WO2013084231A2

WO2013084231A2 - Foldable curtain rod and a curtain ring therefor

Info

Publication number: WO2013084231A2
Application number: PCT/IL2012/050501
Authority: WO
Inventors: Avner BAR-LEV; Inbal BEZALEL-MAZAR; Eran ROSEN
Original assignee: R.B. Triplegroup Ltd.
Priority date: 2011-12-04
Filing date: 2012-12-04
Publication date: 2013-06-13
Also published as: US20140345814A1; WO2013084231A3; EP2785233A2

Abstract

According to one aspect of the subject matter of the present application there is provided a foldable curtain rod configured for mounting thereon a curtain. The rod comprises at least two elongated rod segments consecutively articulated to one another via a coupling arrangement allowing pivotal displacement of one rod segment with respect to the other. Each of the rod segments is configured for supporting a respective portion of the curtain, extending along a hanging line. The curtain rod is configured for assuming at least a first, deployed position in which the rod segments are essentially axially aligned to provide the curtain rod with a maximal span thereof and a second, folded position in which the rod segments are substantially parallel to one another to provide the curtain rod with a minimal span thereof. In the second, folded position, the hanging lines of the respective rod segments are spaced from one another.

Description

FOLDABLE CURTAIN ROD AND A CURTAIN RING THEREFOR

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

The invention relates to foldable shower curtain rods and complimentary curtain rings, in particular, to curtain rods configured for being folded with the shower curtain mounted thereon. PRIOR ART

References considered to be relevant as background to the presently disclosed subject matter are listed below:

- US 7,762,508;

- US 4,754,504;

- US 7,987,534;

- US 2,008,471;

- US 2,741,923; and

- US 6,530,120.

Acknowledgement of the above references herein is not to be inferred as meaning that these are in any way relevant to the patentability of the presently disclosed subject matter.

BACKGROUND

Common shower curtains are configured for mounting/hanging thereon a shower curtain for the purpose of containing water and preventing it from reaching areas of the bathroom/shower room which are outside the bathtub/shower.

As such, at the end of a shower, the curtain is usually soaked with water and needs to be deployed for the purpose of it drying after use. If the curtain is not deployed, it most likely will not be able to dry and thus mould and mildew will accumulate shortly. As common in shower curtains and shower curtain rods, the curtain is usually slid across the entire rod to be completely unfolded, exposing the majority of the curtain to outside environment, allowing it to dry. In this sense, when so deployed, the position of the shower curtain is similar to its position during bathing.

There are known various configurations of shower curtain rods including straight rods, curved rods and angled rods. There are also known curtain rods offering ways to enlarge the bath space during washing and enlarging back the room space after the wash such as.

Shower curtain rings and hooks, hence "rings", are commonly used to connect shower curtain to a shower curtain rod. Typically these rings are made of injected molded plastic from economic reason. Shower curtain rods had evolved from plain and straight to shaped rods and also to folding rods. In order to enable these rods to fold, there are gaps between linked segments. The gaps are small, up to few millimeters, but these gaps interfere the continuity of the common shower curtain ring sliding over the rod.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

According to one aspect of the subject matter of the present application there is provided a foldable curtain rod configured for mounting thereon a curtain, said rod comprising at least two elongated rod segments consecutively articulated to one another via a coupling arrangement allowing pivotal displacement of one rod segment with respect to the other, each of said rod segments being configured for supporting a respective portion of said curtain, extending along a hanging line; said curtain rod being configured for assuming at least a first, deployed position in which the rod segments are essentially axially aligned to provide the curtain rod with a maximal span thereof and a second, folded position in which the rod segments are substantially parallel to one another to provide the curtain rod with a minimal span thereof, wherein, in the second, folded position, the hanging lines of the respective rod segments are spaced from one another.

It should be appreciated that the hanging line defines the line (virtual or real) of attachment points of the curtain to the rod segment. As such, the hanging line can be constituted by at least any one of the following: a rail extending along the rid segment or a portion thereof configured for attachment thereto of a portion of the curtain;

a rail extending along the rid segment or a portion thereof configured for attachment thereto of supporting elements configured for supporting the curtain; and

the virtual line defined between the attachment points of supporting elements mounted on the rod segment to the curtain, e.g. the line defined by the hanging points of curtain rings mounted onto the rod segment.

The coupling arrangement can be in the form of a joint disposed between the two elongated segments and having dimensions sufficient for providing the required spacing between the two consecutive elongated segments in the folded position. In particular, the joints can be designed so that the segments will be able to stay in many discrete intermediate positions for the comfort of cleaning or other purposes.

Alternatively, the coupling arrangement can be in the form of a link segment having two ends, each being pivotally articulated to a respective elongated segment, said link segment having a length considerably smaller than each of the rod segments. In essence, the link segment is configured to serve the same function as the joint and is configured for providing the required spacing between the elongated segments, in the second, folded position of the curtain rod assembly.

It is appreciated that the link segment can also be in the form of a flexible portion having two ends, each being articulated to a respective elongated segment, said flexible portion having a length considerably smaller than each of the rod segments.

It is also appreciated that, according to a particular example, the coupling arrangement can allow the curtain rod segments to abut each other in the folded position while still maintaining a gap between the hanging lines of the portions of the curtain. In this case, the thickness of the rod segments themselves can facilitate the required spacing between the hanging lines. In particular, if the hanging line extends along the center of the rod segment, and provided the rod segment is wide enough, the distance between the hanging lines can still be kept as required.

According to a particular example, the curtain rod can comprise a plurality of elongated segments, of which at least two segments are consecutively articulated to one another via a coupling arrangement. Specifically, each two consecutive elongated rod segments can be pivotally articulated to one another via the coupling arrangement. The curtain rod can be specifically designed for closing off a pre-defined space e.g. a bathtub and/or shower, a patient's bed in a hospital etc. Thus, in operation, when in the first, deployed position, the curtain rod is configured to have a maximal span extending the length of a portion of the above space and in the second, folded position, can have a minimal span, minimally blocking/obstructing said space.

Nonetheless, it is noted that even in the second, folded position, the space between the elongated segments is sufficient for preventing contact between corresponding curtain portions supported by the elongated segments. Specifically for wet space implementations (such as showers, decontamination rooms, washrooms etc.), the spacing between the elongated segments can provide for airing and/or drying of a wet curtain, as well as prevent adhesion between two portions of the curtain (a common phenomenon in wet fabrics).

According to a particular example, the curtain rod can be configured such that the elongated segments and coupling arrangement are modular units configured for attachment to one another to form a curtain rod of a desired length. Specifically, a user can assemble a custom made curtain rod from a plurality of elongated segments and coupling arrangements as he sees fit.

Moreover, elongated rod segments can be provided with a variety of lengths and each such segment can even be of variable length, allowing the user with extreme modularity and level of customization based on the needs and requirements thereof. In particular, each rod segment can be of variable length via e.g. a telescopic arrangement.

The above design allows for a modular arrangement configure to fit different configurations of spaces (e.g. bath or shower rooms). If needed for some room configurations, a combination of more than one assembly can be made. It could be designed from different lengths of segments. In order to better fit some of the wet areas, an extending segment can be combined to the assembly.

The number of segments and hinges can be changed for different designs of arms in order to fit different configuration of room geometries, depending whether it is a shower or a bath and the number of walls or other dividers around the wet area. In order to allow the curtain to dry during the folded position, the segments of the shower curtain arm are designed so joining of the curtain to itself or to the walls will be minimized. The segments can be provided with fold stoppers for the end of the fold action and the deployment action. This is to prevent excess folding of the arm and thus making the curtain join itself and unable to dry as well as to prevent the arm from excess deployment.

The curtain rod can be provided with an anchoring arrangement configured for fixed attachment to a surface, whereby the curtain rod is attached to the surface in cantilever manner. Specifically, when attached, the curtain rod can have one end articulated to the anchoring arrangement and another free end.

The anchoring arrangement can be configured, when said curtain rod is attached to said surface, for supporting the weight of said curtain rod along with the weight of said curtain. In addition, when wet spaces are concerned (e.g. showers), the anchoring arrangement can be configured for supporting the weight of a wet curtain mounted thereon, e.g. a curtain soaked with water or any other fluid.

The anchoring arrangement can be designed with a load mechanism configured for preventing detachment of the anchoring mechanism from the surface following an excessive weight load on the curtain rod. Specifically, the load mechanism can make sure that if an excess force is exerted on the curtain rod, such force will not be transferred to the anchoring arrangement but rather cause bending of the elongated segment. This can be achieved, for example, by a load bearing biasing spring interposed between the curtain rod and the anchoring mechanism.

The curtain rod can be configured for mounting thereon said curtain via a plurality of curtain rings slidingly received on the curtain rod. In particular, the curtain rings can be configured for sliding over said curtain rod in both said deployed and said folded position. In the above cantilever arrangement, the free end of the curtain rod can be provided with a stopper configured for preventing sliding off of the curtain from the curtain rod.

It should be appreciated that since the elongated segments of the curtain rod are articulated to one another via the coupling arrangement, a curtain ring sliding on the curtain rod should be configured for sliding over the coupling arrangement and over any gap formed between two consecutive elongated segments.

According to another aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a curtain ring configured for slidingly displacing over a curtain rod of the first aspect of the present application, and configured for sliding over a gap formed between consecutive elongated segments of said rod; said curtain ring has a sliding element extending generally perpendicular to a plane defined by said curtain ring, having a length at least twice as great as said gap.

According to some examples, the sliding element can be a fixed projection extending from the curtain ring and can even be integrally formed with the curtain ring. Specifically, the sliding element is in the form of a simple elongated projection extending from the curtain ring. According to more elaborate designs, the sliding element can be a surface having a width corresponding in shape and size to said curtain rod. The surface itself can be planar or curved.

According to other examples, the sliding element can be articulated to the curtain ring and be configured for movement with respect thereto. In particular, the sliding element can be a rolling element rotatably articulated to said curtain ring and configured for revolving thereabout during sliding of the ring along the curtain rod. The rolling member can also be formed with a recess configured for accommodating therein a portion of the curtain rod. Under specific designs, the rolling member can be in the form of a disc or a ball.

The curtain ring can also be provided with aligning elements extending into the ring and configured for engaging the sides of the rod segments of the curtain rod assembly in order to align the curtain ring during its displacement along the rod segments.

It is appreciated that the above configurations provides a fresh concept of curtain rod assembly that is anchored at one end only to a stall wall, the floor or the ceiling. The above allows the curtain rod to be folded away and to vacant most of the space commonly occupied by the deployed curtain and the rod. In particular, when shower rooms are concerned, the above design offers a solution for enlarging the shower or the bathtub upper space during washing and thereafter, right after the washing, to comfortably be folded away in order to open the bathroom space. The folding is designed in such a way that the curtain is aired in the folded position. The action of deployment for drying is unnecessary.

In addition, the curtain rod of the present application also provides access to the wet area for a person outside the curtain enclosure. A person located outside the curtain can easily reach the faucet behind the curtain. This could be done in the folded and the deployed position of the arm and curtain. While having the ability to set the water temperature without getting wet, for washing a child, or cleaning the tub without getting into it.

It is also appreciated that in the second, folded position, the curtain rod can be easily transported due to its minimal span, making it particularly beneficial for packing and shipping purposes.

Under the above design, a user can exit the space defined by the curtain in one of two ways:

deflecting the curtain by sliding it along the curtain rod, thereby clearing passage; and

- simply folding the curtain rod into the second, folded position.

However, it is appreciated that under the first option, if it is desired to dry/air the curtain, it should be replaced back into its deployed position, blocking access to the space whereas in the second option, no such requirement exists as the folded curtain can be aired even in the folded position of the curtain rod due to the spacing between consecutive segments.

According to still another aspect of the subject matter of the present application, there is provided a foldable curtain rod configured for mounting thereon a curtain, said rod comprising at least one elongated rod segment pivotally articulated to an anchoring arrangement allowing pivotal displacement of the elongated segment with respect to the anchoring arrangement, said anchoring arrangement being configured for fixed, cantilever attachment of said curtain rod to a surface; said curtain rod being configured for assuming at least a first, deployed position in which the elongated segment is generally perpendicular to said surface and having a maximal span thereof and a second, folded position in which the elongated segment is generally parallel to said surface and having a minimal span thereof, wherein, in the second, folded position, when attached to said surface, the anchoring arrangement is configured for providing a space between said surface and said elongated segment.

It is appreciated that, as in the previous aspects of the application, the coupling arrangement previously providing the required spacing between two consecutive segments of the curtain rod now provides for the same spacing between the elongated segment and the surface (e.g. a wall).

An additional application is a combination of more than one curtain rod, each being attached in cantilever form to a different point on the surface. Two curtain arms may result a more comfortable configuration than one, for some of the shower or bath room configurations.

These applications could have a flexible end segment for one of the curtain rods so the curtains will be overlapping to ensure the water splashes between the arms are not getting out of the enclosure. Like common shower curtain it can be opened and closed as well by sliding the rings over the arm segments preferably when the arm is deployed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order to better understand the subject matter that is disclosed herein and to exemplify how it may be carried out in practice, embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 is a schematic isometric view of a curtain rod assembly according to the subject matter of the present application;

Figs. 2 A and 2B are schematic isometric representations of one use of the curtain rod assembly in a deployed position and a folded position, respectively;

Fig. 3A is a schematic isometric view of an anchoring arrangement used in the curtain rod assembly shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 3B is schematic exploded isometric view of the anchoring arrangement shown in Fig. 3A;

Fig. 3C is a schematic enlarged view of a detail of the anchoring arrangement shown in Fig. 3B;

Fig. 3D is a schematic enlarged view of a detail of the anchoring arrangement shown in Fig. 3C;

Figs. 4A and 4B are schematic isometric views demonstrating adjustment orientations of the anchoring arrangement shown in Figs. 3A to 3D;

Fig. 5A is schematic exploded isometric view of a first rod segment used in the curtain rod assembly shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 5B is a schematic enlarged view of a detail of the rod segment shown in Fig. 5A;

Fig. 5C is a schematic enlarged view of another detail of the rod segment shown in Fig. 5A; Fig. 5D is a schematic enlarged view of a detail of the anchoring arrangement shown in Fig. 5C;

Fig. 6A is schematic exploded isometric view of a link segment used in the curtain rod assembly shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 6B is a schematic enlarged view of a detail of the link segment shown in

Fig. 6A;

Fig. 6C is a schematic enlarged view of another detail of the link segment shown in Fig. 6 A;

Fig. 7A is schematic exploded isometric view of a second rod segment used in the curtain rod assembly shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 7B is a schematic enlarged view of a detail of the rod segment shown in Fig. 7A;

Fig. 8 is a schematic isometric view of a utility handle used in the curtain rod assembly shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 9A is a schematic isometric view of a bathroom space comprising a curtain rod assembly according to the subject matter of the present application;

Fig. 9B is a schematic enlarged view of a detail shown in Fig. 9A;

Fig. 9C is a schematic isometric view of the bathroom shown in Fig. 9A with the curtain rod assembly shown in a folded position;

Fig. 10A is a schematic isometric view of another bathroom space comprising a curtain rod assembly according to another example of the subject matter of the present application;

Fig. 10B is a schematic enlarged view of a detail shown in Fig. 10A;

Fig. IOC is a schematic top view of a portion of the bathroom space shown in Fig. 10A;

Fig. 10D is a schematic isometric view of the bathroom space shown in Fig. 10A, with the curtain rod assembly being shown in a folded position;

Fig. 10E is a schematic top view of a portion of the bathroom space shown in Fig. 10D;

Figs. 11A and 11B are schematic isometric views of an extendable rod segment used in the curtain rod assembly according to the subject matter of the present application; Figs. 12A to 12D are schematic isometric, front, side and cross-section views of one example of a curtain ring configured for use with the curtain rod assembly of the present application;

Figs. 13A to 13D are schematic isometric, front, side and cross-section views of another example curtain ring configured for use with the curtain rod assembly of the present application;

Figs. 14A to 14D are schematic isometric, front, side and cross-section views of still another example of a curtain ring configured for use with the curtain rod assembly of the present application;

Figs. 15A to 15D are schematic isometric, front, side and cross-section views of yet another example of a curtain ring configured for use with the curtain rod assembly of the present application;

Fig. 15E is a schematic cross- sectional view of a slide element used in the curtain ring shown in Figs. 15A to 15D;

Figs. 16A to 16D are schematic isometric, front, side and cross-section views of a further example of a curtain ring configured for use with the curtain rod assembly of the present application;

Fig. 16E is a schematic cross- sectional view of a slide element used in the curtain ring shown in Figs. 16A to 16D;

Figs. 17A to 17D are schematic isometric, front, side and cross-section views of another example of a curtain ring configured for use with the curtain rod assembly of the present application;

Fig. 17E is a schematic enlarged view of a detail shown in Fig. 17D;

Fig. 17F is a schematic isometric view of a detachable slide element used in the curtain ring shown in Figs. 17A to 17E;

Figs. 18A to 18D are further examples of curtain rings configured for use together with the curtain rod assembly of the present application; and

Figs. 19A to 19D are schematic isometric, front, side and cross-section views of still a further example of a curtain ring configured for use with the curtain rod assembly of the present application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Attention is first drawn to Fig. 1, demonstrating a foldable curtain rod assembly according to the present application, generally designated as 1 and configured for supporting a curtain hanging therefrom. The curtain rod assembly 1 comprises two rod segments 10a, 10b pivotally articulated to one another via a link segment 20 and are configured for performing angular displacement with respect to one another to assume various special positions (see Figs. 2A and 2B). In particular, each of the rod segments 10a, 10b is articulated to the link segment 20 via a hinge H.

The curtain rod assembly 1 further comprises an anchoring arrangement 30 configured for anchoring the rod assembly 1 to a surface or a wall, and is also pivotally articulated to rod segment 10a via a hinge H.

The curtain rod assembly 1 has mounted thereon a plurality of curtain rings 40 configured for attachment thereto of a curtain C (see Figs. 2A and 2B). The curtain rings 40 are configured for passing through corresponding designated slots/holes within the curtain C. As the curtain hangs from the lowermost point of the curtain rings 40, these lowermost points of the rings mounted on each segment form a hanging line L along each of the rod segments 10a, 10b.

The curtain rod assembly is also equipped with several utility handles 50a, 50b and 50c. The handles 50a and 50b are associated with the link segment 20 via a designated curtain ring 40 and are configured for allowing the user to manipulate the curtain rod assembly from both sides of the curtain C when hanging from the curtain rod assembly 1. The utility handle 50c is also configured for manipulating the curtain rod assembly 1 by a user, however, since it is located at the end of the rod segment 10b, it can be accessed from both sides of the curtain and there is therefore no need for a double handle and in the case of handles 50a and 50b.

Turning now to Figs. 2A and 2B, the curtain rod assembly is shown being used in a bathroom space, carrying a shower curtain C. The bathroom space is shown comprising two stall walls Wl and W2, a floor F, a bathtub B and a shower head S extending from wall Wl.

The curtain rod assembly 1 is shown anchored to sidewall Wl via its anchoring arrangement 30 so that the shower head S is disposed between the anchoring arrangement and the sidewall W2. In the position shown in Fig. 2A, the curtain rod assembly 1 is in a deployed position in which the rod segments 10a, 10b are generally co-linear (i.e. the hanging lines form a generally straight line) and the curtain C is shown to be fully spread along all of the curtain rod assembly 1. The curtain C can be virtually divided into a first portion CI hanging from rod segment 10a, a second portion C2 hanging from rod segment 10b and the remainder portion Cm hanging from the link segment 20.

In this position, a confined space is formed around the bathtub between the sidewall W2, a portion of the sidewall Wl and the curtain C, thereby minimizing water splashes and leaks from the showerhead outside the bathtub during a shower. It is also noted that the curtain is long enough to be partially received within the bathtub B as known per se.

Turning now to Fig. 2B, the curtain rod assembly is shown in a second, folded position, in which the rod segments 10a, 10b have been angularly manipulated with respect to one another to assume a position in which they are generally parallel to one another and also parallel to the wall Wl. More particularly, the first rod segment 10a has been pivoted 90° to become parallel to the wall Wl and the rod segment 10b has been pivoted 180° with respect to rod segment 10b to become parallel thereto.

It is first observed that in the folded position shown in Fig. 2B, the curtain C remains fully extended along the entire curtain rod assembly 1, i.e. the curtain has not been shifted/slid along the curtain rod assembly to hang entirely from the first rod segment 10a or a portion thereof. Specifically, portion CI still hangs from the rod segment 10a and portion C2 still hangs from the rod segment 10b so that the curtain C is in fact, still spread.

It is also observed that in the folded position, the space of the bathtub is no longer confined, not by the curtain nor by the curtain rod assembly 1, essentially freeing the entire space for any required use.

Furthermore, it is noted that in the folded position, there is formed a gap distance G between the hanging lines L of each rod segment 10a, 10b, preventing the curtain portions CI and C2 from coming into contact with one another, a distance facilitated by the length of the link segment 20. Particularly when referring to shower curtains which are essentially wet when being folded (after a shower), the above distance prevents contact and adhesion between the curtain portions CI and C2, and therefore allows better aeration of the curtain C and drying thereof. In this connection, it is noted that other configurations can be used for creating the required spacing between the hanging lines, for example, the link segment 20 can be replaced with a flexible segment 20' (not shown) or an appropriate hinge 20" (not shown) of sufficient diameter. Alternatively, the arrangement can also be such that the rod segments 10a, 10b are so thick, that even when completely folded (i.e. abutting each other (in case the link segment so permits), that the hanging lines L, extending generally along a mid-line of the segments 10a, 10b are still spaced apart from one another.

It is also appreciated that in the folded position, the first rod segment 10a is slightly spaced from the wall Wl owing to the projection of the anchoring arrangement from the wall Wl. Thus, even in the folded position, the curtain portion CI does not come into contact with the wall as well.

Turning now to Figs. 3A to 3D, the anchoring arrangement 30 is shown in detail, configured for anchoring of the curtain rod assembly 1 to the wall/surface. The anchoring arrangement 30 comprises a main anchor plate 31 configured for fixed attachment to the surface via four designated holes O, a tilt plate 32 pivotally received within corresponding slits 31a of the main plate 31 and hinged by pin 31b, an end plate 33 configured for attachment to a hinge 35 articulated to the rod segment 10a and a cover plate 34. The main plate 31, tilt plate 32 and end plate 33 are all connected to one another via designated screw/bolts 39.

The hinge 35 is provided with a central axis X provided by pin 35a passing vertically therethrough and is formed with a space 35b configured for accommodating a corresponding portion of the rod segment 10a.

The bottom surface 36 of the space 35b is toothed and is configured for engaging a corresponding toothed surface of the rod segment 10a in order to allow the rod segment 10a to assume various discrete angular positions with respect to the anchoring arrangement 30.

Turning now to Figs. 4A and 4B, the anchoring arrangement is designed such that during installation therefore and affixing it to a surface, adjustments of its position with respect to the two perpendicular horizontal axes X and Y can be controlled by tightening and/or loosening appropriate screws. In particular, since the tilt plate 32 is slidingly received within the slits 31a and has an inclined rear surface, it can be slightly tilted and provided adjustment about the first horizontal axis Y (defined by the pin 31b), while the end plate 33 can be slightly rotated to provide adjustment about the X axis, defined by the projection 32a of the tilt plate.

Attention is now drawn to Figs. 5A to 5D, the design of the rod segment 10a is shown, being essentially similar to the design of the rod segment 10b. The rod segment 10a comprises a main body 12 with a side cover 13 on each side, and has a first end provided with a first-end hinge port 15a and a second, opposite end provided with a second-end hinge port 15b.

The first-end hinge port 15a is configured for articulation to the hinge 35 of the anchoring arrangement 30, by being received within the space 35b with the pin 35a passing therethrough. Under such articulation, the elements 15a and 35 share a common vertical axis (defined by the pin 35a) allowing the rod segment 10a to revolve about the anchoring arrangement 30. The first-end hinge port 15a also comprises a wave spring washer 18 configured for coupling the toothed surface 36 of the hinge 35 with the rod segment 10.

The second-end hinge port 15b is of a similar to the hinge 35 of the anchoring arrangement 30 and is configured for articulation to additional rod segments 10 and/or ling segments 20. In this manner, an infinite number of rod segments 10 and/or link segments 20 can be pivotally articulated to one another to form a curtain rod assembly of any desired length and configuration.

Turning now to Figs. 6 A to 6C, the design of the link segment 20 is shown being essentially similar to the design of the rod segment 10, but considerably shorter. It is appreciated that the purpose of the link segment is, on the one hand, to provide the required spacing between the hanging lines of each of the rod segments 10a, 10b, and on the other hand, to provide for a compact configuration in the folded position of the curtain rod assembly 1. Thus, it is appreciated that the link segment 20 is required to be considerably shorter in length than the rod segment 10a, yet long enough to provide sufficient spacing between hanging lines.

Figs. 7A and 7B are illustrations of the second rod segment 10b, which is essentially similar in design to rod segment 10a in any aspect with the sole difference being in a stopper element 19 disposed at the distal end of the rod segment 10b, i.e. the end not articulated to the link segment.

The stopper element 19 can serve two purposes: it can be configured for preventing curtain rings from sliding off the rod segment 10b and from the curtain rod assembly in general by simply providing a barrier over which the curtain rings cannot slide; and it can be configured for attachment thereto of the last curtain ring in order to keep the curtain from sliding along the curtain rod at all. In other words, it is configured for maintaining the curtain fully expanded along the entire curtain rod assembly.

Turning now to Fig. 8, a utility handle 50 is shown consisting of an elongated rod 52, a supporting ring 56 attached to one end thereof and configured for mounting over the curtain rod assembly 1 and a knob element 44 attached to the opposite end of the rod 52 for convenient holding and handling.

Attention is now drawn to Figs. 9A and 9B, in which another design of the curtain rod assembly is shown, generally designated 1'. In this particular design, the arrangement is such that the anchoring arrangement 30' provided with an extension 20' to which the rod segment 10' is pivotally articulated.

The arrangement is such that when the curtain rod assembly is in its deployed position, the rod segment 10' and its hanging line is oriented transverse to the wall W2, whereas in the second, folded position, it is essentially parallel to the wall W2.

Figs. 10A to 10E illustrate a design in which a wet space is confined by two curtain rod assemblies 1', each being articulated to one of two side walls Wl, W2, perpendicular to each other to form a shower stall.

Under the above arrangement, each of the curtain rod assemblies 1' can be individually displaced into its second, folded position (see Fig. 9C), allowing access to the confined space from at least one of two directions. In order to exit the shower stall, an individual may either slide the shower curtain of one of the curtain rod assemblies 1' or simply move it to the second, folded position.

It is also appreciated that when both curtain rod assemblies 1' are in the second, folded position, they are essentially parallel to the walls Wl, W2 and therefore take up a minimal amount of space from the overall space of the bathroom.

Turning now to Figs. 11A and 1 IB, another example of a rod segment is shown, generally being designated 10". The rod segment 10", as opposed to the previously described rod segments 10, 10' is of a telescopic design, allowing a change in length thereof. Specifically, the rod segment 10" comprises a shell body 12a configured for slidingly accommodating therein a telescopic extension 12b, configured to be extended from the shell body 12a to provide the rod segment 10" with a desired additional length. It is appreciated that the length of the telescopic extension can be as long as the shell body itself, however, in order to support the weight of a curtain mounted thereon, a sufficient portion of the telescopic extension 12b should be retained within the shell body 12a.

Attention is now drawn to Figs. 12A to 12D, in which one example of a curtain ring configured for use along with the curtain rod assembly 1 is shown, generally being designated as 140.

The curtain ring is formed of a curved piece of material (usually plastic) and has a handing edge 142, a full side edge 144, a bottom edge 146 and two end portions 145, 147 forming the second side edge, the ends of which 148a, 148b are slightly spaced from one another to form a gap 143 facilitating mounting the curtain ring onto a rod segment, for example, by deformation thereof.

In addition, the curtain ring is integrally formed with a slide member 160 extending from the top edge 142. The slide member 160 is in the form of a curved platelet 162 projecting, on both sides of the ring, in a direction perpendicular to the surface defined by the ring 140.

The slide member is configured for sliding along the rod segments 10 of the curtain rod assembly 1, and is configured for also overcoming obstacles along the rod segment 10, e.g. hinges. The slide member 160 has a bottom surface 161 facing the inner contour of the ring and a support rib 164 extending opposite the slide surface 161.

It is observed that the width T of the slide member 160 is considerably greater than the thickness of the ring t (thickness of each of the edges 142, 144, 146, 148). The extended width T allows the ring to slide over obstacles which are of thickness smaller than T.

Turning now to Figs. 13A to 13D, another example of a curtain ring is shown generally being designated 140'. This ring is also integrally formed with a slide member 160', with the only difference being in the shape of the curtain ring 140'.

Similar elements of the ring 140' have been designated by similar reference numerals with the addition of a prime. Turning now to Figs. 14A to 14D, another example of a curtain ring is shown generally being designated 140" . This ring is also integrally formed with a slide member 160", with the difference lying in the design of the slide member 160".

Specifically, instead of being in the form of a curved platelet as previously described, the slide member 160" is in the form of a stub projection 162". Nonetheless, it is appreciated that the width T of the slide member 160" is similar to the width of the slide members 160, 160', thereby still allowing it to slide over any obstacles along the rod segment 10.

Similar elements of the ring 140" have been designated by similar reference numerals with the addition of a prime.

Attention is now drawn to Figs. 15A to 15E, in which another type of curtain ring is shown, generally designated 240. As opposed to previously described curtain rings 140, 140' and 140", the curtain ring 240 is not integrally formed with the slide member 260, but rather the latter is slidingly mounted over the former and configured for revolving thereabout.

In particular, the slide member 260 is a rolling member in the form of a reel having a hollow tube portion 262 configured for receiving therein the top edge 242 of the curtain ring 240. The slide member 260 is also formed with two disc extensions 264 between which extend ribs 266.

The arrangement is such that the curtain ring 240 is configured not simply to slide over the curtain rod 1 but rather to roll over it via the slide member 260.

Nonetheless, the reel has a diameter T equivalent to the width T previously discussed.

However, it can also be configured for running along a rail which can be received between the disc extensions 264.

Turning now to Figs. 16A to 16E, yet another example of a curtain ring is shown, generally being designated as 240'. It is essentially similar to the previously described curtain ring 240 with the only difference being in the design of the rolling member 260'.

The rolling member 260' is in the form of a ball and comprises a plurality of disc extensions 264' providing the rolling member 260' with the shape of a ball.

The curtain ring 240' is also provided with a closure mechanism allowing to physically close the contour of the ring 240'. The closure mechanism consists of a looped tip 241' formed with a loophole 249' configured for receiving therein a designated tip 247' of the top edge 242' of the curtain ring 240'.

Similar elements of the ring 240' have been designated by similar reference numerals with the addition of a prime.

Attention is now drawn to Figs. 17A to 17F, in which another design of a curtain ring is shown, generally designated 340. In principle, the design is very similar to the design of the ring 140, with the only difference being in the fact that the slide member 360 is not integrally formed with the top edge 342 of the curtain ring 340.

Instead, the slide member 360 comprises two attachment ports 365 in the form of claws forming therebetween a gap contour 366 configured for receiving therein a corresponding portion of the top edge 342 of the curtain ring 340.

Nonetheless, even in this example, the width T of the projection of the slide member 360 is considerably greater than the thickness of the ring edges 342, 344, 346 and therefore still provides the curtain ring 340 with the ability to slide over obstacles.

Figs. 18A to 18D illustrate four additional examples of curtain rings configured for use with the curtain rod assembly 1 previously described, designated as 440, 540, 640 and 740 respectively. The curtain rings differ in the design of the ring contour as well as in the design of the sliding element thereof.

Turning now to Figs. 19A to 19D, still a further example of a curtain ring is shown, generally being designated 840, and is generally similar in design to previously described curtain rings 140, 240 etc. However, the curtain ring 840 also comprises two aligning elements 849 extending into the space defined by the ring 840, and configured for engaging the rod segments 10 of the curtain rod assembly 1 when mounted thereon.

The aligning elements 849 are configured for allowing the curtain ring 840 to conveniently slide along the rod segments 10 while maintaining its orientation with respect thereto. Specifically, the aligning elements 849 define therebetween a space corresponding in shape and size to the cross-section of the rod segment 10.

Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains will readily appreciate that numerous changes, variations, and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention, mutatis mutandis.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A foldable curtain rod configured for mounting thereon a curtain, said rod comprising at least two elongated rod segments consecutively articulated to one another via a coupling arrangement allowing pivotal displacement of one rod segment with respect to the other, each of said rod segments being configured for supporting a respective portion of said curtain along a hanging line; said curtain rod being configured for assuming at least a first, deployed position in which the rod segments are essentially axially aligned to provide the curtain rod with a maximal span thereof and a second, folded position in which the rod segments are substantially parallel to one another to provide the curtain rod with a minimal span thereof, wherein, in the second, folded position, the hanging lines of the respective rod segments are spaced from one another.

2. A curtain rod according to Claim 1, wherein said coupling arrangement is constituted by a link segment having two ends, each being pivotally articulated to a respective elongated segment, said link segment having a length considerably smaller than each thereof.

3. A curtain rod according to Claim 1, wherein said coupling arrangement is constituted by a flexible portion having two ends, each being pivotally articulated to a respective elongated segment, said flexible portion having a length considerably smaller than each thereof

4. A curtain rod according to Claim 1, wherein said coupling arrangement is in the form of a single joint having dimensions sufficient for providing the required spacing between the two consecutive elongated segments.

5. A curtain rod according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein said curtain rod comprises a plurality of elongated segments, of which at least two segments are consecutively articulated to one another via a coupling arrangement.

6. A curtain rod according to Claim 5, wherein each two consecutive elongated rod segments are pivotally articulated to one another via a coupling arrangement.

7. A curtain rod according to any one of the preceding Claims wherein, in said folded position, the space between the elongated segments is sufficient for preventing contact between corresponding curtain portions supported by the elongated segments.

8. A curtain rod according to Claim 7, wherein said space is configured for allowing airing and/or drying of the curtain.

9. A curtain rod configured according to any one of the preceding Claims, configured for mounting thereon said curtain via a plurality of curtain rings slindingly received on the curtain rod.

10. A curtain rod according to Claim 9, wherein said curtain is slidable over said curtain rod in both said deployed and said folded position.

11. A curtain rod according to any one of the preceding Claims, wherein said curtain rod is configured for a cantilever attachment to a surface.

12. A curtain rod according to Claim 11, wherein said curtain rod has a first end provided with an anchoring assembly configured for attachment of said curtain rod to said surface.

13. A curtain rod according to Claim 12, wherein said anchor assembly is configured, when said curtain rod is attached to said surface, for supporting the weight of said curtain rod along with the weight of a we curtain mounted thereon.

14. A curtain rod according to Claim 11, 12 or 13, wherein a second end of said curtain rod is provided with a stopper configured for preventing sliding off of the curtain from the curtain rod.

15. A curtain rod according to Claim 14, wherein said stopper can also be configured for attachment thereto of a curtain ring, thereby fixing the curtain to the curtain rod and preventing sliding of the curtain with respect thereto.

16. A curtain rod according to any one of the preceding Claims, wherein said elongated segments and coupling arrangement are modular units configured for attachment to one another to form a curtain rod of a desired length.

17. A curtain rod according to any one of the preceding Claims, wherein at least one of the rod segments is of variable length.

18. A curtain rod according to Claim 17, wherein the rod segment is of telescopic design.

19. A curtain rod according to any one of the preceding Claims, wherein in the second, folded position, the two rod segments are abutting each other while the hanging lines thereof are spaced from one another due to the thickness of at least one of the rod segments.

20. A curtain ring configured for slidingly displacing over a curtain rod according to any one of Claims 1 to 18, and configured for sliding over a gap formed between consecutive elongated segments of said rod; said curtain ring has a sliding element extending generally perpendicular to a plane defined by said curtain ring, having a length at least twice as great as said gap.

21. A curtain ring according to Claim 20, wherein said sliding element is in the form of an elongated projection.

5 22. A curtain ring according to Claim 20, wherein said sliding element is in the form of a surface having a width corresponding in shape and size to said curtain rod.

23. A curtain ring according to Claim 22, wherein said surface is a planar surface.

24. A curtain ring according to Claim 22, wherein said surface is a convex surface.

25. A curtain ring according to Claim 20, wherein said sliding element is a rolling 10 element rotatably articulated to said curtain ring and configured for revolving thereabout during sliding of the ring along the curtain rod.

26. A curtain ring according to Claim 25, wherein said rolling element element is in the form of a rotatable disc.

27. A curtain ring according to Claim 26, wherein said disc is formed with a recess 15 configured for accommodating therein a portion of the curtain rod.

28. A curtain ring according to Claim 26, wherein said rolling element element comprises a plurality of discs.

29. A curtain comprising a plurality of curtain rings according to any one of Claims 20 to 28.

20 30. A curtain assembly comprising a curtain rod according to any one of Claims 1 to 18 and a curtain according to Claim 29.

31. A foldable curtain rod configured for mounting thereon a curtain, said rod comprising at least one elongated rod segment pivotally articulated to an anchoring arrangement allowing pivotal displacement of the elongated segment with respect to the

25 anchoring arrangement, said anchoring arrangement being configured for fixed, cantilever attachment of said curtain rod to a surface; said curtain rod being configured for assuming at least a first, deployed position in which the elongated segment is generally perpendicular to said surface and having a maximal span thereof and a second, folded position in which the elongated segment is generally parallel to said

30 surface and having a minimal span thereof, wherein, in the second, folded position, when attached to said surface, the anchoring arrangement is configured for providing a space between said surface and said elongated segment.