CA2367885A1 - Hanger assembly and mounting back - Google Patents
Hanger assembly and mounting back Download PDFInfo
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- CA2367885A1 CA2367885A1 CA 2367885 CA2367885A CA2367885A1 CA 2367885 A1 CA2367885 A1 CA 2367885A1 CA 2367885 CA2367885 CA 2367885 CA 2367885 A CA2367885 A CA 2367885A CA 2367885 A1 CA2367885 A1 CA 2367885A1
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- hub
- hook
- scanning hook
- mounting back
- vertical slot
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Abstract
A hanger assembly of the present invention provides scanning hook and a unique mounting back to which the hook may be releasably but securely attached in at least two configurations, one particularly suitable for shipping and one particularly suitable for suspending and displaying merchandise. The mounting back is uniquely formed to enable the assembly to be easily placed in shipping and displaying configurations, as well as mounted very closely below other display devices. Notably, the attached scanning hook may rotate relative to the mounting back such that the back can be selectively connected to any of the upper arm, lower arm and connector of the scanning hook, without removing the mounting back from the scanning hook.
Description
HANGER ASSEMBLY AND MOUNTING BACK
Field Of The Invention The present invention relates generally to hanger assemblies for product display, and more particularly relates to mounting backs for such hanger assemblies.
Background Of The Invention This invention relates to a hanger assembly for supporting articles on a vertical support such as a perforated panel of the type commonly referred to as a "Pegboard." Such an assembly includes a hanger or hook adapted to project outwardly from the vertical support and adapted to hold merchandise. An exemplary hanger assembly is disclosed in Barnes, U.S. Pat. No. 4,452,360, in which the hanger is adapted to be releasably attached to the panel by a separate mounting back having a pair of horizontally spaced fingers which extend through holes in the pegboard. The present invention relates to such assemblies and more specifically relates to a hanger assembly in which the hanger is of the type commonly referred to as a "scanning hook," the hook being generally U-shaped and formed by upper and lower outwardly projecting arms whose inner ends are joined by a connector. The lower arm of such a hanger usually is used to hold merchandise while the upper arrn supports a tag or the like having a price, a stock number and/or other indicia printed thereon.
Several well known advantages are obtained when the hanger assembly includes a hanger and a separate mounting back. For example, hooks may be interchanged without replacing the mounting back. The ability to quickly attach different hooks and/or different merchandise significantly increases the versatility of the display device and reduces the time spent organizing and re-arranging product displays.
Unfortunately, while two-piece hanger assemblies have achieved much commercial success, they are not without their limitations. It can often be difficult to install the hanger assemblies immediately below other product display devices such as shelves, crossbars, wire bins and baskets, or even other hanger assemblies which can obstruct vision and make assembly of the hanger difficult. Since backs must be tipped upwardly and since hooks are typically inserted downwardly into their mounting backs, space is required above the assembly to put the assembly together. Additionally, hooks and their mounting backs are typically shipped in separate units, and shipped in bulk quantities. Since many differently sized hooks are used, and often used at the same time, end users must manually select appropriately sized mounting backs for their hooks. While the hanger assemblies could be pre-assembled, 1 S their configuration would be awkward for shipping.
Summary Of The Invention The general aim of the present invention is to provide a new and improved hanger assembly having a scanning hook and a unique mounting back to which the hook may be releasably but securely attached in a configuration ideal for shipping as a single unit.
A more detailed object is to provide a hanger assembly having a separate mounting back which possesses the advantages of prior backs of the same general type and which is uniquely formed to enable the assembly to be mounted very closely below other display devices.
It is a feature of the present invention to provide a mounting back to which the hook may be attached in at least two configurations, one particularly suitable for shipping and one particularly suitable for suspending and displaying merchandise.
It is another feature of the present invention to provide a hook assembly having a configuration particularly suitable for mounting immediately below other product supports, the mounting back permitting quick and easy switching between the shipping, mounting, and displaying configurations.
In one embodiment, the invention provides a mounting back in which the scanning hook is received within a vertical slot formed in a hub, the hub and slot permitting the scanning hook to rotate about a horizontal axis that is generally parallel with the vertical support. It is a feature of this embodiment that the attached scanning hook may rotate relative to the mounting back such that the back can be selectively connected to any of the upper arm, lower arm and connector of the scanning hook.
Other objectives and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
Brief Description Of The Drawings The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification illustrate several aspects of the present invention, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention: In the drawings:
FIGURE 1 is a perspective view showing a perforated panel and showing one embodiment of a new and improved hanger assembly incorporating the unique features of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the mounting back shown in FIG. 1;
FIGS. 3a and 3b are cross-sectional views taken substantially along the lines 3a--3a and 3b--3b, respectively, of FIG: 2;
FIG. 4 is an enlarged fragmentary cross-sectional view taken substantially along the line 4-4 of FIG. 1;
FIGS. Sa-5d are fragmentary side views which illustrate the unique relative movement of the hanger and mounting back;
FIGS. 6a-6b are front and perspective views, respectively, of another embodiment of a mounting back constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;
FIG: 7 is a side view of the hanger assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a shipping configuration; and FIG. 8a-8c are side views illustrating how the hanger assembly of FIG.
1 is mounted below another display device.
While the invention will be described in connection with certain preferred embodiments, there is no intent to limit it to those embodiments. On the contrary, the intent is to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents as included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
Detailed Description Of The Preferred Embodiment As shown in the drawings for purposes of illustration, the invention is embodied in a hanger assembly 10 having a hanger or scanning hook 11 for supporting one or more articles 13 from a vertical support such as a "Pegboard" 14 of the type formed with a series of vertically spaced and horizontally extending rows of holes 15. In this instance, the articles 13 have been illustrated as bags within which merchandise is contained. The upper end portion of each bag is formed with a hole to enable the bag to be hung from the scanning hook 11.
Herein, the scanning hook 11 is generally U-shaped and is made of round wire. The hanger or scanning hook includes upper and Lower outwardly projecting arms 20 and 21 whose inner ends are formed integrally with and are joined by an upright connecting piece or connector 22. The lower arm supports the articles 13 while the outer end of the upper arm is formed with a 5 laterally projecting finger 24 (FIG. 1 ). A tag 25 is supported by the finger and contains indicia such as a price, a stock number or the like which, if desired, can be "read" by an electronic inventory wand. It will be recognized that alternately shaped scanning hooks may be employed, such alternate hooks having at least upper and lower arms joined by a connector.
The hanger assembly 10 further comprises a mounting back 26 for attaching the assembly releasably to the Pegboard 14. In this instance, the back 26 is molded of relatively rigid but resiliently yieldable plastic, such as but not limited to polypropylene or Delrin, and includes a plate member 27 normally disposed in an upright plane and adapted to lie flat against the outer , face of the Pegboard. Molded integrally with the upper end portion of the backplate and projecting inwardly from the inner face thereof are two fingers or horns 28, each horn having a horizontal portion located adjacent the plate and merging gradually with an upwardly projecting vertical portion. By turning the backplate 27 to a generally horizontal position with the ends of the horns 28 pointing toward the panel 14 and by moving the plate edgewise, the normally vertical portions of the horns 28 may be inserted into two horizontally spaced holes 15 in one of the horizontally extending rows of holes formed in the panel. 'Thereafter, the backplate may be swung downwardly and toward the panel to cause the horizontal portions to enter the holes and to cause the vertical portions to engage and interlock with the rear face of the Pegboard just above the holes. While the illustrated embodiment depicts the mounting back 26 and hanger assembly 10 as mounted to a Pegboard, other vertical supports and means for attaching the mounting back to such vertical supports are well known and are within the scope of the present invention.
In accordance with the present invention, the back 26 is uniquely constructed to enable the U-shaped hanger 11 to be quickly and easily attached to and detached from the back. In spite of such ease of attachment, the back holds the hanger securely and firmly on the panel 14. Furthermore, the scanning hook may be attached in two configurations, one particularly suitable for shipping and one particularly suitable for suspending arid displaying merchandise. In yet another configuration, the hanger assembly 10 can be mounted very closely below other display devices.
In the preferred back 26 of the invention, an upright member or hub 30 is molded integrally with the outer side of the backplate 27, the hub having an upper end located flush with the upper edge of the backplate. A vertically extending slot 31 (FIG. 3) is formed through the hub 30 and is sized to snugly receive the connector 22 of the scanning hook 11. Specifically, the vertical slot 31 is formed through one laterally facing side of the hub 30, and extends throughout the entire height of the hub. The inner side of the slot 31 is preferably but not necessarily defined by the outer side of the backplate 27.
Preferably, the backplate 27 includes a sloping projection 38 (FIGS. 2 and 3a) at the throat 40 of the vertical slot 31 to reduce the width of the slot at its throat and provide a snap-fit. When the plastic material of the back 26 is in a relaxed state, the width of the slot 3 I at throat 40 (including projection 38) is slightly less than the diameter of the scanning hook 11.
Formed in the upper end portion of the hub 30 is an upwardly opening and generally U-shaped notch 32 (FIGS: 2, 3a and 4) which extends from the outer side of the hub 30 to the vertical slot 31 therein. When the scanning hook 11 is attached to the back 26, the inner end portion of the upper arm 20 is received within the notch 32 and is captivated by the side walls thereof so as to prevent the hanger from swinging horizontally relative to the back and the panel 14. To assist in captivating the upper arm 20, the side walls of the notch 32 preferably include bosses 39 at outer, upper portions of the side walls to reduce the width of the notch 32 and provide a snap-fit for securely retaining the scanning hook 11. When the plastic material of the back 26 is in a relaxed state, the width of the upper portion of the notch 32 (including bosses 39) is slightly less than the diameter of the scanning hook 11.
The hub 30 further includes a vertical plate 41 along a lateral side of the hub 30 opposite the laterally opening slot 31. As best seen in FIG. 3a, a series of arcuate ribs 42, 43, 44 are provided to laterally support the hub 30.
The ribs 42, 43, 44 are spaced both vertically and laterally, the series of ribs decreasing in size from top to bottom (see; e.g., the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6a). A cover 45 (FIG. 2) includes an arcuate edge corresponding with rib 42 and extends between rib 42 and the vertical plate 41, and backplate 27.
The preferred back 26 is formed with a second member or hub 35 which also is molded integrally with the outer side of the backplate 27 and which is spaced below the hub 30 (FIG. 2). In its preferred form, the hub 35 is defined by an outwardly projecting tab 46 and the vertical plate 41. The vertical plate 41 is integrally formed with the first hub 30 and extends downwardly therefrom, tapering downwardly and inwardly as shown in FIGS
2 and 4. The tab 46 projects from the backplate 27 a distance preferably corresponding with the diameter of the scanning hook 11. The tab 46 is positioned below the upper hub 30 to form a gap 36 between the hubs 30, 35, the gap being greater than or equal to the diameter of the scanning hook 11.
The tab 46 and plate 41 define a second hub 35 which includes a vertical slot 37 (FIG. 3b) formed through an outwardly facing side of the hub 35. The plate 41 and tab 46 restrict the lateral movement of the scanning hook 1 l, yet permit the inward and outward movement of the hook 11 relative to to s the backplate 27 since the slot 37 opens outwardly. The slot 37 snugly receives the scanning hook 1 l, and provides a snap-fit by virtue of a boss 47 (FIG. 3b) formed on the tab 46 at the throat of the slot 37. When the plastic material of the back 26 is in a relaxed state, the width of the throat of the slot 32 (including boss 47) is slightly less than the diameter of the scanning hook 11.
With the foregoing arrangement, the scanning hook 11 may be attached to the back 26 by gripping the arms 20 and 21 between the thumb and fingers of one hand and by positioning the hanger such that the connector 22 is adjacent the throat 40 of the slot 31, and is vertically oriented with the arms 20 and 21 extending outwardly, the lower arm 21 being vertically aligned with the gap 36 between the hubs 30, 35. The scanning hook 11 is then slid or rotated laterally such that the connector 22 passes through the throat 40 and into the slot 31, the size of the slot 31 and sloping projection 38 providing a snap-fit. The scanning hook 11 is then slid downwardly, the inner end of the lower arm 21 moving past the slot 37 (including boss 47) such that the connector 22 is received within the slot 37. As the scanning arm 11 continues to move downwardly, the inner end of the upper arm 20 is received with the notch 32, the size of the notch 32 and bosses 39 providing a snap-fit. A
reverse procedure is followed to detach the hanger from the back.
When the hanger 11 is installed on the back 26, the side walls of the notch 32 prevent the hanger from swinging horizontally, while the bosses 39, 47 frictionally restrict upward shifting of the hanger. The connector 22 is captivated between the plate 27 and the outer sides of slot 31 and thus the hanger is prevented from shifting inwardly and outwardly. Lateral or sidewise shifting of the hanger is prevented by virtue of the connector 22 engaging one side of the slot 3 l and the angled projection 38, as well as the sides of slot 37 defined by plate 41 and tab 46. In addition, the resiliently yieldable nature of hubs 30 and 35 grip the connector to prevent the hanger from cocking on the back.
In accordance with the present invention, the mounting back 26 is constructed such that the mounting back 26 may be selectively connected to, and moved between, any of the upper arm 20, lower arm 21 and connector 22, without removing the hook 11 from the back as described above. This is accomplished by permitting scanning hook 11 to rotate about the upper hub 30, such that the corners 200 and 201 (FIGS. 4 and Sa-Sd) where the arms 20, 21 meet the connector 22, are permitted to pass through the slot 31 in the upper hub 30. This feature allows the mounting back 26 to be slid along the lower arm 21, rotated about corner 201 and fitted on connector 22, as well as rotated about corner 200 and slid along upper arm 20, and vice versa. The ability of the scanning hook 11 to rotate about a horizontal axis parallel with the Pegboard 14 and backplate 27 is made possible not only by the construction of the upper hub 30, but the lower hub 35 also facilitates the rotation by including an outwardly opening slot 37 which permits the lower hub to selectively engage and disengage the scanning hook 11 as it moves between different portions of the hook 11.
FIG. 4 reveals the detailed construction of the upper hub 30. The hub 30 is of a generally hollow construction as defined by lateral wall 51 (FIG.
2), outward wall 52, inner wall 53, and the aforementioned plate 41 which extends downwardly to lower hub 35. In the preferred embodiment, the inner wall 53 is vertically disposed and parallel with backplate 27 to define an outer wall of the slot 31, the slot 31 having a width closely corresponding with the diameter of the scanning hook 11. The inner wall 53 meets the U-shaped surface of notch 32 at corner 55, which is radiused as shown in the figures.
The inner wall 53 is specifically sized such that the corners 200, 201 of the scanning hook 11 can pass through the slot 31. In the preferred embodiment, l0 the inner wall 53 extends a vertical height less than the diameter of the scanning hook 11 until it meets radiused corner 55 which also extends a vertical height Iess than the diameter of the scanning hook 11 as it continues outwardly and merges with the U-shaped surface of notch 32.
S While the foregoing is the preferred construction, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that by properly controlling the radius of corner 55, the height of inner wall 53, and the distance between inner wall 53 and backplate 27, the mounting back 26 and upper hub 30 can permit the scanning hook 11 to rotate relative to the back 26 and be attached at along its upper arm 20, lower arm 21 or connector 22, without disassembling. and re-assembling the two-part assembly. For example, the radius on corner 55 could effectively be eliminated to leave a sharp corner, and the inner wall 53 could slope downwardly and outwardly from the U-shaped surface of notch 32 (i.e. at an acute angle), a construction which would also permit the scanning hook 11 to rotate relative to the mounting back 26.
It can therefore be seen, with reference to FIGS. l, 5 and 7, the scanning hook 11 can be attached to the mounting back 26 in at least two configurations, one particularly suitable for shipping (FIG. 7) and one particularly suitable for suspending and displaying merchandise (FIG. 1). The hanger assembly 10 can be pre-assembled, and the end user need not assemble the hook to the back, which requires selecting the proper size back or hook for the assembly. Preferably, the back 26 is manufactured with the canning hook 11 positioned with the slots 31, 37 in the hubs 30, 35, eliminates the need for manual assembly. As shown in FIG. 7, the mounting back may be positioned along the lower arm 21 for shipping. When the scanning hook 11, and more particularly the upper or lower arm 20, 21, include a bend or a positive stop 202, the back 26 can be pressed snugly up against the stop 202. In the shipping configuration, it is also advantageous to mount the back 26 with its horns positioned between the arms 20, 21 so that they are unexposed and out of harm's way.
The ability to position the mounting back 26 at any point along the scanning hook 11 also allows the back 26 to be positioned, at least temporarily, at or adjacent the corners 200, 201. It has been found that the position on lower arm 21 at corner 201 provides and ideal mounting configuration for the hanger assembly I O below other product displays. When the back is positioned at corner 201, as illustrated in FIG. 8a, the horns 28 project inwardly towards the Pegboard 14. The hook 11 is preferably rotated in the slot 3I (FIG. 3a) such that the upper and lower arms 20, 21 are at the same height, as shown in FIG 8a. The horns 28 are inserted into respective holes 15 and the back 26 rotated downwardly, the hook 11 remaining attached in the same position. The hook 11 may then be rotated about a vertical axis within the slots 31, 37 (FIGS. 3a and 3b) of the hubs 30, 35, to a position as shown in FIG 8b. The free end of the hook 11 is then rotated upwardly, about a horizontal axis parallel with the Pegoard 14 and backplate 27. The corner 201 of scanning hook 11 passes through the slot 31, such that the connector 22 is received in the slot 31. The hook 11 is moved downwardly such that the upwardly opening notch 32 receives the upper arm 20 and the slots 31, 37 receive the connector 22. Accordingly, the back 26 may be installed into the Pegboard 14 with the scanning hook 1 I already attached, permitting the assembly to be installed very close to the underside of other displays, such as the shelf 205. The installation is also simpler since the scanning hook 11 is already attached to the back 26, and is merely rotated within the slots and relative to the back 26 for final assembly.
The mounting back 26 may be sized according to a particular application and the size of the scanning hook involved. For example, another embodiment of the mounting back 26' is shown in FIGS 6a and 6b. In the illustrated embodiment, the construction of the mounting back 26 is substantially identical to that of mounting back 26 depicted in FIGS. 1-5, similar parts having common reference numbers, and the variations shall be pointed out below. The back 26' includes an additional horn 28' for attaching the backplate 27 to a Pegboard 14 or other vertical support, thereby providing additional support to the mounting back 26'. Similarly, four arcuate ribs 42, 43, 44, 45 are provided for lateral support of the upper hub 30. As will be readily apparent, the size of notch 30, vertical slot 31 (FIG. 6b), vertical slot 37 (FIG. 6a), and tab 46 can be selected for receiving a larger (or smaller) diameter scanning hook 11, as the case may be.
Therefore, one of ordinary skill in the art can readily see from the foregoing description that the new and improved hanger assembly of the present invention provides a scanning hook and a unique mounting back to which the hook may be releasably but securely attached in at least two configurations, one particularly suitable for shipping and one particularly suitable for suspending and displaying merchandise. The hanger assembly includes a separate mounting back which possesses the advantages of prior backs of the same general type, but is uniquely formed to enable the assembly to be easily placed in shipping and displaying configurations, as well as mounted very closely below other display devices. Notably, the attached scanning hook may rotate relative to the mounting back such that the back can be selectively connected to any of the upper arm, lower arm and connector of the scanning hook, without removing the mounting back from the scanning hook.
The foregoing description of various preferred embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the.precise forms disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments discussed were chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable one of ordinary shill in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the invention as determined by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally, and equitably entitled.
Field Of The Invention The present invention relates generally to hanger assemblies for product display, and more particularly relates to mounting backs for such hanger assemblies.
Background Of The Invention This invention relates to a hanger assembly for supporting articles on a vertical support such as a perforated panel of the type commonly referred to as a "Pegboard." Such an assembly includes a hanger or hook adapted to project outwardly from the vertical support and adapted to hold merchandise. An exemplary hanger assembly is disclosed in Barnes, U.S. Pat. No. 4,452,360, in which the hanger is adapted to be releasably attached to the panel by a separate mounting back having a pair of horizontally spaced fingers which extend through holes in the pegboard. The present invention relates to such assemblies and more specifically relates to a hanger assembly in which the hanger is of the type commonly referred to as a "scanning hook," the hook being generally U-shaped and formed by upper and lower outwardly projecting arms whose inner ends are joined by a connector. The lower arm of such a hanger usually is used to hold merchandise while the upper arrn supports a tag or the like having a price, a stock number and/or other indicia printed thereon.
Several well known advantages are obtained when the hanger assembly includes a hanger and a separate mounting back. For example, hooks may be interchanged without replacing the mounting back. The ability to quickly attach different hooks and/or different merchandise significantly increases the versatility of the display device and reduces the time spent organizing and re-arranging product displays.
Unfortunately, while two-piece hanger assemblies have achieved much commercial success, they are not without their limitations. It can often be difficult to install the hanger assemblies immediately below other product display devices such as shelves, crossbars, wire bins and baskets, or even other hanger assemblies which can obstruct vision and make assembly of the hanger difficult. Since backs must be tipped upwardly and since hooks are typically inserted downwardly into their mounting backs, space is required above the assembly to put the assembly together. Additionally, hooks and their mounting backs are typically shipped in separate units, and shipped in bulk quantities. Since many differently sized hooks are used, and often used at the same time, end users must manually select appropriately sized mounting backs for their hooks. While the hanger assemblies could be pre-assembled, 1 S their configuration would be awkward for shipping.
Summary Of The Invention The general aim of the present invention is to provide a new and improved hanger assembly having a scanning hook and a unique mounting back to which the hook may be releasably but securely attached in a configuration ideal for shipping as a single unit.
A more detailed object is to provide a hanger assembly having a separate mounting back which possesses the advantages of prior backs of the same general type and which is uniquely formed to enable the assembly to be mounted very closely below other display devices.
It is a feature of the present invention to provide a mounting back to which the hook may be attached in at least two configurations, one particularly suitable for shipping and one particularly suitable for suspending and displaying merchandise.
It is another feature of the present invention to provide a hook assembly having a configuration particularly suitable for mounting immediately below other product supports, the mounting back permitting quick and easy switching between the shipping, mounting, and displaying configurations.
In one embodiment, the invention provides a mounting back in which the scanning hook is received within a vertical slot formed in a hub, the hub and slot permitting the scanning hook to rotate about a horizontal axis that is generally parallel with the vertical support. It is a feature of this embodiment that the attached scanning hook may rotate relative to the mounting back such that the back can be selectively connected to any of the upper arm, lower arm and connector of the scanning hook.
Other objectives and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
Brief Description Of The Drawings The accompanying drawings incorporated in and forming a part of the specification illustrate several aspects of the present invention, and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the invention: In the drawings:
FIGURE 1 is a perspective view showing a perforated panel and showing one embodiment of a new and improved hanger assembly incorporating the unique features of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the mounting back shown in FIG. 1;
FIGS. 3a and 3b are cross-sectional views taken substantially along the lines 3a--3a and 3b--3b, respectively, of FIG: 2;
FIG. 4 is an enlarged fragmentary cross-sectional view taken substantially along the line 4-4 of FIG. 1;
FIGS. Sa-5d are fragmentary side views which illustrate the unique relative movement of the hanger and mounting back;
FIGS. 6a-6b are front and perspective views, respectively, of another embodiment of a mounting back constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;
FIG: 7 is a side view of the hanger assembly of FIG. 1 shown in a shipping configuration; and FIG. 8a-8c are side views illustrating how the hanger assembly of FIG.
1 is mounted below another display device.
While the invention will be described in connection with certain preferred embodiments, there is no intent to limit it to those embodiments. On the contrary, the intent is to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents as included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
Detailed Description Of The Preferred Embodiment As shown in the drawings for purposes of illustration, the invention is embodied in a hanger assembly 10 having a hanger or scanning hook 11 for supporting one or more articles 13 from a vertical support such as a "Pegboard" 14 of the type formed with a series of vertically spaced and horizontally extending rows of holes 15. In this instance, the articles 13 have been illustrated as bags within which merchandise is contained. The upper end portion of each bag is formed with a hole to enable the bag to be hung from the scanning hook 11.
Herein, the scanning hook 11 is generally U-shaped and is made of round wire. The hanger or scanning hook includes upper and Lower outwardly projecting arms 20 and 21 whose inner ends are formed integrally with and are joined by an upright connecting piece or connector 22. The lower arm supports the articles 13 while the outer end of the upper arm is formed with a 5 laterally projecting finger 24 (FIG. 1 ). A tag 25 is supported by the finger and contains indicia such as a price, a stock number or the like which, if desired, can be "read" by an electronic inventory wand. It will be recognized that alternately shaped scanning hooks may be employed, such alternate hooks having at least upper and lower arms joined by a connector.
The hanger assembly 10 further comprises a mounting back 26 for attaching the assembly releasably to the Pegboard 14. In this instance, the back 26 is molded of relatively rigid but resiliently yieldable plastic, such as but not limited to polypropylene or Delrin, and includes a plate member 27 normally disposed in an upright plane and adapted to lie flat against the outer , face of the Pegboard. Molded integrally with the upper end portion of the backplate and projecting inwardly from the inner face thereof are two fingers or horns 28, each horn having a horizontal portion located adjacent the plate and merging gradually with an upwardly projecting vertical portion. By turning the backplate 27 to a generally horizontal position with the ends of the horns 28 pointing toward the panel 14 and by moving the plate edgewise, the normally vertical portions of the horns 28 may be inserted into two horizontally spaced holes 15 in one of the horizontally extending rows of holes formed in the panel. 'Thereafter, the backplate may be swung downwardly and toward the panel to cause the horizontal portions to enter the holes and to cause the vertical portions to engage and interlock with the rear face of the Pegboard just above the holes. While the illustrated embodiment depicts the mounting back 26 and hanger assembly 10 as mounted to a Pegboard, other vertical supports and means for attaching the mounting back to such vertical supports are well known and are within the scope of the present invention.
In accordance with the present invention, the back 26 is uniquely constructed to enable the U-shaped hanger 11 to be quickly and easily attached to and detached from the back. In spite of such ease of attachment, the back holds the hanger securely and firmly on the panel 14. Furthermore, the scanning hook may be attached in two configurations, one particularly suitable for shipping and one particularly suitable for suspending arid displaying merchandise. In yet another configuration, the hanger assembly 10 can be mounted very closely below other display devices.
In the preferred back 26 of the invention, an upright member or hub 30 is molded integrally with the outer side of the backplate 27, the hub having an upper end located flush with the upper edge of the backplate. A vertically extending slot 31 (FIG. 3) is formed through the hub 30 and is sized to snugly receive the connector 22 of the scanning hook 11. Specifically, the vertical slot 31 is formed through one laterally facing side of the hub 30, and extends throughout the entire height of the hub. The inner side of the slot 31 is preferably but not necessarily defined by the outer side of the backplate 27.
Preferably, the backplate 27 includes a sloping projection 38 (FIGS. 2 and 3a) at the throat 40 of the vertical slot 31 to reduce the width of the slot at its throat and provide a snap-fit. When the plastic material of the back 26 is in a relaxed state, the width of the slot 3 I at throat 40 (including projection 38) is slightly less than the diameter of the scanning hook 11.
Formed in the upper end portion of the hub 30 is an upwardly opening and generally U-shaped notch 32 (FIGS: 2, 3a and 4) which extends from the outer side of the hub 30 to the vertical slot 31 therein. When the scanning hook 11 is attached to the back 26, the inner end portion of the upper arm 20 is received within the notch 32 and is captivated by the side walls thereof so as to prevent the hanger from swinging horizontally relative to the back and the panel 14. To assist in captivating the upper arm 20, the side walls of the notch 32 preferably include bosses 39 at outer, upper portions of the side walls to reduce the width of the notch 32 and provide a snap-fit for securely retaining the scanning hook 11. When the plastic material of the back 26 is in a relaxed state, the width of the upper portion of the notch 32 (including bosses 39) is slightly less than the diameter of the scanning hook 11.
The hub 30 further includes a vertical plate 41 along a lateral side of the hub 30 opposite the laterally opening slot 31. As best seen in FIG. 3a, a series of arcuate ribs 42, 43, 44 are provided to laterally support the hub 30.
The ribs 42, 43, 44 are spaced both vertically and laterally, the series of ribs decreasing in size from top to bottom (see; e.g., the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6a). A cover 45 (FIG. 2) includes an arcuate edge corresponding with rib 42 and extends between rib 42 and the vertical plate 41, and backplate 27.
The preferred back 26 is formed with a second member or hub 35 which also is molded integrally with the outer side of the backplate 27 and which is spaced below the hub 30 (FIG. 2). In its preferred form, the hub 35 is defined by an outwardly projecting tab 46 and the vertical plate 41. The vertical plate 41 is integrally formed with the first hub 30 and extends downwardly therefrom, tapering downwardly and inwardly as shown in FIGS
2 and 4. The tab 46 projects from the backplate 27 a distance preferably corresponding with the diameter of the scanning hook 11. The tab 46 is positioned below the upper hub 30 to form a gap 36 between the hubs 30, 35, the gap being greater than or equal to the diameter of the scanning hook 11.
The tab 46 and plate 41 define a second hub 35 which includes a vertical slot 37 (FIG. 3b) formed through an outwardly facing side of the hub 35. The plate 41 and tab 46 restrict the lateral movement of the scanning hook 1 l, yet permit the inward and outward movement of the hook 11 relative to to s the backplate 27 since the slot 37 opens outwardly. The slot 37 snugly receives the scanning hook 1 l, and provides a snap-fit by virtue of a boss 47 (FIG. 3b) formed on the tab 46 at the throat of the slot 37. When the plastic material of the back 26 is in a relaxed state, the width of the throat of the slot 32 (including boss 47) is slightly less than the diameter of the scanning hook 11.
With the foregoing arrangement, the scanning hook 11 may be attached to the back 26 by gripping the arms 20 and 21 between the thumb and fingers of one hand and by positioning the hanger such that the connector 22 is adjacent the throat 40 of the slot 31, and is vertically oriented with the arms 20 and 21 extending outwardly, the lower arm 21 being vertically aligned with the gap 36 between the hubs 30, 35. The scanning hook 11 is then slid or rotated laterally such that the connector 22 passes through the throat 40 and into the slot 31, the size of the slot 31 and sloping projection 38 providing a snap-fit. The scanning hook 11 is then slid downwardly, the inner end of the lower arm 21 moving past the slot 37 (including boss 47) such that the connector 22 is received within the slot 37. As the scanning arm 11 continues to move downwardly, the inner end of the upper arm 20 is received with the notch 32, the size of the notch 32 and bosses 39 providing a snap-fit. A
reverse procedure is followed to detach the hanger from the back.
When the hanger 11 is installed on the back 26, the side walls of the notch 32 prevent the hanger from swinging horizontally, while the bosses 39, 47 frictionally restrict upward shifting of the hanger. The connector 22 is captivated between the plate 27 and the outer sides of slot 31 and thus the hanger is prevented from shifting inwardly and outwardly. Lateral or sidewise shifting of the hanger is prevented by virtue of the connector 22 engaging one side of the slot 3 l and the angled projection 38, as well as the sides of slot 37 defined by plate 41 and tab 46. In addition, the resiliently yieldable nature of hubs 30 and 35 grip the connector to prevent the hanger from cocking on the back.
In accordance with the present invention, the mounting back 26 is constructed such that the mounting back 26 may be selectively connected to, and moved between, any of the upper arm 20, lower arm 21 and connector 22, without removing the hook 11 from the back as described above. This is accomplished by permitting scanning hook 11 to rotate about the upper hub 30, such that the corners 200 and 201 (FIGS. 4 and Sa-Sd) where the arms 20, 21 meet the connector 22, are permitted to pass through the slot 31 in the upper hub 30. This feature allows the mounting back 26 to be slid along the lower arm 21, rotated about corner 201 and fitted on connector 22, as well as rotated about corner 200 and slid along upper arm 20, and vice versa. The ability of the scanning hook 11 to rotate about a horizontal axis parallel with the Pegboard 14 and backplate 27 is made possible not only by the construction of the upper hub 30, but the lower hub 35 also facilitates the rotation by including an outwardly opening slot 37 which permits the lower hub to selectively engage and disengage the scanning hook 11 as it moves between different portions of the hook 11.
FIG. 4 reveals the detailed construction of the upper hub 30. The hub 30 is of a generally hollow construction as defined by lateral wall 51 (FIG.
2), outward wall 52, inner wall 53, and the aforementioned plate 41 which extends downwardly to lower hub 35. In the preferred embodiment, the inner wall 53 is vertically disposed and parallel with backplate 27 to define an outer wall of the slot 31, the slot 31 having a width closely corresponding with the diameter of the scanning hook 11. The inner wall 53 meets the U-shaped surface of notch 32 at corner 55, which is radiused as shown in the figures.
The inner wall 53 is specifically sized such that the corners 200, 201 of the scanning hook 11 can pass through the slot 31. In the preferred embodiment, l0 the inner wall 53 extends a vertical height less than the diameter of the scanning hook 11 until it meets radiused corner 55 which also extends a vertical height Iess than the diameter of the scanning hook 11 as it continues outwardly and merges with the U-shaped surface of notch 32.
S While the foregoing is the preferred construction, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that by properly controlling the radius of corner 55, the height of inner wall 53, and the distance between inner wall 53 and backplate 27, the mounting back 26 and upper hub 30 can permit the scanning hook 11 to rotate relative to the back 26 and be attached at along its upper arm 20, lower arm 21 or connector 22, without disassembling. and re-assembling the two-part assembly. For example, the radius on corner 55 could effectively be eliminated to leave a sharp corner, and the inner wall 53 could slope downwardly and outwardly from the U-shaped surface of notch 32 (i.e. at an acute angle), a construction which would also permit the scanning hook 11 to rotate relative to the mounting back 26.
It can therefore be seen, with reference to FIGS. l, 5 and 7, the scanning hook 11 can be attached to the mounting back 26 in at least two configurations, one particularly suitable for shipping (FIG. 7) and one particularly suitable for suspending and displaying merchandise (FIG. 1). The hanger assembly 10 can be pre-assembled, and the end user need not assemble the hook to the back, which requires selecting the proper size back or hook for the assembly. Preferably, the back 26 is manufactured with the canning hook 11 positioned with the slots 31, 37 in the hubs 30, 35, eliminates the need for manual assembly. As shown in FIG. 7, the mounting back may be positioned along the lower arm 21 for shipping. When the scanning hook 11, and more particularly the upper or lower arm 20, 21, include a bend or a positive stop 202, the back 26 can be pressed snugly up against the stop 202. In the shipping configuration, it is also advantageous to mount the back 26 with its horns positioned between the arms 20, 21 so that they are unexposed and out of harm's way.
The ability to position the mounting back 26 at any point along the scanning hook 11 also allows the back 26 to be positioned, at least temporarily, at or adjacent the corners 200, 201. It has been found that the position on lower arm 21 at corner 201 provides and ideal mounting configuration for the hanger assembly I O below other product displays. When the back is positioned at corner 201, as illustrated in FIG. 8a, the horns 28 project inwardly towards the Pegboard 14. The hook 11 is preferably rotated in the slot 3I (FIG. 3a) such that the upper and lower arms 20, 21 are at the same height, as shown in FIG 8a. The horns 28 are inserted into respective holes 15 and the back 26 rotated downwardly, the hook 11 remaining attached in the same position. The hook 11 may then be rotated about a vertical axis within the slots 31, 37 (FIGS. 3a and 3b) of the hubs 30, 35, to a position as shown in FIG 8b. The free end of the hook 11 is then rotated upwardly, about a horizontal axis parallel with the Pegoard 14 and backplate 27. The corner 201 of scanning hook 11 passes through the slot 31, such that the connector 22 is received in the slot 31. The hook 11 is moved downwardly such that the upwardly opening notch 32 receives the upper arm 20 and the slots 31, 37 receive the connector 22. Accordingly, the back 26 may be installed into the Pegboard 14 with the scanning hook 1 I already attached, permitting the assembly to be installed very close to the underside of other displays, such as the shelf 205. The installation is also simpler since the scanning hook 11 is already attached to the back 26, and is merely rotated within the slots and relative to the back 26 for final assembly.
The mounting back 26 may be sized according to a particular application and the size of the scanning hook involved. For example, another embodiment of the mounting back 26' is shown in FIGS 6a and 6b. In the illustrated embodiment, the construction of the mounting back 26 is substantially identical to that of mounting back 26 depicted in FIGS. 1-5, similar parts having common reference numbers, and the variations shall be pointed out below. The back 26' includes an additional horn 28' for attaching the backplate 27 to a Pegboard 14 or other vertical support, thereby providing additional support to the mounting back 26'. Similarly, four arcuate ribs 42, 43, 44, 45 are provided for lateral support of the upper hub 30. As will be readily apparent, the size of notch 30, vertical slot 31 (FIG. 6b), vertical slot 37 (FIG. 6a), and tab 46 can be selected for receiving a larger (or smaller) diameter scanning hook 11, as the case may be.
Therefore, one of ordinary skill in the art can readily see from the foregoing description that the new and improved hanger assembly of the present invention provides a scanning hook and a unique mounting back to which the hook may be releasably but securely attached in at least two configurations, one particularly suitable for shipping and one particularly suitable for suspending and displaying merchandise. The hanger assembly includes a separate mounting back which possesses the advantages of prior backs of the same general type, but is uniquely formed to enable the assembly to be easily placed in shipping and displaying configurations, as well as mounted very closely below other display devices. Notably, the attached scanning hook may rotate relative to the mounting back such that the back can be selectively connected to any of the upper arm, lower arm and connector of the scanning hook, without removing the mounting back from the scanning hook.
The foregoing description of various preferred embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the.precise forms disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments discussed were chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable one of ordinary shill in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the invention as determined by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally, and equitably entitled.
Claims (20)
1. A mounting back for mounting a scanning hook to an upright support, the scanning hook having an upper arm, a lower arm and a connector joining the inner ends of the upper and lower arms to form corners of the scanning hook, the mounting back comprising:
a backplate;
a hub extending outwardly from the backplate and having a vertical slot along a laterally facing side of the hub, the vertical slot sized to receive the scanning hook for removably attaching the scanning hook to the mounting back, the hub and its vertical slot sized and positioned to permit the corners of the scanning hook to pass through the vertical slot.
a backplate;
a hub extending outwardly from the backplate and having a vertical slot along a laterally facing side of the hub, the vertical slot sized to receive the scanning hook for removably attaching the scanning hook to the mounting back, the hub and its vertical slot sized and positioned to permit the corners of the scanning hook to pass through the vertical slot.
2. The scanning hook of claim 1, wherein the scanning hook rotates about a horizontal axis that is parallel with the backplate as the corners are passed through the vertical slot.
3. The mounting back of claim 1, wherein the hub further includes an upwardly opening notch for receiving the scanning hook.
4. The mounting back of claim 3, wherein the notch and vertical slot communicate to receive the scanning hook, the notch and vertical slot being sized and positioned relative to each other to permit the corners to pass through the vertical slot and the scanning hook to rotate about a horizontal axis parallel with the backplate.
5. The mounting back of claim 1, wherein the vertical slot is defined by an outer side of the backplate and an inner wall of the hub.
6. The mounting back of claim 5, wherein the inner wall of the hub is sized and positioned relative to the backplate to permit the corners of the scanning hook to pass through the vertical slot.
7. The mounting back of claim 5, wherein the inner wall is vertically disposed and extends a vertical height less than or equal to the diameter of the scanning hook.
8. The mounting back of claim 3, wherein the notch is defined by a notch surface, and wherein the vertical slot is defined by an outer side of the backplate and an inner wall of the hub, the inner wall meeting the notch surface at a rounded corner.
9. The mounting back of claim 8, wherein the rounded corner, inner wall, and backplate are sized and positioned relative to one another to permit the scanning hook to pivot about a horizontal axis that is parallel with the backplate.
10. The mounting back of claim 1, further comprising a second hub extending outwardly from the backplate and having an outwardly opening vertical slot sized to receive the scanning hook.
11. The mounting back of claim 10, wherein the second hub comprises an outwardly projecting tab laterally separated from a vertical plate to define the outwardly opening vertical slot.
12. The mounting back of claim 1, wherein the backplate and hub are integrally molded of durable plastic.
13. A hanger assembly adapted for attachment to an upright support, the hanger assembly comprising:
a generally U-shaped hanger having an upper arm, a lower arm, and an upright connector joining the inner ends of the arms to form two corners; and a mounting back for attaching the hanger to the upright support, the back comprising an upright plate, a hub located outwardly from the plate for receiving the scanning hook, and an upright opening along one laterally facing side of the hub for removably attaching the scanning hook, the mounting back selectively positionable along the scanning hook.
a generally U-shaped hanger having an upper arm, a lower arm, and an upright connector joining the inner ends of the arms to form two corners; and a mounting back for attaching the hanger to the upright support, the back comprising an upright plate, a hub located outwardly from the plate for receiving the scanning hook, and an upright opening along one laterally facing side of the hub for removably attaching the scanning hook, the mounting back selectively positionable along the scanning hook.
14. The hanger assembly of claim 13, wherein the scanning hook is removably attached to the hub by laterally moving the connector through the upright opening.
15. The hanger assembly of claim 13, wherein the mounting back may be positioned on the scanning hook in multiple positions including:
a first position on the lower arm for shipping, wherein the backplate is positioned between the upper and lower arms; and a second position on the connector for mounting the scanning hook to the upright support such that the upper and lower arms project outwardly.
a first position on the lower arm for shipping, wherein the backplate is positioned between the upper and lower arms; and a second position on the connector for mounting the scanning hook to the upright support such that the upper and lower arms project outwardly.
16. The hanger assembly of claim 15, wherein the mounting back may be positioned in a third position adjacent the corner where the lower arm and connector meet for mounting the hanger assembly immediately below a display device.
17 17. The hanger assembly of claim 13, wherein the mounting back is selectively positionable on the upper arm, lower arm and connector by sizing and positioning the vertical slot to pass the corners of the scanning hook through the upright slot.
18. The hanger assembly of claim 17, wherein the upright slot is configured to permit the corners to pass therethrough without lateral movement of the scanning hook.
19. A mounting back for mounting a scanning hook to an upright support, the scanning hook having an upper arm, a lower arm and a connector joined the inner ends of the upper and lower arms to form corners of the scanning hook, the mounting back comprising:
a backplate;
a first hub extending outwardly from the backplate and having a vertical slot along a laterally facing side of the first hub and an upwardly opening notch along a top side of the first hub, the vertical slot and notch being in communication and sized to receive the scanning hook, the vertical slot configured to permit the corners of the scanning hook to pass therethrough; and a second hub extending outwardly from the backplate and having an outwardly opening vertical slot aligned with the first hub's vertical slot for removably attaching the scanning hook to the mounting back.
a backplate;
a first hub extending outwardly from the backplate and having a vertical slot along a laterally facing side of the first hub and an upwardly opening notch along a top side of the first hub, the vertical slot and notch being in communication and sized to receive the scanning hook, the vertical slot configured to permit the corners of the scanning hook to pass therethrough; and a second hub extending outwardly from the backplate and having an outwardly opening vertical slot aligned with the first hub's vertical slot for removably attaching the scanning hook to the mounting back.
20. The mounting back of claim 19, wherein at least one of the notch, vertical slot in the first hub, and vertical slot in the second hub include a throat having a boss projecting therein to provide a snap-fit for the scanning hook.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US76187501A | 2001-01-17 | 2001-01-17 | |
| US09/761,875 | 2001-01-17 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2367885A1 true CA2367885A1 (en) | 2002-07-17 |
Family
ID=25063478
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2367885 Abandoned CA2367885A1 (en) | 2001-01-17 | 2002-01-15 | Hanger assembly and mounting back |
Country Status (3)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| AU (1) | AU1019202A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2367885A1 (en) |
| MX (1) | MXPA02000580A (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN104902787A (en) * | 2012-08-24 | 2015-09-09 | 蓬格·伊凡 | Scanning clip |
-
2002
- 2002-01-15 CA CA 2367885 patent/CA2367885A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2002-01-16 MX MXPA02000580 patent/MXPA02000580A/en unknown
- 2002-01-16 AU AU10192/02A patent/AU1019202A/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN104902787A (en) * | 2012-08-24 | 2015-09-09 | 蓬格·伊凡 | Scanning clip |
| CN104902787B (en) * | 2012-08-24 | 2018-07-13 | 蓬格·伊凡 | Scanning hook |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU1019202A (en) | 2002-08-15 |
| MXPA02000580A (en) | 2004-11-01 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |