CA2245272C - Side indicator hangers and method and apparatus for removing indicators from hangers - Google Patents
Side indicator hangers and method and apparatus for removing indicators from hangers Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2245272C CA2245272C CA002245272A CA2245272A CA2245272C CA 2245272 C CA2245272 C CA 2245272C CA 002245272 A CA002245272 A CA 002245272A CA 2245272 A CA2245272 A CA 2245272A CA 2245272 C CA2245272 C CA 2245272C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- hanger
- indicator
- wedge
- web
- hangers
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- Expired - Fee Related
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
- A47G25/00—Household implements used in connection with wearing apparel; Dress, hat or umbrella holders
- A47G25/14—Clothing hangers, e.g. suit hangers
- A47G25/1407—Clothing hangers, e.g. suit hangers with identification means
- A47G25/1414—Clothing hangers, e.g. suit hangers with identification means connected to the hook member
- A47G25/1435—Clothing hangers, e.g. suit hangers with identification means connected to the hook member at a web between the stem and hanger body
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- Holders For Apparel And Elements Relating To Apparel (AREA)
- Processing And Handling Of Plastics And Other Materials For Molding In General (AREA)
- Injection Moulding Of Plastics Or The Like (AREA)
- Moulds For Moulding Plastics Or The Like (AREA)
Abstract
A molded plastic garment hanger having an improved indicator detachment opening is disclosed, wherein the hanger has a hook with a web adjacent said hook and a hanger body, wherein the web is received within a cavity of a molded plastic indicator having side walls. The web and the indicator combining to provide a security means to prevent unauthorized removal of the indicator. The web is formed with a detachment opening formed in the web which extends through the security means and under said indicator to allow the indicator to be removed with a detachment wedge inserted in said opening. A method and apparatus for removing the indicator from the web is also provided by inserting a reciprocal wedge mounted on a first plate into the opening defined in the web to displace the indicator and thereby release the indicator from the web without damaging either the indicator or the hanger. The present invention contemplates automated as well as manual removal of the indicator from the hanger and provides a method and device therefor.
Description
a3'.D~LLD~.~~Z'QIt ~i-ANC~E~t~
AND MxITHQD A~1D A~;p,A,RATUS FOR
~tE~QVI~TG ZNDIC,AT,9RS_ ~'RQM ~iAN~R~
F~i~e_la of t~r,~n_wer~t.~.oz~:
This invention relates to a garment hanger having a side sizer indicator, and a method and apparatus for removing the side sizer indicator from the hanger.
B~.~kqpound of tl~e ~nver~tiori:
' ~ For purposes of displaying garments suspended on hangers in an orderly manner to they retail customer, certain retail stores desire to affix an indicating means on the side of the hook of the hanger w~-Le.re the hood meets the hanger body. The indicating mNans identifies some attribute of the garmFrnt suspended from the hanger, such as size, quality, color, man~ifacturi.ng data, or pattern.
To accommodate the various types of :angers available. in. the industry, numerous ir~dicatin~x means have been developed in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. Similarly, hangers have been developed to accommodate a variety of different indicating means.
U.S. Patent 4,115,940 discloses a s~.de sizer indicator for a garment hanger, having a removable indicia carrying tab. The indicia. is attacheU: to a web contiguous to the hanger body which is joined to both the body and the hook.
The small size and the removable nature of this indicia generated concern an the part of some garment hanger manufacturers that prompted the development of non-remov,~ble or child proof irdicia for garment hangers.
U.S. Patents 5,096,101 and 5,199,60 disclose garment hangers with locking or irremovable information tabs, which hangers use a rib or thickened body portion to surround the indicia and block access to the underside of the indicia.
U. S. Patent 5, ~~41,182 also d.isclose~, a garment 15~ with a locking information clip having hook like elements or a raised platform to seat the cliff, each of which prevents easy removal of the clip.
Environmental concerns have also generated a desire for hangers having information indicia which are ~~ essentially unremovable for the average consumer, but removable with the appropriate tooling for re~,.se and recycle purposes. Inasmuch as the indicators are generally colored plastic, it is highly desirable in any recycling program to remove the indicator before grinding the hangers for reuse. Further, in a. reuse program, it is necessary to remove the old size indicia before fitting a new one.
AND MxITHQD A~1D A~;p,A,RATUS FOR
~tE~QVI~TG ZNDIC,AT,9RS_ ~'RQM ~iAN~R~
F~i~e_la of t~r,~n_wer~t.~.oz~:
This invention relates to a garment hanger having a side sizer indicator, and a method and apparatus for removing the side sizer indicator from the hanger.
B~.~kqpound of tl~e ~nver~tiori:
' ~ For purposes of displaying garments suspended on hangers in an orderly manner to they retail customer, certain retail stores desire to affix an indicating means on the side of the hook of the hanger w~-Le.re the hood meets the hanger body. The indicating mNans identifies some attribute of the garmFrnt suspended from the hanger, such as size, quality, color, man~ifacturi.ng data, or pattern.
To accommodate the various types of :angers available. in. the industry, numerous ir~dicatin~x means have been developed in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. Similarly, hangers have been developed to accommodate a variety of different indicating means.
U.S. Patent 4,115,940 discloses a s~.de sizer indicator for a garment hanger, having a removable indicia carrying tab. The indicia. is attacheU: to a web contiguous to the hanger body which is joined to both the body and the hook.
The small size and the removable nature of this indicia generated concern an the part of some garment hanger manufacturers that prompted the development of non-remov,~ble or child proof irdicia for garment hangers.
U.S. Patents 5,096,101 and 5,199,60 disclose garment hangers with locking or irremovable information tabs, which hangers use a rib or thickened body portion to surround the indicia and block access to the underside of the indicia.
U. S. Patent 5, ~~41,182 also d.isclose~, a garment 15~ with a locking information clip having hook like elements or a raised platform to seat the cliff, each of which prevents easy removal of the clip.
Environmental concerns have also generated a desire for hangers having information indicia which are ~~ essentially unremovable for the average consumer, but removable with the appropriate tooling for re~,.se and recycle purposes. Inasmuch as the indicators are generally colored plastic, it is highly desirable in any recycling program to remove the indicator before grinding the hangers for reuse. Further, in a. reuse program, it is necessary to remove the old size indicia before fitting a new one.
An example o:~ a garment hangez: with a child proof size indicator and a. special tool for removing the ~~ indicator is illustrated i.n U.S. Patent 5,449,099. As taught is in this patent, the hanger ma_~r be molded with S cuts in the protective rib which surrounds the c~lzp to enable manual access by a special tool. This system however does not enable automated removal of the size indicia as necessary for commercially viable reuse or recycle programs.
U.S. Patent 5,611,469 discloses a Hanger With Identification Clip having a through opening in the attachment web between the attachment ri.b and the childproof safety rib. However, once the indicator is mounted, the opening is covered and cannot be used to provide entry of an indicator detachment tool.
6"mmarv of the Tnventiy n:
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved garment hanger having an indicator detachment opening which allows arE
indicator to be attached 1.o a hanger in one or more of the,foregoing ways, but which permits removal of the indicator in an automated operation that reduces the likelihood of damage to the indicator or to the hanger.
The invention therefore provides a molded . plastic hanger having a modified indicator attachment area or tab holder integr<~lly formed as part of the hanger, with a ridge on the tab holder which surrounds the tab to prevent a consumer from obtaining a "finger purchase" on the tab to remove the tar>. 'fhe modified tab holder includes a.t least one through opening in the web and ridge which enables an automated wedge tool to be inserted through the opening and engage the indicator S on~one side and a reaction surface on the other to remove the indicator from the hanger.
In another embodiment of the invention, the indicator attachment area includes a raised area for seating the indicia whic.'h prevents unauthorized ar inadvertent removal, since the raised area causes a finger nail or other_ sliding tool to "jump" when it engages the raised portion. In this embodiment, the indicator attachment area includes a through c>pening which also extends through the raised area, arid any locking ridges formed. on the indicator attachment area.
This opening enables an automated wedge tool t.o be inserted through the opening and engage the indicator on one side and a reaction aurface on the other t:o remove the indicator from th.e hanger.
In use, as will be described more fully below, the indicator or side si;~er is disengaged from the indicator attachment area by inserting a wedge through the opening or aperture to thereby release the indicator from the garment hanger.
The method and apparatus of the present invention provide an extremely versatile arrangement which can accommodate virtually all types of side sizer indicators mounted on a garment hanger. The method and system can also accommodate a wide variety of hanger and indicia types.
Accordingly, ii',: is an object of the invention to provide a system which includes: a first means for S securing the hanger for ,removal of the indicator; an automated actuating means for driving a wedge through an opening or aperture in the hanger; and means for collecting and disposing of the indicator.
In operation, the reciprocal wedge is actuated ~ to engage the indicator and the reaction surface in the indicator attachment area to remove the indicator from the hanger while the hanger is secured by in a. reference position.
The hangers with side sizer indicatr.~rs affixed thereto can be lined up on a feeding rail which 5_s slanted such that: the force of gravity feeds the hanger into position against an automated means for manipulating and securing the hangers in a predetermined area.
The first mean; of the present emboc;:iment may also include a milled out portion or template defining a recess substantially corresponding to the shape and dimensions'of the hanger to be received such that when the hanger is received in the recess, the thr~~ugh opening is correctly positioned for the automatic wedge mechanism. When the indicator engages the recess of the first plate the indicator detachment mechanism is positioned to remove the size indicator from the hanger.
Thus, the system of tl~e present invention is easily adapted to accommodate a variety of ha~.ger configurations.
In another embodiment, the first means preferably,further includes a reciprocal wedge positioned to displace the indicator. The first means also includes a second plate which reciprocates parallel to the first plate to secure the hanger for removal of the indicator.
' In operation, the actuating means drives the first plate downwardly to position the hanger, and then drives the second plate t.o separate the hanger from a bulk supply of the hangers. The reciprocal wedge is then actuated to engage the indicator and the reaction surface in the indicator attachment area to remove the indicator from the hanger while the hanger_ is secured by the second plate. ThES first plate is then raised to allow the garment hander to move on for further processing.
The hangers with side sizer indicators affixed thereto can be lined up on a feeding rail which is slanted such that the force of gravity drives the hanger into position against the first plate. In a preferred embodiment !~he second plate may include an guides or templates fc~r holding the hanger to prevent the hanger from moving when the indicator is removed by the reciprocal movement of the sedge. In a particularly preferred embodiment the second plate is driven downwardly to separate the hanger undergoing the detaching process from the rest of the hangers on the feeding rail.
The first plate of the present embodiment may also include a milled out portion or template defining a recess substantially corresponding to the shape and dimensions of the hanger to be received such that when the first plate is ire its lower position gravity forces the hanger into the recess or template.
a0 To remove t:he indicator from the haz~.ger the wedge is driven transversely to the first means by, for instance, a pneumatic: cylinder means, while the hanger is resting in the recess of the first means.
The system further contemplates forceful , ejection of the indicator from the hanger, which ~~ ej ect~ion may direct t:he indicator into a vacuum capture plenum.
A vacuum collection system can be attached to said vacuum captuxe ~>lenum such that upon ejection, the indicator is removed from the detaching appar~itus and collected in a separate device.
In a preferred embodiment the first and second plates may further includes a guide path or window through which the indicator passes upon ejection. The guide path or window can be dimensioned to accommodate a variety of indicator configuratiozis. The vacuum discharge tube can be attached to said guide path or _g_ window such that upon: ejection the indicator is removed from the detaching a~~paratus and collected in a separate device.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a device for manually removing an indicator from a hanger with an indicator attacl-ament mechanism.
In a preferred embodiment the device includes a wedge tool for manual insertion into the through opening formed in the indicator attachment web of the hanger.
The device for manually removing the indicators from hangers can include a bench mounted wedge and a hanger guide mounted to a support such that the operator need not handle the device while manually removing the indicator from the hangers.
zt is a further object of the presera invention to provide a method ~or removing an indicator from a hanger by inserting a wedge mounted on a first means into the though opening in the hanger to displace the indicator from the indicator attachment area on the hanger. The method can be performed either manually or automatically.
The automated method for rerraoving t:r~e indicator from the garment hanger comprises: holding a plurality of hangers with indicatoi:s affixed ehereto;
selectively engaging one of the hangers; securing the hanger; and inserting the displacement wedge into the opening in the indicator attachment area to remove the indicator from the hanger.
_g_ In a second embodiment the method Further contemplates moving a second plate downwardly to secure the hanger and separate the hanger from the plurality of hangers while aligning said indicator with a guide path or window in either t:he first or second plate and ejecting the indicate>r from the hanger through the guide path or window into a~ discharge tube.
Before the next hanger :is selectively engaged the second plate is driven upwardly to permit the next hanger and indicator to advance a7.ong a feeding rail and rest against or in the recess in the first plate and then downwardly to separate the hanger from the plurality, and to prevent a second hanger in the " plural. i,ty of , hangers wi th indicators f rom advancing .
~5 After the indicator is disengaged from the hanger the second plate is moved. upwardly to permit the next hanger and indicator to advance.
Brief' ~escrintbi.~f ~ pLrawinas:
The foregoing .and other objects of t:he invention may now be more readily ascertained from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments thereof, taken in oon.junction with the accompanying drawings; in which.
Figure 1 illustrates a front. elevat5.on view of the hook of a hanger incorporating a typical Bide siaer locking attachment mechanism, and the through opening of the present invention. formed therein;
Figure 1(a) iJ.lustrates a front elevation view of a portion of a hanger incorporating a side sizer locking attachment mechanism, and a modified form of the through opening of the ~>resent invention foamed therein;
Figure 2 illustrates a.n enlarged sectional view of a portion of they garment hanger and indicator of Figure 1;
Figure 3 i:Llustrates an enlarged sectional view of a portion of a second type of garment hanger and 14 side sizer~ indicator.
Figure 4 i=llustrates a diagrammatic view of the first means for detaching apparatus an indicator in the detaching position;
Figure 5 i> an illustrative view of the wedge anc~ garment hanger with indicator just before detachment of the indicator;
Figure 6 is an. illustrative view of the wedge and garment hanger w_~th indicator at the moment of detachment of 'the indicator.
~ Figure 7 is a plan view of one embodiment of a manual detachment mechanism constructed in acs~ordance with the present invention;
Figure 8 i:> a cross-section view of the manual detachment apparatus illustrated in Figure 7 taken along section lines 8-8' of Figure 7.
Figure 9 i:~lustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the det:ach.ing apparatus according to the present invention with a.feeding rail, a plurality of 'hangers thereon, and a first plate for recei~~ing a hanger;
Figure 10 illustrates a second sequential view of the detaching apparatus according to the present invention with a second plate securing the hanger, while the wedge removes the indicator;
Figure 11 illustrates a third sequential view of the detaching apparatus according to the present invention with a first plate releasing the processed hangers, while the second plate maintains a separation;
Figure 12 is an isometric schematic illustration of the detachment apparatus of_ the present invention illustrating t:he control and'aetuating mechanisms therefor.
petailed D~scri~~ the ~~~~,red Embodim~t~,:
In the preferred embodiment, the improved ' hanger of the present invention is formed of styrene which provides a clear virtually transparent hanger for maximum display of garments suspended therefrom.
Alternately, the hanger could be formed from K resin, ., H.I.,styrene, polypropylene or other suitable thermoplastic.
The hanger 1 illustrated in Figure 1 is equipped with a hook 14 for engaging a rod ox other supporting means, and a body 12 for supporting a garment to be hung on the hanger. A web 16 extends between the hook 14 and the body 12 to provide an indicator attachment mechanism to receive an indicator la which bears an indicia or ~~olor, or both, relating to a characteristic of th~a garment suspended ~rom hanger body 12. As illustrated :in P'igu,re 1, it is common for the " indicator 18 to be attached to the web member 16 by snapping it downward:Ly over an attachment rib 20 in the dizection of arrow A, illustrated in Figure 1. The web also includes a second rib 22 which may be used to childproof the hanger and prevent easy removal of the indicator 18.
Environmental concerns on t:~e part ~~f large retail sales organizations have prompted a desire for hangers having side :>izers 18 that are essentially unremovable for the average customa_r ~~.nd, thus, ' "childproof" within the meaning of th~~t term as described by the garment. industry. T'~e industr_y also desires that the side sizers be removable with the appropriate tooling ?:or reuse and rec;~cle purposes, but at present~no automat:.ed apparatus is available for this removal. Inasmuch as the indicators a:re generally colored plastic, it :is highly desirable in any recycling program to remove the indicator before grinding the hangers for reuse. :Cf the program is a reuse program rather than a recyel:ing program, it: i;s necessary to remove the old size :indi.cator before attaching a new one .
The,presen~_ invention includes a hanger having a side sizer indicia tab wherein the tab is essentially unremovable for the average consumer, but removable with the indicator detacl-vnent: mechanism of the present invention. To enable removal of the ~ab, at least one through opening 24 is formed in web 15 which extends through the web, and through the security rib 22 which prevents access or "finger purchase" cn the edges of indicia 18. Alternately, the through opening may extend through both the attachment rib 20 and. the security rib I22, or may extend to the attachment rib, with a cut through the attachment nib 20 as illustrated in the enlarged portion of Figure 1 (a).
Figure 2 illustrates in cross-section, web 16 of hanger 1 having a side sizer indicia 18 attached thereto. As illustrated in Figure 2, the size indicia 18 includes a pair of inwardly extending barbs or ridges 26a, 26b which snap over the enlarged retention rib 2Q
of web 16. A variety of internal rib or barb constructions axe known in the prior art and illustrated in the various patents referred to in the summary of the prior art above.
As illustrated in Figure 1 and Figure 2, a security rib 22 is also provided on web 16 to prevent the easy removal of the indicia by enabling ":finger purchase" under one of t:he inwardly directed :Legs 28a, 28b of the size indicia 18.
An alternate :>ecurity arrangement is illustrated in Figure 3, wherein the web 16 receives an indicator 18 in the 'matter illustrated by arrow A in Figure 1. The web 16 of the hanger illustrated in Figure 3 is formed somewhat differently in cross-section and uses an alternate means for thwarting the easy removal of the indicator 18. As illustrated in Figure 1, the web 16 include s a first rib 20, which cooperates with internal barbs or ridges 26a, 26b to ser_ure the indicator to the web 16. Web 16 also includes an enlarged rib 30 which st:abiliaes the indicator 18 to prevent undesirable movement of the indicator in normal use. The arrangement illustrated in Figure 3 also ' includes a security :Land 22a which is elevated above the ~~ planar surface 16a o:E web 16. In practice, this elevated land 22a and the curved portion 22b pause a fingernail or other :removal device to "jurctp" the gap between the indicator 18. and the land 22a, making it extremely difficult 'or the average consumer to remove the indicator 18.
The presents invention uses at least one through opening 24 formed in web 16 to enable the removal of the "non-x-emovable" indicators 18. The through opening 24 includes a reaction surface 24a and an opening which extE~nds through the web and through the security rib 22 or the security land 22a to a space 24b underlying the indicator 18. The through opening rnay extend through both the attachment rib 20 and the security rib 22, or rnay extend to the attachment rib, with a cut through the attachment rib 20 as illustrated in the enlarged port:~on of Figure 1 (a). The through opening should not bEa so large as to permit "finger purchase" on the underside of the ind:icat=or, and should be~transverse to the indicator l8.
The removaJ_ of the "non-removable" indicator 18 will be described with respect to Figures 5 and 6 which illustrate in cross-section the web 16 of hanger 1, and the indicator 18 of Figure 2 together with the removal tool of the present invention.
As illustr~~ted in Figure 5, the indicator 18 is securely attached to 'web 16 by virtue of the retention rib 20 and internal barbs 26a and b which engage the retention rib 20. The open ends 28a, 28b are also supported on web l6 on either side of through opening 24.
To remove the side sizer indicator 18, a wedge tool is inserted into the through opening 24 between the reaction surface 24a and the inwardly extending legs 28a, 28b. As the wedge tool penetrates through the through opening 24, a. first side of the wedge tool 100a engages the reaction surface 24a while the tapered removal edge 100b engages the-inwardly extending arms 28~a and 28b of the in.dic~ator 18. The downward motion indicated by the arrcw B in Figure 6 results in a laterally outward pressure in the direction of arrow C
on the inwardly extending legs 28a, 28b causing the mid-~~ porti~w o~ the indicator to bow outwardly, to a point where the barbs or ribs :26a, 26b which axe ~ormed of plastic, will be resiliently deformed and slide over the retention rib 20 to the position illustrated in Figure 5. The resilient quality of the plastio materials from which the indicators 18 are normally formed creates a sudden release of the indicator 18 from web 16, expelling the indicator 18 in the direction cf arrow C.
The rate of downward mo~rement of the wedge tcol 100 determines to some extent the forcefulness of the detachment of indicator 18 from web 16, and the detachment process can be regulated to some extent by varying the penetration rate of wedge tool 100 through l0 the through opening 24. A thin blade type wedge tool may also be employed in combination with a through opening 24 which cuts through the attachment rib 20 to insure complete removal of the indicator in the event of multiple security ribs.
$ The automated detachment of the indicator 18 from the hangers 1 will be described with respect to Figure 6. One or more hangers are suspended from an angled rod 105 (illustrated in FigurE 12), which rnay gravity feed the hangers to the first means X07 for 20 removal of the indicator. The first means 1G7 may reciprocate into a support position by virtue: of a support and drive mechanism 133. A plurality of blocks 200, 202 and 204 may define a template for securing the hanger from undesirable movement, and in combination 25 with angled rod 105, define a registration means for aligning the hanger with the automatic detachment wedge 100. Wedge tool 100 is mounted to the first means, (which reciprocates wedge 100 through the thrc>ugh opening 24 defined in hange:c 1. In a preferred embodiment, it is driven by a pneumatic cylinder or electric solenoid.
While sandwiched in this position, the wedge tool 100 is driven through the through open5_ng 24 in hanger 1 in the manner previously described with respect to Figure 3. Wedge tool 100 may be easily driven by a pneumatic cylinder ;attached to the back plate 107.
Alternately, electromagnetic or hydraulic drive mechanisms may be wtilized as desired. The penetration of wedge tool 100 rnsul.ts in the forcible detachment of 'the indicator 18 as illustrated i_n Figure 6. The first means 107 may then be reciprocated out of engagement with the hanger 1 to provide for removal a.nd/or reuse of the hanger. -Thus, the detachment mecha°~:ism illustrated in Figure 6 cycles repetitively to automatically detach a plurality of the "nc>n-removable" indicators 18 from a plurality of hangers 1.
As illust::ated in Figure 6, the first means 107 includes a slot 107a to allow reciprocation of the means 107 about hanger rod 105. Alternately, first means 107 could be 1_ormed as a laterally reciprocating plate traversing the space between the support rod 105 and the hanger body 12, provided the wedge tool 100 is reciprocated to a position approximate that of through opening 24. While :in the start of downward position ' illustrated in~Figur_e 6, the hanger 1 may be further aligned for process_'ing by means of removable template f blocks which are illustrated in dotted lines at 200, 202, and 204 in Figuze 7. These blocks may be secured to the back plate 107 by means of alignment pins oz screws 206. The template blocks 200-209 enable a variety of hanger configurations and styles to be automatically processed by the apparatus of the present invention. Blocks 200-204 provide registration blocks far the hanger 1 that maintain the hanger in a proximate location for entry of wedge tool 100 through the through ~ opening 24. Blocks 202 <~nd 204 also define therebetween an emit window~for the forcible expulsion of indicator 1B when the wedge tool 100 is driven through the through opening 24.
Alternatively, recesses may be milled into the first means 107 to provide a stabilizing template for the hanger 1 to be processed, and to provide an exit path for indicator 18.
A vacuum tube 126. may also be provided adjacent the exit path defined between blocks 202 and 204 to receive the indicator 18 and convey it to a collection bin for further process~.ng or recycling.
Referring now to Figures 7 and 8, there is illustrated a tool for manually removing the indicators 18 from hanger 1. Figure 7 illustrates a plan view of the manual removal tool, while Figure 8 illustrates a section view taken along section 1i_ne 8-8' of Figure 7.
The device for manually removing an indicator from a garment hanger can .be hand-held, or may have a rectangular shape as il7,ustrated in Figures ? and 8 fox bench mounting. The device includes a plate 138 which can be made of metal or molded plastic and includes a recessed area 139 fo:c receiving the hanger and a wedge tool 100 which extends upwardly from the recessed area 139 to engage the through opening 24 i.n the hanger having an indicator ~ro be removed. The wedge tool 100 performs exactly the same function as previously described with respect t.o Figures 4-6. The only difference is that with the manual detac2nnent mechanism, the hanger 1 is manually positionEd with the wedge tool 100 entering the through, opening 24, and then the hanger is pressed downwardl~r against the recess in plate 139 to effect removal of thES indicator 1B. ~n alignment: pin 105~a and alignment b:Lock.s 200a and 204a may be provided to assist the operator in aligning the hanger 2 to engage the wedge too7_ 100 in the through opening 24. As the hanger is pressed into engagement with the recessed area 139, the wedge tool 100 removes the indicator 18 in ~ the direction of arrow C as illustrated in Figure 7.
Another embodiment of the automated detachment of the indicator 18 from the hangers ~L will be described with respect to Figures 9-11. As illustrated in Figure 9, a support rod 105 is angled downwardly and receives a plurality of hangers 1 thereon which slide downwardly along rod 105 until. they reach back p~:ate 107.
Alternately, a screw rod conveyor may be used for rod 10,5 to sequentially advance a plurality of hanger 1 into position for detachmE:nt of the indicators 18. In the initial start position, the back plate 107 is extended downwardly, straddling rod 105 as illustrated in Figures 4 and 12. When at least one hanger la has been received against the back plate 107, a front plate 106 is reciprocated downwardly and the direct.i~on o~ the arrow D
in Figure 10 by a pneumatic drive motor 204. Front plate 106 includes a rounded wedge engagement surface 106a which penetrates. the hangers supported are rod 105 10~ and separates hanger 1a from the x-ema5.nder of the hangers 1 as the front plate 106 is driven dovmwardly.
The front plate 106 a.nd the back plate 107 are mounted for reciprocation on support means 133 and are driven .. upwardly and.downwarclly by pneumatic drive motors 108a, 108b via connecting rods or pistons 109, 110. It should be noted that in Figures 9-11 the relative proportions of the various components have been exaggerated to clarify the operation, of the device, and the depiction in Figures 9-11 is intended to be illustrative in a schematic sense, and not a literal depiction of the elements . As illustrated in Figure 10, the front plate 106 has been extendecl downwardly to its second position commensurate with ths~ start position of back plate 107.
Hanger 1a has been separated for the remainder of the hangers 1 and is now sandwiched between front plate 106 and back plate 107. While sandwiched in this position, the wedge tool 100 is driven through the through opening 24 in hanger 1a and into a matching cavity on front _71_ plate 106 in the mann~'r previously described with respect to Figures 5 .and 6. wedge tool 100 may be easily driven in the direction of arrow B in Figure 10 by a pneumatic cylinder 7.02 attached to the back plate 107.
After the i:ndic:ator has been removed from hanger 1a, the wedge tool. 100 is retracted, and back plate 107 is raised to the position illustrated in Figure 21 while front plate 106 remains in its downward position. This enables t:he hanger la to slide down the support rod 105 i.n the direction of arrow E where it may be collected or advanced for Further processing by a screw rod conveyor or the like.
After the hanger la is free of the <detachment mechanism, plate 107 is reciprocated downwardly to the position illustrated in Figure 9, and the front plate 106 is raised to the ;position illustrated in Figure 9 to allow the collected group of hangers to slide down support rod 105 into engagement with back plate 107 at the~start position as previously with respect to Figure 9. Thus, the detachment mechanism illustrated in Figures 9-11 cycles repei~itively to detach the °non-removable" indicators 18 fxom a plurality of hangers 1.
As illustrated in Figure 4, the back plate 107 includes a slot 107a to <allow reciprocation of the back plate 107 about hanger rc>d 105. Alternately, back plate 107 could be formed as a laterally reciprocating plate traversing the space between the support rod 105 and the hanger body 12, provided the wedge tool 100 i.s reciprocated to a position approximate that c~f through opening.24.Figure 4 is an illustration of the apparatus taken along section lines ?~7~ of Figure 10.
It is understood that b;~.ck plate 107 is supported by the support means 133 and is reciprocated upwardly and downwardly in the direction of arrow F by means of the pneumatic drive 108(b) as previously described with respect to Figures 9-11.. While in the start of downward position illustrated in Figure 4, the hanger 1 may be further aligned for :processing by means of removable template blocks which one illustrated in dotted lines at 200. 202, and 204 in Figure 4. These blocks may be secured to the back plate 107 by means of alignment pins or sorews 206. The template blocks 200-204 enable a variety of hanger configurations and styles to be ' automatically processed by the apparatus of the present invention. Blocks 200-404 providE registration blocks for the hanger 1 that maintain the hanger in a proximate location for entry of wedge tool 100 through the through .
openi~g,24. ,Bl.ocks 202 and-204 also define therebetween an exit window for the forcible expulsion of indicator 18 when the wedge tool 100 is driven through the through opening 24.
AlternativE~ly, recesses may be milled into the back plate 107 to provide a stabilizing template fox the hanger 1 to be processed., and to provide an exit path for indicator 18.
It is to b~~ nc>ted that the ;locks 200-204 are no greater in thickness than the clearance between the .Front plate 106 and back plate 107 to enable the hanger 1 to~~be securely captured therebetween. for removal of the indicator 18. ~~ vacuum tube 126 may also be provided adjacent them exit path defined between blocks 202 and 204 to recei5re the indicator .L8 and convey it to a collection bin fox further processing or recycling.
As illustrated in Figure 4, the apparatus is schematically illustrated in isometric form with the indicators 18 on the opposite side of rod 105, and the wedge tool 100 mounted on the opposite side of plate 107. Tn a preferred embodiment, the detachment apparatus may be driven ,pneumatically and ~urt:her include a position cc~ntrol means 111, an air control means 114, a first timer 116, a second timer 7.17, and an air valve 137 The air valve 137 genezates and/or controls pressurized air by which the detachment apparatus is controlled .and driven.
The air valve 137, the timers 116 and 117, the actuating means or pneumatic cylinders 108, 108b, the airlcontrol means 114 and the position control. means 111 are respectively connected by air tubes for pneumatic control. The entire apparatus, including a reciprocating support 13:3, which is rat illustrated in Figure 12 is supported to a Fixed mount as indicated at 120.
As illustrated in Figux-e 12, the position control means 111 includes a first detector 712 for the position of the fron'~ plate 106 and a second detector 113 for the position of back plate 10'7. The Eirst detector 112 and the second detector 113 work on a pneumatic basis and lzaue~ a similar structure. First and . second detectors 112 and 113 each include contact plates which are contacted witri the upper sides 106 ~cf the back plate 107 respectively. In the upper positions, the front plate 106 and 'the back plate 107 press 'upwardly on the contact plates r~sspectively, to create a pneumatic signal in the position control means 111, thereby permitting a steady ~~ontrolled movement o~ plates 106 and 107.
The actuating means 108a, 1~8b controls the movements of the two plates 106, 107 and the control sequence is such tha~~ the front plate 106 cannot move upwardly when the ba~~k plate 7_07 is not in its lowermost position, and the bank plate 107 cannot move upwardly when the front plate 106 is not in its lowermost position. This insures that the hangers having side sizer indicators to be detached do not slide along feeding rail 105 und~ar t:he plates 106, 107 when not being processed.
~ The first 'timer 116 Controls the regular cycle ,. of tie, movement of tl~e t:wo plates 106 and, 107, whereas the second timer 117 enables a repeated downward movement of the front plate 106, if, for example, the hook of a hanger 1 i;s bent or damaged, or the indicator 28 is bent or damaged. In this case, the timer 117 gives a signal to the actuating means 108a to lift the front plate 106 up again and to retry to move it downwardly. This is repeated until the hanger 1 is properly received wit=hin. the alignment blocks 202, 204 of plate 107 so that front plate 106 ran move to its lower position without resistance.
It is understood that although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described and that various modifications may be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention is defined in the following claims. while the detachment apparatus of the described embodiment is pneumatically driven, the detachment apparatus could be driven by electrical, mechanical or other appropriate drive means.
Furthermore, the present invention has been described and illustrated in connection with a single type of side sizer indicator 18, although it ~s understood that the ~>resent invention can be used without adoption, or easily adapted to accommodate virtually any type of side sizing indicator.
While it has been shown and described what is considered.to be the preferred embodiment of the invention, it will, c~f courses, be understood that various modifications and changes in form or detail can be readily made withc~ut departing from the spirit of the invention. It is, therefore, intended that the invention not be. limited to the exact form and detail herein shown and des~~ribed nor to anything less than the whole o~ the inventi~~n as hereinafter claimed.
U.S. Patent 5,611,469 discloses a Hanger With Identification Clip having a through opening in the attachment web between the attachment ri.b and the childproof safety rib. However, once the indicator is mounted, the opening is covered and cannot be used to provide entry of an indicator detachment tool.
6"mmarv of the Tnventiy n:
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved garment hanger having an indicator detachment opening which allows arE
indicator to be attached 1.o a hanger in one or more of the,foregoing ways, but which permits removal of the indicator in an automated operation that reduces the likelihood of damage to the indicator or to the hanger.
The invention therefore provides a molded . plastic hanger having a modified indicator attachment area or tab holder integr<~lly formed as part of the hanger, with a ridge on the tab holder which surrounds the tab to prevent a consumer from obtaining a "finger purchase" on the tab to remove the tar>. 'fhe modified tab holder includes a.t least one through opening in the web and ridge which enables an automated wedge tool to be inserted through the opening and engage the indicator S on~one side and a reaction surface on the other to remove the indicator from the hanger.
In another embodiment of the invention, the indicator attachment area includes a raised area for seating the indicia whic.'h prevents unauthorized ar inadvertent removal, since the raised area causes a finger nail or other_ sliding tool to "jump" when it engages the raised portion. In this embodiment, the indicator attachment area includes a through c>pening which also extends through the raised area, arid any locking ridges formed. on the indicator attachment area.
This opening enables an automated wedge tool t.o be inserted through the opening and engage the indicator on one side and a reaction aurface on the other t:o remove the indicator from th.e hanger.
In use, as will be described more fully below, the indicator or side si;~er is disengaged from the indicator attachment area by inserting a wedge through the opening or aperture to thereby release the indicator from the garment hanger.
The method and apparatus of the present invention provide an extremely versatile arrangement which can accommodate virtually all types of side sizer indicators mounted on a garment hanger. The method and system can also accommodate a wide variety of hanger and indicia types.
Accordingly, ii',: is an object of the invention to provide a system which includes: a first means for S securing the hanger for ,removal of the indicator; an automated actuating means for driving a wedge through an opening or aperture in the hanger; and means for collecting and disposing of the indicator.
In operation, the reciprocal wedge is actuated ~ to engage the indicator and the reaction surface in the indicator attachment area to remove the indicator from the hanger while the hanger is secured by in a. reference position.
The hangers with side sizer indicatr.~rs affixed thereto can be lined up on a feeding rail which 5_s slanted such that: the force of gravity feeds the hanger into position against an automated means for manipulating and securing the hangers in a predetermined area.
The first mean; of the present emboc;:iment may also include a milled out portion or template defining a recess substantially corresponding to the shape and dimensions'of the hanger to be received such that when the hanger is received in the recess, the thr~~ugh opening is correctly positioned for the automatic wedge mechanism. When the indicator engages the recess of the first plate the indicator detachment mechanism is positioned to remove the size indicator from the hanger.
Thus, the system of tl~e present invention is easily adapted to accommodate a variety of ha~.ger configurations.
In another embodiment, the first means preferably,further includes a reciprocal wedge positioned to displace the indicator. The first means also includes a second plate which reciprocates parallel to the first plate to secure the hanger for removal of the indicator.
' In operation, the actuating means drives the first plate downwardly to position the hanger, and then drives the second plate t.o separate the hanger from a bulk supply of the hangers. The reciprocal wedge is then actuated to engage the indicator and the reaction surface in the indicator attachment area to remove the indicator from the hanger while the hanger_ is secured by the second plate. ThES first plate is then raised to allow the garment hander to move on for further processing.
The hangers with side sizer indicators affixed thereto can be lined up on a feeding rail which is slanted such that the force of gravity drives the hanger into position against the first plate. In a preferred embodiment !~he second plate may include an guides or templates fc~r holding the hanger to prevent the hanger from moving when the indicator is removed by the reciprocal movement of the sedge. In a particularly preferred embodiment the second plate is driven downwardly to separate the hanger undergoing the detaching process from the rest of the hangers on the feeding rail.
The first plate of the present embodiment may also include a milled out portion or template defining a recess substantially corresponding to the shape and dimensions of the hanger to be received such that when the first plate is ire its lower position gravity forces the hanger into the recess or template.
a0 To remove t:he indicator from the haz~.ger the wedge is driven transversely to the first means by, for instance, a pneumatic: cylinder means, while the hanger is resting in the recess of the first means.
The system further contemplates forceful , ejection of the indicator from the hanger, which ~~ ej ect~ion may direct t:he indicator into a vacuum capture plenum.
A vacuum collection system can be attached to said vacuum captuxe ~>lenum such that upon ejection, the indicator is removed from the detaching appar~itus and collected in a separate device.
In a preferred embodiment the first and second plates may further includes a guide path or window through which the indicator passes upon ejection. The guide path or window can be dimensioned to accommodate a variety of indicator configuratiozis. The vacuum discharge tube can be attached to said guide path or _g_ window such that upon: ejection the indicator is removed from the detaching a~~paratus and collected in a separate device.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a device for manually removing an indicator from a hanger with an indicator attacl-ament mechanism.
In a preferred embodiment the device includes a wedge tool for manual insertion into the through opening formed in the indicator attachment web of the hanger.
The device for manually removing the indicators from hangers can include a bench mounted wedge and a hanger guide mounted to a support such that the operator need not handle the device while manually removing the indicator from the hangers.
zt is a further object of the presera invention to provide a method ~or removing an indicator from a hanger by inserting a wedge mounted on a first means into the though opening in the hanger to displace the indicator from the indicator attachment area on the hanger. The method can be performed either manually or automatically.
The automated method for rerraoving t:r~e indicator from the garment hanger comprises: holding a plurality of hangers with indicatoi:s affixed ehereto;
selectively engaging one of the hangers; securing the hanger; and inserting the displacement wedge into the opening in the indicator attachment area to remove the indicator from the hanger.
_g_ In a second embodiment the method Further contemplates moving a second plate downwardly to secure the hanger and separate the hanger from the plurality of hangers while aligning said indicator with a guide path or window in either t:he first or second plate and ejecting the indicate>r from the hanger through the guide path or window into a~ discharge tube.
Before the next hanger :is selectively engaged the second plate is driven upwardly to permit the next hanger and indicator to advance a7.ong a feeding rail and rest against or in the recess in the first plate and then downwardly to separate the hanger from the plurality, and to prevent a second hanger in the " plural. i,ty of , hangers wi th indicators f rom advancing .
~5 After the indicator is disengaged from the hanger the second plate is moved. upwardly to permit the next hanger and indicator to advance.
Brief' ~escrintbi.~f ~ pLrawinas:
The foregoing .and other objects of t:he invention may now be more readily ascertained from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments thereof, taken in oon.junction with the accompanying drawings; in which.
Figure 1 illustrates a front. elevat5.on view of the hook of a hanger incorporating a typical Bide siaer locking attachment mechanism, and the through opening of the present invention. formed therein;
Figure 1(a) iJ.lustrates a front elevation view of a portion of a hanger incorporating a side sizer locking attachment mechanism, and a modified form of the through opening of the ~>resent invention foamed therein;
Figure 2 illustrates a.n enlarged sectional view of a portion of they garment hanger and indicator of Figure 1;
Figure 3 i:Llustrates an enlarged sectional view of a portion of a second type of garment hanger and 14 side sizer~ indicator.
Figure 4 i=llustrates a diagrammatic view of the first means for detaching apparatus an indicator in the detaching position;
Figure 5 i> an illustrative view of the wedge anc~ garment hanger with indicator just before detachment of the indicator;
Figure 6 is an. illustrative view of the wedge and garment hanger w_~th indicator at the moment of detachment of 'the indicator.
~ Figure 7 is a plan view of one embodiment of a manual detachment mechanism constructed in acs~ordance with the present invention;
Figure 8 i:> a cross-section view of the manual detachment apparatus illustrated in Figure 7 taken along section lines 8-8' of Figure 7.
Figure 9 i:~lustrates a perspective view of one embodiment of the det:ach.ing apparatus according to the present invention with a.feeding rail, a plurality of 'hangers thereon, and a first plate for recei~~ing a hanger;
Figure 10 illustrates a second sequential view of the detaching apparatus according to the present invention with a second plate securing the hanger, while the wedge removes the indicator;
Figure 11 illustrates a third sequential view of the detaching apparatus according to the present invention with a first plate releasing the processed hangers, while the second plate maintains a separation;
Figure 12 is an isometric schematic illustration of the detachment apparatus of_ the present invention illustrating t:he control and'aetuating mechanisms therefor.
petailed D~scri~~ the ~~~~,red Embodim~t~,:
In the preferred embodiment, the improved ' hanger of the present invention is formed of styrene which provides a clear virtually transparent hanger for maximum display of garments suspended therefrom.
Alternately, the hanger could be formed from K resin, ., H.I.,styrene, polypropylene or other suitable thermoplastic.
The hanger 1 illustrated in Figure 1 is equipped with a hook 14 for engaging a rod ox other supporting means, and a body 12 for supporting a garment to be hung on the hanger. A web 16 extends between the hook 14 and the body 12 to provide an indicator attachment mechanism to receive an indicator la which bears an indicia or ~~olor, or both, relating to a characteristic of th~a garment suspended ~rom hanger body 12. As illustrated :in P'igu,re 1, it is common for the " indicator 18 to be attached to the web member 16 by snapping it downward:Ly over an attachment rib 20 in the dizection of arrow A, illustrated in Figure 1. The web also includes a second rib 22 which may be used to childproof the hanger and prevent easy removal of the indicator 18.
Environmental concerns on t:~e part ~~f large retail sales organizations have prompted a desire for hangers having side :>izers 18 that are essentially unremovable for the average customa_r ~~.nd, thus, ' "childproof" within the meaning of th~~t term as described by the garment. industry. T'~e industr_y also desires that the side sizers be removable with the appropriate tooling ?:or reuse and rec;~cle purposes, but at present~no automat:.ed apparatus is available for this removal. Inasmuch as the indicators a:re generally colored plastic, it :is highly desirable in any recycling program to remove the indicator before grinding the hangers for reuse. :Cf the program is a reuse program rather than a recyel:ing program, it: i;s necessary to remove the old size :indi.cator before attaching a new one .
The,presen~_ invention includes a hanger having a side sizer indicia tab wherein the tab is essentially unremovable for the average consumer, but removable with the indicator detacl-vnent: mechanism of the present invention. To enable removal of the ~ab, at least one through opening 24 is formed in web 15 which extends through the web, and through the security rib 22 which prevents access or "finger purchase" cn the edges of indicia 18. Alternately, the through opening may extend through both the attachment rib 20 and. the security rib I22, or may extend to the attachment rib, with a cut through the attachment nib 20 as illustrated in the enlarged portion of Figure 1 (a).
Figure 2 illustrates in cross-section, web 16 of hanger 1 having a side sizer indicia 18 attached thereto. As illustrated in Figure 2, the size indicia 18 includes a pair of inwardly extending barbs or ridges 26a, 26b which snap over the enlarged retention rib 2Q
of web 16. A variety of internal rib or barb constructions axe known in the prior art and illustrated in the various patents referred to in the summary of the prior art above.
As illustrated in Figure 1 and Figure 2, a security rib 22 is also provided on web 16 to prevent the easy removal of the indicia by enabling ":finger purchase" under one of t:he inwardly directed :Legs 28a, 28b of the size indicia 18.
An alternate :>ecurity arrangement is illustrated in Figure 3, wherein the web 16 receives an indicator 18 in the 'matter illustrated by arrow A in Figure 1. The web 16 of the hanger illustrated in Figure 3 is formed somewhat differently in cross-section and uses an alternate means for thwarting the easy removal of the indicator 18. As illustrated in Figure 1, the web 16 include s a first rib 20, which cooperates with internal barbs or ridges 26a, 26b to ser_ure the indicator to the web 16. Web 16 also includes an enlarged rib 30 which st:abiliaes the indicator 18 to prevent undesirable movement of the indicator in normal use. The arrangement illustrated in Figure 3 also ' includes a security :Land 22a which is elevated above the ~~ planar surface 16a o:E web 16. In practice, this elevated land 22a and the curved portion 22b pause a fingernail or other :removal device to "jurctp" the gap between the indicator 18. and the land 22a, making it extremely difficult 'or the average consumer to remove the indicator 18.
The presents invention uses at least one through opening 24 formed in web 16 to enable the removal of the "non-x-emovable" indicators 18. The through opening 24 includes a reaction surface 24a and an opening which extE~nds through the web and through the security rib 22 or the security land 22a to a space 24b underlying the indicator 18. The through opening rnay extend through both the attachment rib 20 and the security rib 22, or rnay extend to the attachment rib, with a cut through the attachment rib 20 as illustrated in the enlarged port:~on of Figure 1 (a). The through opening should not bEa so large as to permit "finger purchase" on the underside of the ind:icat=or, and should be~transverse to the indicator l8.
The removaJ_ of the "non-removable" indicator 18 will be described with respect to Figures 5 and 6 which illustrate in cross-section the web 16 of hanger 1, and the indicator 18 of Figure 2 together with the removal tool of the present invention.
As illustr~~ted in Figure 5, the indicator 18 is securely attached to 'web 16 by virtue of the retention rib 20 and internal barbs 26a and b which engage the retention rib 20. The open ends 28a, 28b are also supported on web l6 on either side of through opening 24.
To remove the side sizer indicator 18, a wedge tool is inserted into the through opening 24 between the reaction surface 24a and the inwardly extending legs 28a, 28b. As the wedge tool penetrates through the through opening 24, a. first side of the wedge tool 100a engages the reaction surface 24a while the tapered removal edge 100b engages the-inwardly extending arms 28~a and 28b of the in.dic~ator 18. The downward motion indicated by the arrcw B in Figure 6 results in a laterally outward pressure in the direction of arrow C
on the inwardly extending legs 28a, 28b causing the mid-~~ porti~w o~ the indicator to bow outwardly, to a point where the barbs or ribs :26a, 26b which axe ~ormed of plastic, will be resiliently deformed and slide over the retention rib 20 to the position illustrated in Figure 5. The resilient quality of the plastio materials from which the indicators 18 are normally formed creates a sudden release of the indicator 18 from web 16, expelling the indicator 18 in the direction cf arrow C.
The rate of downward mo~rement of the wedge tcol 100 determines to some extent the forcefulness of the detachment of indicator 18 from web 16, and the detachment process can be regulated to some extent by varying the penetration rate of wedge tool 100 through l0 the through opening 24. A thin blade type wedge tool may also be employed in combination with a through opening 24 which cuts through the attachment rib 20 to insure complete removal of the indicator in the event of multiple security ribs.
$ The automated detachment of the indicator 18 from the hangers 1 will be described with respect to Figure 6. One or more hangers are suspended from an angled rod 105 (illustrated in FigurE 12), which rnay gravity feed the hangers to the first means X07 for 20 removal of the indicator. The first means 1G7 may reciprocate into a support position by virtue: of a support and drive mechanism 133. A plurality of blocks 200, 202 and 204 may define a template for securing the hanger from undesirable movement, and in combination 25 with angled rod 105, define a registration means for aligning the hanger with the automatic detachment wedge 100. Wedge tool 100 is mounted to the first means, (which reciprocates wedge 100 through the thrc>ugh opening 24 defined in hange:c 1. In a preferred embodiment, it is driven by a pneumatic cylinder or electric solenoid.
While sandwiched in this position, the wedge tool 100 is driven through the through open5_ng 24 in hanger 1 in the manner previously described with respect to Figure 3. Wedge tool 100 may be easily driven by a pneumatic cylinder ;attached to the back plate 107.
Alternately, electromagnetic or hydraulic drive mechanisms may be wtilized as desired. The penetration of wedge tool 100 rnsul.ts in the forcible detachment of 'the indicator 18 as illustrated i_n Figure 6. The first means 107 may then be reciprocated out of engagement with the hanger 1 to provide for removal a.nd/or reuse of the hanger. -Thus, the detachment mecha°~:ism illustrated in Figure 6 cycles repetitively to automatically detach a plurality of the "nc>n-removable" indicators 18 from a plurality of hangers 1.
As illust::ated in Figure 6, the first means 107 includes a slot 107a to allow reciprocation of the means 107 about hanger rod 105. Alternately, first means 107 could be 1_ormed as a laterally reciprocating plate traversing the space between the support rod 105 and the hanger body 12, provided the wedge tool 100 is reciprocated to a position approximate that of through opening 24. While :in the start of downward position ' illustrated in~Figur_e 6, the hanger 1 may be further aligned for process_'ing by means of removable template f blocks which are illustrated in dotted lines at 200, 202, and 204 in Figuze 7. These blocks may be secured to the back plate 107 by means of alignment pins oz screws 206. The template blocks 200-209 enable a variety of hanger configurations and styles to be automatically processed by the apparatus of the present invention. Blocks 200-204 provide registration blocks far the hanger 1 that maintain the hanger in a proximate location for entry of wedge tool 100 through the through ~ opening 24. Blocks 202 <~nd 204 also define therebetween an emit window~for the forcible expulsion of indicator 1B when the wedge tool 100 is driven through the through opening 24.
Alternatively, recesses may be milled into the first means 107 to provide a stabilizing template for the hanger 1 to be processed, and to provide an exit path for indicator 18.
A vacuum tube 126. may also be provided adjacent the exit path defined between blocks 202 and 204 to receive the indicator 18 and convey it to a collection bin for further process~.ng or recycling.
Referring now to Figures 7 and 8, there is illustrated a tool for manually removing the indicators 18 from hanger 1. Figure 7 illustrates a plan view of the manual removal tool, while Figure 8 illustrates a section view taken along section 1i_ne 8-8' of Figure 7.
The device for manually removing an indicator from a garment hanger can .be hand-held, or may have a rectangular shape as il7,ustrated in Figures ? and 8 fox bench mounting. The device includes a plate 138 which can be made of metal or molded plastic and includes a recessed area 139 fo:c receiving the hanger and a wedge tool 100 which extends upwardly from the recessed area 139 to engage the through opening 24 i.n the hanger having an indicator ~ro be removed. The wedge tool 100 performs exactly the same function as previously described with respect t.o Figures 4-6. The only difference is that with the manual detac2nnent mechanism, the hanger 1 is manually positionEd with the wedge tool 100 entering the through, opening 24, and then the hanger is pressed downwardl~r against the recess in plate 139 to effect removal of thES indicator 1B. ~n alignment: pin 105~a and alignment b:Lock.s 200a and 204a may be provided to assist the operator in aligning the hanger 2 to engage the wedge too7_ 100 in the through opening 24. As the hanger is pressed into engagement with the recessed area 139, the wedge tool 100 removes the indicator 18 in ~ the direction of arrow C as illustrated in Figure 7.
Another embodiment of the automated detachment of the indicator 18 from the hangers ~L will be described with respect to Figures 9-11. As illustrated in Figure 9, a support rod 105 is angled downwardly and receives a plurality of hangers 1 thereon which slide downwardly along rod 105 until. they reach back p~:ate 107.
Alternately, a screw rod conveyor may be used for rod 10,5 to sequentially advance a plurality of hanger 1 into position for detachmE:nt of the indicators 18. In the initial start position, the back plate 107 is extended downwardly, straddling rod 105 as illustrated in Figures 4 and 12. When at least one hanger la has been received against the back plate 107, a front plate 106 is reciprocated downwardly and the direct.i~on o~ the arrow D
in Figure 10 by a pneumatic drive motor 204. Front plate 106 includes a rounded wedge engagement surface 106a which penetrates. the hangers supported are rod 105 10~ and separates hanger 1a from the x-ema5.nder of the hangers 1 as the front plate 106 is driven dovmwardly.
The front plate 106 a.nd the back plate 107 are mounted for reciprocation on support means 133 and are driven .. upwardly and.downwarclly by pneumatic drive motors 108a, 108b via connecting rods or pistons 109, 110. It should be noted that in Figures 9-11 the relative proportions of the various components have been exaggerated to clarify the operation, of the device, and the depiction in Figures 9-11 is intended to be illustrative in a schematic sense, and not a literal depiction of the elements . As illustrated in Figure 10, the front plate 106 has been extendecl downwardly to its second position commensurate with ths~ start position of back plate 107.
Hanger 1a has been separated for the remainder of the hangers 1 and is now sandwiched between front plate 106 and back plate 107. While sandwiched in this position, the wedge tool 100 is driven through the through opening 24 in hanger 1a and into a matching cavity on front _71_ plate 106 in the mann~'r previously described with respect to Figures 5 .and 6. wedge tool 100 may be easily driven in the direction of arrow B in Figure 10 by a pneumatic cylinder 7.02 attached to the back plate 107.
After the i:ndic:ator has been removed from hanger 1a, the wedge tool. 100 is retracted, and back plate 107 is raised to the position illustrated in Figure 21 while front plate 106 remains in its downward position. This enables t:he hanger la to slide down the support rod 105 i.n the direction of arrow E where it may be collected or advanced for Further processing by a screw rod conveyor or the like.
After the hanger la is free of the <detachment mechanism, plate 107 is reciprocated downwardly to the position illustrated in Figure 9, and the front plate 106 is raised to the ;position illustrated in Figure 9 to allow the collected group of hangers to slide down support rod 105 into engagement with back plate 107 at the~start position as previously with respect to Figure 9. Thus, the detachment mechanism illustrated in Figures 9-11 cycles repei~itively to detach the °non-removable" indicators 18 fxom a plurality of hangers 1.
As illustrated in Figure 4, the back plate 107 includes a slot 107a to <allow reciprocation of the back plate 107 about hanger rc>d 105. Alternately, back plate 107 could be formed as a laterally reciprocating plate traversing the space between the support rod 105 and the hanger body 12, provided the wedge tool 100 i.s reciprocated to a position approximate that c~f through opening.24.Figure 4 is an illustration of the apparatus taken along section lines ?~7~ of Figure 10.
It is understood that b;~.ck plate 107 is supported by the support means 133 and is reciprocated upwardly and downwardly in the direction of arrow F by means of the pneumatic drive 108(b) as previously described with respect to Figures 9-11.. While in the start of downward position illustrated in Figure 4, the hanger 1 may be further aligned for :processing by means of removable template blocks which one illustrated in dotted lines at 200. 202, and 204 in Figure 4. These blocks may be secured to the back plate 107 by means of alignment pins or sorews 206. The template blocks 200-204 enable a variety of hanger configurations and styles to be ' automatically processed by the apparatus of the present invention. Blocks 200-404 providE registration blocks for the hanger 1 that maintain the hanger in a proximate location for entry of wedge tool 100 through the through .
openi~g,24. ,Bl.ocks 202 and-204 also define therebetween an exit window for the forcible expulsion of indicator 18 when the wedge tool 100 is driven through the through opening 24.
AlternativE~ly, recesses may be milled into the back plate 107 to provide a stabilizing template fox the hanger 1 to be processed., and to provide an exit path for indicator 18.
It is to b~~ nc>ted that the ;locks 200-204 are no greater in thickness than the clearance between the .Front plate 106 and back plate 107 to enable the hanger 1 to~~be securely captured therebetween. for removal of the indicator 18. ~~ vacuum tube 126 may also be provided adjacent them exit path defined between blocks 202 and 204 to recei5re the indicator .L8 and convey it to a collection bin fox further processing or recycling.
As illustrated in Figure 4, the apparatus is schematically illustrated in isometric form with the indicators 18 on the opposite side of rod 105, and the wedge tool 100 mounted on the opposite side of plate 107. Tn a preferred embodiment, the detachment apparatus may be driven ,pneumatically and ~urt:her include a position cc~ntrol means 111, an air control means 114, a first timer 116, a second timer 7.17, and an air valve 137 The air valve 137 genezates and/or controls pressurized air by which the detachment apparatus is controlled .and driven.
The air valve 137, the timers 116 and 117, the actuating means or pneumatic cylinders 108, 108b, the airlcontrol means 114 and the position control. means 111 are respectively connected by air tubes for pneumatic control. The entire apparatus, including a reciprocating support 13:3, which is rat illustrated in Figure 12 is supported to a Fixed mount as indicated at 120.
As illustrated in Figux-e 12, the position control means 111 includes a first detector 712 for the position of the fron'~ plate 106 and a second detector 113 for the position of back plate 10'7. The Eirst detector 112 and the second detector 113 work on a pneumatic basis and lzaue~ a similar structure. First and . second detectors 112 and 113 each include contact plates which are contacted witri the upper sides 106 ~cf the back plate 107 respectively. In the upper positions, the front plate 106 and 'the back plate 107 press 'upwardly on the contact plates r~sspectively, to create a pneumatic signal in the position control means 111, thereby permitting a steady ~~ontrolled movement o~ plates 106 and 107.
The actuating means 108a, 1~8b controls the movements of the two plates 106, 107 and the control sequence is such tha~~ the front plate 106 cannot move upwardly when the ba~~k plate 7_07 is not in its lowermost position, and the bank plate 107 cannot move upwardly when the front plate 106 is not in its lowermost position. This insures that the hangers having side sizer indicators to be detached do not slide along feeding rail 105 und~ar t:he plates 106, 107 when not being processed.
~ The first 'timer 116 Controls the regular cycle ,. of tie, movement of tl~e t:wo plates 106 and, 107, whereas the second timer 117 enables a repeated downward movement of the front plate 106, if, for example, the hook of a hanger 1 i;s bent or damaged, or the indicator 28 is bent or damaged. In this case, the timer 117 gives a signal to the actuating means 108a to lift the front plate 106 up again and to retry to move it downwardly. This is repeated until the hanger 1 is properly received wit=hin. the alignment blocks 202, 204 of plate 107 so that front plate 106 ran move to its lower position without resistance.
It is understood that although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described and that various modifications may be made by one skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention is defined in the following claims. while the detachment apparatus of the described embodiment is pneumatically driven, the detachment apparatus could be driven by electrical, mechanical or other appropriate drive means.
Furthermore, the present invention has been described and illustrated in connection with a single type of side sizer indicator 18, although it ~s understood that the ~>resent invention can be used without adoption, or easily adapted to accommodate virtually any type of side sizing indicator.
While it has been shown and described what is considered.to be the preferred embodiment of the invention, it will, c~f courses, be understood that various modifications and changes in form or detail can be readily made withc~ut departing from the spirit of the invention. It is, therefore, intended that the invention not be. limited to the exact form and detail herein shown and des~~ribed nor to anything less than the whole o~ the inventi~~n as hereinafter claimed.
Claims (12)
1. A method for automatically removing an indicator from a hanger having an indicator mounted thereon, said method comprising:
positioning said hanger in a predetermined orientation to align a through opening in said hanger with a reciprocal wedge driving said reciprocal wedge through said through opening formed in said hanger when said hanger is in said predetermined position;
displacing said indicator with said reciprocal wedge as said wedge engages a reaction surface defined by one side of said through opening; and retracting said reciprocal wedge to enable removal of said hanger.
positioning said hanger in a predetermined orientation to align a through opening in said hanger with a reciprocal wedge driving said reciprocal wedge through said through opening formed in said hanger when said hanger is in said predetermined position;
displacing said indicator with said reciprocal wedge as said wedge engages a reaction surface defined by one side of said through opening; and retracting said reciprocal wedge to enable removal of said hanger.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein said indicator is a side sizer and said hanger is a hanger which accepts side sizing.
3. The method of claim 2, wherein said indicator includes first and second side walls with at least one barb on each side wall, and said hanger includes at least one rib, wherein the method further includes the step of spreading the sidewalls of the indicator as said reciprocal wedge displaces said indicator.
4. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said method further includes the step of collecting said indicator after detachment.
5. The method of any one of claims 1 to 3, which further comprises the step of feeding a plurality of hangers one-by-one to said predetermined position by gravity.
6. An apparatus for automatically removing an indicator from a hanger having an indicator mounted thereon, said apparatus comprising:
a first means for receiving said hanger in a predetermined orientation;
a reciprocal wedge positioned adjacent said predetermined position to displace said indicator from said hanger;
a second means for securing said hanger in said predetermined orientation for removal of said indicator;
first actuating means for driving said reciprocal wedge through a through opening formed in said hanger when said hanger is in said predetermined position; and second actuating means for driving said first and second means in a reciprocal manner, such that said first plate is driven to a first position to receive said hanger and then said second means is driven to a second position to secure said hanger in said predetermined position and enable actuation of said first actuating means.
a first means for receiving said hanger in a predetermined orientation;
a reciprocal wedge positioned adjacent said predetermined position to displace said indicator from said hanger;
a second means for securing said hanger in said predetermined orientation for removal of said indicator;
first actuating means for driving said reciprocal wedge through a through opening formed in said hanger when said hanger is in said predetermined position; and second actuating means for driving said first and second means in a reciprocal manner, such that said first plate is driven to a first position to receive said hanger and then said second means is driven to a second position to secure said hanger in said predetermined position and enable actuation of said first actuating means.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein said first actuating means and said wedge means are mounted on said first means.
8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein said first plate further defines an ejection path and said apparatus further includes a vacuum tube for receiving said indicator after detachment.
9. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein said first plate and said second plate reciprocate vertically with respect to said predetermined position.
10. The apparatus of any one of claims 6 to 9, further comprising a means for feeding a plurality of hangers one-by-one to said first means by gravity.
11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said first position for said first means is below said means for feeding, and said first means reciprocates upwardly to a second position above said means for feeding to allow a hanger to be released after said indicator is detached.
12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein said first position for said second means is above said means for feeding, and said second means reciprocates downwardly to a second position below said means for feeding to secure said hanger in said predetermined position for detachment of said indicator.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002458816A CA2458816C (en) | 1997-08-08 | 1998-08-07 | Side indicator hangers and method and apparatus for removing indicators from hangers |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US90821097A | 1997-08-08 | 1997-08-08 | |
| US08/908,210 | 1997-08-08 | ||
| US09/123,075 US6019260A (en) | 1997-08-08 | 1998-07-27 | Side indicator hangers and method and apparatus for removing indicators from hangers |
| US09/123,075 | 1998-07-27 |
Related Child Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002458816A Division CA2458816C (en) | 1997-08-08 | 1998-08-07 | Side indicator hangers and method and apparatus for removing indicators from hangers |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2245272A1 CA2245272A1 (en) | 1999-02-08 |
| CA2245272C true CA2245272C (en) | 2006-07-18 |
Family
ID=26821209
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002245272A Expired - Fee Related CA2245272C (en) | 1997-08-08 | 1998-08-07 | Side indicator hangers and method and apparatus for removing indicators from hangers |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CN (1) | CN1154428C (en) |
| AU (1) | AU727374B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2245272C (en) |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US6499633B1 (en) * | 2001-08-20 | 2002-12-31 | Acotex Far East Limited | Hanger with information marker |
| WO2014144665A2 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2014-09-18 | Rtc Industries, Inc. | Product management display system with trackless pusher mechanism |
Family Cites Families (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO1994007399A1 (en) * | 1992-09-30 | 1994-04-14 | Rainsfords Pty. Limited | Garment hanger indicator system |
| US5683018A (en) * | 1993-08-19 | 1997-11-04 | Uniplast Industries, Inc. | Garment hanger with locking information clip |
| AUPN088895A0 (en) * | 1995-02-02 | 1995-03-02 | Spotless Plastics Pty Ltd | Indicator attachment mechanism |
-
1998
- 1998-08-06 AU AU78954/98A patent/AU727374B2/en not_active Ceased
- 1998-08-07 CA CA002245272A patent/CA2245272C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1998-08-08 CN CNB981203698A patent/CN1154428C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CN1225808A (en) | 1999-08-18 |
| AU7895498A (en) | 1999-02-18 |
| AU727374B2 (en) | 2000-12-14 |
| CA2245272A1 (en) | 1999-02-08 |
| CN1154428C (en) | 2004-06-23 |
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| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |
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| MKLA | Lapsed |
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