US20130126690A1 - Item Securing Hook Assembly - Google Patents
Item Securing Hook Assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130126690A1 US20130126690A1 US13/741,724 US201313741724A US2013126690A1 US 20130126690 A1 US20130126690 A1 US 20130126690A1 US 201313741724 A US201313741724 A US 201313741724A US 2013126690 A1 US2013126690 A1 US 2013126690A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- hook element
- mounting plate
- unit
- lower hook
- distal end
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
- A47G25/00—Household implements used in connection with wearing apparel; Dress, hat or umbrella holders
- A47G25/02—Dress holders; Dress suspending devices; Clothes-hanger assemblies; Clothing lifters
- A47G25/06—Clothes hooks; Clothes racks; Garment-supporting stands with swingable or extending arms
- A47G25/0607—Clothes hooks
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to a hook assembly or unit for attachment to a vertical surface.
- the present invention relates to a unit attachable to a restroom stall wall or door for temporarily storing personal items such as hats, purses, backpacks, coats and the like.
- the present invention relates to a restroom stall hook assembly that hinders theft of personal items stored in a receiving area of the hook assembly.
- a typical restroom hook includes a planar mounting element for attachment to the stall surface and one or two generally J-shaped hooks extending from the mounting element, either in horizontal or vertical alignment, for hanging the personal items.
- the present invention addresses problems and limitations associated with the prior art.
- Units or hook assemblies of the present invention adequately capture and hold personal items which have some type of handle, rope, strap or the like, such as a handbag, computer satchel or backpack.
- Various preferred embodiments of the present invention further are configured to simultaneously hold or rest a secondary item, for example, a coat.
- One such preferred embodiment includes a mounting plate for attachment to a wall, door or the like.
- the mounting plate includes an upper end and a lower end.
- the mounting plate can be secured to a surface, such as a restroom stall door or wall, with screws, adhesive or the like.
- the preferred embodiment further includes a first hook element having a first attachment end and a second distal end, the first hook element extending generally toward the upper end of the mounting plate and away from the mounting plate.
- the unit includes a securing member extending from the second end of the first hook element in the direction towards the mounting plate and a second hook element having an outer end, the second hook element positioned above the first hook element and extending away from the mounting plate.
- the preferred hook is arranged and configured such that the securing member of the first hook element is in the same horizontal plane as the outer end of the second retaining member when the hook is operatively secured to the surface. This configuration provides for a hook requiring a generally “Z”-shaped or zigzag motion to remove articles from within a storage area of the hook, thus making “push, drop and grab” theft of an item operatively stored on the hook extraordinarily difficult.
- Alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention also include a mounting plate having upper and lower ends.
- the hook assembly includes a first hook element extending from the lower end of the mounting plate.
- the first hook element includes a first attachment end and a second distal end.
- the first attachment end is interconnected to the mounting plate and the second distal end preferably includes a securing member extending toward the mounting plate.
- the securing member is generally perpendicular to the mounting plate such that articles stored in a receiving area of the hook assembly are easy to place on the hook element, yet difficult for thieves to remove from an over-the-stall attempt as the securing member would have to be quickly and blindly maneuvered by the thief.
- Additional embodiments can include an upper securing member extending from the upper end of the mounting plate.
- the upper securing member preferably includes a first member that extends over the lower hook element when the hook assembly is operatively secured to the vertical surface.
- the upper member further includes a second member that extends downwardly from the first member and below the lower hook element.
- the second member further includes a crook that at least partially extends towards the mounting plate such that it is at least partially in the same horizontal plane as the lower hook element.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hook assembly or unit 10 secured to a door D;
- FIG. 2 is a side view of the hook assembly 10 of FIG. 1 secured to the door D of a restroom stall S, the hook assembly 10 having articles A hung therefrom;
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the hook assembly 10 of FIGS. 1-2 ;
- FIG. 4 is a side view of the hook assembly of FIGS. 1-2 ;
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternate hook assembly or unit 110 ;
- FIG. 6 is a side view of the hook assembly 110 of FIG. 5 ;
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternate hook assembly or unit 210 ;
- FIG. 8 is a side view of the hook assembly or unit of FIG. 7 ;
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternate hook assembly or unit 310 ;
- FIG. 10 is a side view of the hook assembly 310 of FIG. 9 ;
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an alternate hook assembly or unit 410 .
- FIG. 12 is a side view of the hook assembly 410 of FIG. 11 .
- FIGS. 1-12 Illustrative embodiments are illustrated in FIGS. 1-12 .
- a hook assembly 10 or unit is illustrated in FIGS. 1-4 .
- the illustrated unit or hook assembly 10 includes a mounting plate 12 arranged and configured for mounting on a vertical surface, such as a wall or restroom stall door D, the mounting plate 12 having an upper end 14 and a lower end 16 .
- Extending from the mounting plate 12 is a lower hook element 20 having a lower crook 22 on which articles A can be hung.
- the preferred hook assembly 10 further includes an upper hook element 30 including a first member 32 extending outwardly and possibly upwardly from the mounting plate and a second member 34 extending downwardly from the first member 32 .
- the second member 34 extends below the lower hook element 20 such that articles A secured on the lower hook element 20 and within a receiving area 18 are thoroughly secured.
- the second member 34 includes an upper crook 38 that is positioned such that the second member 34 is at least partially located in the same horizontal plane H as the lower hook 20 element as illustrated. Such configuration requires a generally “Z”-shaped motion to successfully remove articles A hung on the lower crook 22 .
- the upper hook element 30 preferably further assists in blocking any attempted contact with articles A hung on the upper or lower crooks 22 , 38 from over the stall wall or door D.
- Preferred embodiments additionally include a reinforcing web 36 supporting the connection between the first and second members 32 , 34 .
- the upper and lower hook elements 20 , 30 can include an increased thickness at their respective mounting plate connection joints 40 to increase the overall strength of the hook assembly 10 .
- FIGS. 5-6 A similar hook assembly or unit 110 is illustrated in FIGS. 5-6 .
- the illustrated unit or hook assembly 110 includes a mounting plate 112 arranged and configured for mounting on a vertical surface, the mounting plate 112 having an upper end 114 and a lower end 116 .
- a lower hook element 120 extends from the mounting plate 112 and has a lower crook 122 on which articles can be hung.
- the preferred hook 110 further includes an upper hook element 130 including a first member 132 extending outwardly from the mounting plate 112 and a second member 130 extending downwardly from the first member 132 .
- the second member 134 of this embodiment does not extend down past the lower hook element 120 as with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4 .
- the upper hook element 130 is preferably configured and arranged such that it assists in blocking any attempted contact with articles hung within a receiving area 118 on either the upper or lower crooks 120 , 130 from over a stall wall or door.
- One arrangement to block any attempted contact with articles hung within a receiving area 118 is to configure the first member 132 to have a generally concave upper surface as illustrated.
- the second member 134 is located above the lower crook 122 when the unit 110 is operatively secured to a vertical surface.
- the second member 134 includes an upper crook 136 that is preferably positioned such that the upper crook 134 is at least partially located in the same horizontal plane H as the lower hook element 120 as illustrated.
- a first distance D 1 between the lower crook 122 and the mounting plate 112 is greater than a second distance D 2 between the upper crook 136 and the mounting plate 112 .
- Such a configuration provides for better trapping of articles stored on the upper crook 136 as the lower crook 122 will likely catch any articles that are jostled off of the upper crook 136 .
- Preferred embodiments additionally include a reinforcing web 138 supporting the connection between the first and second members 132 , 134 .
- the upper and lower retaining members 120 , 130 can include an increased thickness at their respective mounting plate connection joints 140 to increase the overall strength of the unit 110 .
- FIGS. 7-8 Yet another preferred hook assembly or unit is illustrated in FIGS. 7-8 .
- This hook assembly or unit 210 similarly includes a mounting plate 212 arranged and configured for attachment to a vertical surface, the mounting plate 212 having upper and lower ends 214 , 216 .
- the hook assembly 210 includes a lower hook element 220 extending from the lower end 214 of the mounting plate 212 .
- the lower hook element 220 includes a first mounting end 222 and a second distal end 224 .
- the first mounting end 222 is interconnected to the mounting plate 212 and the second distal end 224 includes a securing member 226 extending in the direction of the mounting plate 212 .
- the securing member 226 is generally perpendicular to the mounting plate 212 such that articles are easy to place within a receiving area 218 and on the first hook element 220 , yet difficult for thieves to remove from an over-the-stall attempt.
- the lower hook element 220 can include an increased thickness at its respective mounting plate connection joints 240 to increase the overall strength of the hook assembly 210 .
- the hook assemblies or units 310 , 410 of FIGS. 9-12 include a mounting plate 312 , 412 having upper 314 , 414 and lower ends 316 , 416 and a first hook element 320 , 420 extending therefrom.
- the first hook element 320 , 420 include a lower crook 322 , 422 on which articles can be stored.
- the preferred hook assemblies 310 , 410 further include a second securing member or second hook element 330 , 430 extending outwardly from the mounting plate 312 , 412 and over and above the lower crook 322 , 422 of the first hook element 320 , 420 .
- the second hook element 330 , 430 includes a distal end 332 , 432 .
- the second securing member 330 is illustrated in Figs. C.
- the second securing member 330 is generally linear and extends downwardly from the upper end of the mounting plate 312 .
- the distal end 332 is in the same horizontal plane H as the securing member 330 such that articles stored on the first hook element 320 cannot easily be pushed off of the first hook element 320 and out of a receiving area 318 from someone reaching over the stall (see also, FIG. 1 ).
- this unit 410 has an alternate second hook element 430 .
- this preferred second hook element 430 extends over the first hook element 420 and includes a distal end 432 .
- the second hook element 430 provides an additional area to rest or hold an article.
- the distal end 432 is generally “T”-shaped in cross-section.
- the distal end 432 includes a guide surface 434 having a top end 436 and a bottom end 438 , wherein the guide surface 434 is slanted such that the bottom end 438 is closest to the mounting plate 412 . This arrangement is preferred such that articles will easily slide into a receiving area 418 .
- mounting plates can be utilized in conjunction with the hook element(s) of the present invention. It will also be appreciated that the mounting plates of the present invention can be secured to the vertical surface with a variety of known techniques, such as, screws, adhesives or the like. The placement and number of any mounting apertures will vary depending on, for example, the attachment method chosen, the chosen material of the unit, the material of the vertical surface and the desired weight capacity of the unit.
- a bumper 50 can be incorporated into the hook or unit 10 , 110 , 210 , 310 , 410 .
- a method of securing such a bumper 50 is to provide a protrusion 52 located on the unit, wherein an at least-partially elastic door stop having an aperture could be force fit onto the protrusion.
- the preferred bumper 50 is a relatively soft material, such as rubber, vinyl or the like.
- the hook assemblies or units of the present invention can be manufactured in a variety of ways currently known in the art.
- One example is metal shaping. Many embodiments could be made by shaping a piece of metal into the mounting plate and lower hook element. For embodiments including an upper hook element, a secondary piece of metal could then be welded to the mounting plate to form the upper hook element. Following such a weld, some measure of grinding and/or polishing would be preferred.
- Mounting apertures for example, mounting apertures 28 , 128 , 228 , 328 , 428 , could then be drilled so that the respective hook assembly could be fastened to the mounting plate with screws.
- hook assemblies of the present invention could be made by casting. Following casting of the primary shape, some de-burring and polishing is preferred.
- mounting holes are then preferably drilled.
- An additional manufacturing method is forging. This method would produce a single, seamless object. Following forging of the primary shape, some measure of grinding, de-burring, and polishing could be desired. Mounting holes could then be additionally drilled as previously discussed.
- units of the present invention can be manufactured by extrusion or “draw” methods. In such cases, the profile of the unit would be drawn, cut, de-burred and then preferably polished and finished.
- Hook assemblies or units of the present invention can be manufactured from a variety of known materials. These materials can include, but are not limited to, brass, stainless-steel, steel plated with zinc, chrome, brass, wrought iron, and plastic compounds. Certain compounds, such as polymers, are currently less practical for hook materials, but improved technologies could make various compounds, including polymers, a practical option. Manufacturing with such compounds could include, for example, molding or extrusion. Depending on the material chosen, it is possible that the following manufacturing of the shape of the hook assembly, a decision could be made to perform a secondary operation, such as heat-treating to improve characteristics of the hook assembly such as strength and durability as is known in the art.
- a secondary operation such as heat-treating to improve characteristics of the hook assembly such as strength and durability as is known in the art.
- Preferred hook assemblies of the present invention will not only hinder theft but will also be aesthetically pleasing. Therefore, preferred hook assemblies will additionally include a preference of color and finish.
- Each hook assembly of the present invention can be plated or painted as desired in accordance with known methods and means for the respective material of the unit.
- the preferred hook assemblies of the present invention are minimally, if any, more expensive to produce than commonly used restroom stall hooks. Moreover, the preferred hook assemblies of the present invention can result in cost savings by preventing loss of the personal article, loss of any of the article's contents, time of the victim and property owner, time of law enforcement personnel and others involved, as well as preventing lost of time with possible insured claims and payments.
- FIGS. 1-12 are not to scale. The preferred proportions and spacing will vary depending on the intended purpose of the hook or unit and manufacturer preference which may be based on, for example, consumer testing, market research and/or manufacturing considerations. Additionally, it will be understood that additional crooks or hook members can be incorporated into the teachings of this disclosure as desired. The disclosure is not intended to be limited to any specific number of crooks or hook members.
Abstract
Units or hook assemblies arranged and configured to adequately capture and hold personal items which have some type of handle, rope, strap or the like. Preferred embodiments include a mounting plate for attachment to a restroom stall wall, door or the like. The mounting plate includes an upper end and a lower end. Preferred embodiments further include a first and second hook elements extending outwardly from the mounting plate. Preferred embodiments are arranged and configured to hinder theft of personal items stored on the hook from an over the stall door or wall attempt.
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/016,323, filed Jan. 28, 2011, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/171,722, filed Jul. 11, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,900,883, all of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates generally to a hook assembly or unit for attachment to a vertical surface. Particularly, the present invention relates to a unit attachable to a restroom stall wall or door for temporarily storing personal items such as hats, purses, backpacks, coats and the like. More particularly, the present invention relates to a restroom stall hook assembly that hinders theft of personal items stored in a receiving area of the hook assembly.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- There are a wide variety of hooks designed for hanging personal items such as hats, purses, backpacks, coats and the like. Many of these hooks are used in public restrooms, often secured to a stall surface such as the stall door or side wall. A visitor usually places their personal items on the hook while using the facilities to support the items off of the floor. A typical restroom hook includes a planar mounting element for attachment to the stall surface and one or two generally J-shaped hooks extending from the mounting element, either in horizontal or vertical alignment, for hanging the personal items.
- Theft in public restrooms of personal items stored on restroom hooks while a person is in the stall is a prevalent problem. A significant amount of the problem stems from a simple theft in which an object, often a purse, is hung on an interior hook in a restroom stall. The thief reaches over the stall, pushes the item off of the hook and onto the stall floor while the owner is in a particularly vulnerable position. The item then drops to the ground and the thief can then reach under the stall and grab the fallen item. Before the owner of the item can react, the thief has fled. This method of theft is often referred to as “push, drop and grab”.
- Numerous attempts have been made to develop an anti-theft device for locking personal items to the device to prevent theft. These devices, such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,984,250 (Connor); 6,152,419 (Bender); 6,338,463 (Babitz et al.) and D551,418 (Loveless) are often large devices, many having numerous moving parts. Such devices are more expensive than traditional known hooks, can secure a very limited number and type of items and are somewhat difficult to use, particularly if a visitor is in a hurry or unfamiliar with that type of device.
- The present invention addresses problems and limitations associated with the prior art.
- The present invention is particularly useful in preventing such “push, drop and grab” theft. It is notable that features herein might suggest other uses and applications. Units or hook assemblies of the present invention adequately capture and hold personal items which have some type of handle, rope, strap or the like, such as a handbag, computer satchel or backpack. Various preferred embodiments of the present invention further are configured to simultaneously hold or rest a secondary item, for example, a coat.
- Preferred embodiments of the present invention, because they have no moving parts, offer durability, cost effectiveness, and simplicity. One such preferred embodiment includes a mounting plate for attachment to a wall, door or the like. The mounting plate includes an upper end and a lower end. The mounting plate can be secured to a surface, such as a restroom stall door or wall, with screws, adhesive or the like. The preferred embodiment further includes a first hook element having a first attachment end and a second distal end, the first hook element extending generally toward the upper end of the mounting plate and away from the mounting plate. In addition, the unit includes a securing member extending from the second end of the first hook element in the direction towards the mounting plate and a second hook element having an outer end, the second hook element positioned above the first hook element and extending away from the mounting plate. The preferred hook is arranged and configured such that the securing member of the first hook element is in the same horizontal plane as the outer end of the second retaining member when the hook is operatively secured to the surface. This configuration provides for a hook requiring a generally “Z”-shaped or zigzag motion to remove articles from within a storage area of the hook, thus making “push, drop and grab” theft of an item operatively stored on the hook extraordinarily difficult.
- Alternate preferred embodiments of the present invention also include a mounting plate having upper and lower ends. In preferred embodiments, the hook assembly includes a first hook element extending from the lower end of the mounting plate. The first hook element includes a first attachment end and a second distal end. The first attachment end is interconnected to the mounting plate and the second distal end preferably includes a securing member extending toward the mounting plate. In preferred embodiments, the securing member is generally perpendicular to the mounting plate such that articles stored in a receiving area of the hook assembly are easy to place on the hook element, yet difficult for thieves to remove from an over-the-stall attempt as the securing member would have to be quickly and blindly maneuvered by the thief. Additional embodiments can include an upper securing member extending from the upper end of the mounting plate. The upper securing member preferably includes a first member that extends over the lower hook element when the hook assembly is operatively secured to the vertical surface. The upper member further includes a second member that extends downwardly from the first member and below the lower hook element. Preferably, the second member further includes a crook that at least partially extends towards the mounting plate such that it is at least partially in the same horizontal plane as the lower hook element.
- These and various other advantages and features of novelty which characterize the present invention are pointed out with particularity in the claims annexed hereto and forming a part hereof. However, for a better understanding of the invention, its advantages and objects obtained by its use, reference should be made to the drawings which form a further part hereof, and to the accompanying descriptive matter, in which there is illustrated and described preferred embodiments of the present invention.
- In the drawings, in which corresponding reference numerals and letters indicate corresponding parts of the various embodiments throughout the several views, and in which the various embodiments generally differ only in the manner described and/or shown, but otherwise include corresponding parts;
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hook assembly or unit 10 secured to a door D; -
FIG. 2 is a side view of the hook assembly 10 ofFIG. 1 secured to the door D of a restroom stall S, the hook assembly 10 having articles A hung therefrom; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the hook assembly 10 ofFIGS. 1-2 ; -
FIG. 4 is a side view of the hook assembly ofFIGS. 1-2 ; -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an alternate hook assembly orunit 110; -
FIG. 6 is a side view of thehook assembly 110 ofFIG. 5 ; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an alternate hook assembly or unit 210; -
FIG. 8 is a side view of the hook assembly or unit ofFIG. 7 ; -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an alternate hook assembly orunit 310; -
FIG. 10 is a side view of thehook assembly 310 ofFIG. 9 ; -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an alternate hook assembly orunit 410; and -
FIG. 12 is a side view of thehook assembly 410 ofFIG. 11 . - Illustrative embodiments are illustrated in
FIGS. 1-12 . One preferred embodiment of a hook assembly 10 or unit is illustrated inFIGS. 1-4 . The illustrated unit or hook assembly 10 includes a mounting plate 12 arranged and configured for mounting on a vertical surface, such as a wall or restroom stall door D, the mounting plate 12 having an upper end 14 and alower end 16. Extending from the mounting plate 12 is alower hook element 20 having alower crook 22 on which articles A can be hung. The preferred hook assembly 10 further includes an upper hook element 30 including afirst member 32 extending outwardly and possibly upwardly from the mounting plate and asecond member 34 extending downwardly from thefirst member 32. Preferably, thesecond member 34 extends below thelower hook element 20 such that articles A secured on thelower hook element 20 and within a receivingarea 18 are thoroughly secured. In further preferred embodiments, thesecond member 34 includes anupper crook 38 that is positioned such that thesecond member 34 is at least partially located in the same horizontal plane H as thelower hook 20 element as illustrated. Such configuration requires a generally “Z”-shaped motion to successfully remove articles A hung on thelower crook 22. The upper hook element 30 preferably further assists in blocking any attempted contact with articles A hung on the upper orlower crooks web 36 supporting the connection between the first andsecond members lower hook elements 20, 30 can include an increased thickness at their respective mounting plate connection joints 40 to increase the overall strength of the hook assembly 10. - A similar hook assembly or
unit 110 is illustrated inFIGS. 5-6 . The illustrated unit orhook assembly 110 includes a mounting plate 112 arranged and configured for mounting on a vertical surface, the mounting plate 112 having anupper end 114 and alower end 116. As with the previous embodiment, alower hook element 120 extends from the mounting plate 112 and has a lower crook 122 on which articles can be hung. Thepreferred hook 110 further includes anupper hook element 130 including afirst member 132 extending outwardly from the mounting plate 112 and asecond member 130 extending downwardly from thefirst member 132. Thesecond member 134 of this embodiment does not extend down past thelower hook element 120 as with the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-4 . Theupper hook element 130 is preferably configured and arranged such that it assists in blocking any attempted contact with articles hung within a receivingarea 118 on either the upper orlower crooks area 118 is to configure thefirst member 132 to have a generally concave upper surface as illustrated. - As previously discussed, the
second member 134 is located above the lower crook 122 when theunit 110 is operatively secured to a vertical surface. In further preferred embodiments, thesecond member 134 includes anupper crook 136 that is preferably positioned such that theupper crook 134 is at least partially located in the same horizontal plane H as thelower hook element 120 as illustrated. - Preferably, a first distance D1 between the lower crook 122 and the mounting plate 112 is greater than a second distance D2 between the
upper crook 136 and the mounting plate 112. Such a configuration provides for better trapping of articles stored on theupper crook 136 as the lower crook 122 will likely catch any articles that are jostled off of theupper crook 136. - Preferred embodiments additionally include a reinforcing
web 138 supporting the connection between the first andsecond members members unit 110. - Yet another preferred hook assembly or unit is illustrated in
FIGS. 7-8 . This hook assembly or unit 210 similarly includes a mounting plate 212 arranged and configured for attachment to a vertical surface, the mounting plate 212 having upper and lower ends 214, 216. In preferred embodiments, the hook assembly 210 includes alower hook element 220 extending from thelower end 214 of the mounting plate 212. Thelower hook element 220 includes a first mounting end 222 and a seconddistal end 224. The first mounting end 222 is interconnected to the mounting plate 212 and the seconddistal end 224 includes a securingmember 226 extending in the direction of the mounting plate 212. In preferred embodiments, the securingmember 226 is generally perpendicular to the mounting plate 212 such that articles are easy to place within a receivingarea 218 and on thefirst hook element 220, yet difficult for thieves to remove from an over-the-stall attempt. As with prior embodiments, thelower hook element 220 can include an increased thickness at its respective mounting plate connection joints 240 to increase the overall strength of the hook assembly 210. - The hook assemblies or
units FIGS. 9-12 include a mountingplate 312, 412 having upper 314, 414 and lower ends 316, 416 and afirst hook element first hook element lower crook 322, 422 on which articles can be stored. Thepreferred hook assemblies second hook element plate 312, 412 and over and above thelower crook 322, 422 of thefirst hook element second hook element member 330 is illustrated in Figs. C. In this embodiment, the second securingmember 330 is generally linear and extends downwardly from the upper end of the mounting plate 312. Preferably, the distal end 332 is in the same horizontal plane H as the securingmember 330 such that articles stored on thefirst hook element 320 cannot easily be pushed off of thefirst hook element 320 and out of a receivingarea 318 from someone reaching over the stall (see also,FIG. 1 ). - Now also referring to Figs. D, this
unit 410 has an alternatesecond hook element 430. As with the embodiment of Figs. C, this preferredsecond hook element 430 extends over thefirst hook element 420 and includes a distal end 432. Thesecond hook element 430 provides an additional area to rest or hold an article. In this embodiment, the distal end 432 is generally “T”-shaped in cross-section. Preferably, the distal end 432 includes aguide surface 434 having atop end 436 and a bottom end 438, wherein theguide surface 434 is slanted such that the bottom end 438 is closest to the mountingplate 412. This arrangement is preferred such that articles will easily slide into a receivingarea 418. - It will be understood that numerous sized and shaped mounting plates can be utilized in conjunction with the hook element(s) of the present invention. It will also be appreciated that the mounting plates of the present invention can be secured to the vertical surface with a variety of known techniques, such as, screws, adhesives or the like. The placement and number of any mounting apertures will vary depending on, for example, the attachment method chosen, the chosen material of the unit, the material of the vertical surface and the desired weight capacity of the unit.
- When secured on the interior side of a restroom door, it is possible that the hooks of the present invention could strike the interior wall when the door swings open. If the hook is secured to the interior wall, it is possible that the door could strike the hook. These conditions can be mitigated by incorporating a conventional door stop. Alternatively, a
bumper 50 can be incorporated into the hook orunit bumper 50 is to provide a protrusion 52 located on the unit, wherein an at least-partially elastic door stop having an aperture could be force fit onto the protrusion. Thepreferred bumper 50 is a relatively soft material, such as rubber, vinyl or the like. - The hook assemblies or units of the present invention can be manufactured in a variety of ways currently known in the art. One example is metal shaping. Many embodiments could be made by shaping a piece of metal into the mounting plate and lower hook element. For embodiments including an upper hook element, a secondary piece of metal could then be welded to the mounting plate to form the upper hook element. Following such a weld, some measure of grinding and/or polishing would be preferred. Mounting apertures, for example, mounting
apertures - Hook assemblies or units of the present invention can be manufactured from a variety of known materials. These materials can include, but are not limited to, brass, stainless-steel, steel plated with zinc, chrome, brass, wrought iron, and plastic compounds. Certain compounds, such as polymers, are currently less practical for hook materials, but improved technologies could make various compounds, including polymers, a practical option. Manufacturing with such compounds could include, for example, molding or extrusion. Depending on the material chosen, it is possible that the following manufacturing of the shape of the hook assembly, a decision could be made to perform a secondary operation, such as heat-treating to improve characteristics of the hook assembly such as strength and durability as is known in the art.
- Preferred hook assemblies of the present invention will not only hinder theft but will also be aesthetically pleasing. Therefore, preferred hook assemblies will additionally include a preference of color and finish. Each hook assembly of the present invention can be plated or painted as desired in accordance with known methods and means for the respective material of the unit.
- The preferred hook assemblies of the present invention are minimally, if any, more expensive to produce than commonly used restroom stall hooks. Moreover, the preferred hook assemblies of the present invention can result in cost savings by preventing loss of the personal article, loss of any of the article's contents, time of the victim and property owner, time of law enforcement personnel and others involved, as well as preventing lost of time with possible insured claims and payments.
-
FIGS. 1-12 are not to scale. The preferred proportions and spacing will vary depending on the intended purpose of the hook or unit and manufacturer preference which may be based on, for example, consumer testing, market research and/or manufacturing considerations. Additionally, it will be understood that additional crooks or hook members can be incorporated into the teachings of this disclosure as desired. The disclosure is not intended to be limited to any specific number of crooks or hook members. - Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described herein, the above description is merely illustrative. Further modification of the invention herein disclosed will occur to those skilled in the respective arts and all such modifications are deemed to be within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
Claims (15)
1. An article support unit for attachment to a vertical surface, the unit comprising:
a mounting plate having an upper end and a lower end;
a lower hook element having a distal end; the lower hook element connected to and extending outwardly from a first location on the mounting plate in a generally orthogonal direction; and
an upper hook element including a first member connected to the mounting plate at a second location, with the second location closer to the upper end of the mounting plate than the first location, and with the first member extending generally perpendicular from the mounting plate, the upper hook element further including a second member extending from the first member, the second member including a crook having a distal end; wherein, when the unit is operatively secured to the vertical surface, the first member is spaced from and extends above the lower hook element, the second member extends downwardly from the first member so that it is spaced from and located in front of the lower hook element;
wherein a first distance between the distal end of the crook of the upper hook element and the mounting plate is less than a second distance between the distal end of the lower hook element and the mounting plate;
wherein the upper hook element and the lower hook element are coplanar.
2. The unit of claim 1 , wherein the lower hook element extends from a location adjacent the lower end of the mounting plate and the upper hook element extends from a location adjacent the upper end of the mounting plate.
3. The unit of claim 1 , wherein the second member of the upper hook element having a generally concave, rearwardly facing curvature relative to the mounting plate.
4. The unit of claim 1 , wherein the upper hook element includes a reinforcing web, and the first member and the second member are interconnected by the reinforcing web.
5. The unit of claim 1 , wherein an angle formed by the first member and the second member of the upper hook element is approximately 90 degrees.
6. The unit of claim 1 , wherein the upper hook element and the lower hook element are attached to the mounting plate at a fixed, nonadjustable distance from one another.
7. An article support unit for attachment to a vertical surface, the unit comprising:
a substantially planar mounting plate having a first surface and a second surface, with the second surface parallel with the first surface, an upper end and a lower end;
a lower hook element having a distal end; the lower hook element connected to and extending outwardly from the first surface of the mounting plate in a generally orthogonal direction; and
an upper hook element including a first member connected to and extending generally outwardly from the first surface of the mounting plate, the upper hook element further including a second member extending from the first member, the second member including a crook with a distal end; wherein, when the unit is operatively secured to the vertical surface so that the upper end is above the lower end, the first member extends over the lower hook element, the second member extends downwardly in front of the lower hook element, and the crook extends inwardly towards the mounting plate such that the distal end of the crook is located above the distal end of the lower hook element;
wherein a first distance between the distal end of the crook of the upper hook element and the mounting plate is less than a second distance between the distal end of the lower hook element and the mounting plate;
wherein the upper hook element and the lower hook element are attached to the mounting plate at a fixed, nonadjustable distance from one another.
8. The unit of claim 7 , wherein the upper hook element and the lower hook element are coplanar.
9. The unit of claim 7 , wherein the lower hook element extends from a location adjacent the lower end of the mounting plate and the upper hook element extends from a location adjacent the upper end of the mounting plate.
10. The unit of claim 7 , wherein the second member of the upper hook element having a generally concave, rearwardly facing curvature relative to the mounting plate.
11. The unit of claim 7 , wherein the upper hook element includes a reinforcing web, and the first member and the second member are interconnected by the reinforcing web.
12. The unit of claim 7 , wherein the upper hook element and the lower hook element are attached to the mounting plate at a fixed, nonadjustable distance from one another.
13. An article support unit for attachment to a vertical surface, the unit comprising:
a mounting plate having an upper end and a lower end;
a lower hook element having a distal end; the lower hook element connected to and extending outwardly from a first location on the mounting plate in a generally orthogonal direction; and
an upper hook element at least partially extending generally perpendicular from the mounting plate, the upper hook element further including a crook having a distal end; wherein, when the unit is operatively secured to the vertical surface, the upper hook element is spaced from and extends above the lower hook element, the upper hook element at least partially extends downwardly and in front of the lower hook element;
wherein the crook is located above the lower hook element;
wherein a first distance between the distal end of the crook of the upper hook element and the mounting plate is less than a second distance between the distal end of the lower hook element and the mounting plate;
wherein the upper hook element and the lower hook element are coplanar.
14. The unit of claim 13 , wherein the lower hook element extends from a location adjacent the lower end of the mounting plate and the upper hook element extends from a location adjacent the upper end of the mounting plate.
15. The unit of claim 13 , wherein the upper hook element and the lower hook element are attached to the mounting plate at a fixed, nonadjustable distance from one another.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US13/741,724 US20130126690A1 (en) | 2008-07-11 | 2013-01-15 | Item Securing Hook Assembly |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/171,722 US7900883B2 (en) | 2008-07-11 | 2008-07-11 | Item securing hook assembly |
US13/016,323 US8376297B2 (en) | 2008-07-11 | 2011-01-28 | Item securing hook assembly |
US13/741,724 US20130126690A1 (en) | 2008-07-11 | 2013-01-15 | Item Securing Hook Assembly |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/016,323 Continuation US8376297B2 (en) | 2008-07-11 | 2011-01-28 | Item securing hook assembly |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20130126690A1 true US20130126690A1 (en) | 2013-05-23 |
Family
ID=41504272
Family Applications (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/171,722 Active US7900883B2 (en) | 2008-07-11 | 2008-07-11 | Item securing hook assembly |
US13/016,323 Active 2028-07-15 US8376297B2 (en) | 2008-07-11 | 2011-01-28 | Item securing hook assembly |
US13/741,724 Abandoned US20130126690A1 (en) | 2008-07-11 | 2013-01-15 | Item Securing Hook Assembly |
Family Applications Before (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/171,722 Active US7900883B2 (en) | 2008-07-11 | 2008-07-11 | Item securing hook assembly |
US13/016,323 Active 2028-07-15 US8376297B2 (en) | 2008-07-11 | 2011-01-28 | Item securing hook assembly |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (3) | US7900883B2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2671635C (en) |
Families Citing this family (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8752877B2 (en) * | 2011-08-17 | 2014-06-17 | Daniel Spindler | Method and apparatus for installing decorative lights |
US10874269B2 (en) | 2012-03-12 | 2020-12-29 | James Bongiorno | Lavatory enclosure-to-toilet device with replaceable cartridge for hygienic support of lowered slacks |
US9885444B1 (en) | 2012-03-12 | 2018-02-06 | James Bongiorno | Slacks valet mechanism for a lavatory |
KR101535456B1 (en) * | 2013-11-15 | 2015-07-10 | (주)티엠에스 | Hook assembly |
US10793077B2 (en) * | 2017-11-30 | 2020-10-06 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Carabiner-style cargo hook |
US10577230B1 (en) | 2018-10-22 | 2020-03-03 | Gary Shelton | Winch device |
US11122924B2 (en) * | 2019-08-27 | 2021-09-21 | Staybill, LLC | Bracket system for hats |
USD925341S1 (en) * | 2020-01-09 | 2021-07-20 | Tesa Se | Hook for hanging |
US11793286B2 (en) * | 2020-11-09 | 2023-10-24 | Easton Diamond Sports, Llc | Gear hooks for sports bags |
USD1002204S1 (en) * | 2021-11-10 | 2023-10-24 | Modern JP Brands LLC | Hat holder |
USD1012675S1 (en) * | 2021-12-09 | 2024-01-30 | Jingtao Zhong | Hook |
Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1714087A (en) * | 1928-03-08 | 1929-05-21 | Frederick H Goldhardt | Locking device |
US5984250A (en) * | 1998-07-23 | 1999-11-16 | Connor; Vincent | Latch hook |
Family Cites Families (59)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US427505A (en) * | 1890-05-06 | Railway-joint | ||
US224003A (en) * | 1880-02-03 | Clothes-hook | ||
US305860A (en) | 1884-09-30 | Wire hat and coat hook | ||
US505209A (en) | 1893-09-19 | Albert white | ||
US750634A (en) * | 1904-01-26 | Hat-holder | ||
US350807A (en) | 1886-10-12 | William b | ||
US424239A (en) * | 1890-03-25 | Wardrobe-hook | ||
US338677A (en) * | 1886-03-23 | Clothes-hook | ||
US817755A (en) * | 1904-03-28 | 1906-04-17 | William Doyle | Coat-holder. |
US908320A (en) | 1908-07-25 | 1908-12-29 | Stanislas Remi Page | Hat-hook. |
US978734A (en) * | 1910-01-22 | 1910-12-13 | Seth Gordon | Lantern-hook. |
US1113001A (en) * | 1914-01-20 | 1914-10-06 | Elmer E Goar | Harness-hanger. |
US1714422A (en) * | 1927-06-09 | 1929-05-21 | Isaac E Hanson | Suction supporting device |
US1912950A (en) * | 1932-09-22 | 1933-06-06 | Moungelis Stefanos Stavrou | Detachable hook |
US2171682A (en) * | 1936-03-06 | 1939-09-05 | Charles A Byrnes | Clothes hanger and lock therefor |
US2299962A (en) * | 1942-01-31 | 1942-10-27 | Byrkit George Palmer | Gravitationally actuated hanger |
US2583563A (en) * | 1948-01-30 | 1952-01-29 | Harry M Habel | Hanger |
US2865049A (en) * | 1957-09-13 | 1958-12-23 | Super Mold Corp | Rim centering device for tire retreading molds |
US3352429A (en) * | 1965-10-24 | 1967-11-14 | Vogel Peterson Co | Surface-mounted hat and coat rack |
USD272518S (en) * | 1981-07-07 | 1984-02-07 | Eldon Smith | Stretch cord fastener |
USD296759S (en) | 1986-11-21 | 1988-07-19 | Greenhut Steven E | Hook |
USD307539S (en) * | 1986-11-21 | 1990-05-01 | Sheldon Goodman | Hook |
USD307529S (en) * | 1988-05-23 | 1990-05-01 | Baetens Omer R | Combined picnic plate and cup holder |
USD322361S (en) | 1988-12-02 | 1991-12-17 | Goodman Sheldon H | Hook |
USD328417S (en) * | 1990-06-26 | 1992-08-04 | The Willette Corporation | Double hook wall fixture |
USD343066S (en) | 1992-07-31 | 1994-01-11 | Chiu-Jung Hsu | Clothes hook |
USD397256S (en) * | 1997-04-04 | 1998-08-25 | Melard Manufacturing Corporation | Robe hook |
US6337463B1 (en) * | 1998-03-18 | 2002-01-08 | Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc. | Method of making through hole with laser, copper-clad laminate suitable for making hole, and auxiliary material for making hole |
USD427505S (en) | 1999-04-07 | 2000-07-04 | Lehigh Consumer Products Corporation | Storage hanger |
US6152419A (en) | 1999-06-23 | 2000-11-28 | Bender; Michael J. | Anti-theft device for coats, handbags, and the like |
USD425317S (en) | 1999-08-25 | 2000-05-23 | Interdesign, Inc. | Curved double clothing hook |
USD436453S1 (en) | 2000-02-09 | 2001-01-23 | Melard Manufacturing Corp. | Robe hook |
US6338463B1 (en) * | 2000-05-04 | 2002-01-15 | John Babitz | Hanging assembly |
USD439141S1 (en) * | 2000-06-02 | 2001-03-20 | Hsiao-Liang Ho | Shower curtain hook |
USD455947S1 (en) | 2000-08-11 | 2002-04-23 | Sheldon H. Goodman | Over-the-door hook |
USD473451S1 (en) | 2001-04-17 | 2003-04-22 | Sheldon H. Goodman | Wall mount hooks |
USD491792S1 (en) | 2003-09-19 | 2004-06-22 | Interdesign, Inc. | Hook part |
USD491791S1 (en) | 2003-09-19 | 2004-06-22 | Interdesign, Inc. | Double hook part |
USD507034S1 (en) | 2004-01-07 | 2005-07-05 | David L. Robertson | Fish hook design |
USD496257S1 (en) | 2004-01-13 | 2004-09-21 | Liberty Hardware Mfg. Corp. | Robe hook |
DE202004019338U1 (en) * | 2004-12-15 | 2005-02-17 | Flux-Geräte GmbH | submersible pump |
US7201355B1 (en) * | 2005-03-01 | 2007-04-10 | Miller Manufacturing Company | Support bracket for differently sized buckets |
USD540659S1 (en) | 2005-07-07 | 2007-04-17 | Msa Products, Inc. | Contemporary hook |
USD557576S1 (en) | 2005-09-23 | 2007-12-18 | Richard Crombie | Fish hook bottle opener |
USD545080S1 (en) | 2005-10-14 | 2007-06-26 | Hansgrohe Ag | Stand |
USD551481S1 (en) | 2005-10-19 | 2007-09-25 | Jacknob Corporation | Bathroom stall purse holder |
USD551951S1 (en) * | 2005-11-22 | 2007-10-02 | Ronald Wayne Palmer | Decorative hanger |
USD568621S1 (en) | 2006-07-13 | 2008-05-13 | Liberty Hardware Mfg. Corp. | Robe hook |
USD565939S1 (en) | 2006-07-14 | 2008-04-08 | 3M Innovative Properties Company | Adhesively mountable hook |
USD557120S1 (en) | 2006-08-11 | 2007-12-11 | Interdesign, Inc. | Over cabinet double hook |
USD544220S1 (en) | 2006-09-07 | 2007-06-12 | Liberty Hardware Mfg. Corp. | Robe hook |
USD544067S1 (en) | 2006-09-12 | 2007-06-05 | Dennis Anthony Wichem | Treble hook with two eyelets |
USD556292S1 (en) | 2006-10-16 | 2007-11-27 | Z-Man Fishing Products, Inc. | Fish hook |
USD564865S1 (en) | 2007-01-31 | 2008-03-25 | Dci Marketing, Inc. | Product grid hook |
USD555754S1 (en) | 2007-02-27 | 2007-11-20 | Wichern Dennis Anthony | Hook with two eyelets |
USD573357S1 (en) | 2007-05-04 | 2008-07-22 | Brasstech, Inc. | Robe hook |
USD564243S1 (en) | 2007-05-10 | 2008-03-18 | Liberty Hardware Mfg. Corp. | Coat hook |
USD574224S1 (en) | 2007-05-10 | 2008-08-05 | Liberty Hardware Mfg. Corp. | Double hook |
USD573449S1 (en) | 2008-02-26 | 2008-07-22 | Spectrum Diversified Designs, Inc. | Hook |
-
2008
- 2008-07-11 US US12/171,722 patent/US7900883B2/en active Active
-
2009
- 2009-07-10 CA CA2671635A patent/CA2671635C/en active Active
-
2011
- 2011-01-28 US US13/016,323 patent/US8376297B2/en active Active
-
2013
- 2013-01-15 US US13/741,724 patent/US20130126690A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1714087A (en) * | 1928-03-08 | 1929-05-21 | Frederick H Goldhardt | Locking device |
US5984250A (en) * | 1998-07-23 | 1999-11-16 | Connor; Vincent | Latch hook |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2671635A1 (en) | 2010-01-11 |
US20100006728A1 (en) | 2010-01-14 |
US20110127398A1 (en) | 2011-06-02 |
US7900883B2 (en) | 2011-03-08 |
CA2671635C (en) | 2015-02-03 |
US8376297B2 (en) | 2013-02-19 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US8376297B2 (en) | Item securing hook assembly | |
US9380891B2 (en) | Over-the-door storage armoire | |
US6719195B2 (en) | Security dropbox with pivoting service bin | |
US7395997B2 (en) | Article hanger | |
US6129221A (en) | Modular storage rack system | |
US20180325299A1 (en) | Hanger with securement element | |
AU2020380241A1 (en) | Holder for container | |
US20100264101A1 (en) | Multiple Purpose Handbag Hanger | |
US7118082B2 (en) | Retractable hook assembly for mounting on a surface | |
US5984250A (en) | Latch hook | |
US6679392B1 (en) | Sliding hanger assembly | |
US20070108357A1 (en) | Support bracket for bicycles | |
US6338463B1 (en) | Hanging assembly | |
US20210339912A1 (en) | Safety Storage System and Method | |
US7219868B2 (en) | Hook device for attachment to tables and the like | |
US9463903B2 (en) | Door mountable storage system | |
US6422671B1 (en) | Key cabinet with staggered key panels | |
US20070090252A1 (en) | Safety clothes hook having alterable anchor direction | |
US7607569B2 (en) | Locking mailbox | |
US20040159756A1 (en) | Method and apparatus for carrying shopping bags and other items | |
US20040020885A1 (en) | Wall hanging garage shelf and rack storage system | |
US7100774B2 (en) | Hanging device | |
US6152419A (en) | Anti-theft device for coats, handbags, and the like | |
US20090266858A1 (en) | Glove box door tethered utility hook | |
US20060181116A1 (en) | Seat back caddy |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |