ES2755850A1 - COLLAPSABLE HANGER FOR HANGING GARMENTS (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) - Google Patents

Abstract

Collapsible hanger for hanging clothes, comprising a first arm (2) pivotable with respect to a second arm (3), a pivot (4), a hook (1) and blocking means for blocking or unlocking the pivoting movement of the arms (2. 3). One aspect of the invention relates to the hanger where the first arm comprises the hook (1), with a support area (7) on which the hand of a user rests. Another aspect refers to the hanger, where the blocking means comprise a trigger (12). Another aspect refers to the hanger, where the blocking means comprise a blocking plug (17). Applicable in the sectors in which hangers are designed, manufactured or used, such as, for example, commerce, textile factories, textile treatment facilities, dry cleaners and laundries, in common homes, in hotel establishments, or in wardrobes. (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding)

Description

D E S C R I P C I Ó N

COLLAPSABLE HANGER FOR HANGING GARMENTS

TECHNICAL SECTOR

The present invention relates to a collapsible hanger for hanging garments with blocking means. The hanger comprises a first arm pivotable with respect to a second arm, a second arm pivotable with respect to the first arm, a pivot, a hook for hanging the hanger, and locking means for locking or unlocking the relative pivoting movement of the arms. More specifically, an object of the invention relates to the front hanger where the first arm further comprises the hook and which also comprises a support area on which a user's hand rests so that it can hold the first arm while folding or open the hanger. Another object relates to the hanger of the invention where the locking means comprise a trigger, a locking arm comprising a locking tooth, and a locking protrusion. Another object relates to the hanger of the invention where the blocking means comprise ridges and a blocking plug.

The invention is applicable in those sectors in which hangers are designed, manufactured, produced or used, such as, for example, the commerce, clothing stores, clothing distribution and logistics sectors, textile factories, dry cleaners, laundries and other textile treatment facilities, common homes, hotel establishments and facilities with wardrobes or closets, among others.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Hangers are devices used to hang clothes so that a garment can be placed on them while maintaining a shape. Normally, this shape corresponds to what the garment would have when it is placed on the body of a person. The use of hangers allows clothes hanging on them not to wrinkle easily thanks to the action of gravity. It also facilitates the storage of several garments in a compact space, makes it possible to transport clothes more comfortably and improves the exposure and selection of textile products by a user or a buyer. Typically, a hanger is comprised of a hook and a pair of stiff arms that extend laterally from the base of the hook at an obtuse angle opposite the hook. The The hook allows the hanger or the assembly made up of the hanger and the garment arranged on it to be manipulated and hung, for example, on a horizontal bar. The arms are the elements that support the clothing and keep it in the desired shape so that, after hanging the garment, the hook is free, not covered, in order to fulfill its function.

Rigid hangers maintain their geometric shape over time, and different types of garments are usually hung on them, such as skirts, pants, jackets, shirts, shirts, polo shirts, dresses, suits, coats, sweaters or blouses. However, there are certain types of clothing that, due to their particular design, can be damaged when hanging on rigid hangers, such as garments that have a closed neck. Known closed-neck garments include, for example, round-neck, V-neck, gooseneck, polo shirts, etc. Deterioration of this type of clothing can occur when the rigid hanger is inserted into or removed from the garment through the neck. Especially when the distance between the ends of the arms of the hanger is greater than the neck opening. To hang or hang this type of clothing, a user can choose to insert a first arm through the closed neck and then continue with the second arm of the hanger. This way of proceeding means that the neck must necessarily be forced to make way for the hanger and sometimes open beyond the elastic limit of the textile. This causes the garment to break. Although the breakage limit is not reached, when the garment neck is used routinely as input and / or output from the hanger, cyclical stresses are induced over time that affect material fatigue, causing the clothing loses properties and ends up deformed. This situation frequently occurs in industrial, distribution, or commercial settings, when clothing is continuously dusted and dusted. It is also common when a user wants to save time or does not care so much about the integrity of the garment, such as when trying it on before purchasing it in a store. In these cases, the garment is usually unhooked by passing the stiff hanger directly through the neck opening, with the negative consequences for clothing discussed above.

There are other types of garments that, in order to prevent them from being damaged when they are placed on rigid hangers, must be handled beforehand, unbuttoning buttons, clasps, zippers or velcro so that, once hung, they can be fastened again. Thus, for example, when a user intends to hang a buttoned shirt or a dress with a zipper, he must first open the zippers in order to properly insert the garment and place it on the arms of the hanger. Once hung, you must again manipulate the closures to fasten them so that the garment can maintain the desired shape and not wrinkle. Similarly, the process off-hook again requires manipulation of the locks to open them. This type of procedure supposes for the user more physical wear and time dedication, which means that in many occasions the user chooses to introduce or remove the hanger directly through the neck of the garment without opening it previously, in a similar way and with the Negative consequences were noted for garments with a closed neck. Furthermore, due to the lower resilience of the closures, in these cases it is much easier to deform the closures or permanently damage them.

Another way to prevent deterioration of previous garments when hanging or unhooking them from rigid hangers is to manipulate them to insert or remove the hanger through the lower part of the clothing, which is normally wider than the neck area. This way of hanging and unhooking the garments, however, has several drawbacks. On the one hand, it is more complicated, requires additional effort and consumes more time. This is because, to hang a garment, the user must support his weight with one hand and with the other hand slide the hanger inside carefully, then, with precision and skill, remove the hook from the neck. To take the clothes off, the assembly must be supported with one hand, while the other is inserted into the garment through the bottom to guide the extraction process. On the other hand, clothing can jam, snag, or tangle on the hanger during insertion or removal, resulting in pinches, wrinkles, and even tear or tear of the garment due to tears or punctures.

An alternative to avoid the above problems is the use of hangers with shorter arms. However, this type of hangers does not prevent the appearance of certain wrinkles and they do not allow them to maintain the proper shape in most garments. Normally, these types of hangers are usually intended to hook children's clothing and are not suitable for adult clothing.

Another alternative is the use of hangers with collapsible or folding arms. In this type of hangers, the arms can be folded or collapsed manually, going from an expanded position to a closed position where the ends of the arms are closer or even touch. Typically, they are foldable hangers for easy transport, such as inside a suitcase, and are made up of two articulated arms that move around a central body that contains the hook. However, in order for a folding hanger to be suitable for bolting and unperforming garments like the ones mentioned above, it must also face several design challenges. Among the most important are:

- The ease of using the hanger during the process of picking up, hanging and unhooking the hanger itself.

- The way in which the hanger is folded and the way in which it recovers the expanded shape.

- The simplicity to introduce it through a narrow hole of a garment and to extract it through the same hole.

- The ability of the hanger to support garments without collapsing.

- The simplicity of the device, its robustness, contained manufacturing costs, a low environmental impact and its adaptation to the circular economy model.

Various types of folding hangers are known, but all of them have different drawbacks and do not offer a satisfactory solution for hanging and unhooking garments that have a closed neck or have closures. These devices can be classified into two categories. On the one hand, there are the foldable hangers without expanded arm locking elements. On the other hand, there are the folding hangers with locking elements for the arms, to keep the configuration open.

Folding hangers without locking elements usually incorporate springs that serve to automatically return the arms to the expanded position when the user stops pressing them, and also to keep the arms in that position. They are hangers that incorporate monoblock springs or helical torsion springs. In this type of hangers, locking elements are dispensed with and reliance is placed solely on the load capacity of the springs to keep the hanger open. However, these solutions are not effective in most situations where hangers are used. The weight of the clothes is enough to exceed the load capacity of these springs and makes the hanger fold as soon as a garment is hung over it. Furthermore, they have other drawbacks related to the use of monoblock springs or helical torsion springs.

Hangers with monoblock springs are those in which the springs are integrated forming a single piece with the rest of the hanger. The main idea of this type of hangers is that all the parts that compose it can be molded in a single piece of monobloc plastic that includes the springs. An example of this type of hanger can be seen in US patent 6540121 B1. It shows a hanger that has two arms connected to each other by a common pivot or hinge, or each connected to a pivot located in a central body where the hook is located. On this hanger, the springs are bows integrated in the same piece, although it is also proposed the possibility of adding more springs to give greater resistance if necessary.

A drawback of the hangers with monoblock springs, due to the nature of the materials with which they are manufactured and the formal characteristics of the springs, is that the springs very easily lose their elastic properties due to phenomena of material fatigue. By undergoing large amounts of use cycles over time, the springs deplete their resilience, rendering the hanger useless.

On the other hand, in order for this type of hanger to be able to keep the arms in the expanded position, both under load and under load supporting a garment, it needs the springs to pull the arms through its elastic capacity. In order for the springs to be able to pull the arms themselves, they must necessarily be preloaded. However, the springs in this type of device are normally made of plastic and are integrated forming a monobloc piece with the rest of the elements of the hanger. Due to this, it is very difficult for them to be preloaded with enough intensity to support a garment, and even to support the extended arms without load.

Other drawbacks in these hangers are due to the integration of the monoblock springs in the product. Due to the weakness of the springs, in order for them to at least open the hanger they must be arranged, occupying a lot of space, on the upper arms. Alternatively they can be placed on the lower part of the arms, opposite the hook, to free the area of the arms where the clothes hang. However, this arrangement means that the middle part of the hanger has to be widened creating a kind of large central rigid bridge, which hinders the process of inserting and removing the hanger in narrow holes, even when closed.

An alternative to the hangers with monoblock springs are those that use helical torsion springs, which are normally made of steel. In this case, however, the springs and other components are independent parts of each other. A helical spring is an elastic system that is made up of a wire wound helically around a core in which three parts can be distinguished: a three-dimensional helix-shaped central core and two wire wings on which pressure is applied. It is a type of torsion spring that works elastically when subjected to loads on the wings, which make them rotate around the central core.

With this type of hangers the load capacity is improved to a certain extent, but in return more independent parts are needed, and the torsion coil springs have new drawbacks. These types of springs occupy a fairly large volume in the three Cartesian directions. In one direction, the wings of the torsion coil springs need to be properly extended so that they can receive the workloads. Furthermore, the central wire core is in the shape of a three-dimensional helix, and both the radius and the height of the helix must be large enough to guarantee the required elastic properties.

On the other hand, this type of springs works by connecting one of its wings to each of the arms. In order for them to do their job, the wings need to extend linearly over the arms and somehow fit into the arm. This means that the arms can never be flat because they have to either include a projection that accommodates the wing or present a channel to fix this part of the spring. The extension of the wings on the arms therefore determines the shape of the arms, at least along the section that has to accommodate the wings. In addition, to prevent the risk of pinching, breakage or snagging with consequent damage to clothing or the user, the contact areas between moving components should be protected, and especially the space occupied by the spring and the connection areas of the wings. However, this is not usually done as it would mean further increasing the complexity of the device and the number of parts required to materialize it.

As in the previous case, in order for this type of hangers to be able to keep the arms stable in the expanded position, it is necessarily required that the springs work supporting their weight and the load that is placed on them. This implies that the springs have to be preloaded with great intensity. In the case of torsion coil springs, this means that they should be materialized in a considerable size, which makes them difficult to fit into a hanger design with a manageable size and that can also be inserted through a narrow hole. In practice, when these springs are integrated into a hanger, they are small and insufficient for the hanger to support a garment without closing. Even maintaining the weight of the arms is difficult without the hanger closing.

For example, in patent US 4948019 A a hanger with two pivoting arms is mentioned, each of which moves around a pivot. Both pivots They are located in a central body to which a separate hook is also fitted. Each of the arms is coupled to a helical torsion spring and each spring has a wing that connects to each arm and another wing that connects to the central body. The hanger also has a locking and unlocking system, but this time it serves to keep the arms together in the closed position by means of a slide or latch in order to be able to transport the hanger more comfortably.

As can be seen, this hanger example includes all the drawbacks related to the hangers with helical torsion springs. On the other hand, the constitution of the hanger requires excessive manipulation and the use of both hands. While one hand is holding the central body or the hook, the other hand is used to move both arms simultaneously, which requires precise coordination and requires a lot of skill. Alternatively, you can choose to hold the arms with both hands and move each arm with the left and right hand respectively, although doing so assumes that the central body can move erratically, making it difficult to close the arms. On the other hand, both hands are also needed to insert the hanger into a garment and for the arms to open carefully, without spoiling the clothes.

Folding hangers without locking elements are lacking due to the inability of the springs they use to keep the arms open. These limitations mean that the hangers with monoblock springs or torsion coil springs cannot do without some type of system to keep the arms in the expanded position. These are locking systems that are normally based on a small hook, pin or other similar retention element that fixes the arms in said position.

Hangers incorporating the known locking systems improve the load-bearing capacity, but also have several drawbacks and do not satisfactorily solve the folding hanger design challenges. They are difficult to operate, which negatively affects the user experience and the utility of the hanger. Normally the user is forced to manipulate the hanger excessively and use both hands. Due to its design, it is also difficult to insert the hangers through narrow holes. The retention systems are not safe since they do not offer clear information on their effective operation and oblige the user to check that the arms are locked or unlocked before operating them. Furthermore, they are complex systems and are generally made up of a plurality of pieces that, due to their design or the way they move, easily snag on the garments.

An example of this technology is the first known patent on a folding hanger dating back to 1897, with the number US 586456. It is a folding hanger for easy transportation made up of two independent articulated wire arms that move around a pivot , with a small hook as a locking system.

This type of hangers also present problems related to the impossibility of self-recovery of the shape, from the folded or closed position to the expanded position. To carry out the process of unfolding the hanger and bringing the arms to the expanded position, it is necessary to use both hands, especially if a garment that adds weight and resistance to movement is placed on the hanger. First, to move the arms and open the hanger, and then to block movement. On the contrary, each time you try to fold the hanger, you must also use both hands, since first you have to unlock the movement of the arms and then fold both arms. Thus, the process of moving the arms to the expanded position when a garment has already been placed on the hanger can be difficult, especially if it is not intended to damage the clothing. This is due to the weight of the clothing itself and to the fact that the arms are inaccessible due to the fact that they are largely hidden inside the garment to be hung. This excessive handling and the difficulty of using these hangers also result in unwanted wrinkles, pinches, snags, tears or punctures in the fabric.

An attempt to solve the recovery of the expanded form are the folding hangers with locking elements that comprise some type of lever associated with the opening of the arms, and that is operable by the user or by some element of the environment such as the coat rack bar. . The objective of this technology is that the deployment of the arms occurs with a mechanical system incorporated in the hanger, when the hanger interacts with the environment.

An example within this typology is the one included in US patent 8523026 B2. It describes a hanger with two arms that move around a common pivot to them, where one of the arms includes the hook that is used to hang the hanger on the bar of a wardrobe. The other arm has a free end and at the other end, the one closest to the pivot, an end portion arranged to collaborate with the closet bar and open and maintain the hanger in the expanded configuration. That portion is either a second hook or is a lever-shaped element that locks with the closet bar. The idea is that this portion causes the hanger to open when the lever (or second hook) trips the closet bar. This causes the arms to open until the hook of the first arm hangs on the wardrobe bar. Collaboration with the wardrobe bar is therefore an essential functional element of this invention since, for the system to function properly, it needs to cooperate with the bar where the hanger is intended to be hung.

The need for a portion that leans against the closet bar to open the hanger has some repercussions. The shape of the arm with this portion, which is either another hook or a lever, makes the space that the system occupies when closed is bulky. When the hanger is expanded, there must be a shape compatibility between the two arms that makes the assembly have the typical appearance of a rigid hanger, with the ability to hang and properly accommodate pieces of clothing. This shape compatibility in the open configuration means that when the hanger is closed, the lever or the second hook also pivot and occupy space laterally. This is inconvenient when it is intended to transport the folded hanger without taking up much space (for example, in a suitcase or in a freight container), when it comes to storing it (for example, in a package of several hangers to distribute the product ) or when it is intended to insert or remove the folded hanger through narrow holes while folded. On the other hand, the opening of the arms depends on the correct support on the wardrobe bar and on the force with which the user presses the lever or the second hook against the wardrobe bar. When a garment is hung on a hanger and the closet bar is too high or in a less accessible position, it is difficult to correctly establish such cooperation. Also, the force with which the hanger has to be supported on the bar can be too great, especially when hanging heavy garments, such as a sweater or a coat.

This device also has a locking and unlocking system that keeps the arms fixed in the expanded position. The locking system releases the arms when a user presses on a flexible tab that disengages from a protrusion, similar to a ratchet system. The flexible tab is located vertically on the hook, and opposite the open part of the hook. The expanded configuration is therefore kept stable by this locking system. For the locking system to work properly, the user needs to notice that the crimp between the flexible tab and the protrusion occurs. This involves being vigilant and making sure the arms are fully expanded until the lock actually occurs, while pressing the hanger against the closet bar. With medium or heavy loads or when the locking system does not work properly (for example, if the arms are not fully opened and the crimp does not occur), the device can help by balancing the scissor mechanism that forms between the hook and the second hook or lever, and which remains stable when the hanger is hung on the bar of a closet. Thus, if the lock fails due to poor closure or excess weight, the hanger could be kept in the expanded position but only while it remains hanging on the bar. This design means that when the hanger is to be taken down with a garment on it and the hanger is only blocked by the scissor mechanism, the hanger can surprisingly collapse due to the weight of the clothing. Therefore, this causes clothing to fall unexpectedly to the floor and, what is even worse, it can damage the user's hands by hitting or rubbing against some of the parts that move quickly and unexpectedly.

On the other hand, in view of the technical characteristics of this system, it is difficult for the hanger to be used with one hand, especially due to the need to cooperate with the wardrobe bar where it is intended to hang so that the hanger opens. , and for including a locking system with the particular configuration mentioned above. The natural mode of operation to fold or close this hanger is to hold it with one hand and with the other hand proceed to unlock the locking system to allow movement of the arms. The arrangement of the flexible tab, vertically on the hook and opposite the open part of the hook, which is where the hanger hangs off the bar, makes it impossible in practice to press this tab with the same hand holding the hanger. . For an average user, it is easier to press the tab with the free hand that is not holding the hanger, and then accompany the arms of the hanger during closure so that they do so at an adequate speed. Once folded or closed, the user must move the arms back to the expanded position or lean against the closet bar so that the hanger can return to its functional configuration and then ensure that the locking system engages and immobilizes the arms . When it comes to hanging heavy garments, such as a sweater or jacket, this opening and locking operation by supporting the hanger on the wardrobe bar can be difficult or impossible, especially if the user uses only one hand. A person who operates the hanger with one hand, due to the weight of the clothes, probably cannot complete the closing and opening operation or have to use too much effort to support the hanger on the wardrobe bar and push it, or to accompany the hanger. movement of the arms to open or close them. It also happens that manipulating the system with one hand until the assembly can be re-locked or hung, especially when it supports a garment, is extremely complicated.

Although there is a solution that tries to do without them, most folding hangers with locking elements use torsion coil springs, which serve to facilitate the opening of the arms. Unlike the hangers without retaining elements, the function to keep the arms open now falls on a locking system, and the springs don't need to be that big. However, they cannot be small either since they have to be powerful enough to open the arms. The limited space available on a hanger and the need for the hangers to take up little volume when hung in parallel or stacked on top of each other restrict the size of the springs. Thus, the commonly used twist coil springs offer very limited spring and spring characteristics. In general, the use of coil springs in these hangers continues to pose the same problems as those already mentioned and negatively condition the design of the product.

Despite the fact that the incorporation of the coil springs helps to some extent to open the arms and the locking elements allow them to be kept open, these hangers still have the typical drawbacks of folding hangers, including those derived from the use of coil springs. They are not easy to use because the locking systems are poorly integrated into the product and force the user to manipulate it excessively and with difficulties, they are designs with a large penetration profile, their constitution makes them susceptible to snagging on clothing and they are also complex products. Various devices with locking elements and with torsion coil springs are known, such as those described in patents US 7036696 B2 or US 7828179 B2.

Document US 7036696 B2 describes a hanger with two independent pivoting arms and a torsion coil spring. This helical torsion spring has the central core located in the central body of the hanger and each of its wings connects to each of the arms. The hanger also has a wedge-based locking and unlocking system that is located in the central body of the hanger. The unlocking system allows the movement of the arms to be released by means of tabs on the sides that the user can press to unlock the mechanism. In turn, the locking system keeps the locked arms in the expanded position as long as they are fully open and the tabs and wedges are properly crimped.

When the user wants to fold the hanger, they must first press the tabs of the locking system, thus releasing the movement of the arms, and then, keeping the pressure on each tab, put pressure on the arms and close them. This type of hanger, It involves the user performing a sequence of actions that requires manipulation of the hanger with both hands, each using either to hold it, to unlock it, or to fold it. Thus, for example, when a user wants to take the hanger off a wardrobe to hook a garment, he must first hold the hanger with one hand and take it off the hook. Then, with the other hand, you have to press both wedges of the locking mechanism, which are located on the sides, to release the arms. Then, while still holding the hanger, you have to simultaneously close each arm with the same hand you used to unlock them, which can be quite difficult. Once the hanger is inserted into the garment, you must accompany the opening of the arms with your free hand so that they do so at an appropriate speed, trying not to damage the garment. Alternatively, a user could choose to move each of the arms, with the left and right hand respectively, but doing so would be even more difficult.

The device is also complex and materializes with two independent arms and a central body that are complemented by other additional systems and bodies. This plurality of parts has an impact on the increase in manufacturing and assembly requirements and in a greater possibility of failure.

In patent US 7828179 B2 a system similar to the previous one is mentioned, but with differences in the way in which the arms move. In this case, both arms also move, but share a common pivot located in a housing. A portion inside the housing, which also includes the hook and two legs, can be moved inside it. When the operator presses the portion downward, it pushes the legs to both arms some distance from the pivot, causing them to close and fold the hanger. The idea of this device is that a user can use it with one hand, but it is not suitable for it.

To close the hanger, the inner portion must be displaced relatively to the housing. To do it with one hand, an average user will rest their index and ring fingers on the inner portion, while holding the casing with their thumb and pressing both pieces with a clamp movement. Making this gesture without the hanger unbalancing or falling while holding it, is practically impossible, especially if there are clothes hanging on it.

The opening of the arms could be carried out by linking the legs to the arms, so that when the central portion is pulled upwards, the arms expand. However, the document fails to reveal that linkage, which is not obvious due to the way in which all components must be moved relatively. Furthermore, a user would also not be able to open the hanger with one hand. You need one hand to lift the central potion and with the other hand you must simultaneously access and hold the casing without slipping, which is very complicated, especially if there is a garment on the hanger.

Due to these drawbacks, the device cannot do without a helical torsion spring to facilitate the opening of the arms. However, in addition to the problems related to this type of springs, an element of resistance to the closure of the hanger is also introduced. This added resistance makes it even more difficult to slide the inner portion into the housing with a pincer movement, while holding the hanger with the tips of your fingers.

To keep the arms open, a locking system is introduced consisting of two hooks, each fixed to one arm, which are inserted into a gap in the inner portion when the arms are opened. In order to unlock the arms, it is proposed to establish a mechanism consisting of two pins located in the casing, which, when the central portion moves relatively and pushes the arms, lift the shanks of the hooks freeing them from the hole. As the hooks are an element that is part of each arm, to release the arms they must be deformed and exert a force that sufficiently flexes the hooks. This means that the resistance for the inner portion to move relatively with respect to the casing is now much greater, making the operation of the device extremely difficult. With this locking system, it is very difficult to use one hand and try to close the hanger with a pincer movement. Even using both hands, it can be dangerous for the user or the garment since the force necessary to release the hooks must be intense, and the arms can be closed suddenly causing an accident.

Additionally, the hanger comprises a series of components that occupy a considerable volume in the central area. This volume makes the penetration profile of the hanger very large and makes it unsuitable for inserting or removing it from narrow holes. Furthermore, the plurality of parts and their complex relationship have negative effects on the reliability of the product and on its manufacturing, assembly and recycling process.

In general, folding hangers that can also be used to hang and unhook clothes with their neck closed or with closures, must have a locking element to keep your arms open and to support the garments on them. However, known systems fail to offer easy-to-use and easy-to-handle, clothes-safe and user-friendly products that can be easily inserted and removed from clothes, with a way to fold and unfold the effective hanger. even when inserted into a garment, simple, compact, easily repairable, and offering minimal environmental impact.

Normally the user is forced to manipulate the hanger excessively and its operation is very difficult. To make them work requires skill, coordination, the execution of several sequential actions and the use of both hands. This complicates the process of picking up the hanger, folding it, inserting it in and out of a garment, and redeploying it.

For the purposes of this specification, the uses, procedures and drawbacks outlined in the background of the invention to use the hangers and hang or hang garments on the hangers, are similar whether the action is performed by a person or if machines are used such as robots, automatic systems, mechanical systems or other elements normally arranged in industrial, logistics, distribution, commercial, hotel, cleaning or other environments.

EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a collapsible hanger with blocking means, preferably for hanging clothes. The hanger comprises a hook, two arms pivotable relatively and around a pivot, and blocking means that block or unblock the relative pivoting movement of the arms. More specifically, one aspect of the invention relates to the front hanger where the first arm further comprises the hook and which also comprises a support area on which a user's hand rests so that it can hold the first arm while folding or open the hanger. Another aspect relates to the hanger of the invention where the locking means comprise a trigger, a locking arm comprising a locking tooth, and a locking protrusion. Another aspect refers to the hanger of the invention where the blocking means comprise ridges and a blocking plug.

The hanger described here can be materialized with any suitable material or with any suitable method. For example, the hanger can be made of plastic, rubber, fiber, wood, composite, metal or metal alloys, or a combination of the above. Furthermore, various components can be of similar, the same, different materials or a combination of materials or multimaterials. Likewise, various components can be manufactured individually, be part of others, or be comprised of multiple parts. For example, an arm may have a metal or plastic core and a rubber outer shell. In another example, an arm may further comprise the hook.

It should be noted that, as used in this description and in the claims, the singular forms of the articles "a", "one", "the" and their feminines, also refer to plurals unless the The context clearly indicates otherwise. Thus, for example, the term "one arm" can refer to a single arm or also to a combination of arms.

One aspect of the present invention is a collapsible garment hanger comprising:

- A hook to hang the hanger.

- A first pivotable arm with respect to a second arm.

- A second pivotable arm with respect to the first arm.

In any embodiment of the present invention, both the first arm and the second arm can be smooth or include indentations, notches, grooves, recesses or other accessories. For example, the slots can be used to accommodate clothing with suspenders and prevent them from slipping and falling; Another example is to use tweezers or rubber bands as a complement to hold pants, socks or a tie; Another example is to include some sawtooth notches to prevent slipping of some garments; etc.

- A pivot around which relatively any of the two arms pivot between an expanded position and a closed position.

For the purposes of this invention and its description, a pivot is a central point around which something swings or rotates. For example, a pivot may be a pointed or cylindrical end of one part where another is inserted or supported, so that one of them can easily rotate or oscillate with respect to the other. One pivot can materialize in multiple ways, such as by means of a shaft or a hollow or solid drum that rotates around a cylinder or a hole and can have a single face or be a set of faces, such as several staggered cylindrical side faces.

In this aspect of the invention the hanger further comprises blocking means that block or unblock the relative pivoting movement of the arms.

For the purposes of this invention and its description, the term distal indicates remoteness to a point of origin, to a point of insertion of a part, or to any reference point. The term proximal means closer to the center or the point of union with a body. Also, the words proximal and distal refer respectively to a direction near or far from the center of rotation of the hanger (ie, the pivot).

On the other hand, the term closed, collapsed or folded position refers to the configuration of the hanger in which the distal ends of the first arm and the second arm are closer. The term expanded, unfolded or open position refers to the configuration in which the distal ends of the first arm and the second arm are further apart.

Also, in this aspect of the invention, the first arm further comprises the hook, forming a single body between all of them. The hanger also comprises a support area or area on which the hand of a user who holds the first arm rests, while folding or opening the hanger. When a user rests his hand on the support area, cooperation between the hand and the hanger is favored and the relative grip and rotation of the arms with respect to the pivot is facilitated. To fold the hanger, the user can rest his hand on the support area to hold it while closing it. The user can also open the hanger while holding the first arm and hook assembly, while the second arm pivots to retrieve the expanded configuration

For the purposes of this invention and its description, the hanger arm is that part that serves as a support for the garments. The hook of the hanger is that part of the hanger that serves to hang the hanger, for example, from the bar of a hanger. Both the hook and the arm, when forming an assembly, can be of any shape and can further comprise other parts, such as for example the pivot or a part thereof, and / or the locking means or parts thereof. In materializing this aspect of the invention the boundary between the hook and the arm may be clear or it may be fuzzy. Therefore, it should be understood that the support zone or zones may be on the hook and arm, or on the hook and in an intermediate place between the hook and the arm, or in the arm and in an intermediate area between the arm and the hook, or in the hook, or in the arm.

In any aspect or embodiment of the present invention, when a user wishes to introduce the hanger of the invention through an opening of a garment to hang it, he must first fold the hanger in case it was previously open. To close the hanger, it first acts on the locking means when they are locking the arms, to allow relative pivoting movement of the arms. The hanger can then be folded either by exerting force on the arms, by either dropping the arms under its own weight, or by giving a jerk-forward motion. In this way, the arms pivot relatively towards a closed position, facilitating the introduction of the hanger into the garment through the opening. To regain the expanded position, the user may also choose to exert a force on the arms, to allow them to open under their own weight, or to give a jerk push to unfold them. Additionally, in a preferred embodiment of the hanger in which it further comprises resilient self-healing means, the user may also allow the arms to open due to the action of the self-healing means.

Similarly, when a user wishes to unhook a garment from the hanger, first, if the arms are locked, he must act on the locking means to allow relative pivoting movement of the arms and for the arms to pivot relatively to a closed position. When the arms are closed, the removal of the hanger from the garment, or the garment from the hanger, is facilitated by passing the hanger through an opening in the garment. Once the garment has been taken down, the user can reopen the hanger.

The user can interact with the hanger to open or close it in various ways. On the one hand, it can induce a collapse or opening load on one of the arms in different ways. For example, you can induce the load by the fingers of the same hand with which you hold the hanger, or you can induce the load by one free hand while holding the hanger with the other, or you can induce the load with both hands, each holding an arm. On the other hand, you can also position the hanger so that the arms are opened or closed by gravity. For example, you can close the hanger by dropping one or both arms while holding it with one hand by the hook, or while holding it with one hand by one of the arms, or while holding it with one hand through an area. of support when the arm and the hook form a single piece. You can also open or close the hanger with a quick movement so that enough momentum is provided to the arms to pivot around the pivot. For example, you can open the hanger while holding it with one hand through one arm or through a support area when the arm and hook form one piece, giving a quick jerk to propel the other arm and move it. pivoting until the hanger adopts the expanded configuration.

In a specific embodiment, the first arm and the hook comprise at least one support zone or area on which the palm and back of a user's hand rest. For the purposes of this invention and its description, the palm or back of a hand includes the surfaces of the interdigital skin folds that lie between the base of the fingers. In this way, for example, in some embodiments of the invention, the hand of a user can rest on the palm or on the back, understanding as such the interdigital fold that is at the base of the fingers of the hand.

In a more specific embodiment, the palm and back are between the thumb and index finger of the hand. The space of the hand that is located between the thumb and the index finger, is characterized by a padded bulge in the palm part, and a valley, opposite to the previous one, in the back part. These anatomical features are exploited in the invention to facilitate efficient interaction between the hand and the hanger.

In an even more specific embodiment, the palm rests on the tenar eminence and the back rests on the first dorsal interosseous muscle and on the interdigital skin fold located between the base of the fingers.

The tenar eminence is the group of muscles associated with the mobility of the thumb that are located at the base of the thumb and that constitute one of the elevations of the palm of the hand. Although some authors do not include it in this group, for the purposes of this invention and its description, the pollicis abductor or thumb abductor is considered a muscle that may be in this group. When it is indicated that the palm rests on the tenar eminence or on the first dorsal interosseous muscle or on the interdigital fold, it means that it rests totally or partially on that part of the hand, and also that it can additionally rest on other surrounding areas. Thus, for example, a user can rest the palm on the flexor pollicis brevis, the abductor pollicis brevis or the abductor pollicis or on a combination of the above. It can also support the back on the first dorsal interosseous muscle, or on the interdigital fold, or on the abductor pollicis (although the latter may be considered a muscle of the palm of the hand), or on a combination of the above.

In a still more specific embodiment, the palm rests on the tenar eminence and the back rests on the first dorsal interosseous muscle.

In a still more specific embodiment, the palm rests on the tenar eminence and the back rests on the interdigital fold of skin that lies between the base of the fingers.

In another more specific embodiment, the hanger further comprises a support area on which at least one finger of a user's hand rests. In an even more specific embodiment, the support area on which a user's finger rests is a trigger. Therefore, the support area on which a finger of a user's hand rests can be a fixed part or it can also be a mobile part, such as an actuation means (for example, a trigger). Furthermore, a user's finger can be supported in the support area in various ways. For example, a finger can rest on the second or middle phalanx when it is bent at the proximal interphalangeal joint. In another example, a finger can rest on the distal phalanx when it is bent at the proximal interphalangeal joint.

In the embodiments in which the hanger also comprises a support area on which a finger (or several) of the hand rests, the prehensile capabilities of the hand are used to hold the hanger. In this way, the user can also hold the hanger with one hand using one of the free fingers of the same with a prehensile movement, while having any of the rest of the fingers available to carry out other actions, such as pressing the arm pivoting to close the hanger or to manipulate some component of the blocking means. Grip can be produced, for example, by resting the palm on the tenar eminence in the support areas, and the back on the interdigital fold of skin that is located between the base of the index fingers and thumb or also on the dorsal interosseous muscle . Simultaneously, a finger, such as the index finger, rests on another area preferably opposite to the previous ones, thus firmly holding the hanger. With this way of grasping the hanger, the user can comfortably squeeze or squeeze it, ensuring a robust hold. The index finger can be bent and supported on the middle phalanx, so that it can easily press on the hanger, although it can also be supported on the proximal phalanx or the distal phalanx (the fingertip) if the user finds it more comfortable. Simultaneously, with the rest of the fingers free and while holding the hanger firmly, the user can press a pivoting arm to close the hanger or manipulate the locking means. If, in addition, the hanger includes a trigger located in the support on which the finger rests, the index finger can simultaneously press it to operate, for example, the means for locking or unlocking the arms.

In another more specific embodiment, the support zones or areas are a straight section located on the first arm and a straight section located on the hook. The straight shape of the sections must be understood broadly. For example, a straight section may in turn comprise a curved portion, or a rounding, or a curved chamfer that connects it to another section. Additionally, like the arms, the sections can be smooth or include indentations, notches, grooves, recesses or other accessories. In an even more specific embodiment, the support zones or areas are a straight section located on the first arm and several straight sections located on the hook. In a still more specific embodiment, the straight sections converge at one point and form an angle between 20 ° and 60 °. In a still more specific embodiment, the section located on the hook has a length of at least 3 cm.

The convergence of the sections conforms to the convergence that circumscribes the profile of the palm and the back of the hand in the vicinity of the base of the fingers, facilitating intimate contact between the hand and the set that form the first arm with the hook. In these embodiments, the hanger fastening can be done with one hand and is secured by simply inserting the hand between the hook and the first arm. When doing so, a collaboration occurs between the hand and the hanger that allows the hanger to be held firmly while manipulating with the same hand or, if the user prefers, using the other hand, to move, hang or take off clothes, open it or close. This collaboration can also be favored if the hook section includes elements that prevent slipping between the back of the hand and the hanger, such as, for example, several straight sections in the form of saw teeth, indentations, notches, grooves or recesses. Also, if the user wishes, he can also support one of the free fingers on the body that forms the first arm with the hook to grasp the hanger with a prehensile effect.

In another more specific embodiment, the support area or area comprised on the hook comprises compression means that compress the back of the hand. The compression means cooperate with the hand making it difficult to rotate the first arm and the hook as a whole, while the user manipulates the hanger to open or close it. The compression means also facilitate the grip of the hanger when manipulating to hang or take off a garment, or the hanger itself. Like the previous embodiment, the hanger is secured by simply inserting one hand between the hook and the first arm, although it can also be complemented by grasping the hanger with a finger of the same hand, and pressing. In an even more specific embodiment, the compression means are a portion of resilient material arranged in the support zone or area, such as a foam or an elastomer. The resilient behavior of the compression means implies that a component or some of its parts is shaped or made of a material that makes it mechanically deformable, elastic or plastic when a load is applied to it. In a still more specific embodiment, the compression means is a cantilevered flexible tongue. In a still more specific embodiment, the compression means compress the first dorsal interosseous muscle located on the back of the hand.

In another more specific embodiment, the support area or area comprised on the hook comprises non-slip means that cooperate with the back of the hand. As with the previous embodiments, with the non-slip means the hanger can be held simply by inserting a hand between the hook and the first arm, or further grasping the hanger with a finger of the same hand, and pressing. The anti-slip means also ensure user interaction with the hanger and prevent it from slipping when it is held, grasped, closed or opened, or when it is operated to hang or unhook clothes. In an even more specific embodiment, the anti-slip means are one or more indentations, protrusions, ridges or projections. In a still more specific embodiment, the anti-slip means is a portion of anti-slip material arranged in the support zone or area, such as, for example, a foam or an elastomer. In a still more specific embodiment, the anti-slip means cooperate with the back of the hand in the area above the first dorsal interosseous muscle and with the interdigital skin fold that lies between the base of the fingers. In a still more specific embodiment, the non-slip means cooperate with the back of the hand in the area above the first dorsal interosseous muscle. In a still more specific embodiment, the anti-slip means cooperates with the interdigital fold of skin that lies between the base of the fingers.

In the embodiments with the support areas comprising straight sections, compression means, or anti-slip means, the user does not need to also grasp the hanger with the free fingers of the hand, although he may do so if he wishes. Attachment is ensured by simply inserting one hand between the hook and the first arm. The support area on which the back of the hand rests is wide enough so that cooperation and support are efficient when the user uses the hanger. In this way, the first arm assembly (with the hook) can be held in place while handling or using the hanger for hanging or removing clothes. This manipulation, if desired, can also be done with the free fingers of the same hand that holds the hanger.

In a preferred embodiment, the first arm and the hook comprise at least one support area on which the palm of a user's hand rests and another support area on which a finger of the user's hand rests. In this embodiment, the holding of the hanger is achieved when the user presses at least one finger against the palm of his hand in a prehensile movement, without there having to be elements of the hanger that also collaborate with the back of his hand. This type of grip also allows you to hold the hanger with only one hand, and also to use the free fingers of the same hand to carry out other actions, such as manipulating blocking means. In an even more preferred embodiment, the bearing area on which a user's finger rests is actuation means, such as a trigger.

In another preferred embodiment, the support area is a handle through which a finger of a user's hand is inserted. In this way, when a user introduces a finger in the handle, the assembly formed by the first arm and the hook are held, allowing manipulation of the hanger with one hand and the relative rotation of the second arm. A handle can be, for example, a ring, a loop or a hook. A finger of a user's hand may be, for example, the thumb that is inserted into the handle. The handle can be placed in different places on the hanger, such as on the arm, on the arm, on the hook, on the hook or in an intermediate area between the arm and the hook.

In another preferred embodiment, the support area is a through opening located in the first arm through which a finger of a user's hand is inserted. Similar to the handle, when a user introduces a finger into the opening, the assembly that forms the first arm and the hook can be held with one hand, being able to open or close the hanger with the same hand. The opening may be of any shape such as to allow a finger to be inserted and to hold the assembly of the first arm. For example, an opening may be in the shape of a quadrilateral with two converging sides through which a user inserts the thumb of the hand, while simultaneously resting part of the palm and the back on the inner profile of the opening.

In another specific embodiment, the locking means locks or unlocks the relative pivoting movement of the arms in, or from, the closed position.

In another specific embodiment, the blocking means comprise:

- A trigger, movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, which cooperates with a locking arm.

- A locking arm arranged in any of the pivotable arms that comprises a locking tooth, movable between a first configuration and a second configuration when the trigger cooperates with it.

- A locking protrusion arranged on the other pivotable arm cooperating with the locking tooth, where in a first configuration the locking tooth selectively engages the locking protrusion to block relative movement of the arms in the expanded position, and where in a second configuration the locking tooth is selectively released from the locking protrusion allowing relative movement of the arms.

In a more specific embodiment, the trigger and the locking arm are cantilevered flexible tabs.

In another more specific embodiment, the trigger is arranged in an area proximal to the open part of the hook.

In any aspect of the invention where the locking means comprises a trigger, it is allowed, among other things, that a user can hold and grip the hanger with one hand and simultaneously, in addition, press the trigger with the same hand to actuate the means blockers and release arms. The trigger can be arranged in different places on the hanger. However, when the trigger is positioned in the open area of the hook, interaction between an average user and the system is facilitated. This is due to the fact that an average user usually holds a hanger with the open part of the hook facing the element where it is intended to hang, such as the bar of an exhibitor or a hanger, while being placed in front of it. In this situation, it is easier for the user that the trigger is located in an easily accessible place for the fingers of the hand with which the hanger is held. That is, in an area proximal to the open part of the hook.

For example, one way to use the hanger of the invention with locking means comprising a trigger is to hold the hanger to proceed to take it down from a cabinet. When the user grasps the hanger with one hand, the trigger is naturally accessible to the free fingers of the same hand and this induces the user to press it, while holding the hanger with firmness. With this movement the relative movement of the arms is easily released. At the same time, the rest of the fingers of the same hand are available to perform other actions, such as manipulating other elements of the hanger.

When a single hand is used to hold the hanger and you want the hanger to return to the expanded position, the user tends to decrease the intensity with which he pulls the trigger. This makes it easier for the locking tooth of the locking means to reattach to the locking protrusion and the arms to lock when the hanger returns to the expanded configuration. This also facilitates retrieval of the expanded configuration when the user moves the hanger so that the arms open under their own weight, or when the user opens the hanger with a quick shake to give impulse to one of the arms. For example, the user can open and simultaneously lock the arms of the hanger, while holding it with one hand through a support area when the arm and hook form a single piece, with a quick movement that drives the second arm up until the hanger adopts the expanded configuration and the locking tooth engages again with the locking protrusion.

In another specific embodiment, the blocking means comprise:

- Some crests arranged on any of the pivotable arms. For example, the ridges can be arranged on the free end of the pivot shaft located on one of the arms. In this case, the shaft has one of its ends fixed to the arm, while at the free end it comprises ridges, projections, indentations or protuberances.

- A blocking plug associated with the other pivotable arm that cooperates with the ridges. The blocking plug is movable between a first configuration and a second configuration. In a first configuration, it selectively engages the ridges to block relative movement of the arms. In a second configuration, it selectively disengages from the ridges allowing relative movement of the arms.

In any aspect of the invention where the blocking means comprise ridges and a plug, when the blocking plug engages the ridges, the relative pivoting movement of the arms is blocked as a restriction of the pivoting degree of freedom is introduced. This restriction is due to the fact that the ridges have one of their ends fixed to one of the arms and the blocking plug is associated to the other arm without relative rotation movement. between the cap and this other arm. Conversely, when the locking plug is disengaged from the ridges, the relative pivoting movement of the arms is unlocked.

Locking means comprising one or more plugs also allow the hanger to be attached and operated with one hand. For example, a user could hold the hanger with the tips of the thumb, index and ring fingers while simultaneously pressing a plug with the tip of either finger. Also, when the hanger comprises support areas and is held with one hand, the free fingers of the same hand can be used to manipulate one or more plugs very easily.

In another specific embodiment, the hanger further comprises a stop that limits the relative pivoting movement of the arms beyond the expanded position.

In another preferred embodiment, the hanger further comprises resilient self-healing means associated with either arm and exerting a recovery load on either arm, separating the distal ends of the first arm and the second arm from a closed position to an expanded position when either arm pivots relatively around the pivot.

For the purposes of this invention and its description, the term resilient self-healing means comprises resilient means, but also any means for providing resilient force, work, or energy.

In any aspect or embodiment of the present invention with resilient recovery means, to close the hanger a user must exert a collapse force on either arm that exceeds the recovery load of the resilient self recovery means. In this way, the arms pivot relatively towards a closed position, facilitating the introduction of the hanger into a garment through an opening. At the same time, this action causes resilient self-healing media to be resiliently loaded by adding recovery load. When the user-induced collapse force is reduced or disappears, the recovery load stored in the resilient self-recovery means expands the arms again.

The user can induce the collapse load on one of the arms in different ways. For example, you can induce the load using the fingers of the same hand with which you are holding the hanger. You can also induce charge with one free hand, while with the other hold the hanger. You can also induce the load by pulling the garment itself when it hangs on the hanger. You can also induce the load with both hands, each holding one arm. For example, you can have a T-shirt hanging on the hanger and the hanger hanging on a coat rack, on a hanger, or held by one hand. In this example, when you want to take the garment off, you can close the hanger by hand or you can pull the shirt down so that a load is induced on the arms that closes the hanger facilitating the passage of the hanger through of the shirt collar.

In a more preferred embodiment, the resilient self-healing means is a coil spring comprising a band or thread arranged around the pivot, with an inner end and an outer end.

For the purposes of this invention and its description, a spiral spring is an elastic system that is composed of at least one band or thread with an inner end and another outer end, wound following a flat spiral around a central point that can be materialized as an anchor, a pivot, a drum or an axis, to which it can be operationally attached at one of its ends.

The spiral spring is operationally attached to each of the arms. The operational union of the spring and the arms can take place directly or through other elements included in each of the arms, such as, for example, directly joining one of the arms, and to the hook when the other arm also includes the hook. Therefore, the hanger can be embodied by various variants and equivalents of the invention.

In a more preferred embodiment, the inner end of the coil spring is operationally attached to the pivot and the outer end is operationally attached to the other pivoting arm around the pivot. For example, the inner end can be attached to the axis of a pivot or the cylinder of a pivot, and the outer end to the other arm. In another more preferred embodiment, the coil spring comprises a metal band. For example, a metallic band of elastic steel (also known as spring steel). In another more preferred embodiment, the coil spring comprises one or more elastomer strips.

In another more preferred embodiment, the resilient self-healing means is an extensible band or thread.

For the purposes of this invention and its description, "stretchable" means that the band can be lengthened or stretched with respect to an initial configuration. This feature also encompasses the possibility that the stretch band or yarn is shortened again from a more elongated configuration.

The stretchable band or thread is operationally attached to each of the arms. Like the spiral spring, the operational connection with the arms can be made directly or through other elements included in each of the arms, such as, for example, directly attaching to one of the arms, and to the hook when the other arm It also includes the hook. Therefore, the hanger can also be embodied by various variants and equivalents of the invention.

In a more preferred embodiment, one end of the elongated web or thread is operationally attached to the pivot and the other end is operationally attached to one of the pivoting arms around the pivot. In another more preferred embodiment, the stretch band or yarn comprises one or more elastomer strips. By way of example, in this embodiment the stretchable band can be materialized by means of one or more rubber bands or threads arranged one on top of the other or interwoven and placed around the pivot to form resilient self-recovery means that store energy when they are lengthened, returning it when are shortened.

In another preferred embodiment, the hanger further comprises a mounting clip that couples the first arm to the second arm and allows relative pivoting between the two. A mounting clip can be, for example, one or more snap fit disposed inside the pivot.

In another preferred embodiment, the hanger further comprises an identification system. In a more preferred embodiment, the identification system is an RFID tag. In another more preferred embodiment, the identification system is a barcode, a two-dimensional code type PDF417 or a two-dimensional code type QR.

In another preferred embodiment, the hanger further comprises a bar, hinged at a distal end of one arm and associated with the distal end of the other arm. This embodiment allows a user to arrange various garments on the hanger, such as a jacket on the arms and pants on the bar, or a shirt on the arms and a skirt on the bar. Similar to the arms, the bar can be smooth or include indentations, notches, grooves, recesses or other accessories such as clamps. The relationship of the bar with the other elements of the hanger is such that a user can move the hanger from an open position to a closed position without the need for additional operations, such as removing the bar. For this there are several alternatives. Thus, in a more preferred embodiment, the bar is hinged at both distal ends and further comprises an intermediate link. In another more preferred embodiment, the bar is associated with the other distal end by means of a sliding joint. In both cases, a bar and tie mechanism is formed that allows the hanger to open and close.

Another aspect of the present invention is a collapsible garment hanger comprising:

- A hook to hang the hanger.

- A first pivotable arm with respect to a second arm.

- A second pivotable arm with respect to the first arm.

- A pivot around which relatively any of the two arms pivot between an expanded position and a closed position.

In this aspect of the invention the hanger further comprises blocking means that block or unblock the relative pivoting movement of the arms. These blocking means in turn comprise:

- A trigger, movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, which cooperates with a locking arm.

- A locking arm arranged in any of the pivotable arms that comprises a locking tooth, movable between a first configuration and a second configuration when the trigger cooperates with it.

- A locking protrusion arranged on the other pivotable arm cooperating with the locking tooth, where in a first configuration the locking tooth selectively engages the locking protrusion to block relative movement of the arms in the expanded position, and where in a second configuration the locking tooth it selectively releases itself from the locking protrusion by allowing relative movement of the arms.

In a specific embodiment, the trigger and the locking arm are cantilevered flexible tabs.

In another specific embodiment, the trigger is arranged proximal to the open part of the hook.

In another specific embodiment, the blocking means further comprise:

- Some crests arranged on any of the pivotable arms.

- A blocking plug associated with the other pivotable arm that cooperates with the ridges. The blocking plug is movable between a first configuration and a second configuration. In a first configuration, it selectively engages the ridges to block relative movement of the arms. In a second configuration, it selectively disengages from the ridges allowing relative movement of the arms. When the locking plug engages the ridges, the relative pivoting movement of the arms is blocked as a restriction of the pivoting degree of freedom is introduced. Conversely, when the locking plug is disengaged from the ridges, the relative pivoting movement of the arms is unlocked.

In a more specific embodiment, the blocking means further comprise a pusher plug operationally associated with the blocking plug which when pushed the blocking plug displaces it between the second configuration and the first configuration, unlocking the relative movement of the arms.

In any aspect of the invention where the blocking means comprises a pusher plug, a user can selectively press the blocking plug to block the relative pivoting movement of the arms and on the other hand can press the pusher plug to unlock the relative pivoting movement of the arms .

On the other hand, the user can also actuate the blocking means by means of the blocking plug in any relative pivoting position of the spleens to block them. For example, you can lock the arms when the hanger is in the folded configuration.

In another specific embodiment, the first arm further comprises the hook, forming a single assembly between all of them. In a more specific embodiment, the hanger further comprises a support area or area on which a user's hand rests. In this way, when the user rests his hand on the support area, he holds the assembly of the first arm and the hook while folding or opening the hanger, being able to manipulate the hanger with one hand if desired. In these embodiments of the invention, the locking means also allows a user to hold and grip the hanger with one hand and simultaneously, with the free fingers of the same hand, to operate them. Thus, the user can use the free fingers of the same hand with which the hanger is held to pull the trigger. You can also use the free fingers of the same hand to press the locking cap, or you can also use the free fingers of the same hand to press the pusher cap.

For example, a user could hold the hanger in the expanded configuration by resting their hand on the support area. Then you could press the trigger to unlock the movement of the second arm and fold the hanger down by letting it drop under its own weight. With the hanger folded, you could also press with the fingers of the same hand any of the plugs to lock or unlock the relative pivoting motion of the arms in, or from, the closed position. To open the hanger, with the arms unlocked, you could simply propel the second arm in a swift motion to pivot, until the locking tooth cooperates with the locking protrusion, thus maintaining the expanded configuration of the arms.

In another specific embodiment, the hanger further comprises a stop that limits the relative pivoting movement of the arms beyond the expanded position.

Similar to the first aspect of the invention, in another specific embodiment, the hanger further comprises resilient self-healing means associated with either arm and exerting a recovery load on either arm, separating the distal ends of the first arm and the second arm from a closed position to an expanded position when either arm pivots relatively around the pivot.

In a more specific embodiment, the resilient self-healing means is a coil spring comprising a band or thread arranged around the pivot, with an inner end and an outer end.

In another more specific embodiment, the resilient self-healing means is an elongated web or string.

In another preferred embodiment, the hanger further comprises a mounting clip that couples the first arm to the second arm and allows relative pivoting between the two. A mounting clip can be, for example, one or more snap fit disposed inside the pivot.

In another preferred embodiment, the hanger further comprises an identification system, such as, for example, an RFID tag, a barcode, a two-dimensional code type PDF417 or a two-dimensional code type QR.

Another aspect of the present invention is a collapsible garment hanger comprising:

- A hook to hang the hanger.

- A first pivotable arm with respect to a second arm.

- A second pivotable arm with respect to the first arm.

- A pivot around which relatively any of the two arms pivot between an expanded position and a closed position.

In this aspect of the invention the hanger further comprises blocking means that block or unblock the relative pivoting movement of the arms. These blocking means in turn comprise:

- Some crests arranged on any of the pivotable arms.

- A blocking plug associated with the other pivotable arm that cooperates with the ridges. The blocking plug is movable between a first configuration and a second configuration. In a first configuration, it selectively engages the ridges to block relative movement of the arms. In a second configuration, it selectively disengages from the ridges allowing relative movement of the arms.

In a preferred embodiment, the blocking means further comprise a pusher plug operationally associated with the blocking plug which when pushed the blocking plug displaces it between the second configuration and the first configuration, unlocking the relative movement of the arms.

In another preferred embodiment, the blocking means further comprise a plate with through openings, such as grooves or holes, which are pierced by the ridges, fixing the rotation of the plate. When one of the arms engages the other during mounting of the hanger, the plate can serve as a retaining means that restricts the degrees of freedom of the joint and prevents the arms from being removed.

In another preferred embodiment, the blocking means further comprise:

- A trigger, movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, which cooperates with a locking arm.

- A locking arm arranged in any of the pivotable arms that comprises a locking tooth, movable between a first configuration and a second configuration when the trigger cooperates with it.

- A locking protrusion arranged on the other pivotable arm cooperating with the locking tooth, where in a first configuration the locking tooth selectively engages the locking protrusion to block relative movement of the arms in the expanded position, and where in a second configuration the locking tooth is selectively released from the locking protrusion allowing relative movement of the arms.

In another preferred embodiment, the first arm further comprises the hook, forming a single assembly between all of them. In a more preferred embodiment, the hanger further comprises a support area or area on which a user's hand rests. As in the other aspects of the invention, when the user rests his hand on the support area, he holds the first arm assembly and the hook while folding or opening the hanger, being able to manipulate the hanger with one hand if he so wishes. you want.

For example, one way to use the hanger of the invention with blocking means comprising two plugs, is to hold the hanger with one hand to proceed to insert it through the hole of a garment. In this case, one way to materialize the hanger is to arrange a blocking plug on one side of the hanger and a pusher plug on the opposite side of the hanger. If the arms are locked, the user can press the pusher plug that unlocks the arms with one of the free fingers of the hand with which the hanger is held, and then drop the second arm under its own weight.

In another example, when the locking means comprise only one locking plug, the user can operate the locking plug to lock or unlock the arms with the free fingers of the same hand with which the hanger is held, or with the help of the other hand. For example, you can press the blocking plug to block the movement of the arms or you can pull the blocking plug to unlock the movement of the arms.

In another example, when the blocking means further comprises a trigger, the user can actuate the trigger to unlock the movement of the arms and use the blocking plug to block or unblock the movement of the arms in the closed position of the hanger.

On the other hand, in any of these embodiments the user can also operate the blocking plug in any relative pivoting position of the spleens to block them. Thus, for example, a user can lock the arms in the expanded configuration of the hanger, in the closed configuration of the hanger, or at any point in the path between the open or closed configuration of the hanger.

In another preferred embodiment, the hanger further comprises a stop that limits the relative pivoting movement of the arms beyond the expanded position.

Similar to the other aspects of the invention, in another preferred embodiment, the hanger further comprises resilient self-healing means associated with either arm and exerting a recovery load on either arm, separating the distal ends of the first arm and second arm from a closed position to an expanded position when either arm pivots relatively around the pivot.

In a more preferred embodiment, the resilient self-healing means is a coil spring comprising a band or thread arranged around the pivot, with an inner end and an outer end.

In another more preferred embodiment, the resilient self-healing means is an extensible band or thread.

In another preferred embodiment, the hanger further comprises a mounting clip that couples the first arm to the second arm and allows relative pivoting between the two. A mounting clip can be, for example, one or more snap fit disposed inside the pivot.

In another preferred embodiment, the hanger further comprises an identification system, such as, for example, an RFID tag, a barcode, a two-dimensional code type PDF417 or a two-dimensional code type QR.

The invention provides a collapsible hanger that makes it possible to hang and unload garments with the neck closed or with the closures unopened very easily. The hanger can also support the garments on it because it comprises blocking means that allow the arms to be kept open, even when a garment is hung on the hanger.

The hanger of the invention can be easily held during the process of picking up, hanging and unhooking the hanger itself, and can be done using only one hand. It can also be manipulated to move from an expanded position to a closed position and vice versa in a very simple way and, if desired, using the same hand with which the hanger is held. Thanks to the different modes of operation, the opening and closing of the arms also occurs fluidly, even when the hanger is inside the garment. On the other hand, the hanger of the invention can be built with few elements, and can be manufactured with only two pieces. In addition, the characteristics of the hanger can be materialized in very compact products that offer a very low penetration profile, which allows it to be easily inserted and removed from very narrow holes.

The hanger of the invention comprises blocking means that block or unblock the relative pivoting movement of the arms. The blocking means described in certain aspects and embodiments of the invention are independent of other elements of the environment, such as, for example, the bar of a wardrobe or a hanger where the hanger is intended to be hung, and need not cooperate with them to comply its function. In general, the media Blockers in any of its variants allow the hanger to be kept open or closed, fixing a position of the arms regardless of the load. For example, in certain applications, the locking means ensures the expanded shape of the hanger even if very heavy clothing, such as coats or winter jackets, is hung over it. In another example, the locking plug allows the hanger to be kept closed for easier transport or storage.

In a variant, the blocking means comprise a trigger that can be operated by a user, so that when pressed, the movement of the arms is unlocked. This solution allows, if the user wishes, to fold, expand and use the hanger with one hand from the moment it is first picked up until it is hung again. For example, you can hold the hanger with one hand and pull the trigger with your index or ring finger with a very comfortable and natural prehensile movement. This action can be done simultaneously, while holding the hanger itself and closing the arms to fold it. It also allows the other fingers of the same hand to be used for other tasks, such as manipulating other parts of the hanger. When you want the hanger to regain the expanded position, the user instinctively decreases the intensity with which he pulls the trigger, facilitating the engagement of the elements of the blocking means and, therefore, a new locking of the arms. Simultaneously, and within the same action, the user can move the hanger so that the arms open under their own weight, or they can give a quick shake to give impulse to one of the arms, thus recovering the expanded configuration of the hanger to the time the arms are locked again. Therefore, for the hanger of the invention to work, it is not necessary to carry out several sequential actions; you only need to perform an action on the device each time you want to close or open it.

In another variant, the blocking means comprise a plug that the user can actuate to block or unblock the movement of the arms. In this embodiment, locking or unlocking the arms works at the discretion of the user, and does not necessarily occur at a certain relative position of the arms. For example, a user can activate it only to keep the hanger permanently closed. You can also selectively disable it, so that the arms can move without restrictions permanently. These blocking means also allow the device to be used with one hand, while holding the hanger and simultaneously closing the arms with a minimum of actions by the user. The blocking means are normally arranged in the intermediate area of the hanger next to the pivot and are easily reachable with the free fingers of the same hand that holds the hanger. It is also possible to hold the hanger only with the tips of the fingers and at the same time use one of them to press a stopper. For example, a user can hold the hanger and simultaneously press a stopper of the locking means with the thumb or the index or ring finger of the same hand, both to lock and unlock the pivoting movement of the arms and to close or hold hanger open.

Both the locking means comprising a trigger and the locking means comprising a cap alert the user to the operation of the locking system in a direct, intuitive and unmistakable manner. The information offered by the blocking means of the invention is of the tactile, sound and visual type. For example, when the locking means comprising a trigger effectively locks the arms, an unmistakable sound is produced accompanied by a small vibration corresponding to the engagement of the locking tooth and the profusion of locking. When unlocking occurs, the user can see and feel the trigger displacement and note the unlocking of the locking tooth and the profusion of locking.

Although the user can interact with the hanger of the invention in different ways to hold, open or close it, the invention provides a hanger that can be used with one hand. In certain aspects and embodiments of the invention, technical characteristics are indicated that facilitate the cooperation of a user's hand with the device, so that with one hand the hanger is held, the arms can be unlocked and closed to insert or remove the hanger for a garment. Also with one hand, the arms can be reopened and locked in the expanded hanger configuration.

For example, in certain embodiments of the invention, technical characteristics and a special arrangement of an arm and hook are indicated in such a way that the anatomical characteristics of the palm and the back of the hand are used to hold one of the arms while unlocking. the relative pivoting movement of both arms and the hanger is closed. In this way, a user can simply put his hand between the hook and the arm resting his hand on a support area, and then operate the hanger

In other embodiments of the invention, a hanger is provided with support zones in which a finger can also be supported to grasp the hanger with a prehensile movement while handling the hanger. In others, a hanger is provided with a handle, or with a through opening through which a finger can be inserted to hold the hanger while in use. In all cases, the user can hold the hanger with one hand and You also have the freedom to use the fingers of the same hand to perform other actions, such as operating the blocking means or opening and closing the hanger. The operation of the device is based on natural, basic and simple movements related to sliding, squeezing and squeezing. Even if it is the first time it is used, the functions and the way of using the hanger are easily revealed and become evident for any user.

Handling the hanger with one hand offers benefits that go beyond the ease of use of the hanger. For example, it is safer for the garment, since the other hand is free and can be taken care of during the entire process of perching and de-perching. This reduces the chance of the garment accidentally falling onto the floor, wrinkling, or tearing. On the other hand, manipulation with one hand and the disposition of the hand relative to the moving parts and the areas of contact between components makes it very difficult for a user to suffer entrapment or pinch injuries. Furthermore, the hanger of the invention can be used by a greater diversity of people, such as, for example, children, the elderly and those with disabilities, amputations or with reduced mobility.

The hanger of the invention does not need complementary means such as auxiliary portions, hooks or levers that cooperate with elements external to the device to close, expand and / or stay in one position. Thus, for example, the hanger of the invention does not need to have a lever or a second hook that rests on the bar where it is intended to hang the hanger to go from the closed configuration to the open configuration, since this function can be assumed by the user that interacts with the hanger. This feature means that the hanger, when folded, maintains a minimal profile and without portions or elements that protrude laterally and that can hinder its introduction or removal of clothing.

The opening of the arms of the hanger and the recovery of the expanded form can be done in several ways, among which are the manipulation of the arms by the user, the opening by the effect of gravity, or the opening by means of a impulse. However, in certain embodiments of the invention a hanger is also provided with resilient self-healing means, which exert a recovery load on the arms when the hanger is closed. The self-recovery means make it easier for the arms to reopen autonomously once the user allows them to move, the hanger recovering the open configuration. In this way, a user who wants to close the hanger only has to induce a load on the arms to fold it. With the hanger closed, you can then easily insert or remove it through the hole in a garment. To return to the expanded hanger configuration, the user simply stops inducing pressure on the arms. The arms then open automatically, the hanger being able to retrieve the expanded configuration and being ready to receive a new garment or to support the hanged garment on it.

In one variant of the invention the resilient self-healing means is a coil spring. This type of spring is very compact in all three dimensions. In one of the Cartesian dimensions, it is very flat, since it comprises a band or thread wound following a flat spiral. In the other two dimensions, their size is reduced in the vicinity of the central point of the spiral, since they maintain high elastic capacities despite their small size. One of the characteristics of this variant of the invention is that the band or thread of the spiral spring is arranged around the pivot, whereby the spring together with its ends extends near the surroundings of the pivot. This arrangement together with the compactness of the spiral spring allows the resilient recovery system to occupy very little space and its integration is superior. In addition, the reduced volume of the recovery system, with the coil spring around the pivot, facilitates the design of a one-hand operable system.

In another variant of the invention, the resilient self-healing means comprise an extensible band or thread. As indicated for the spiral spring, an elastic band or wire provides a high degree of compactness unlike other systems such as, for example, those comprising monoblock springs. The ends of the stretch band can be attached to the components of the hanger by being arranged around the pivot or surrounding the pivot itself, while maintaining a high elastic recovery capacity. For example, one end can be associated with the pivot and the other end with one of the arms, in the vicinity of the pivot. If the load capacity of the stretch band is required to be even higher, you can use a band with a larger section or simultaneously use several bands without changing the volume of the system. You can also choose to increase the free length of the band, but thanks to its flexibility it can be extended following a winding path, maintaining great compactness. A consequence of this compactness is that, as with the spiral spring, the central portion of the hanger can be very narrow, thus facilitating the insertion of the folded device into clothing and also its removal.

The stretchable band or thread can be materialized in various ways, such as, for example, one or more elastomeric threads. In this way, the hanger of the invention can be Fully materialize with a single class of plastic materials. When the hanger is constructed in this manner, the costs and complexity of manufacturing processes are dramatically reduced. In addition, its environmental impact is minimized throughout the product life cycle.

Both the stretch band and the coil spring are flat components. This facilitates the materialization of compact hangers that are easy to stack and pack compared to hangers that use other types of more voluminous springs, such as torsion coil springs. Also, in both cases, they do not have wings or extensions that extend over the arms and their connection points are very close to the pivot. These compact configurations allow the arm design to be independent of the resilient self-healing media. In this way, the arms can be any shape, and can even be completely flat.

The combination of the blocking means of the invention with the elastic band or the spiral spring allows these self-recovery means to be small, since their function only consists in helping to open the arms. With the hanger of the invention, it is not even necessary to fully open the arms, since the total opening and final locking can be done by the user himself through the effect of gravity or with a hand push while holding the hanger. The small size of the band or the coil spring greatly reduces formal design restrictions and helps to materialize ergonomic, compact and low penetration profile hangers.

The special association of elements provided in this invention means that the device can be materialized in various ways, but among them, those in which a very low number of parts are used stand out. One of the variants of the invention can materialize its set of characteristics with only two independent pieces that can be coupled. For example: i) a pivoting arm which in turn can include the cylinder of a pivot and a locking arm with a locking tooth; and ii) another piece that includes the pivot axis, the hook, a trigger, a locking protrusion, two snap fit and the other arm. If resilient self-healing means or a plug are included, the number of pieces can be as few as three.

On the other hand, the device of the invention only needs a pivot to be able to fold or open, which results in the mechanical simplicity of the invention. Having a single pivot also makes the hanger, once folded, has very little span and occupies very Little space even in the central area, facilitating the introduction and extraction of the hanger from the neck of the garment.

When the hanger materializes with a reduced number of elements, the parts that must move relatively to fold it are only the two that comprise the arms, which simplifies the use of the product by the user and greatly reduces the possibility of failure. In addition, the reduced number of system components make it more efficient from a functional point of view but also from an environmental point of view. With few parts, manufacturing and assembly costs, as well as repair and recycling costs, are minimal. For example, the hanger of the invention can be easily materialized with two pieces that can be coupled by means of plastic injection processes, which are very efficient and low cost.

On the other hand, a device with a mechanism with so few parts also reduces the possibility of damaging clothes or damaging the user drastically. As it is a less mechanically complex system, it is more difficult for it to get stuck, or for the user or the garment to be damaged by blows, pinches or tears.

The configuration of the device, including the embodiments of the invention in which a spiral spring or an elastic band is included, is very compact. This allows the system to be stored and transported very efficiently, facilitating the distribution, transport and storage of the product. Even when several hangers of the invention are hung on a bar or hanger, they take up less space than other folding hangers and therefore more garments can be exposed.

In certain embodiments of the invention, the hanger further comprises an identification system. With this system you can identify the hanger or include, modify or delete information related to the manufacturing or distribution and sale process of the hanger. The identification system can also be used to integrate it with other systems, such as, for example, to match the hanger with certain variables in its environment, including the information of the garment hanging on it. The identification system therefore offers advantages to manufacturers and users. For example, with the identification system, more efficient processes of inventory management, logistics or behavior can be established through big data analysis . The coat hanger can also be part of an Internet of Things ( loT) oriented environment .

The invention is applicable in those sectors in which hangers are designed, manufactured, produced or used, such as, for example, the commerce, clothing stores, clothing distribution and logistics sectors, textile factories, dry cleaners, laundries and other textile treatment facilities, common homes, hotel establishments, and facilities with wardrobes or closets, among others.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 shows a general side view of a hanger of the invention. In Fig. 1A the chest can be seen in the expanded configuration, which includes a hook (1), a first pivotable arm (2), a second pivotable arm (3), a pivot (4) and also a stop (5 ). In this hanger, the first arm (2) also comprises the hook (1) forming a single component. The hanger also comprises support areas (7) on which the palm and back of a user's hand rest. In this specific embodiment, the support zones (7) are a straight section located on the first arm (2) and a straight section located on the hook (1) that converge at a point and form a beta angle. Furthermore, the hanger comprises another support area (7) opposite to the previous ones, suitable for a user to support one finger. This other support area (7) is also a trigger (12), which belongs to the blocking means that block or unblock the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2,3). The dotted circumference indicates an area of detail that is enlarged in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3. In Fig. 1B the hanger is shown in the closed configuration.

Fig. 2 shows a hanger similar to that of Fig. 1 but with different embodiments of the support area (7) located on the hook (1). In Fig. 2A a support area (7) is represented with three straight sections located on the hook (1) with curved transitions between them. In Fig. 2B a support area (7) is shown with a plurality of straight sections located on the hook (1). In Fig. 2C a support area (7) is represented with a plurality of straight sections combined with curved sections, indentations, protuberances, ridges and projections.

Fig. 3 shows the detail area indicated in Fig. 1 but with other embodiments of the support area (7) located on the hook (1). In Fig. 3A a support area (7) is shown with compression means (8) suitable for compressing the back of the hand. Specifically, the compression means is a flexible cantilevered tongue. In Fig.

3B shows a support area (7) with non-slip means (9) that cooperate with the back of the hand. The anti-slip means (9) shown are a plurality of indentations, protrusions, ridges or protrusions. Other anti-slip means (9) are shown in Fig. 3C , which specifically are a portion of anti-slip material.

Fig. 4 shows a hanger similar to the previous one, but with another formal aspect and different blocking means. In particular, on this hanger the first arm (2) and the hook (1) comprise at least one support area (7) suitable for a user to support the palm of the hand. Furthermore, the hanger comprises another support area (7) opposite to the previous one, suitable for a user to support a finger of the same hand. The blocking means comprise a blocking plug (17) that could be actuated by pressing it with the thumb of the right hand.

Fig. 5 shows a hanger similar to that of Fig. 4 but with another embodiment of the support area (7) and different blocking means. In this figure, the support area (7) is a handle through which a finger of a user's hand is inserted. The blocking means comprise a trigger (12) and a blocking cap (17) that block or unblock the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2,3).

Fig. 6 shows a hanger similar to that of Fig. 4 but with another embodiment of the support area (7). In this figure, the support area (7) is a through opening located in the first arm (2) through which a finger of a user's hand is inserted. Additionally, the hanger comprises an identification system (19), which is an RFID tag.

Fig. 7 shows a view of a hanger of the invention comprising a hook (1), a first pivotable arm (2), a second pivotable arm (3), a pivot (4), a locking means comprising a trigger (12), and also a hidden stop (5). In particular, in this figure a hanger is represented where the first arm (2) further comprises the hook (1). A side view of the hanger is shown in Fig. 7A and a plan view in Fig. 7B . In this figure, in addition to a trigger (12), a locking arm (13) with a locking tooth (14) at one of its ends and a semi-concealed locking protrusion (15) belonging to the locking means are seen. The plan view of this hanger allows to appreciate the flatness of the set, practically the same as that of a rigid hanger. The dotted circumference in Fig.7A indicates an area of detail shown in Fig. 9. The dashed and dotted line in Fig.7B indicates section BB, which will be shown in Fig. 9 where they will also be appreciated now hidden features. The hanger comprises support areas (7) on which the palm and back of a user's hand rest. These support areas (7) are a straight section located on the first arm (2) and a straight and curved section located on the hook (1). Opposite to the previous ones, there is another support area (7) suitable for a user to support a finger, which is also the trigger (12).

Fig. 8 shows a side view opposite to that of Fig. 7A where the front hanger is partially folded.

Fig. 9 shows enlarged section BB and the detail area indicated in Fig. 7B, in different phases of closing and opening of the hanger. In this figure the locking arm (13) with the locking tooth (14) at one of its ends, and the locking protrusion (15), belonging to locking means, are more clearly seen. You can also see the stop (5) that comprises two parts: one located on the first arm (2) and that is part of the same component where the locking protrusion (15) is, and another located on the second arm (3) in the form of a wall with a break. In Fig. 9A the open hanger is shown with the arms (2,3) blocked by the blocking means. The locking tooth (14) is attached to the locking protrusion (15) blocking the relative movement of the arms (2.3) in the expanded position. In Fig. 9B the trigger (12) is depressed and moves between the first configuration and this second configuration, pushing and flexing the locking arm (13) to the right. The locking tooth (14), which is located at the free end of the locking arm (13), selectively releases itself from the locking protrusion (15) allowing the relative movement of the arms (2,3). In Fig. 9C the second arm (3) pivots freely and relatively to the first arm (2), closing the hanger. In Fig. 9D the second arm moves to open the hanger again. As a consequence, the second arm (3) pivots to return to the initial position and the locking tooth (14) slides on a face of the component where the locking protrusion (15) is located, flexing the locking arm (14 ) to go to the first configuration. In Fig. 9E the second arm rotates until the stop (5) makes contact, the hanger recovering the expanded position. The locking tooth has changed from a second configuration to a first configuration and is located in the locking protrusion (15) blocking the relative movement of the arms (2.3). The hanger is ready to support the load of a garment or to be folded again at the discretion of the user.

Fig. 10 shows a perspective view of a hanger similar to the previous one but also comprising resilient self-recovery means (6) that are a spiral spring. This hanger is made up of three pieces that are related to each other and are mounted following the dashed and dotted line, which is also the geometric axis on which the arms pivot (2,3). Fig. 10A shows the self-recovery means (6) resilients materialized in a spiral spring. The spiral spring comprises a band or thread that follows a flat spiral, with an inner end (10) and an outer end (11). Fig.

10B shows a perspective, Fig. 10C shows another perspective with the hanger rotated 90 ° along a vertical axis and Fig. 10D is an enlargement of the detail indicated by the dotted circumference of Fig. 10C. A part of the hanger comprises the second arm (3), part of the pivot (4), part of the stop (5) and the locking arm (13) with the locking tooth (14). Another piece is the self-recovery means (6) materialized by means of the spiral spring. The third piece comprises the hook (1), the first arm (2), part of the pivot (4), part of the stop (5), the locking protrusion (15), the trigger (12) and various support zones ( 7). In this hanger, the pivot (4) is a drum - shaped shaft that is located on the first arm (2) inside which run some clips (snap fit) mounting maintaining both arms (2,3) together, but allowing the relative rotation between both. The pivot (4) is completed with a cylinder located in the second arm (3) that surrounds the shaft and that has a slot in which the inner end (10) of the spiral spring fits. The outer end (11) of the spring is operationally attached to the first arm (2) supported by a protrusion.

Fig. 11 shows a sequence of one-handed use of the hanger of Fig. 7. In Fig. 11A the open hanger is shown. Although not shown, the hanger can be hung on a bar of an exhibitor or a closet. You could also have a garment on it, such as a T-shirt. In the figure you can also see the right hand of a user with the intention of picking it up and manipulating it. The hanger is in the expanded configuration, and the arms (2,3) blocked by the blocking means. In Fig.

11B the user introduces his hand and rests the palm and the back on the support areas (7) that are on the hook (1) and the first arm (2). More specifically, the palm and the back of the hand are between the thumb and index finger of the hand. In this position, the hanger is already securely attached and could easily drop from the closet bar. At the same time, the fingers of the same hand are free to manipulate other parts of the hanger. In Fig. 11C the user rests his index finger on the trigger (12), which is naturally accessible and induces the user to press it. By resting your finger on this other support area (7), the hanger is held firmly and at the same time the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2,3) is unlocked. Simultaneously, the user drops the second arm (3) under his own weight to close the hanger, while holding it firmly thanks to the interaction of the hand with the support areas (7). In Fig. 17D you can see the hanger closed while holding it by the user. At this point you could easily insert or remove it from a garment. In Fig. 17E you can see how the hanger recovers the expanded configuration thanks to the impulse that the user gives to the hanger by means of a jerk, which induces the pivoting movement in the second arm (3). With this jerk, the second arm (3) returns to its initial position. Furthermore, when the second arm (3) pivots and the hanger opens, the locking tooth (14) engages again with the locking protrusion (15) to block the relative movement of the arms (2.3). In this way, the hanger retrieves and maintains the expanded configuration. The arrows on the second arm (3) symbolize its pivoting movement. The “click” onomatopoeia represents the crimping of the locking tooth (14) and the locking protrusion (15), and the locking of the arms. In this figure you can also see how the hanger is still held by the user thanks to the interaction of his hand with the support areas (7). In this way, the user can choose to re-hang the hanger on a display rack.

Fig. 12 shows two sequences of one-handed use of a hanger like the one in Fig. 10, which also comprises a spiral spring. The mode of operation is similar to that of the hanger in the previous figure, except for the way the arms are closed and opened (2.3). In Fig. 12A the user rests the index finger on the trigger (12), which is naturally accessible and induces the user to press it. By resting your finger on this other support area (7), the hanger is held firmly and at the same time the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2,3) is unlocked. Simultaneously, the user exerts pressure on the second arm (3) to close the hanger with the rest of the fingers of the same hand, while holding it firmly thanks to the interaction of the hand with the support areas (7). In Fig.

12B it can be seen how the hanger recovers the initial configuration thanks to the recovery load exerted by the self-recovery means (6) on the arms (2,3). Furthermore, as in the previous figure, the blocking means again block the movement of the arms when the hanger recovers the expanded configuration. To go to this configuration, the user only has to decrease the intensity with which he presses the arms so that they are separated, for example, opening the hand. In this figure you can also see how the hanger is still held by the user thanks to the interaction of his hand with the support areas (7). In this way, the user can choose to re-hang the hanger on a display rack.

Fig. 13 shows a general view of a side of a hanger of the invention, comprising a hook (1), a first pivotable arm (2), a second pivotable arm (3), a pivot (4), means blockers and also a stop (5). In this hanger, the blocking means comprise a blocking plug (17) associated with the second arm (3), which when pressed blocks the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2,3). They also comprise crests (16) arranged on the first arm (2), which in this figure remain hidden Fig. 14 shows a hanger similar to the one in the previous figure, but with blocking means that also comprise a pusher plug (18). In particular, on this hanger the first arm (2) further comprises the hook (1). The hanger also comprises support areas (7) on which the palm and back of a user's hand rest. Fig. 14A shows a side view of the hanger in which the blocking plug (17) is distinguished. In Fig. 14B , a side view is shown, opposite to the previous one, showing the pusher plug (18). The dashed and dotted line in Fig. 14A indicates the CC section to be shown in the following figure.

Fig. 15 shows enlarged section CC, indicated in Fig. 14A above, during two phases of the unlocking process. In the figure, the arms (2,3) are not shown in their entire length. The broken lines on each side indicate the truncation of each arm. In Fig.

15A the open hanger is shown with the arms (2,3) blocked by the blocking means. In the figure, the pivot (4) is distinguished, consisting of a drum located in the first arm (2), which passes through a hole in the second arm (3). Ridges (16) are located at the free end of the pivot drum (4). The ridges (16) pass through a plate with through openings that are pierced by the ridges (16), fixing the rotation of the plate. The plate includes mounting snap-fit clips that run inside the pivot drum (4). In this way both arms (2,3) are held together while allowing relative rotation between the two. In the figure you can also see the blocking plug (17) cooperating with the ridges (16) in a first configuration, coupled to them. The ridges (16) are housed in holes in the blocking plug (17). In this way, the pivoting movement between both arms is blocked (2,3). The blocking plug (17) also has snap fit clips that cross the second arm (3) and which serve to mount the blocking plug (17) and fix its degrees of freedom, so that it can only move in the direction of the axis of rotation of the arms (2,3). The figure also shows a pusher plug (18) operationally associated with the blocking plug (17) by means of a stem that runs inside the pivot drum (4). In Fig. 15B the hanger is shown open, but with the blocking plug (17) moved to a second configuration, where it selectively disengages from the ridges (16) allowing the relative movement of the arms (2,3). In this figure, the pusher cap (18) can be seen, moved to a second configuration. The arrow on the pusher cap (18) pointing downwards symbolizes the action of pressing it. This movement simultaneously pushes and displaces the blocking plug (17), decoupling it from the ridges (16). When a user wants to block the pivoting movement of the arms (2,3) again, they only have to press the blocking plug (17) again. In this way the hanger returns to the situation shown in Fig. 15A.

Fig. 16 shows a general view of a hanger similar to that of Fig. 14 but also comprising resilient self-recovery means (6) which are an elongated band or thread. In Fig. 16A a side view of the hanger shown in Fig. 16B and an area of detail in a plan view Fig.16C. The hidden parts are visible due to a partial section EE in the area where the self-recovery means are located (6). The pivot (4) is a drum-shaped shaft arranged on the first arm (2), and a cylinder surrounding the shaft located on the second arm (3). In Fig. 16A, you can see the resilient self-recovery means (6), which are an elongated band or thread that follows a winding path between its ends. The band or thread is operationally attached to each arm (2,3). Specifically, one end of the stretch band or thread is attached to the second arm (3) and the other end is attached to the first arm (2) by means of protuberances associated with two projections. The changes of direction of the band are achieved by means of two small intermediate projections that act as sheaves. The view of the plant of the hanger allows to appreciate the flatness of the set, practically the same as that of a rigid hanger. The dotted circumference of Fig. 16A indicates an area of detail that is enlarged in Fig. 16B.

Fig. 17 shows a sequence of one-handed use of a hanger similar to that of Fig. 14. In the hanger shown in this figure, the support area (7) located on the hook (1) has two straight sections with curved transitions between them, where the back of the hand rests. The figure also shows the blocking plug (17) on one side and the pusher plug (18) on the opposite side, which allow blocking or unlocking the pivoting relative movement of the arms (2,3) at the user's discretion. In Fig. 17A the hanger is shown open, for example, while hanging from a closet bar. In the figure you can see the right hand of a user approaching the hanger with the intention of manipulating and closing it. The hanger maintains the expanded configuration, and the arms (2,3) are blocked by the blocking means. In Fig. 17B, the user enters his hand and rests it on the support areas (7) that are on the hook (1) and the first arm (2). This figure only shows the support area (7) where the palm of the hand rests since the other area, where the back of the hand rests, is hidden. Fig. 17C shows an opposite side view of the hanger. In this figure, the user has inserted his hand between the hook (1) and the first arm (2) and holds the hanger thanks to the interaction of his hand with the support areas (7). Simultaneously, with the index finger of the same hand, press the pusher plug (18) to unlock the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2,3). In Fig. 17D the user closes the hanger using the free fingers of the same hand. Meanwhile, the first arm (2), which also includes the hook (1), is held thanks to the interaction between the hand and the support areas (7), allowing movement pivoting relative between both arms (2,3). Once the hanger was closed, the user could easily insert or remove it from a garment. In Fig. 17E you can see how the hanger recovers the expanded configuration. For this, the user places the hanger so that the second arm (3) pivots when falling under its own weight, while still holding it with one hand. The arrows on the second arm (3) symbolize its pivoting movement. In Fig. 17F the user is shown choosing to lock the arms (2,3). To do this, press the locking plug (17) with the thumb of the same hand. This action could also have been carried out at any time at the user's discretion, between the total opening and total closing of the hanger arms, blocking them in any intermediate position. The onomatopoeia "click" represents the coupling of the blocking plug (17) with the ridges (16). As in the previously described scenarios, once in the expanded configuration, the hanger is still held by the user thanks to the interaction of his hand with the support areas (7) and he can easily hang it again in a display case if he so wishes. you want.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

In the following, for a better understanding of the present invention, the following preferred embodiment examples are described in detail, which should be understood without limiting the scope of the invention.

EXAMPLE 1

A hanger like the one shown in Fig. 1 was manufactured, comprising a hook (1) for hanging the hanger, a first pivotable arm (2), a second pivotable arm (3), a pivot (4), blocking means and also a stop (5). The hanger included support areas (7) where the palm, the back and a finger could be supported. These support areas (7) were materialized by means of a straight section located on the hook (1), another straight section located on the first arm (2) and a trigger (12) arranged in the area proximal to the open part of the hook ( one). Both straight sections converged at one point and formed an angle of 42 °. The trigger (12) was in turn part of the blocking means and was a flexible cantilevered tongue. The locking means also comprised a locking arm (13) and a locking protrusion (15).

In the expanded configuration, the hanger had an indentation, measured between the distal ends of the arms (2,3), 420 mm and a height, measured from the end of one arm (2,3) to the top of the hook (1), 180 mm. The thickness of the set was 8 mm.

In this example, the first arm (2) and the hook (1) formed a single component. This component also included the stop (5) and a hole that was crossed by the pivot axis (4). The three support zones (7) were also located in this component, one on the lower part of the hook (1), the other on a straight section in the first arm (2) and the other on the trigger (12). The support area (7) located on the hook (1) had a total length of 55 mm. These support zones (7) facilitated the interaction between the user's hand and the hanger. Thus, the user could easily support the hand and hold the hanger to manipulate it, unhook it from a hanger or re-hang it with one hand. He could also hold the first arm (2) and while, with the same hand, he could pull the trigger and fold the hanger.

Another second component of this hanger was formed by the second arm (3), which also included the pivot axis (4), which was shaped like a drum. The drum also included snap-fit mounting clips that held the two components together when the drum was inserted into the hole in the other component. In this second component was also the other part of the stop (5), which due to its shape limited the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2,3) beyond the expanded position. In this component, there was also the locking arm (13) with a locking tooth (14) at one end that belonged to the locking means.

These two pieces were made of PA-12 polyamide using selective laser sintering (SLS) 3D printing techniques with average wall thicknesses of 3mm for the strongest areas and 1mm for the most detailed parts.

EXAMPLE 2

For this embodiment, the hanger of the previous example was used, although with another embodiment of the support area (7) included in the hook (1).

In this case, the support area (7) located on the hook included compression means (8) that compress the back of the user's hand when holding the hanger. The compression means (8) consisted of a flexible cantilevered tongue as shown in Fig. 3A. This tab had a free distal end projecting outward and a proximal end near the base of the hook (1). The tongue had a total length of 45 mm and could move between a relaxed position and a position of compression thanks to a channel-shaped gap between the tongue and the body of the hook. This tab was also part of the same component that included the first arm (2), the hook (1) and the other features mentioned in the previous example. Therefore, it was manufactured using the same 3D printing techniques as part of the same piece with the first arm (2) and the hook (1).

EXAMPLE 3

For this embodiment, the hanger of the previous example was used, although with another embodiment of the support area (7) included in the hook (1).

In this case, the support area (7) located on the hook included non-slip means (9) that cooperated with the back of a user's hand when holding the hanger. The anti-slip means (9) was a portion of anti-slip material. This portion of material was manufactured using a 2 mm thick foam cylinder that was inserted during the assembly phase through the free end of the hook (1) and slid until it was fixed in its final position. The foam portion was 40mm long and settled at the base of the hook.

EXAMPLE 4

A hanger was manufactured as shown in Fig. 10. The hanger comprised a hook (1) for hanging the hanger, a first pivotable arm (2), a second pivotable arm (3), a pivot (4) and also a stop (5). The hanger also included a support area (7) where the back of the hand could be supported, with a straight and curved section that extended towards the outside of the hook (1). Another support area (7) was located on the first arm (2), designed so that the user could support the palm of the hand. There was also another support area (7), opposite to the previous ones, in an area proximal to the open part of the hook (1), suitable for a user to support a finger and which was also a trigger (12). The hanger also included resilient self-healing means (6) in the form of a spiral spring arranged around the pivot (4), with an inner end (10) and another outer end (11). In addition, the hanger had blocking means that worked by pressing the trigger (12). The locking means further comprised a locking arm (13) with a locking tooth (14), and a locking protrusion (15).

The hanger had a crimp, measured between the distal ends of the arms (2.3), 440 mm and a height, measured from the end of one arm (2.3) to the top of the hook (1), of 160 mm. The thickness of the set was 8 mm.

In this example, the first arm (2) and the hook (1) formed a single component. This component also included part of the stop (5), which also performed the function of blocking protrusion (15) of the blocking means. In this hanger, the pivot (4) was a shaft - shaped drum which is placed in this component inside which ran some clips (snap fit) assembly passing through a set hole on the other arm and held both arms (2, 3) joined when the whole assembly was assembled. Furthermore, this component also included a protrusion on which the outer end (11) of the spiral spring rested. Three support zones (7) were also located in this component: one on the lateral part of the hook (1), another on a straight section in the first arm (2) and the other, opposite to the previous ones, which was also a trigger (12). The support area (7) located on the hook (1) was projected outwards and had a total length of 15 mm. Trigger 12 was in the form of a cantilevered tab movable between a first configuration and a second configuration. At its free end it had a cylinder that protruded perpendicularly 2.5 mm and that facilitated cooperation with the locking arm (13) located on the second arm (3).

Another second component of this hanger was formed by the second arm (3), which also included another part of the stop (5) in the shape of a wall with a break, which due to its shape limited the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2, 3) beyond the expanded position. It also included a cylinder of the pivot (4) that surrounded the axis of the pivot (4) and that had a slot in which the inner end (10) of the spiral spring fitted, inserting itself into it. Inside the cylinder there was a hole that the clips located in the other component could pierce to assemble the assembly. In this second component, there was also the locking arm (13) with a locking tooth (14) at one end that belonged to the locking means. The locking arm (13) and the locking tooth (14) were projected towards the interior of the part surface through a cutout, to facilitate the manufacturing operations of the component by plastic injection molding. The shape of the locking arm (13) with the locking tooth (14) at one end was similar to that of a snap fit that behaved like a flexible cantilevered tongue.

These two components were made in a single mold using plastic injection molding techniques. In particular, the plastic used was polypropylene, and the Components had average wall thicknesses of 3mm for the toughest areas and 1mm for the most detailed parts.

The spiral spring formed the third and last component with which the hanger of this example was materialized. This spring was a 2.5 mm high and 0.5 mm thick rectangular section steel elastic metal band that followed a 2 1/2 turn spiral. The inner end (10) was a radially bent pin that inserted into the groove of the pivot shaft (4). The outer end (11) was hook-shaped and rested on the protrusion of the first component described. For mounting the hanger, the spiral spring was arranged between the two previous components, surrounding the pivot axis (4).

EXAMPLE 5

For this materialization, the hanger was used as represented in Fig. 13. The hanger comprised a hook (1), a first pivotable arm (2), a second pivotable arm (3), a pivot (4), some blocking means and also two stops (5). The blocking means materialized by means of a blocking plug (17) associated with the second arm (3), which when pressed blocked the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2,3). They also included crests (16) arranged on the first arm (2).

In the expanded configuration, the hanger had a crimp, measured between the distal ends of the arms (2,3), 420 mm and a height, measured from the end of one arm (2.3) to the top of the hook (1 ), 180 mm. The thickness of the set was 8 mm.

The hanger was made up of five components. Three of them corresponded to the hook (1), the first arm (2) and the second arm (3). The other two belonged to the blocking means and were the blocking plug (17) and a plate.

The hook (1) included two stops (5) that limited the relative movement of the arms (2.3) beyond the expanded position. The hook (1) also included a hole in the lower part that was crossed by the pivot (4). The first arm (2) included the pivot axis (4), which passed through a hole in the hook (1) and another in the second arm (3). The pivot axis (4) was drum-shaped and had ridges (16) at its free end. The ridges (16) served to fix the movement of the arms when the blocking plug (17) cooperated with them. The plate was also crossed by the ridges and included mounting snap fit clips that ran inside the pivot drum (4). So they held all the components together when the clips went through another hole in the hook (1) and inserted into the hole in the first arm (2).

The blocking plug (17) was a piece that was associated with the second arm (3). The blocking plug (17) had snap fit clips on its periphery that crossed the surface of the second arm (3) and were used to mount it. The blocking plug (17) also had holes in its internal face where the ridges (16) could be accommodated.

All components were manufactured in a single mold using plastic injection molding techniques. In particular, the plastic used was polypropylene, and the components had average wall thicknesses of 3 mm for the strongest areas and 1 mm for the most detailed parts.

To mount the hanger, the first arm (2) was arranged first, then the hook (1), then the second arm (3), then the plate and finally the blocking plug (17).

In this configuration, the user only operated the locking plug (17) to lock or unlock the arms (2,3), either pressing it to lock them or pulling it to unlock them.

EXAMPLE 6

For this materialization, a hanger as that represented in Fig. 14 and Fig. 15 was used. The hanger was similar to that described in Example 1, although in this example the blocking means included crests (16), a blocking plug. (17) and a pusher plug (18).

The hanger was made up of six components. Three of them were similar to those described in Example 1, and the other three were the blocking plug (17), the pusher plug (18) and a plate. All components were manufactured in a single mold using plastic injection molding techniques. In particular, the plastic used was polypropylene, and the components had average wall thicknesses of 3 mm for the strongest areas and 1 mm for the most detailed parts.

The blocking plug (17) was a piece that was associated with the second component - the one that formed the second arm (3). The blocking plug (17) had snaps ( snap fit) in its periphery that crossed the surface of the second component and that served to mount it on it and fix its degrees of freedom. In this way, the blocking plug (17) could only move in the direction of the axis of rotation of the arms (2,3). The blocking plug (17) also had holes in its internal face where the ridges (16) could be accommodated. In the central part, it also had another truncated cylinder-shaped hole where a stem belonging to the pusher plug (18) was housed. When the stem is inserted into this hole, the two plugs are operationally associated so that, if one moved, the other did too.

The first component of the hanger, which included the first arm (2) and the axis of the pivot (4) in the form of a drum, also included the ridges (16). These ridges (16) were located at the free end of the drum. The ridges (16) passed through a plate, which had through openings through which the ridges (16) passed, fixing the rotation of this plate. The plate was another component that was associated with this first component, being arranged on the axis of the pivot (4). This plate included snap-fit mounting clips that ran inside the pivot drum (4). In this way, both arms (2,3) were held together after the components were assembled.

The pusher plug (18) was a piece that was associated with the first component - the one that formed the hook (1) and the first arm (2) -. The pusher plug (18) was arranged on the surface of the first component, inside a truncated cylinder projected towards the outside, which served as a guide for the pusher plug (18) to move in the direction of the axis of rotation of the arms (2,3). The pusher plug (18) was operationally associated with the blocking plug (17) by means of a stem that ran inside the pivot shaft (4).

EXAMPLE 7

For this materialization, a hanger as that represented in Fig. 16 was used. The hanger comprised a hook (1), a first pivotable arm (2), a second pivotable arm (3), a pivot (4), some blocking means and also a resilient stopper (5) and self-recovery means (6) that were an elongated band or thread.

The hanger was similar to that described in Example 6 and also included the same components, although with the following differences:

The hanger also included the elastic band or thread.

The first component - the one that formed the hook (1) and the first arm (2) - also included two small intermediate projections that acted as sheaves on which the elongated band was supported. The end of the stretch band was operationally attached to this first component by means of a protrusion associated with another projection.

The second component of the hanger, which included the second arm (3), had a cylinder that surrounded the drum pivot (4). In order to operatively join the other end of the stretch band to this second component, it was also made by means of a protrusion associated with another projection.

The third component was the resilient self-recovery means (6), materialized by a 1 mm thick, 2.5 mm wide and 50 mm long elastomeric elastic band. The band followed a winding path between its ends associated with the arms (2,3). The changes of direction of the band were obtained by means of the sheaves.

EXAMPLE 8

For this materialization, the hanger of Example 4 was used, which included an RFID tag that was attached to the central area of the hanger, near the pivot axis (4).

Although various preferred embodiments and examples have been described, they should be understood without limiting the scope of the invention. When the examples or drawings indicate specific components that are arranged in a certain way, with certain orientations or positions, this arrangement could also be different. The same occurs when describing methods or events that occur in a certain order. That order could also be different. Although the examples are described in detail, it should be understood that various modifications in form and detail can be made, as well as a variety of uses in different applications, which will be immediately apparent to those skilled in the art. The general principles defined here could be applied to a wide range of achievements.

Claims (28)

1. Collapsible hanger for hanging garments comprising: - a hook (1) for hanging the hanger; - a first arm (2) pivotable with respect to a second arm (3); - a second arm (3) pivotable with respect to the first arm (2); and - a pivot (4) around which either of the two arms (2,3) pivot relatively between an expanded position and a closed position; characterized in that it also includes blocking means that block or unblock the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2,3); because the first arm (2) also includes the hook (1); and because it also includes a support area (7) on which the hand of a user who holds the first arm (2) rests. Hanger according to claim 1, characterized in that the first arm (2) and the hook (1) comprise at least one support area (7) on which the palm and back of a user's hand rest. 3. Hanger according to claim 2, characterized in that it further comprises a support area (7) on which a user's finger rests. Hanger according to claim 2, characterized in that the support areas (7) are a straight section located on the first arm (2) and a straight section located on the hook (1). 5. Hanger according to claim 4, characterized in that the support areas (7) are a straight section located on the first arm (2) and several straight sections located on the hook (1). Hanger according to claim 4, characterized in that the straight sections converge at a point and form an angle between 20 ° and 60 °. Hanger according to claim 2, characterized in that the support area (7) included in the hook (1) comprises compression means (8) that compress the back of the hand. Hanger according to claim 2, characterized in that the support area (7) included in the hook (1) comprises non-slip means (9) that cooperate with the back of the hand. Hanger according to claim 8, characterized in that the anti-slip means (9) are one or more indentations, protuberances, ridges or projections. Hanger according to claim 1, characterized in that the first arm (2) and the hook (1) comprise at least one support area (7) on which the palm rests and another support area (7) on which supports a finger of a user's hand. Hanger according to claim 1, characterized in that the support area (7) is a handle through which a finger of a user's hand is inserted. Hanger according to claim 1, characterized in that the support area (7) is a through opening located in the first arm (2) through which a finger of a user's hand is inserted. Hanger according to claim 1, characterized in that the blocking means comprise: - a trigger (12), movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, which cooperates with a locking arm (13); - a locking arm (13) arranged on any of the pivotable arms (2,3) that comprises a locking tooth (14), movable between a first configuration and a second configuration when the trigger (12) cooperates with it; and - a locking protrusion (15) arranged on the other pivotable arm cooperating with the locking tooth (14), where in a first configuration the locking tooth (14) selectively engages the locking protrusion (15) to lock the relative movement of the arms (2,3) in the expanded position, and where in a second configuration the locking tooth (14) is selectively released from the locking protrusion (15) allowing the relative movement of the arms (2, 3). Hanger according to claim 1, characterized in that the blocking means comprise: - crests (16) arranged on any of the pivotable arms (2,3); and - a blocking cap (17) associated with the other pivotable arm that cooperates with the ridges (16), movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, where in a first configuration it selectively engages the ridges (16) to block relative movement of the arms (2,3), and where in a second configuration it is selectively decoupled from the ridges (16) allowing the relative movement of the arms (2,3). 15. Collapsible hanger for hanging garments comprising: - a hook (1) for hanging the hanger; - a first arm (2) pivotable with respect to a second arm (3); - a second arm (3) pivotable with respect to the first arm (2); and - a pivot (4) around which either of the two arms (2,3) pivot relatively between an expanded position and a closed position; characterized in that it also comprises blocking means that block or unblock the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2,3), where the blocking means comprise: - a trigger (12), movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, which cooperates with a locking arm (13); - a locking arm (13) arranged on any of the pivotable arms (2,3) that comprises a locking tooth (14), movable between a first configuration and a second configuration when the trigger (12) cooperates with it; and - a locking protrusion (15) arranged on the other pivotable arm cooperating with the locking tooth (14), where in a first configuration the locking tooth (14) it selectively engages the locking protrusion (15) to block the relative movement of the arms (2,3) in the expanded position, and where in a second configuration the locking tooth (14) is selectively released from the locking protrusion (15) allowing the relative movement of the arms (2,3). 16. Hanger according to claim 15, characterized in that the trigger (12) and the locking arm (13) are cantilevered flexible tabs. Hanger according to claim 15, characterized in that the trigger (12) is arranged in a zone proximal to the open part of the hook (1). Hanger according to claim 15, characterized in that the blocking means further comprise: - crests (16) arranged on any of the pivotable arms (2,3); and - a blocking cap (17) associated with the other pivotable arm that cooperates with the ridges (16), movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, where in a first configuration it selectively engages the ridges (16) to block relative movement of the arms (2,3), and where in a second configuration it is selectively decoupled from the ridges (16) allowing the relative movement of the arms (2,3). 19. Collapsible hanger for hanging garments comprising: - a hook (1) for hanging the hanger; - a first arm (2) pivotable with respect to a second arm (3); - a second arm (3) pivotable with respect to the first arm (2); and - a pivot (4) around which either of the two arms (2,3) pivot relatively between an expanded position and a closed position; characterized in that it also comprises blocking means that block or unblock the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2,3), where the blocking means comprise: - crests (16) arranged on any of the pivotable arms (2,3); and - a blocking cap (17) associated with the other pivotable arm that cooperates with the ridges (16), movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, where in a first configuration it selectively engages the ridges (16) to block relative movement of the arms (2,3), and where in a second configuration it is selectively decoupled from the ridges (16) allowing the relative movement of the arms (2,3). 20. Hanger according to claim 18 or 19, characterized in that it further comprises a pusher plug (18) operationally associated with the blocking plug (17) which when pushed on the blocking plug (17) displaces it between a second configuration and a first configuration, unlocking the movement relative of the arms (2,3). 21. Hanger according to claim 19, characterized in that the blocking means further comprise: - a trigger (12), movable between a first configuration and a second configuration, which cooperates with a locking arm (13); - a locking arm (13) arranged on any of the pivotable arms (2,3) that comprises a locking tooth (14), movable between a first configuration and a second configuration when the trigger (12) cooperates with it; and - a locking protrusion (15) arranged on the other pivotable arm cooperating with the locking tooth (14), where in a first configuration the locking tooth (14) selectively engages the locking protrusion (15) to lock the relative movement of the arms (2,3) in the expanded position, and where in a second configuration the locking tooth (14) is selectively released from the locking protrusion (15) allowing the relative movement of the arms (2, 3). 22. Hanger according to claim 15 or 19, characterized in that the first arm (2) further comprises the hook (1). 23. Hanger according to claim 22, characterized in that it further comprises a support area (7) on which the hand of a user supporting the first arm (2) rests. 24. Hanger according to claim 1, 15 or 19 characterized in that it further comprises a stop (5) that limits the relative pivoting movement of the arms (2,3) beyond the expanded position. 25. Hanger according to claim 1, 15 or 19 characterized in that it further comprises resilient self-recovery means (6) associated with either of the two arms (2,3) and that exert a recovery load on any of the arms (2 , 3), separating the distal ends of the first arm (2) and the second arm (3) from a closed position to an expanded position when either of the arms (2,3) pivots relatively around the pivot (3). 26. Hanger according to claim 25 characterized in that the resilient self-recovery means (6) are a spiral spring comprising a band or thread arranged around the pivot (4) with an inner end (10) and another outer end (11). 27. Hanger according to claim 25, characterized in that the resilient self-recovery means (6) are an elongated band or thread. 28. Hanger according to claim 1, 15 or 19 characterized in that it further comprises a mounting clip that couples the first arm (2) to the second arm (3) and allows relative pivoting between both arms (2,3).