of the bin.
a first leg selectively attached to the bin so that a front surface of the first leg is approximately flush with the front of the bin; and a second leg selectively attached to the bin so that the surface of the second leg is inwardly disposed toward the first leg due to the inward disposition of the back of the bin.
4. The laundry area organizer of claim 1 wherein the cover has a handle integralwith the cover, the handle being positioned proximate the front of the bin to facilitate manipulation of the cover.
5. The laundry organizer of claim 1, further comprising:
at least one pair of divider panel slots, the pair of divider panel slots comprising a first divider panel slot integral with the first side wall of the bin on the interior of the bin and a second divider panel slot integral with the second side wall of the bin and opposite the first divider panel slot on the interior of the bin; and a divider panel for being selectively inserted into the at least one pair of divider panel slots to divide the interior chamber of the bin into a plurality of compartments.
at least one pair of divider panel slots, the pair of divider panel slots comprising a first divider panel slot integral with the first side wall of the bin on the interior of the bin and a second divider panel slot integral with the second side wall of the bin and opposite the first divider panel slot on the interior of the bin; and a divider panel for being selectively inserted into the at least one pair of divider panel slots to divide the interior chamber of the bin into a plurality of compartments.
6. The laundry area organizer of claim 1 wherein the first and second legs each comprise at least one locating rib and at least one locating boss and the bottom of the bin comprises at least one locating recess so that the at least one locating rib contacts one of the first and second side walls and the at least one locating boss interfits within the at least one locating recess when each of the first and second legs are attached to the bin.
7. The laundry area organizer of claim 1 wherein the bin has lateral edges and the bin further comprises side channels disposed along the lateral edges of the bin.
8. The laundry area organizer of claim 1 wherein the bottom of the bin comprisesa plurality of bolt holes and the first and second legs each comprise a plurality of bolt holes, further comprising a plurality of bolts inserted through aligned bolt holes in the bin and first and second legs and nuts secured to the inserted bolts to attach the first and second legs to the bin.
9. The laundry area organizer of claim 1 wherein one of the legs is provided with a sheet goods dispenser disposed in the one leg.
10. The laundry area organizer of claim 9 wherein the one leg is provided with an opening, further comprising:
a sheet goods dispenser disposed in the opening in the one leg, the sheet goods dispenser being removable for loading.
a sheet goods dispenser disposed in the opening in the one leg, the sheet goods dispenser being removable for loading.
11. The laundry area organizer of claim 10 wherein;
the sheet goods dispenser comprises a front and an inwardly disposed horizontal portion, the front having vertical edges which extend outwardly from a junction of the front with the horizontal portion and wherein the horizontal portion will pass through the opening in the one leg and the vertical edges of the front will not pass through the opening in the one leg so that the front of the sheet goods dispenser does not pass through the opening in the one leg when the sheet goods dispenser is manipulated to the closed position; and a retaining means attached to the horizontal portion for holding a roll of sheetmaterial; and the front of the sheet goods dispenser comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the retaining means.
the sheet goods dispenser comprises a front and an inwardly disposed horizontal portion, the front having vertical edges which extend outwardly from a junction of the front with the horizontal portion and wherein the horizontal portion will pass through the opening in the one leg and the vertical edges of the front will not pass through the opening in the one leg so that the front of the sheet goods dispenser does not pass through the opening in the one leg when the sheet goods dispenser is manipulated to the closed position; and a retaining means attached to the horizontal portion for holding a roll of sheetmaterial; and the front of the sheet goods dispenser comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the retaining means.
12. The laundry area organizer of claim 10 wherein;
the sheet goods dispenser comprises a front and an inwardly disposed horizontal portion, the front having vertical edges which extend outwardly from a junction of the front with the horizontal portion and wherein the opening in the one leg has side flanges inwardly disposed along the vertical edges for stopping the vertical edges of the front so that the front of the sheet goods dispenser does not pass through the opening in the one leg when the sheet goods dispenser is manipulated to the closed position; and a retaining means attached to the horizontal portion for holding a roll of sheetmaterial; and the front of the sheet goods dispenser comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the retaining means.
the sheet goods dispenser comprises a front and an inwardly disposed horizontal portion, the front having vertical edges which extend outwardly from a junction of the front with the horizontal portion and wherein the opening in the one leg has side flanges inwardly disposed along the vertical edges for stopping the vertical edges of the front so that the front of the sheet goods dispenser does not pass through the opening in the one leg when the sheet goods dispenser is manipulated to the closed position; and a retaining means attached to the horizontal portion for holding a roll of sheetmaterial; and the front of the sheet goods dispenser comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the retaining means.
13. The laundry area organizer of claim 10 wherein;
the sheet goods dispenser comprises a front and an inwardly disposed horizontal portion, the front having vertical edges which extend outwardly from a junction of the front with the horizontal portion and wherein the opening in the one leg has side flanges inwardly disposed along the vertical edges for stopping the vertical edges of the front so that the front of the sheet goods dispenser does not pass through the opening in the one leg when the sheet goods dispenser is manipulated to the closed position; and a spindle attached to the horizontal portion for holding a roll of sheet material; and the front of the sheet goods dispenser comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the spindle.
11. The laundry area organizer of claim 1 wherein one of the legs is provided with an opening, further comprising:
a refuse container disposed in the opening in the one leg, the refuse container being manipulable between a closed position and an open position.
12. The laundry area organizer of claim 11, further comprising:
a bracket attached to an interior surface of the front of the refuse container; and a spindle attached to the bracket for holding a roll of sheet material; and wherein the front of the refuse bin comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the spindle.
13. The laundry area organizer of claim 11 wherein the one leg is attached to the bin so that a front surface of the one leg is approximately flush with the front of the bin.
the sheet goods dispenser comprises a front and an inwardly disposed horizontal portion, the front having vertical edges which extend outwardly from a junction of the front with the horizontal portion and wherein the opening in the one leg has side flanges inwardly disposed along the vertical edges for stopping the vertical edges of the front so that the front of the sheet goods dispenser does not pass through the opening in the one leg when the sheet goods dispenser is manipulated to the closed position; and a spindle attached to the horizontal portion for holding a roll of sheet material; and the front of the sheet goods dispenser comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the spindle.
11. The laundry area organizer of claim 1 wherein one of the legs is provided with an opening, further comprising:
a refuse container disposed in the opening in the one leg, the refuse container being manipulable between a closed position and an open position.
12. The laundry area organizer of claim 11, further comprising:
a bracket attached to an interior surface of the front of the refuse container; and a spindle attached to the bracket for holding a roll of sheet material; and wherein the front of the refuse bin comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the spindle.
13. The laundry area organizer of claim 11 wherein the one leg is attached to the bin so that a front surface of the one leg is approximately flush with the front of the bin.
14. The laundry area organizer of claim 11 wherein the refuse container comprises first and second sides, a back, a bottom, and a front having vertical edges which extend outwardly from a junction of the front of the refuse container with the first and second sides of the refuse container and a pivot step disposed at a junction of the front of the refuse container and the bottom of the refuse container, and wherein the opening in the one leg has a pivot point at a bottom edge of the opening for pivotally contacting the pivot step of the refuse container when the refuse container is disposed in the opening in the one leg, and wherein the opening in the one leg has side flanges inwardly disposed along the vertical edges of the opening for stopping the vertical edges of the front of the refuse container approximately flush with the front of the one leg so that the front of the refuse container does not pass through the opening in the one leg when the pivot step pivots on the pivot point as the refuse container is manipulated to the closed position.
15. The laundry area organizer of claim 14 wherein the back of the refuse container comprises a top portion and the opening in the one leg has a top edge, the top portion of the back of the refuse container extending vertically of the top edge of the one leg so that the back of the refuse container does not pass through the opening in the one leg when the pivot step pivots on the pivot point as the refuse container is manipulated to the open position.
16. The laundry area organizer of claim 11 wherein the refuse container comprises first and second sides, a back, a bottom, and a front having vertical edges which extend outwardly from a junction of the front of the refuse container with the first and second sides of the refuse container and a pivot step disposed at a junction of the front of the refuse container and the bottom of the refuse container, and wherein the opening in the one leg has a pivot point at a bottom edge of the opening for pivotally contacting the pivot step of the refuse container when the refuse container is disposed in the opening in the one leg, the vertical edges of the front of the refuse container extending transversely of the vertical edges of the opening in the front of the one leg so that the front of the refuse container does not pass through the opening in the one leg when the pivot step pivots on the pivot point as the refuse container is manipulated to the closed position.
17. The laundry area organizer of claim 16 wherein the back of the refuse container comprises a top portion and the opening in the one leg has a top edge, the top portion of the back of the refuse container extending vertically of the top edge of the one leg so that the back of the refuse container does not pass through the opening in the one leg when the pivot step pivots on the pivot point as the refuse container is manipulated to the open position.
18. The laundry area organizer of claim 11, further comprising:
a bracket attached to an interior surface of the front of the refuse container; and a spindle attached to the bracket for holding a roll of sheet material; and wherein the front of the refuse bin comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the spindle.
a bracket attached to an interior surface of the front of the refuse container; and a spindle attached to the bracket for holding a roll of sheet material; and wherein the front of the refuse bin comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the spindle.
19. The laundry area organizer of claim 11 wherein the refuse container comprises first and second sides, a back, and a bottom, further comprising:
a pair of bracket retainer ribs, the pair of bracket retainer ribs comprising a first bracket retainer slot integral with the first side of the refuse container on the interior of the refuse container and a second bracket retainer slot integral with the second side of the refuse container and opposite the first bracket retainer slot on the interior of the refuse container; and a bracket for being selectively inserted into the pair of bracket retainer ribs, the bracket comprising a vertical portion and a horizontal portion extending away from the vertical portion toward the front of the refuse bin; and a spindle attached to the horizontal portion of the bracket for holding a roll of sheet material; and wherein the front of the refuse bin comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the spindle.
a pair of bracket retainer ribs, the pair of bracket retainer ribs comprising a first bracket retainer slot integral with the first side of the refuse container on the interior of the refuse container and a second bracket retainer slot integral with the second side of the refuse container and opposite the first bracket retainer slot on the interior of the refuse container; and a bracket for being selectively inserted into the pair of bracket retainer ribs, the bracket comprising a vertical portion and a horizontal portion extending away from the vertical portion toward the front of the refuse bin; and a spindle attached to the horizontal portion of the bracket for holding a roll of sheet material; and wherein the front of the refuse bin comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the spindle.
20. The laundry area organizer of claim 14 wherein the refuse container comprises first and second sides, a back, and a bottom, further comprising:
a pair of bracket retainer ribs, the pair of bracket retainer ribs comprising a first bracket retainer slot integral with the first side of the refuse container on the interior of the refuse container and a second bracket retainer slot integral with the second side of the refuse container and opposite the first bracket retainer slot on the interior of the refuse container; and a bracket for being selectively inserted into the pair of bracket retainer ribs, the bracket comprising a vertical portion and a horizontal portion extending away from the vertical portion toward the front of the refuse bin; and a spindle attached to the horizontal portion of the bracket for holding a roll of sheet material; and wherein the front of the refuse bin comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the spindle.
a pair of bracket retainer ribs, the pair of bracket retainer ribs comprising a first bracket retainer slot integral with the first side of the refuse container on the interior of the refuse container and a second bracket retainer slot integral with the second side of the refuse container and opposite the first bracket retainer slot on the interior of the refuse container; and a bracket for being selectively inserted into the pair of bracket retainer ribs, the bracket comprising a vertical portion and a horizontal portion extending away from the vertical portion toward the front of the refuse bin; and a spindle attached to the horizontal portion of the bracket for holding a roll of sheet material; and wherein the front of the refuse bin comprises a vertical slot through which the sheet material extends when the sheet material is held on the spindle.
21
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US08/025,218 | 1993-03-01 | ||
| US08/025,218 US5411164A (en) | 1991-09-13 | 1993-03-01 | Laundry area organizer disposed between a clothes washer and dryer |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2116486A1 true CA2116486A1 (en) | 1994-09-02 |
Family
ID=21824735
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2116486 Abandoned CA2116486A1 (en) | 1993-03-01 | 1994-02-25 | Laundry area organizer disposed between a clothes washer and dryer |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2116486A1 (en) |
-
1994
- 1994-02-25 CA CA 2116486 patent/CA2116486A1/en not_active Abandoned
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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