IES20080469A2

IES20080469A2 - Clothes airer

Info

Publication number: IES20080469A2
Authority: IE
Inventors: Bernadette Pembroke; David Ryan
Original assignee: Bernadette Pembroke; David Ryan
Priority date: 2008-06-09
Filing date: 2008-06-09
Publication date: 2010-02-17
Also published as: GB2460748A; GB2460748B; GB0909601D0; CN201598485U

Abstract

A clothes airer (1,10,100) of a lazy tong type comprising a pair of support brackets (5) for mounting the clothes airer on a support. Each support bracket (5) comprises a first group of mounting members (60,75,7,61) for engaging with a first type of support structure, such as, e.g. a door ledge, and a second group of mounting members (7,80,75,81) for engaging with a second type of support structure, such as, e.g. a wall mounted radiator. A two-way flange member (75) is a common member in the first and second group of the mounting members. <Figure 2C>

Description

This invention relates to improvements in clothes driers and airers. Clothes airers have been designed for drying clothes particularly for indoor use but not exclusively so. Extensible/collapsible aires are known which can be extended for hanging clothes thereon and collapsed when not in use. A typical airier of this type comprises a pair of extensible/collapsible assemblies of links which include interconnected pivoted links of the lazy tong type, held in a spaced parallel relationship by way of a number of transverse rods upon which articles of washing can be hung when the link assemblies are extended. Such a clothes airer may be secured to a rigid supporting surface such as a wall. For this purpose each link assembly is connected to a mounting bracket which is fixed to a surface of a wall or other external device, typically using screws or bolts. When so mounted, the link assemblies can be extended/collapsed in a direction substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface. More commonly used are airer types that are vertical in orientation, such as floor standing airers also knows as clothes horses which having regard to available space and safety considerations may be erected in a room or other suitable location.

When screws or bolts are used to fix the mounting brackets to a wall surface, diligence is required to ensure that there are no concealed wires or pipes inside the wall. Moreover, unsightly and damaging holes are created in the surface of the wall. Aires of this type are designed for stationary use and if it is required to move an airer to a different location, new holes are required to be formed in a wall for receiving screws or bolts. Using an adhesive for fixing the mounting bracket to the wall surface leaves an unwanted sticky residue on the surface when the airer is dismounted Adhesives cannot support an object of significant weight and there is always a risk that the airer can become disengaged from the surface and fall.

Another major problem associated with prior art clothes airers exists for people living in relatively small living spaces such as common apartments, where the presence of a clothes airer causes an inconvenience.

IE 080 469 Accordingly, it is the object of the present invention to provide a clothes airer that alleviates the problems encountered in the conventional art.

Accordingly, Ihe invention provides a clothes airer assembly comprising a plurality of rods for hanging clothes thereon; a pair of extendable and retractable rod support assemblies, each rod being connected to each of the two support assembles such that the rods are supported in a substantially parallel and spaced relationship, wherein upon extension or retraction of the support assemblies the distance between the rods is, respectively, increased or reduced; each rod support assembly comprising a mounting bracket having one or more orifices for engaging with a corresponding support element; and a pair of support brackets having one or more support elements, each support element being engageable with the corresponding orifice of the mounting brackets of the rod support assemblies; each support bracket comprising a first means for releasably engaging with a first rigid support structure, the first rigid support structure being capable of supporting the weight of the clothes airer and clothes mounted thereon.

Such an arrangement provides a clothes airer which can be easily mounted and dismounted as and when needed by the user without the requirement for any installation skills. Moreover, the present arrangement allows a user to install the clothes airer in multiple locations in the home, where and when it is convenient to the user.

In a most preferred embodiment, the support bracket comprises a second means for releasably engaging with a second rigid support structure, the second rigid support structure being capable of supporting the weight of the clothes airer and clothes mounted thereon, Preferably, the second engaging means is configured for engaging a rigid support structure which differs dimensionally and/or structurally from the first rigid support structure.

IE 0 8 0 4 6 9 Most preferably, each of the first and second engaging means of the support bracket is configured to engage with a rigid support structure in the form of a ledge, such as for example, bul not limited thereto a ledge of a door. Such a ledge preferably comprises a first surface which in use faces upwardly in relation to the ground, i.e. an upper surface and a pair of opposing side surfaces, a front surface, i.e. a surface which in use faces a user and a rear surface, i.e. a surface which in use faces away from the user. Both front and rear surfaces project substantially downwardly in relation to the ground from respective opposing edges of the upper surface. In use, such a ledge projects substantially upwardly in relation to the ground and the engaging means of the support bracket engages the ledge so that the support bracket is supported by the ledge due to the combination of its weight (and, when assembled with the clothes airer, the weight of the clothes airer) and the abutment of the engaging means against the ledge surfaces. In one arrangement, the first engaging means is configured to engage a first support structure, such as for example, but not limited thereto, a door ledge and the second engaging means is configured to engage a second, alternative, support structure, such as for example, but not limited thereto, a ledge of a radiator. Such an arrangement provides a user with a further advantage of being able to select from a wider variety of locations for installing the clothes airer.

In a preferred arrangement, the support bracket comprises a rest member having first and second ends and first (front) and second (rear) opposing surfaces, the first surface in use facing the user, and the second surface in use facing away from the user. Preferably, the one or more of the support elements project proud from the first surface, such that when the support elements engage with the orifices of the mounting bracket of the rod support assembly, the mounting bracket abuts against the first surface. Ideally, two such support elements project from the first surface in order to provide adequate support for the airer, but the invention is not limited to a specific number of support elements, A two-way flange member is connected to the rest member adjacent the first end of the rest member and projects therefrom in a direction substantially opposite the direction in which the first surface faces. The two-way flange member comprises a free end and first and second opposing bearing surfaces, a first bearing surface facing substantially in the same direction as the first end of the rest member and a second surface facing substantially the same direction as the second end of the rest member. The two-way flange is a common member for the first and second engaging means of the support bracket as described below.

IE 0 8 0 4 6 9 Ideally, the first engaging means comprises a first lip member connected to the two-way flange about the free end of the two-way flange member and spaced from the location at which the two-way flange member is connected to the first end of the rest member, the lip projecting substantially perpendicular to the second bearing surface of the two-way flange member, i.e. towards the second end of the rest member. Preferably, the first engaging means comprises an abutment member connected to the rest member adjacent the second end of the rest member. In use, when the support bracket is installed at the relevant location, the second bearing surface of the two-way flange member rests upon an upper surface of a first rigid support structure, such as, for example a top surface of a door. Simultaneously, the first lip member engages a rear surface of the first rigid support structure, and the abutment member at the second end of the rest member abuts against the front surface of the first rigid support member. In this manner, the bracket is held in place due to the combined effect of its own weight (and, when assembled with the clothes airer, the weight of the clothes airer) and the abutment of the first lip member, the second bearing surface of the two-way flange and the abutment member against the above described surfaces of the first rigid structure. Ideally, the space between the location at which the two-way flange member is connected to the rest member and the first lip member is approximately the same as the distance between the front and the rear surfaces of the first rigid support structure.

Ideally, the second engaging means comprises a second lip member connected to the two-way flange adjacent the location at which the two-way flange member is connected to the first end of the rest member, the second lip member projecting substantially perpendicular to the first bearing surface of the two-way flange member, i.e. the second lip member projects in a direction substantially opposite to the direction of the first lip member. In a preferred arrangement, the second engaging means comprises at least one, and more preferably two finger elements connected to the two-way flange member about the free end of the two-way flange member and spaced from the location at which the two-way flange member is connected to the first end of the rest member. Ideally, the or each finger element projects substantially perpendicular to the first bearing surface of the two-way flange member, i.e. substantially in the same direction as the second lip member Most preferably, the second engaging means is configured for engaging with a second rigid support structure, which comprises a second rear surface spaced from the first rear surface, such as for example, but not limited thereto, a wall mountable radiator IE 08 04 6 9 which has a plurality of fins or a corrugated sheet installed at the rear surface of the radiator In use, in order to install the support bracket using the second engaging means, the support bracket is turned such that the second end of the rest member faces upwardly in relation to the ground whilst the front surface of the rest member faces in the same direction as when the support bracket is installed using the first engaging means, i.e. facing the user, When the support bracket is installed at the relevant location, the first bearing surface of the two-way flange member rests upon an upper surface of a second rigid support structure, such as. for example a top edge surface of a radiator. Simultaneously, the second lip member engages a front surface of the second rigid support structure, such as the irradiating surface of the radiator. At the same time, the or each finger element enters the space defined between the first and second rear surfaces of the second rigid support member the front surface of the first rigid support member, such as for example, a channel of the rear corrugated sheet of a radiator, and the or each finger element abuts against the second rear surface. In this manner, the bracket is held in place due to the combined effect of its own weight (and, when assembled with the clothes airer, the weight of the clothes airer) and the abutment of the second lip member, the first bearing surface of the two-way flange and the or each finger element against the above described surfaces of the second rigid structure, ideally, the distance between an inner surface of the second lip member, i.e. the surface that abuts the front surface of the second rigid support structure and a rearmost surface of the or each finger element, i.e. the surface that abuts the second rear surface of the second rigid support structure is approximately the same as the distance between the front and the second rear surfaces of the second rigid support structure.

In one modification, the rest member comprises first and second portions, a first portion comprising the first end of the rest member and the second portion comprising the second end of the rest member, the first and second portions being connected at a location intermediate the first and second ends at an angle. Preferably, the second portion comprises the first (front) surface of the rest member which comprises the one or more of the support elements for engaging with the orifices of the mounting brackets of the rod support assemblies. Such an arrangement results in that in use, when the support bracket is engaged with a first rigid support structure the front surface of the rest member faces downwardly and an angle in relation to the front surface of the first rigid support structure. When the support bracket is engaged with a second rigid support structure the front surface of the rest member faces upwardly and an angle in relation to the front IE 0 8 0 4 6 9 surface of the second rigid support structure. The above orientations of the support bracket in the above installed modes provided for greater space saving when engaged with the clothes airer. In a preferred arrangement, a reinforcing member connects the first and second portion of the rest member.

Ideally, the support bracket is manufactured from a durable, wear resistant, resilient material, such as metal, and the extensible assembly element is also manufactured from a similar material.

In one modification, the rods are formed integrally with the rod support assemblies. The rods may also be of a substantially U-shaped form connected at its free ends to the respective rod support assembly, the U-shaped configuration facilitating easier hanging of garments on the rods.

In a preferred embodiment, the rod support assembly comprises a plurality of elongate link members having their centres and their end pivotally interconnected to define an extendable/collapsible “Ia2y tong” structure of quadrilaterals, the rod assembly having having a free end and a mounting bracket engageable end. Free ends of a pair of the last link members at the mounting bracket engageable end are attached to the mounting bracket, a first link being pivotally connected to a fixed location on the mounting bracket, and a portion of the second link member about the free end thereof being received in a guiding slot defined in the mounting bracket. The guiding slot is sized and shaped such that the free end of the second link member can travel therealong between a first position which is closest to the free end of the first link member and a second position, most remote from the free end of the first link member. When the free end of the second link member is in the first position, the rod assembly is extended to its longest mode, and when the free end of the second link member is in the second position, the rod assembly is collapsed, or, in other words, retracted.

In a preferred modification, a bearing means is provided in the guiding slot to facilitate extension and retraction of the rod support assemblies of the clothes airer of the invention.

In this aspect, the invention provides a clothes airer comprising: a plurality of rods for hanging clothes thereon; IE 0 8 0 4 6 9 a pair of extendable and retractable rod support assemblies, each rod being connected to each of the two support assembles such that the rods are supported in a substantially parallel and spaced relationship, wherein upon extension or retraction of the support assemblies the distance between the rods is, respectively, increased or reduced; each rod support assembly comprising a mounting bracket having one or more orifices for engaging with a corresponding support element; and wherein the rod support assembly comprises a plurality of elongate link members having their centres and their end pivotally interconnected to define an extendable/collapsible lazy tong” structure of quadrilaterals, the rod assembly having a free end and a mounting bracket engageable end, wherein free ends of a pair of the last link members at the mounting bracket engageable end are attached to the mounting bracket, a first link being pivotally connected to a fixed location on the mounting bracket, and a portion of the second link member about the free end thereof being received in a guiding slot defined in the mounting bracket; wherein the guiding slot is sized and shaped such that the free end of the second link member can travel therealong between a first position which is closer to the free end of the first link member and in which the rod assembly is extended; and a second position more remote from the free end of the first link member in which the rod assembly is retracted; and wherein a bearing member is provided in the guiding slot, the bearing member being pivotally engaged with the free end of the second link member and the bearing member being slidably engaged with the walls of the guiding slot, the material of the bearing member and the mutual dimensions and shape of the bearing member and the guiding slot being selected such that the friction forces between the bearing member and the walls of the guiding slot prevent the free end of the second link member from travelling along the slot in the absence of a user-applied force, but can be overcome upon application of a predetermined force by a user so as to move the free end of the second link member into a desired position in the guiding slot. ** 0 80 4 69 In this manner, a convenient means is provided for a user for extending or retracting the rod support assemblies to a desired extent.

In a preferred embodiment, the material of the bearing is plastics such as for example nylon, which provides for smother and easier movement of the bearing in the guiding slot.

The invention will hereinafter be described with reference to the accompanying drawings which show by way of example only, embodiments of a clothes airer and supporting apparatus according to the invention.

Figures 1, 1A and 1B are, respectively, a perspective, a front elevation and a top views of a first modification of a clothes airer according to the invention; Figures 2, 2A, 2B and 2C are. respectively, a first perspective, a top, a front elevation and a second perspective views of a support bracket of the invention; Figures 3, 3A and 3B are, respectively, a perspective, a front elevation and a top views of another modification of a clothes airer according to the invention; Figures 4, 4A and 4B are, respectively, a perspective, a front elevation and a top views of yet another modification of a clothes airer according to the invention; Figure 4C is an enlarged portion of Figure 4 showing a bearing member of the clother airer of the invention; and Figures 5, 5A, 5 are, respectively, a front elevation, a cross-sectional elevation and a top views of the bearing member of Figure 4C.

Referring to Figures 1,1A and 1B the clothes airer of the invention, indicated generally by reference numeral 1, comprises a plurality of rods 12 for hanging clothes thereon. Each rod 12 is connected at its free ends to each of a pair of extendable and retractable rod support assemblies 15. Each rod 12 is connected to each of the two rod support assembles 12 such that the rods 12 are supported in a substantially parallel and spaced relationship. Upon extension or retraction of the rod support assemblies 15 the distance between the rods 12 is, respectively, increased or reduced. Each rod support assembly IE 0 8 Ο 4 6 9 comprises a mounting bracket 11 having a pair of orifices 11a. Figures 3, 3A and 3B show a modified clothes airer 10 which differs from the clothes airer 1 in dimension.

Referring to Figures 2, 2A, 2B and 2C, the invention also provides a pair of support brackets 5 for mounting the rod support assemblies 15 thereon. Each support bracket 5 has a pair of support elements in the form of protrusions 51. Each protrusion 51 is engageable with the corresponding orifice 11a of the mounting bracket 11 of the rod support assembly 15. Each support bracket 5 comprises a first means for releasably engaging with a ledge of a door and a second means for releasably engaging with a wallmounted radiator.

A ledge of a door typically comprises a first surface which in use faces upwardly in relation to the ground, i.e. an upper surface and a pair of opposing side surfaces - a front surface, i.e. a surface which in use faces a user and a rear surface, i.e. a surface which in use faces away from the user. Both front and rear surfaces project substantially downwardly in relation to the ground from respective opposing edges of the upper surface. A typical wall-mounted radiator comprises a plurality of fins or a corrugated sheet installed at the rear surface of the radiator, such that a second rear surface spaced from the first rear surface is provided.

The support bracket 5 comprises a rest member 7 having first and second ends 71, 72 and first (front) and second (rear) opposing surfaces 73, 74. The first surface 73 in use faces a user, and the second surface 74 in use faces the front surface of the dorr or of the radiator. The protrusions 51 project proud from the first surface 73, such that when the protrusions 51 engage with the orifices 11a of the mounting bracket 11 the mounting bracket abuts 11 against the first surface 73.

The support bracket 5 comprises a two-way flange member 75 connected to the rest member 7 adjacent the first end 71 of the rest member 7, The two-way flange member 75 projects from the first end 71 in a direction substantially opposite the direction in which the front surface 73 of the rest member 7 faces. The two-way flange member 75 comprises a free end 76 and first and second opposing bearing surfaces 77, 78, respectively. The first bearing surface 77 faces substantially in the same direction as the first end 71 of the rest member 7 and the second bearing surface 78 faces substantially the same direction as the second end 72 of the rest member 7. The two-way flange 75 is IE 0 8 ο 4 6 9 a common member for the first and second engaging means of the support bracket 5 as will be described below.

The first engaging means for engaging a door ledge comprises a first lip member 60 connected to the two-way flange 75 about the free end 76 of the two-way flange member 75 and spaced from the location at which the two-way flange 75 member is connected to the first end 71 of the rest member7. The first lip member 60 projects substantially perpendicular to the second bearing surface 78 of the two-way flange member 75, i.e. towards the second end 72 of the rest member 7. The first engaging means comprises an abutment member 61 connected to the rest member 7 adjacent the second end 72 of the rest member 7. In use, when the support bracket 5 is installed at over the door ledge, the second bearing surface 78 of the two-way flange member 75 rests upon a top surface of the door ledge. Simultaneously, the first lip member 60 engages a rear surface of the door ledge, and the abutment member 61 at the second end 72 of the rest member 7 abuts against the front surface of the door. In this manner, the support bracket 5 is held in place due to the combined effect of its own weight {and, when assembled with the clothes airer 1, the weight of the clothes airer 1) and the abutment of the first lip member 60, the second bearing surface 78 of the two-way flange 75 and the abutment member 61 against the above described surfaces of the door. The distance between the location at which the two-way flange member 75 is connected to the rest member 7 and the first lip member 60 is approximately the same as the distance between the front and the rear surfaces of the door.

The second engaging means for engaging a radiator top ledge comprises a second lip member 80 connected to the two-way flange 75 adjacent the location at which the twoway flange member 75 is connected to the first end 71 of the rest member7. The second lip member 80 projects substantially perpendicular to the first bearing surface 77 of the two-way flange member 75, i.e. the second lip member 80 projects in a direction substantially opposite to the direction of the first lip member 60. The second engaging means also comprises a pair of finger elements 81 connected to the two-way flange member 75 about the free end 76 of the two-way flange member 75 and spaced from the location at which the two-way flange member 75 is connected to the first end 71 of the rest member 7. Each finger element 81 projects substantially perpendicular to the first bearing surface 77 of the two-way flange member 75, i.e. substantially in the same direction as the second lip member 80. In use, in order to install the support bracket 5 IE 0 8 Ο 4 6 9 over a radiator top ledge, the support bracket 5 is inverted such that the second end 72 of the rest member 7 faces upwardly in relation to the ground. The front surface 73 of the rest member 7 remains facing in the same direction as when the support bracket 5 is installed using the first engaging means, i.e. in the direction facing the user. When the support bracket 5 is installed over the radiator ledge the first bearing surface 77 of the two-way flange member 75 rests upon a top edge surface of a radiator. Simultaneously, the second lip member 80 engages a front surface of the radiator, i.e. the irradiating surface of the radiator. At the same time, the finger elements 81 enter the channels defined by rear fins of a radiator and abut against the second rear surface. In this manner, the bracket 5 is held in place due to the combined effect of its own weight (and, when assembled with the clothes airer 1, the weight of the clothes airer 1) and the abutment of the second lip member 80, the first bearing surface 77 of the two-way flange 75 and the finger elements 81 against the above described surfaces of the radiator. The distance between an inner surface 80a of the second lip member 81, i.e. the surface that abuts the front surface of the radiator and a rearmost surface 81a of each finger element 81, i.e. the surface that abuts the second rear surface of the radiator is approximately the same as the distance between the front and the second rear surfaces of the radiator.

The rest member 7 comprises first and second portions 7a, 7b, respectively. The first portion 7a comprises the first end 71 of the rest member 7 and the second portion 7b comprises the second end 72 of the rest member 7. The first and second portions 7a, 7b are connected at a location intermediate the first and second ends 71, 72 at an angle. The second portion 7b comprises the first (front) surface 73 of the rest member 7 which comprises the protrusions 51. Such an arrangement results in that in use, when the support bracket 5 is engaged with a door, the front surface 73 of the rest member 7 faces downwardly and an angle in relation to the front surface of the door. When the support bracket 5 is engaged with a radiator the front surface 73 of the rest member 7 faces upwardly and an angle in relation to the front surface of the radiator. The above orientations of the support bracket 5 in the above installed modes provided for greater space saving when engaged with the clothes airer 1. An optional reinforcing member 79 connects the first and second portions 7a, 7b of the rest member 7. Protective caps 21 cover, respectively, the first and second lip members 60, 80, the abutment member 61 and the finger elements 81.

IE 0 8 0 4 6 9 The support bracket 5 is manufactured from a durable, wear resistant, resilient material, such as metal, and the extensible assembly element is also manufactured from a similar material.

The rods 12 are formed integrally with links 150 of the rod support assemblies 15. The rods 12 are of a substantially U-shaped form connected at its free ends to the respective links 150. The U-shaped configuration facilitates easier hanging of garments on the rods.

Each rod support assembly 15 comprises a plurality of elongate link members 150 having their centres and their ends pivotally interconnected to define an extendable/collapsible lazy tong” structure of quadrilaterals. The rod assembly 15 has a free end 150b and a mounting bracket engageable end 150a. Free ends of a pair of the last link members 150 at the mounting bracket engageable end 150a are attached to the mounting bracket 11. A first link 151 is pivotally connected at a fixed location to the mounting bracket 11. An end portion of the second link member 152 is engaged in a guiding slot 110 defined in the mounting bracket The guiding slot 150 is sized and shaped such that the free end of the second link member 152 can travel therealong between a first position (see also Figure 4) which is closest to the free end of the first link member 151 and a second position, most remote from the free end of the first link member 151. When the free end of the second link member 152 is in the first position, the rod support assemblies 15 are extended, and when the free end of the second fink member 152 is in the second position, the rod assemblies 15 are collapsed, or, in other words, retracted.

With reference to Figures 4 to 5B, in which a modification of the clothes airer of the invention is indicatied generally by reference numeral 100, a bearing means in the form of a roller 50 is provided in the guiding slot 150 to facilitate extension and retraction of the rod support assemblies 15 of the clothes airer of the invention.

The guiding slot 150 is sized and shaped such that the free end of the second link member 152 can travel therealong between a first position which is closer to the free end of the first link member 151 and in which the rod assembly 15 is extended, and a second position more remote from the free end of the first link member 15 in which the rod assembly 15 is retracted. The roller 50 is pivotally engaged with the free end of the second link member 152. A groove 55 is formed around the external cylindrical surface of the roller, by means of which the roller 50 is slidably engaged with the walls 110a, 110b IE 0 8 0 4 6 9 of the guiding slot 150. The material of the roller 50 and the mutual dimensions and shape of the roller 50, the groove 55 and the guiding slot 150 are selected such that the friction forces between the roller 50 and the walls 110a, 110b of the guiding slot 150 prevent the free end of the second link member 152 from travelling along the slot 150 in the absence of a user-applied force, but can be overcome upon application of a predetermined force by a user so as to move the free end of the second link member 152 into a desired position in the guiding slot 150. In this manner, a convenient means is provided for a user for extending or retracting the rod support assemblies 15 to a desired extent.

The material of the roller 50 is plastics such as for example nylon, which provides for smother and easier movement of the roller 50 in the guiding slot 150.

Modifications 1, 10 and 100 differ dimensionally and weight support strength, but nevertheless are all in accordance with the invention.

It will be understood that the preferred embodiment or embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed by way of example and that other modifications and alterations may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.

MACLACHLAN & DONALDSON, Applicants' Agents, 47 Merrion Square, DUBLIN 2.

IE 08046 9 1/6 11a 11a 110 FIGURE 1B 11 '· '71' 11 )/ ) λ J IE Ο 8 Ο 4 6 9 2/6 FIGURE 2Α ΙΕ ύ 8 Ο 4 6 9 3/6 IE Ο 8 Ο 4 6 9 4/6 FIGURE 4C IE Ο 8 Ο 4 6 9 /6 FIGURE 4Β IE Ο 8 Ο 4 6 9 6/6 FIGURE 5Β The following Claims were filed on 4th June 2009 IE 0 8 0 4 6 9 CLAIMS: 1. A clothes airer assembly comprising a plurality of rods for hanging clothes thereon; a pair of extendable and retractable rod support assemblies, each rod being connected to each of the two support assembles such that the rods are supported in a substantially parallel and spaced relationship, wherein upon extension or retraction of the support assemblies the distance between the rods is, respectively, increased or reduced; each rod support assembly comprising a mounting bracket having one or more orifices for engaging with a corresponding support element; and a pair of support brackets having one or more support elements, each support element being engageable with the corresponding orifice of the mounting brackets of the rod support assemblies; each support bracket comprising a first means for releasably engaging with a first rigid support structure, the first rigid support structure being capable of supporting the weight of the clothes airer and clothes mounted thereon. 2. A clothes airer as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the support bracket comprises a second means for releasably engaging with a second rigid support structure, the second rigid support structure being capable of supporting the weight of the clothes airer and clothes mounted thereon. 3. A clothes airer as claimed in Claim 2 wherein the second engaging means is configured for engaging a rigid support structure which differs dimensionally and/or structurally from the first rigid support structure. 4. A clothes airer as claimed in any preceding claim wherein each of the first and second engaging means of the support bracket is configured to engage with a rigid support structure in the form of a ledge comprising an upper surface which in use faces upwardly in relation to the ground and a pair of opposing side surfaces, a front surface which in use faces a user and a rear surface which in use faces away from the user, both front and rear surfaces projecting substantially downwardly in relation to the ground from respective opposing edges of the upper surface such that on assembly the engaging means of the support bracket engages the ledge so that the support bracket is supported by the ledge due to the combination of its weight and the weight of the clothes airer and the abutment of the engaging means against the ledge surfaces.

IE 0 8 ο 4 6 9 A clothes airer as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the support bracket comprises a rest member having first and second ends and first (front) and second (rear) opposing surfaces, the first surface in use facing the user, and the second surface in use facing away from the user, wherein the one or more of the support elements project proud from the first surface, such that when the support elements engage with the orifices of the mounting bracket of the rod support assembly, the mounting bracket abuts against the first surface. 6. A clothes airer as claimed in Claim 5 wherein a two-way flange member is connected to the rest member adjacent the first end of the rest member and projects therefrom in a direction substantially opposite the direction in which the first surface faces, the two-way flange member comprising a free end and first and second opposing bearing surfaces, a first bearing surface facing substantially in the same direction as the first end of the rest member and a second surface facing substantially the same direction as the second end of the rest member. 7. A clothes airer as claimed in Claim 6 wherein the first engaging means comprises a first lip member connected to the two-way flange about the free end of the Iwo-way flange member and spaced from the location at which the two-way flange member is connected to the first end of the rest member, the lip projecting substantially perpendicular to the second bearing surface of the two-way flange member, i.e. towards the second end of the rest member, such that in use, when the support bracket is installed at the relevant location, the second bearing surface of the two-way flange member rests upon an upper surface of a first rigid support structure and the first lip member engages a rear surface of the first rigid support structure. 8. A clothes airer as claimed in Claim 7 wherein the first engaging means comprises an abutment member connected to the rest member adjacent the second end of the rest member, such that in use, when the support bracket is installed at the relevant location, and the abutment member abuts against a front surface of the first rigid support member, 9. A clothes airer as claimed in Claim 7 or Claim 8 wherein the space between the location at which the two-way flange member is connected to the rest member and the first lip member is approximately the same as the distance between a front and a rear surfaces of the first rigid support structure.

IE 0 8 0 4 6 9 . A clothes airer as claimed in any of Claims 6 to 9 wherein the second engaging means comprises a second lip member connected to the two-way flange adjacent the location at which the two-way flange member is connected to the first end of the rest member, the second lip member projecting substantially perpendicular to the first bearing surface of the two-way flange member; and at least one finger element connected to the two-way flange member about the free end of the two-way flange member and spaced from the location at which the twoway flange member is connected to the first end of the rest member, the or each finger element projecting substantially perpendicular to the first bearing surface of the two-way flange member, i.e. substantially in the same direction as the second lip member; such that when the support bracket is installed at the relevant location, the first bearing surface of the two-way flange member rests upon an upper surface of a second rigid support structure, the second lip member engages a front surface of the second rigid support structure and the or each finger element enters a space defined between first and second opposing rear surfaces of the second rigid support structure and the or each finger element abuts against the second rear surface. 11. A clothes airer as claimed in Claim 10 wherein the distance between an inner surface of the second lip member, i.e. the surface that abuts the front surface of the second rigid support structure and a rearmost surface of the or each finger element, i.e. the surface that abuts the second rear surface of the second rigid support structure is approximately the same as the distance between the front and the second rear surfaces of the second rigid support structure. 12. A clothes airer as claimed in any of Claims 5 to 11 wherein the rest member comprises first and second portions, a first portion comprising the first end of the rest member and the second portion comprising the second end of the rest member, the first and second portions being connected at a location intermediate the first and second ends at an angle. 13. A clothes airer as claimed in Claim 12 wherein the second portion comprises the first (front) surface of the rest member which comprises the one or more of the support elements for engaging with the orifices of the mounting brackets of the rod support assemblies, such that in use, when the support bracket is engaged with a first rigid support structure the front surface of the rest member faces downwardly and an angle in IE 0 8 ο 4 6 9 relation Ιο the front surface of the first rigid support structure; and when the support bracket is engaged with a second rigid support structure the front surface of the rest member faces upwardly and an angle in relation to the front surface of the second rigid support structure. 14. A clothes airer as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the support bracket is manufactured from a durable, wear resistant, resilient material, such as metal, and the extensible assembly element is also manufactured from a similar material.

. A clothes airer as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the rods are formed integrally with the rod support assemblies. 16. A clothes airer as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the rods are of a substantially U-shaped form connected at its free ends to the respective rod support assembly. 17. A clothes airer as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the rod support assembly comprises a plurality of elongate link members having their centres and their end pivotally interconnected to define an extendable/collapsible lazy tong” structure of quadrilaterals, the rod assembly having a free end and a mounting bracket engageable end. 18. A clothes airer comprising a plurality of rods for hanging clothes thereon; a pair of extendable and retractable rod support assemblies, each rod being connected to each of the two support assembles such that the rods are supported in a substantially parallel and spaced relationship, wherein upon extension or retraction of the support assemblies the distance between the rods is, respectively, increased or reduced; each rod support assembly comprising a mounting bracket having one or more orifices for engaging with a corresponding support element; wherein the rod support assembly comprises a plurality of elongate link members having their centres and their end ptvolally interconnected to define an extendable/collapsible ‘ lazy tong” structure of quadrilaterals, the rod assembly having a free end and a mounting bracket engageable end; wherein IE 0 8 0 4 6 9 free ends of a pair of the last link members at the mounting bracket engageable end are attached to the mounting bracket, a first link being pivotally connected to a fixed location on the mounting bracket, and a portion of the second link member about the free end thereof being received in a guiding slot defined in the mounting bracket; wherein the guiding slot is sized and shaped such that the free end of the second link member can travel therealong between a first position which is closer to the free end of the first link member and in which the rod assembly is extended; and a second position more remote from the free end of the first link member in which the rod assembly is retracted; and wherein a bearing member is provided in the guiding slot, the bearing member being pivotally engaged with the free end of the second link member and the bearing member being slidably engaged with the walls of the guiding slot, the material of the bearing member and the mutual dimensions and shape of the bearing member and the guiding slot being selected such that the friction forces between the bearing member and the walls of the guiding slot prevent the free end of the second link member from travelling along the slot in the absence of a user-applied force, but can be overcome upon application of a pre-determined force by a user so as to move the free end of the second link member into a desired position in the guiding slot. 19. A clothes airer as claimed in Claim 18 wherein the material of the bearing is selected from a plastics material such as for example nylon.

. A clothes airer substantially as herein described with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings.

MACLACHLAN & DONALDSON, Applicants’ Agents, 47 Merrion Square, Dublin 2.

The following amended page 13 of the Specification was filed on 4th June 2009 IS U 8 ο 4 6 9 of the guiding slot 150. The material of the roller 50 and the mutual dimensions and shape of the roller 50, the groove 55 and the guiding slot 150 are selected such that the friction forces between the roller 50 and the walls 110a, 110b of the guiding slot 150 prevent the free end of the second link member 152 from travelling along the slot 150 in the absence of a user-applied force, but can be overcome upon application of a predetermined force by a user so as to move the free end of the second link member 152 into a desired position in the guiding slot 150. In this manner, a convenient means is provided for a user for extending or retracting the rod support assemblies 15 to a desired extent.

The material of the roller 50 is plastics such as for example nylon, which provides for smoother and easier movement of the roller 50 in the guiding slot 150.

It will be understood thal the preferred embodiment or embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed by way of example and that other modifications and alterations may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

The following amended pages 1,6,8,9,10,and 12 of the Specification were filed on 2nd November 2009 /£ 0 8 0 46 9 A CLOTHES AIRER” The present invention relates to a clothes airer.

This invention relates to improvements in clothes driers and airers. Clothes airers have been designed for drying clothes particularly for indoor use but not exclusively so. Extensible/collapsible airers are known which can be extended for hanging clothes thereon and collapsed when not in use. A typical airer of this type comprises a pair of extensible/collapsible assemblies of links which include interconnected pivoted links of the lazy tong type, held in a spaced parallel relationship by way of a number of transverse rods upon which articles of washing can be hung when the link assemblies are extended. Such a clothes airer may be secured to a rigid supporting surface such as a wall. For this purpose each link assembly is connected to a mounting bracket which is fixed to a surface of a wall or other external device, typically using screws or bolts. When so mounted, the link assemblies can be extended/collapsed in a direction substantially perpendicular to the mounting surface. More commonly used are airer types that are vertical in orientation, such as floor standing airers also knows as clothes horses which having regard to available space and safety considerations may be erected in a room or other suitable location.

When screws or bolts are used to fix the mounting brackets to a wall surface, diligence is required to ensure that there are no concealed wires or pipes inside the wall. Moreover, unsightly and damaging holes are created in the surface of the wall. Airers of this type are designed for stationary use and if it is required to move an airer to a different location, new holes are required to be formed in a wall for receiving screws or bolts. Using an adhesive for fixing the mounting bracket to the wall surface leaves an unwanted sticky residue on the surface when the airer is dismounted. Adhesives cannot support an object of significant weight and there is always a risk that the airer can become disengaged from the surface and fall.

IE 0 8 0469 surface of the second rigid support structure. The above orientations of the support bracket in the above installed modes provided for greater space saving when engaged with the clothes airer. In a preferred arrangement, a reinforcing member connects the first and second portion of the rest member.

In a preferred embodiment, the rod support assembly comprises a plurality of elongate link members having Iheir centres and their end pivotally interconnected to define an extendable/collapsible “lazy tong” structure of quadrilaterals, the rod assembly having a free end and a mounting bracket engageable end. Free ends of a pair of the last link members at the mounting bracket engageable end are attached to the mounting bracket, a first link being pivotally connected to a fixed location on the mounting bracket, and a portion of the second link member about the free end thereof being received in a guiding slot defined in the mounting bracket. The guiding slot is sized and shaped such that the free end of the second link member can travel therealong between a first position which is closest to the free end of the first link member and a second position, most remote from the free end of the first link member. When the free end of the second link member is in the first position, the rod assembly is extended to its longest mode, and when the free end of the second link member is in the second position, the rod assembly is collapsed, or, in other words, retracted.

In this aspect, the invention provides a clothes airer comprising: a plurality of rods for hanging clothes thereon; IE 0 8 0 4 6 9 In this manner, a convenient means is provided for a user for extending or retracting the rod support assemblies to a desired extent.

In a preferred embodiment, the material of the bearing is plastics such as for example nylon, which provides for smoother and easier movement of the bearing in the guiding slot.

Figures 1, 1A and 1B are, respectively, a perspective, a front elevation and a top views of a first modification of a clothes airer according to the invention; Figures 2, 2A, 2B and 2C are, respectively, a first perspective, a top, a front elevation and a second perspective views of a support bracket of the invention; Figures 3, 3A and 3B are, respectively, a perspective, a front elevation and a top views of another modification of a clothes airer according to the invention; Figures 4, 4A and 4B are, respectively, a perspective, a front elevation and a top views of yet another modification of a clothes airer according to the invention; Figure 4C is an enlarged portion of Figure 4 showing a bearing member of the clothes airer of the invention; and Figures 5, 5A and 5B are, respectively, a front elevation, a cross-sectional elevation and a top views of the bearing member of Figure 4C.

Referring to Figures 1,1A and 1B the clothes airer of the invention, indicated generally by reference numeral 1, comprises a plurality of rods 12 for hanging clothes thereon. Each rod 12 is connected at its free ends to each of a pair of extendable and retractable rod support assemblies 15. Each rod 12 is connected to each of the two rod support assembles 12 such that the rods 12 are supported in a substantially parallel and spaced relationship. Upon extension or retraction of the rod support assemblies 15 the distance between the rods 12 is, respectively, increased or reduced. Each rod support assembly IE 0 8 0 4 6 9 comprises a mounting bracket 11 having a pair of orifices 11 a. Figures 3, 3A and 3B show a modified clothes airer 10 which differs from the clothes airer 1 in dimension.

Referring to Figures 2. 2A, 2B and 2C, the invention also provides a pair of support brackets 5 for mounting the rod support assemblies 15 thereon. Each support bracket 5 has a pair of support elements in the form ot protrusions 51. Each protrusion 51 is engageable with the corresponding orifice 11a of the mounting bracket 11 of Ihe rod support assembly 15. Each support bracket 5 comprises a first means for releasably engaging with a ledge of a door and a second means for releasably engaging with a wallmounted radiator.

The support bracket 5 comprises a rest member 7 having first and second ends 71, 72 and first (front) and second (rear) opposing surfaces 73, 74. The first surface 73 in use faces a user, and the second surface 74 in use faces the front surface of the door or of the radiator. The protrusions 51 project proud from the first surface 73, such that when the protrusions 51 engage with the orifices 11a of the mounting bracket 11 the mounting bracket abuts 11 against the first surface 73.

The support bracket 5 comprises a two-way flange member 75 connected to the rest member 7 adjacent the first end 71 of the rest member 7. The two-way flange member 75 projects from the first end 71 in a direction substantially opposite the direction in which the front surface 73 of the rest member 7 faces. The two-way flange member 75 comprises a free end 76 and first and second opposing bearing surfaces 77, 78, respectively. The first bearing surface 77 faces substantially in the same direction as the first end 71 of the rest member 7 and the second bearing surface 78 faces substantially the same direction as the second end 72 of the rest member 7. The two-way flange 75 is ΙΕ ο 8 ο 4 6 9 a common member for the first and second engaging means of the support bracket 5 as will be described below.

The first engaging means for engaging a door ledge comprises a first lip member 60 connected to the two-way flange 75 about the free end 76 of the two-way flange member 75 and spaced from the location at which the two-way flange 75 member is connected to the first end 71 of the rest member. The first lip member 60 projects substantially perpendicular to the second bearing surface 78 of the two-way flange member 75, i.e. towards the second end 72 of the rest member 7. The first engaging means comprises an abutment member 61 connected to the rest member 7 adjacent the second end 72 of the rest member 7. In use, when the support bracket 5 is installed at over the door ledge, the second bearing surface 78 of the two-way flange member 75 rests upon a top surface of the door ledge. Simultaneously, the first lip member 60 engages a rear surface of the door ledge, and the abutment member 61 at the second end 72 of the rest member 7 abuts against the front surface of the door. In this manner, the support bracket 5 is held in place due to the combined effect of its own weight (and, when assembled with the clothes airer 1, the weight of the clothes airer 1) and the abutment of the first lip member 60, the second bearing surface 78 of the two-way flange 75 and the abutment member 61 against the above described surfaces of the door. The distance between the location at which the two-way flange member 75 is connected to the rest member 7 and the first lip member 60 is approximately the same as the distance between the front and the rear surfaces of the door.

The second engaging means for engaging a radiator top ledge comprises a second lip member 80 connected to the two-way flange 75 adjacent the location at which the twoway flange member 75 is connected to the first end 71 of the rest member. The second lip member 80 projects substantially perpendicular to the first bearing surface 77 of the two-way flange member 75, i.e. the second lip member 80 projects in a direction substantially opposite to the direction of the first lip member 60. The second engaging means also comprises a pair of finger elements 81 connected to the two-way flange member 75 about the free end 76 of the two-way flange member 75 and spaced from the location at which the two-way flange member 75 is connected to the first end 71 of the rest member 7. Each finger element 81 projects substantially perpendicular to the first bearing surface 77 of the two-way flange member 75, i.e. substantially in the same direction as the second lip member 80, In use, in order to install the support bracket 5 IE 0 46 9 The support bracket 5 is manufactured from a durable, wear resistant, resilient material, such as metal, and the extensible assembly element is also manufactured from a similar material.

Each rod support assembly 15 comprises a plurality of elongate link members 150 having their centres and their ends pivotally interconnected to define an extendable/collapsible “lazy tong” structure of quadrilaterals. The rod assembly 15 has a free end 150b and a mounting bracket engageable end 150a. Free ends of a pair of the last link members 150 at the mounting bracket engageable end 150a are attached to the mounting bracket 11. A first link 151 is pivotally connected at a fixed location to the mounting bracket 11. An end portion of the second link member 152 is engaged in a guiding slot 110 defined in the mounting bracket. The guiding slot 150 is sized and shaped such that the free end of the second link member 152 can travel therealong between a first position (see also Figure 4) which is closest to the free end of the first link member 151 and a second position, most remote from the free end of the first link member 151. When the free end of the second link member 152 is in the first position, the rod support assemblies 15 are extended, and when the free end of the second link member 152 is in the second position, the rod assemblies 15 are collapsed, or, in other words, retracted.

With reference to Figures 4 to 5B, in which a modification ot the clothes airer of the invention is indicated generally by reference numeral 100, a bearing means in the form of a roller 50 is provided in the guiding slot 150 to facilitate extension and retraction of the rod support assemblies 15 of the clothes airer of the invention.

The guiding slot 150 is sized and shaped such that the free end of the second link member 152 can travel therealong between a first position which is closer to the free end of the first link member 151 and in which the rod assembly 15 is extended, and a second position more remote from the free end of the first link member 15 in which the rod assembly 15 is retracted. The roller 50 is pivotally engaged with the free end of the second link member 152. A groove 55 is formed around the external cylindrical surface of the roller, by means of which the roller 50 is slidably engaged with the walls 110a, 110b The following revised Claims were filed on 2nd November 2009

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A clothes airer assembly comprising a plurality of rods for hanging clothes thereon; a pair of extendable and retractable rod support assemblies, each rod being connected to each of the two support assembles such that the rods are supported in a substantially parallel and spaced relationship, wherein upon extension or retraction of the support assemblies the distance between the rods is, respectively, increased or reduced; each rod support assembly comprising a mounting bracket having one or more orifices for engaging with a corresponding support element; and a pair of support brackets having one or more support elements, each support element being engageable with the corresponding orifice of the mounting brackets ot the rod support assemblies; each support bracket comprising a first means for releasably engaging with a first rigid support structure, the first rigid support structure being capable of supporting the weight of the clothes airer and clothes mounted thereon.

2. A clothes airer as claimed in Claim 1 wherein the support bracket comprises a second means for releasably engaging with a second rigid support structure, the second rigid support structure being capable of supporting the weight of the clothes airer and clothes mounted thereon; wherein the support bracket comprises a rest member having first and second ends and first (front) and second (rear) opposing surfaces, the first surface in use facing the user, and the second surface in use facing away from the user, wherein the one or more of the support elements project proud from the first surface, such that when the support elements engage with the orifices of the mounting bracket of the rod support assembly, the mounting bracket abuts against the first surface; and wherein a two-way flange member is connected to the rest member adjacent the first end of the rest member and projects therefrom in a direction substantially opposite the direction in which the first surface faces, the two-way flange member comprising a free end and first and second opposing bearing surfaces, a first bearing surface facing substantially in the same direction as the first end of the rest member and a second surface facing substantially the same direction as the second end of the rest member; wherein the second engaging means is configured for engaging a rigid support structure which differs dimensionally and/or structurally from the first rigid support structure; IE 0 8 0 4 6 9 wherein each of the first and second engaging means of the support bracket is configured to engage with a rigid support structure in the form of a ledge comprising an upper surface which in use faces upwardly in relation to the ground and a pair of opposing side surfaces, a front surface which in use faces a user and a rear surface which in use faces away from the user, both front and rear surfaces projecting substantially downwardly in relation to the ground from respective opposing edges of the upper surface such that on assembly the engaging means of the support bracket engages the ledge so that the support bracket is supported by the ledge due to the combination of its weight and the weight of the clothes airer and the abutment of the engaging means against the ledge surfaces; wherein the rest member comprises first and second portions, a first portion comprising the first end of the rest member and the second portion comprising the second end of the rest member, the first and second portions being connected at a location intermediate the first and second ends at an angle; wherein the second portion comprises the first (front) surface of the rest member which comprises the one or more of the support elements for engaging with the orifices of the mounting brackets of the rod support assemblies, such that in use, when the support bracket is engaged with a first rigid support structure the front surface of the rest member faces downwardly and an angle in relation to the front surface of the first rigid support structure; and when the support bracket is engaged with a second rigid support structure the front surface of the rest member faces upwardly and an angle in relation to the front surface of the second rigid support structure; wherein the support bracket is manufactured from a durable, wear resistant, resilient material, such as metal, and the extensible assembly element is also manufactured from a similar material; wherein the rods are formed integrally with the rod support assemblies; IE ο θ ο 4 6 9 wherein the rods are of a substantially U-shaped form connected at its free ends to the respective rod support assembly; wherein the rod support assembly comprises a plurality of elongate link members having their centres and their end pivotally interconnected to define an extendable/collapsible “lazy tong structure of quadrilaterals, the rod assembly having a free end and a mounting bracket engageable end; and optionally, wherein the rod support assembly comprises a plurality of elongate link members having their centres and their end pivotally interconnected to define an extendable/collapsible ‘lazy tong structure of quadrilaterals, the rod assembly having a free end and a mounting bracket engageable end; wherein free ends of a pair of the last link members at the mounting bracket engageable end are attached to the mounting bracket, a first link being pivotally connected to a fixed location on the mounting bracket, and a portion of the second link member about the free end thereof being received in a guiding slot defined in the mounting bracket; wherein the guiding slot is sized and shaped such that the free end of the second link member can travel therealong between a first position which is closer to the free end of the first link member and in which the rod assembly is extended; and a second position more remole from the free end of the first link member in which the rod assembly is retracted; and wherein a bearing member is provided in the guiding slot, the bearing member being pivotally engaged with the free end of the second link member and the bearing member being slidably engaged with the walls of the guiding slot, the material of the bearing member and the mutual dimensions and shape of the bearing member and the guiding slot being selected such that the friction forces between the bearing member and the walls of the guiding slot prevent the free end of the second link member from travelling along the slot in the absence of a user-applied force, but can be overcome upon application of a pre-determined force by a user so as to move the free end of the second link member into a desired position in the guiding slot.

3. A clothes airer as claimed in Claim 2 wherein the first engaging means comprises a first lip member connected to the two-way flange about the free end of the two-way flange member and spaced from the location at which the two-way flange member is connected to the first end of the rest member, the lip projecting substantially perpendicular to Ihe second bearing surface of the two-way flange member, i.e. towards the second end IE Ο 8 ο 4 6 9 of the rest member, such that in use, when the support bracket is installed at the relevant location, the second bearing surface of the two-way flange member rests upon an upper surface of a first rigid support structure and the first lip member engages a rear surface of the first rigid support structure; wherein the first engaging means comprises an abutment member connected to the rest member adjacent the second end of the rest member, such that in use, when the support bracket is installed at the relevant location, and the abutment member abuts against a front surface of the first rigid support member; and optionally, wherein the space between the location at which the two-way flange member is connected to the rest member and the first lip member is approximately the same as the distance between a front and a rear surfaces of the first rigid support structure;

4. A clothes airer as claimed in Claim 2 or Claim 3, wherein the second engaging means comprises a second lip member connected to the two-way flange adjacent the location at which the two-way flange member is connected to the first end of the rest member, the second lip member projecting substantially perpendicular to the first bearing 20 surface of the two-way flange member; and at least one finger element connected to the two-way flange member about the free end of the two-way flange member and spaced from the location at which the twoway flange member is connected to the first end of the rest member, the or each finger element projecting substantially perpendicular to the first bearing surface of the two-way 25 flange member, i.e. substantially in the same direction as the second lip member; such that when the support bracket is installed at the relevant location, the first bearing surface of the two-way flange member rests upon an upper surface of a second rigid support structure, the second lip member engages a front surface of the second rigid support structure and the or each finger element enters a space defined between first and 30 second opposing rear surfaces ot the second rigid support structure and the or each finger element abuts against the second rear surface; and optionally, wherein the distance between an inner surface of the second lip member, i.e. the surface that abuts the front surface of the second rigid support structure 35 and a rearmost surface of the or each finger element, i.e. the surface that abuts the 46s second rear surface of Ihe second rigid support structure is approximately the same as the distance between the front and the second rear surfaces of the second rigid support structure.

5. 5. A clothes airer substantially as herein described with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings.