WO2018081876A1 - Appareil de suspension - Google Patents

Appareil de suspension Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2018081876A1
WO2018081876A1 PCT/AU2017/051223 AU2017051223W WO2018081876A1 WO 2018081876 A1 WO2018081876 A1 WO 2018081876A1 AU 2017051223 W AU2017051223 W AU 2017051223W WO 2018081876 A1 WO2018081876 A1 WO 2018081876A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
towel
hanging
hanging apparatus
aperture
post
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/AU2017/051223
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Claire Elizabeth Lawson
Original Assignee
Claire Elizabeth Lawson
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AU2016904534A external-priority patent/AU2016904534A0/en
Application filed by Claire Elizabeth Lawson filed Critical Claire Elizabeth Lawson
Priority to AU2017353359A priority Critical patent/AU2017353359A1/en
Publication of WO2018081876A1 publication Critical patent/WO2018081876A1/fr
Priority to AU2019100979A priority patent/AU2019100979A4/en

Links

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
    • A47K10/00—Body-drying implements; Toilet paper; Holders therefor
    • A47K10/04—Towel racks; Towel rails; Towel rods; Towel rolls, e.g. rotatable
    • A47K10/10—Towel racks; Towel rails; Towel rods; Towel rolls, e.g. rotatable characterised by being mounted on cabinets, walls, doors, or the like
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
    • A47K10/00—Body-drying implements; Toilet paper; Holders therefor
    • A47K10/12—Grips, hooks, or the like for hanging-up towels
    • A47K10/14—Self-holding grips
    • D—TEXTILES; PAPER
    • D06—TREATMENT OF TEXTILES OR THE LIKE; LAUNDERING; FLEXIBLE MATERIALS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • D06F—LAUNDERING, DRYING, IRONING, PRESSING OR FOLDING TEXTILE ARTICLES
    • D06F57/00—Supporting means, other than simple clothes-lines, for linen or garments to be dried or aired 
    • D06F57/12—Supporting means, other than simple clothes-lines, for linen or garments to be dried or aired  specially adapted for attachment to walls, ceilings, stoves, or other structures or objects
    • 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 to a hanging apparatus, and in particular to a hanging apparatus for hanging towels.
  • a standard hook can be used to hang a towel, but is generally inconvenient as the towel bunches up with many parts of the towel touching, hanging close to the wall, and so stays damp for longer.
  • Freshly washed towels are generally hung up on a line outside by use of pegs so as to be allowed to hang their full length and width, spread out to quickly dry the thick absorbent towel material.
  • pegs means that the towel can be hung up with minimal overlap as the overlapping parts will take twice as long to dry as a single layer.
  • Towel rails come in many forms, all including a rail or bar over which a towel can be hung, doubled up, with half on one side of the rail and the other half behind it with the two layers lying close to one another. The doubling up is necessary, when using a traditional towel rail, in order that the towel be maintained on the rail.
  • the doubled up towel has the two halves of the towel very close together. As the two sides of the towel lie close to one another air exposure is limited and the moisture drying from one part of the towel increases the localised humidity, which in turn slows the drying of the other parts of the towel. With the two parts of the towel lying close to one another the towel is prevented from being aired or dried well or quickly. It will take much longer to dry a towel on a towel rail, doubled up than it would if the towel was hung up in a single sheet form, where air can reach all of the towel and flow around.
  • a tea towel on a conventional hook is gathered together and so will not dry or air quickly.
  • damp tea towels can be host to moulds and bacteria if not able to fully dry, which is undesirable in the kitchen near food preparation.
  • the situation is better if the tea towel is hung over a rail but again in order to maintain the tea towel on the rail the towel must be doubled over so that the two parts of the material are very close together, increasing the time to dry or air.
  • a hook or rail may be used, with the associated problems.
  • the inventor has considered that there should be a better way to enable items to be hung up in a manner that encourages air exposure and drying in a space saving and aesthetically pleasing manner.
  • the inventor has through long and careful experimentation developed a new hanging apparatus that provides a vastly improved hanging and drying of towels, in an aesthetically pleasing, compact and modern fashion. It is anticipated that there will be significant adoption of the new and improved towel hanging apparatus, with its various additional features, once the product is launched, in a range of different applications and industries
  • the towel used in the description is a standard bath towel such as is used to dry off after a bath or shower.
  • the invention is particularly applicable to use for towels, but clearly the towel may take any form and other items may also be hung using the apparatus.
  • Other items of material, tea towels or clothing could be used with the invention to hang, dry or air these as well. It is not intended to limit the scope of invention in any way to a towel, or in any way limit the item to be hung up it may be any item, other than as stated in the claims. Any suitable material piece may be hung using the invention as would be apparent to the user.
  • any prior art referred to herein does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge, in Australia or elsewhere. It is an object of the present invention to provide a hanging apparatus that at least ameliorates one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art. It is a further and separate object of the present invention to provide a method of hanging that at least ameliorates one or more of the aforementioned problems of the prior art.
  • the present invention provides a hanging apparatus for hanging a towel or similar, the hanging apparatus including:
  • one or more hanging means adapted to hold a towel in a spaced arrangement, including an aperture for receipt of at least part of the towel, wherein, the towel is held by the hanging means such that the air exposure of the towel is improved.
  • the present invention provides in a second form a hanging apparatus for hanging a towel or similar, the hanging apparatus including:
  • one or more hanging means adapted to hold a towel, including an aperture for receipt of at least part of the towel,
  • the towel is held so as to hang substantially in a single sheet to improve drying or airing of the towel.
  • the apparatus may take any suitable form.
  • the hanging apparatus is made of a strong material.
  • the hanging apparatus is substantially made of aluminium.
  • the hanging apparatus may also be made of natural materials including wood or bamboo.
  • the hanging apparatus may be made of engineered materials.
  • the hanging apparatus may be made of any suitable material.
  • the strong material may be steel.
  • the steel may be stainless steel.
  • a decorative coating is included.
  • the decorative coating may be coordinated with the decor of a home or room.
  • a protective coating may be included.
  • the coating may be a powder coating.
  • the decorative coating may also be a protective coating.
  • a water resistant coating is included.
  • a decorative and protective zinc powder coating is included.
  • the decoration may be adapted to suit the needs of a particular interior design, room or the tastes of the user.
  • a range of hanging apparatus may be available. The range may be available in various colours, styles and finishes to give a wide range of choice to the consumer. The colours may be adapted to suit trends or fashions or to coordinate with the colours and styles of a particular other product, such as a bathroom or kitchen design. Textures or finished may be included on the apparatus for particular style finishes.
  • the hanging apparatus is used to enable a material item to air or dry due to improved air exposure.
  • the hanging may be elevation in any suitable manner.
  • the hanging is between more than one hanging point to facilitate the airing and drying of the towel.
  • the hanging may alternatively be hanging down from a single point. Most preferably, the hanging is such that the towel is held substantially across its width and so it generally hangs down its length to facilitate drying.
  • Multiple hanging means may be used to hold and hang the towel from multiple points to facilitate drying. Most preferably, a plurality of hanging means are used to suspend the towel at more than one point.
  • the hanging means are preferably similar to one another but configured to suit the part of the towel to be held therein.
  • one or more pairs of opposed apertures are used to hold parts of the towel in a spaced arrangement to facilitate drying.
  • a pair of corners of the towel are held each in a pair of opposed apertures with the towel hanging as a single sheet between them.
  • the towel in this way may be to some extent held across its width to facilitate drying.
  • the towel is held to form a single sheet across its width and hang down therefrom.
  • the towel is spread out to dry through use of the invention.
  • the towel is hung as a single sheet from a plurality of attachment points to maximise drying.
  • the single sheet hanging is in a compact and convenient manner, when compared to hanging through use of a conventional line and pegs.
  • the invention may be used to hang any item, and in particular any item of material.
  • the material will usually be cloth of some kind but other forms of substantially planar material may be used with the invention for other purposes.
  • Use with a towel or similar is a particularly beneficial use of the invention.
  • the towel may be any suitable towel.
  • the towel may be chosen from the group: bath towel; beach towel; flannel; hand towel; or tea towel.
  • the towel may be made of any suitable material.
  • the towel may be any suitable dimensions.
  • the dimensions of the hanging apparatus may be adapted to suit the towel to be hung up using the apparatus. Most preferably, a range of hanging apparatus will be made available to suit towels of different dimensions.
  • a set may be available to suit use of a conventional towel set including bath towels, hand towels and small flannels, for example.
  • the towel may be any material item that may be used as a towel.
  • the towel may be replaced by any material item.
  • the material item may be an item of clothing.
  • the material item may be small items of clothing hung out.
  • the material items may be swimwear items.
  • the invention may be used for towels used for exercise, cleaning up, or for the hobby itself.
  • the body may be any suitable shape. The body may be adapted to different sizes and shapes to suit different applications.
  • the body is generally a longitudinal shape. Most preferably, the body is a longitudinal shape and generally more compact than a conventional towel rail. Preferably, the body is substantially rectangular.
  • the rectangular body may be rectangular when viewed from the front.
  • the rectangular body may be rectangular when viewed from above.
  • the body may include rounded corners for convenience.
  • the body shape may be irregular shaped.
  • the body may be rectangular piece of metal.
  • the body may be a rectangular piece of stainless steel manufactured to a suitable shape.
  • the dimensions of the body may be substantially 430 x 50 x 5 millimetres in one form suitable for a bath towel. The relative dimensions may be kept the same but actual dimensions changed for use with other sized towels.
  • a very small form may be used for a tea towel, larger for a large beach towel, other sizes for a hand towel.
  • the particular dimensions may be adjusted to suit very different towel sizes.
  • the particular size of the body however, preferably, will be suitable to hold a range of sizes of towels within a similar size range, in some forms of the invention.
  • the rectangular body may be in more than one part.
  • the body may be formed in any suitable number of parts.
  • the body may be formed of two parts, spaced to form a rectangular spacing but with a gap between them.
  • the invention in this form works in exactly the same way but is formed in two parts to enable the width of the body to be varied to suit the material to be hung.
  • the body is formed in two parts spaced apart suitable to hang a particular size of towel.
  • the adaptation of this form of invention is useful for interior designers to use in different design arrangements.
  • a wide range of towel sizes can be accommodated in this way.
  • the towel sizes accommodated may be very large; large; medium; small; or very small.
  • the hanging means may be as described for the other forms of the invention, or may take their own configuration.
  • the hanging means for the two part body are as defined below.
  • the hanging means include a teardrop shaped aperture.
  • the aperture may be open to at least one edge of the body, in some forms of the invention.
  • the aperture may include an open edge to an edge of the body.
  • the aperture including at least on open edge may include a scalloped edge.
  • the aperture in any form of the invention may include a shaping.
  • the aperture in any form of the invention may include a scalloped edge.
  • the hanging means of this form of the invention may take any suitable form.
  • the two part body may each include a tapered aperture that taper away from one another.
  • the invention is an adaptable one that can be made for a particular size of towel or a range of towels.
  • the body is shaped similar to the representation in Figure 1 .
  • the body is adapted to be shaped similar to the body of Figure 3.
  • the body may be as illustrated in Figure 7.
  • the invention is adapted to be used with a shelf.
  • the invention is adapted to be used with a shelf, and the body includes adaptation to receive at a least part of the shelf.
  • a shelf may be used with the invention in any of its forms or variants. The shelf may be adapted to sit below the level of the body so that items may be placed on the shelf between the body and the surface. In other forms of the invention the shelf may be adapted to sit closer to the top edge of the body between the body and the surface.
  • the same form of body and shelf may be installed in different orientations, to suit the desires of the consumer.
  • the body in this form of the invention may include an access cut-out.
  • the access cut-out may be so that a person can access the shelf behind the body without needing to reach substantially over the body.
  • the access cut-out may facilitate use of the shelf.
  • the access cut-out could be omitted in other forms of the invention.
  • the body may, in any form of the invention include shaping.
  • the shaping may be to facilitate use.
  • the shaping may be to facilitate manufacture.
  • the shaping may reduce the material used to manufacture the article.
  • the shaping may reduce the overall weight of the article.
  • a shelf may be included for use with the hanging apparatus configured to fit with the rest of the apparatus in any suitable manner.
  • the shelf may form part of the inventive apparatus or the shelf may be supplied separately. Any part of the apparatus may be adapted to form one or more hook.
  • the hook or each hook may be useful to hang articles, in addition to the hanging of the main article, typically a towel.
  • the hanging apparatus includes both a shelf and one or more hook to hang articles.
  • the shelf and hooks may be formed integrally with the rest of the apparatus or as separate parts assembled during installation.
  • the hook or each hook may take any suitable form.
  • the hook may be an extension of other parts of the apparatus, formed into a hook device suitable to hang an item.
  • the mounting means includes an attachment plate to facilitate attachment to the surface.
  • the attachment plate enables removable attachment to the surface.
  • the attachment plate may take any suitable form or shape. There may be a plurality of attachment plates.
  • An attachment plate may be included as part of a post or plate for attachment between the body and the attachment to the surface. Each or all of these parts may be integral.
  • the attachment plate is coordinated to the style of the rest of the apparatus.
  • the attachment plate may be rectangular, including square.
  • the attachment plate may be adapted to receive screws.
  • the attachment plate may include screw holes to screw the attachment plate to a surface. Any suitable fixing means may be used. A pair of opposed holes may be included for screws to fix the apparatus to the surface.
  • a cover to the screws or mounting plate may be included for aesthetic reasons.
  • the cover may be the shelf or may be in addition to the shelf.
  • the attachment plate may be omitted in other forms of the invention.
  • the attachment part of the apparatus may be another part of the mounting means, as this can be varied somewhat in the invention.
  • the attachment plate is useful to provide strength to the apparatus and spread the pressure applied to the fixings to the surface. Where a shelf is included the shelf may be adapted to be of a length to substantially hide the attachment plate from view.
  • the spacing of the body from the surface can be varied to suit different applications.
  • the spacing is the same or more than conventional towel rails. Or the spacing may be a less in other forms.
  • the spacing is sufficient to encourage air exposure around the towel.
  • the spacing is around 1 10 millimetres for use with a standard towel.
  • the spacing may be any suitable spacing.
  • the spacing is 1 10 millimetres or less from the surface.
  • the spacing may be close spacing in some forms of the invention.
  • the spacing may be achieved in any suitable manner.
  • the spacing may be predetermined and defined.
  • the spacing means may be a post of the mounting means between the body and the surface.
  • the mounting means includes one or more post or post plate for spacing the body from the surface.
  • the spacing is achieved by the mounting means including a post between the attachment plate and the body.
  • the spacing from the surface may be chosen from the group: 1 10 millimetres; 70 millimetres; or 30 millimetres.
  • the spacing from the surface may be chosen from the group of spacing in millimetres of: 35; 50; 55; 70; 100; 1 10; 1 15; and 120. Any suitable spacing from the surface may be used.
  • the post of the mounting means may take any suitable form.
  • the post may be in the form of a metal post perpendicular to the attachment plate.
  • the post may be circular in cross-section.
  • the post may be rectangular including square in cross-section.
  • the post and attachment plate may be integral with one another.
  • the mounting means may be the post, attachment plate and means to attach the attachment plate to the surface such as fixings.
  • the post and attachment plate are preferably manufactured and supplied together as a single piece attached to the body. In other forms the parts may be supplied separately and assembled.
  • the post may be included without the attachment plate. Other angles and positions may also be used as is desired for aesthetics. More than one post may be included.
  • the post is substantially a straight post.
  • the post may include a bend and the post includes a bend for an alternative mounting position.
  • the bend in the post may enable the attachment in one plane and the hanging in another plane.
  • the post may be attached to a horizontal surface and the towel hang vertically.
  • Other bends or arrangements are also envisaged to enable the apparatus to be used in a myriad of situations.
  • Multiple posts may be used from a single mounting plate.
  • a single post may be used for multiple bodies.
  • a plurality of bends may be included in the post.
  • the post may be replaced by other suitable means to create the space from the surface, not limited to a post.
  • the post of the mounting means may be post plate between the body and the surface.
  • the post may be a post plate between the body and attachment plate.
  • the mounting means in this form of the invention includes the post plate, attachment plate and attachment fixings to attach the attachment plate to the surface.
  • the post plate attaches between the body and the attachment plate, provided as a solid piece.
  • the post plate is shaped to be convenient to handle.
  • the shaping may make the apparatus easier to lift up and inspect for the consumer, or to hold during installation due to the shaping.
  • a pair of post plates are included spaced apart from one another.
  • the attachment plate may be attached to one or more post plates.
  • Part of the or each post plate may be adapted to be attached to the surface and forms their own attachment plate in this way.
  • One or more post or post plate may be included in the mounting means and the or each post or post plate is adapted to receive the shelf thereon and support the shelf in position. Any suitable number of post plates may be used.
  • a pair of post plates may be usefully included, in particular as supports for a shelf.
  • the post plate may be straight.
  • the post plate may be bent to suit particular applications such as to mount below a surface.
  • the post plate may be useful to support a shelf.
  • the post plate may be adapted to support a shelf.
  • the post or post plate may include hooks in some forms of the invention.
  • the hooks may be an extension from below the post or post plate. Any suitable number of hooks may be included. Preferably, one or more hook is included in addition to the hanging means.
  • the hook may be associated with the mounting means and configured to enable items to be hung below the mounting means, proximal the surface.
  • a hook may be formed as a part of any of the apparatus where it is convenient to include a hook.
  • the hook may form part of the attachment plate. Where the mounting means and attachment plate are integral the hooks may extend below these.
  • the surface may be any suitable surface.
  • the surface is a flat surface.
  • the surface may be angled.
  • the surface is the internal surface of a building.
  • the surface is a wall.
  • the surface is the interior surface of a wall of a bathroom or kitchen.
  • the surface may be a surface in a garage, hobby room or retreat.
  • the surface may be a floor.
  • the surface may be a ceiling.
  • the surface may be a cabinet, such as a side, wall or under surface of a cabinet.
  • the surface may be part of another article. Anywhere suitable to install the apparatus may be the surface referred to in the invention.
  • the surface could be outside or part of building outside.
  • the invention is versatile and highly adaptable and so the surface could be any suitable surface where it may be desired to mount hanging apparatus so that the towel can be hung to dry or air and be convenient for use.
  • Any suitable number of hanging means may be included.
  • at least two hanging means are included.
  • a plurality of hanging means may be included in other forms of the invention.
  • a towel can be hung, spaced between a pair of hanging means.
  • the body is formed of two parts to space a pair of opposed hanging means to hang.
  • a towel can be hung between a pair of hanging means to hang down as a flat sheet for maximised air exposure. Spreading out of the towel in this way may facilitate drying of the towel.
  • Multiple hanging means may be included to enable different towels of different sizes to be hung up as a single sheet from the same body.
  • a better arrangement may be to have different sized apparatus, each sized to hang towels of different sizes between two points to enable the towel to dry as a single sheet.
  • individual towels can also be hung from each hanging means.
  • the hanging means enable a towel to be hung in a plurality of arrangements.
  • multiple towels can be hung using the apparatus in a suitable manner to be aired.
  • a plurality of hanging means are included along the length of the body.
  • This form of the invention may be particularly useful for a utility room, or hobby room where there may be need to hang different articles from the same apparatus. For example, sometimes a hand towel may be hung, sometimes a few small towels or rags for cleaning up a project. At other times wet clothes may need to be hung and dried after cleaning up.
  • at least one pair of opposed hanging means are included.
  • the versatile multi hanging form of the invention may include a pair of hanging apparatus spaced to hang an individual towel substantially across its width. Preferably, more than one pair of opposed hanging means are included. Most preferably, the hanging means enable a choice of positions from which to hang a towel.
  • two pairs of opposed hanging means are included with a single hanging means located substantially centrally.
  • a single hanging means located substantially centrally.
  • two sizes of towel can be hung stretched apart and also a single hanger used to hold an item.
  • a choice of the hanging means may be used to hang at least one part of the towel.
  • the hanging means include substantially teardrop shaped apertures.
  • the teardrop shape may be substantially 48 millimetres in length and 20 millimetres at the widest part, narrowing to a point. Other sizes may be used.
  • the round part of the teardrop is closer to an edge of the apparatus for convenient use passing the part of the towel towards the central narrowing part.
  • a sideways action, of left to right or right to left can be used to hang the part of the towel.
  • the action is sideways and downwards to easily catch hold of the towel. Both hands may be used at the same time for quick and easy hanging of the article. Or a left or right handed person can equally use the apparatus.
  • the sideways and downwards move is convenient, quick and will hold the part of the towel firmly.
  • the sideways and downward more is a natural move that makes the apparatus very simple to learn to use. Any number of these teardrop shaped apertures to hold the towel in a spaced arrangement.
  • the part of the towel may be passed through the opening at one end and passed into the narrowing, holding part to catch and hold the part of the towel.
  • the catching in may be an easy single movement enabling the towel to be quickly and easily held by the apparatus.
  • the opening part may be substantially curved, or circular, leading to a narrowing holding part.
  • the narrowing holding part may be a narrowing triangular part.
  • the holding part may narrow from the opening part so that various thicknesses of towel can be accommodated.
  • As part of the towel is passed into the opening part of the aperture it is passed along the holding part until due to the thickness of the towel the material catches and holds therein. Should the towel be thick the catching will quickly occur, if the towel is thinner, such as a tea towel the part may need to be moved to closer to the point where the very narrow gap will hold thin materials in place.
  • the aperture may take any suitable shape to enable the towel to be held in the spaced arrangement.
  • the aperture may be substantially circular.
  • the hanging means includes an aperture to receive a part of the towel whereby the part of the towel is maintained by the hanging means in position.
  • part of the towel may pass through the aperture at an opening part and pass into a catching or holding part which holds the part of the towel.
  • edge of a towel may catch in to the holding part.
  • the aperture is a shaped aperture including a receiving part open to the top or front of the body.
  • the shaped aperture may have a shape as illustrated in the apertures of Figure 7, for example 216.
  • the shaped aperture can receive at least part of the towel through the open receiving part, and the shaping of the aperture causes the towel to "catch" and be held in place after passing into the aperture.
  • the catching may take any suitable form.
  • the aperture narrows away from the open receiving portion so that as the towel is pushed or passed in it is held in a smaller aperture until the aperture is sized to hold the part of the towel in place.
  • the shape of the aperture is tapered towards a narrow point.
  • the hanging means are adapted to be convenient to use by angling towards the centre. In one form pairs of hanging means may be included, each angled toward one another and the central mounting means. In this form a central hanging means may be included with a straight entrance. More preferably, all the hanging means are at least somewhat angled to facilitate use.
  • the aperture includes shaped sides to assist in the catching or holding of the towel in place.
  • the shaped sides may take any suitable shape.
  • a crimped or wavy shaped sides are used to assist to catch or hold the towel.
  • the shaping may be scalloped, crimped or wavy shaped sides used to assist to catch or hold the towel.
  • the apertures of the invention in any of its forms may include scalloped, crimped or wavy shaped sides used to assist to catch or hold the towel.
  • each hanging means includes a shaped edge to assist to catch or hold the towel.
  • the shaped edge may take any suitable shape.
  • the shaped edge is substantially a scalloped edge.
  • a corner may be held by the holding parts to hold and hang the towel as a single sheet for airing and drying.
  • the two corners of a short edge are held by the apparatus so that the towel can hang in a single sheet.
  • Any part or parts of the towel may be hung.
  • An advantage of the invention is that any suitable part, can be held in the hanging apparatus.
  • the hanging means do not include traditional fastening.
  • the hanging means enable very quick and easy use with one hand so that the use of the apparatus is quicker and easier than traditional towel rails, as well as having the clear other functional advantages outlined above. Two hands may be used to hang the whole towel in a single action, each quickly catching into the shaped aperture to secure in place.
  • a single aperture may be used with multiple catching parts to hold multiple parts or towels.
  • the thickness of the body assists to support the part of the towel.
  • the shape of the hanging means enables multiple holds of the towel.
  • the side slide action may be used in other ways to secure part of the towel.
  • Other forms of hanging means may be used instead in inferior forms of the invention.
  • the hanging can be achieved singlehandedly, in the other forms of the invention, a useful advantage.
  • a single part of the towel may be taken in a hand and pushed into the hanging means aperture. Due to the clever shaping the towel easily catches and holds so that the part of the towel can be released freeing the hand to hang the other side.
  • the invention enables the hanging of the towel to be achieved through use of both hands at the same time each holding part of the towel and using the hanging means simultaneously. A single move can be used to use the hanging means. This is in contrast to pegs which would need to be opened with one hand and another hand used to pass part of the towel within the jaws.
  • the invention has significant advantages in the ease of use.
  • the spacing from the surface is substantially 1 10 millimetres from the surface.
  • the spacing may be chosen from the group of spacing in millimetres of: 35; 50; 55; 70; 100; 1 10; 1 15; and 120. Any suitable spacing from the surface may be used.
  • the air exposure is sufficient to quickly air and dry the towel.
  • the spacing and hanging of the towel enables quick drying of the towel.
  • the apparatus enables the airing of the towel, including when the ambient air is humid.
  • the towel can be hung spaced and across the apparatus for better drying of the towel in a short time period.
  • the towel can be hung in a single sheet for drying.
  • the apparatus significantly reduces the drying time of a towel.
  • the hanging of the towel can be very easily achieved and equally easily removed without the need for fastenings.
  • the hanging is sufficient to enable the towel to be used while hung from the apparatus.
  • the hanging is easy to hang or remove but also firmly held during use.
  • the hanging is across the two short sides of the towel such that the towel hangs down from the short edge along its length, as is convenient for use of space. Other arrangements could be used instead.
  • Multiple apparatus arrangements are envisaged to hang many towels, perhaps of different sizes, such as for a family in a coordinated fashion. Most preferably, the apparatus enables the hanging of a towel as single sheet in an easy to hang and release manner.
  • the present invention provides in a variant a hanging apparatus for hanging a towel, the hanging apparatus including:
  • a mounting means for mounting the body spaced from a surface including a plate and post;
  • each hanging means including an aperture for receipt of at least part of the towel, tapered away from the opening and the towel catches into the tapered part in use, wherein, the two parts of the towel are held by the hanging means spaced apart from one another, and spaced from the surface by the mounting means such that the air exposure of the towel is improved.
  • the tapered opening includes shaping to assist to catch the part of the towel.
  • the shaping is a scalloped edge.
  • two or more hanging means adapted to hold a towel, each including a teardrop aperture for receipt of at least part of the towel therethrough, having a opening part and a holding part configured to enable a part of the towel into the opening part and slide it towards the holding part to hold the towel in an hanging arrangement as a single sheet,
  • the teardrop shaped aperture may also include a shaped edge.
  • the shaped edge may include a scalloped edge.
  • the invention also provides a method of use of an apparatus to air a towel including a body, a mounting means for mounting the body spaced from a surface and one or more hanging means adapted to hold the towel including an aperture, the method including:
  • the steps a)-c) may be repeated to attach a second part of the same towel.
  • the steps a)-c) may be repeated to attach a further towel.
  • the steps may be reversed to readily remove the towel.
  • the towel may be used to dry hands or articles when hanging as the hanging is held tightly.
  • the hanging apparatus of the method may be the hanging apparatus of the invention in any of its forms or variations.
  • the towel may be replaced throughout with any piece of material.
  • the hanging apparatus can be manufactured industrially and supplied direct to consumers, retailers or wholesalers.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view from above of a hanging apparatus according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention with the towel removed for ease of illustration;
  • Figure 2 is a plan view from above of the hanging apparatus of Figure 1 , illustrating the spacing from the surface in particular;
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view from above of a hanging apparatus according to a second preferred embodiment of the invention with the towel removed for ease of illustration, and including a shelf;
  • Figure 4 is the perspective view of the hanging apparatus of Figure 3, with the shelf removed;
  • Figure 5 is a plan view from above of the hanging apparatus and shelf of Figure 3;
  • Figure 6 is a plan view from above of the hanging apparatus of Figure 4.
  • Figure 7 is a perspective view of a hanging apparatus according to a third preferred embodiment of the invention with the towel removed for ease of illustration, illustrating the scalloped edges to the apertures; and
  • Figure 8 is a plan view from above of a hanging apparatus of Figure 7.
  • hanging apparatus 1 has body 10, post 12 and back plate 14.
  • Each of the parts of hanging apparatus 1 are made of aluminium with a protective and attractive finish.
  • the coating can be varied to suit the style of decor of the user including various colours, materials, and finish, including textured finishes.
  • the corners are rounded to soften the look and for the practical benefit of not catching on items. Other materials such as steel or even wood or plastics materials could be used instead.
  • the aesthetic appeal is important as well as the clever new function of the invention.
  • the look and overall style of the hanging apparatus can be varied and changed to suit the room where it is to be used, the style of house or room, the other articles in the room or for the different people who may use it, such as for children.
  • Body 10 is shown as a rectangular piece with rounded corners sized suitable to hold most towels.
  • Body 10 has dimensions of 430 x 50 x 5 millimetres as illustrated for use with a bath towel. Smaller versions may also be provided such as for tea towels or other small material items, in which case the relative dimensions are kept the same but the body is reduced to 40 or 30 millimetres, for example. Other sizes and dimensions would be used for different situations, to suit the surface for attachment. These smaller forms of the invention are useful for lighter items such as a hand towel, flannel or tea towel. Similarly, large beach towels may be used on a larger form of the invention with a body of sufficient width to hold the towel to hang as a single sheet. The lighter or smaller forms of the invention can be used attached to kitchen cabinets or other surfaces of furniture for these different uses. These may also include a bend to project the towel out from the cabinet or other surface, as is mentioned further below.
  • Apertures 16 and 18 are positioned one at each side of body 10 and are used to hold the towel (not shown for ease of illustration). Each of apertures 16 and 18 is generally teardrop shaped with the wider opening part (not labelled) towards the outside of body 10.
  • the dimensions of the teardrops 16 and 18 are 48 millimetres in length with a width of 20 millimetres at the rounded widest part tapering to a point as is found convenient to receive part of such as a corner of a bath towel. The angle is useful as the movement is in and down, a natural feeling movement. Where the apparatus is made smaller, for smaller, different, or other items these dimensions can accordingly be reduced. For example, where the material is a thinner material a shorter, narrower teardrop aperture may be used to make the use easier.
  • Each teardrop aperture 16 and 18 narrows from the opening to a point 17 and 19 respectively. Apertures 16 and 18 narrow gradually so that towels of decreasing thickness will be caught into the narrow part and held as moved from the opening to point 17 or 19.
  • Use of teardrop apertures 16 and 18 is very clever invention to easily be used with both hands simultaneously to hold a corner of the towel, put in the opening of teardrop apertures 16 and 18 and slide towards one another. As each part of the towel engages simultaneously it is very easy to hang up the towel with a single quick movement from each hand. For some users the use of one hand, one at a time is most beneficial. For most, the quick double handed action to quickly hang the towel to dry is more suitable.
  • Back plate 14 is used to mount hanging apparatus 1 to a wall through use of screws (not shown) mounted through holes 20 and 22. Clearly, other fastening or fixings could be used, with more or less holes used, or the back plate omitted and mounting occur otherwise. A cover may be included to cover the screws or other fastenings for aesthetics, Back plate 14 has dimensions 90 x 27 x 5 millimetres as illustrated. In other forms of the invention different sizes of back plate may be used to support the size of the body. There could also be multiple back plates for a body or a single back plate may be attached to more than one body. Back plate 14 provides a strong, stable support to post 12 attached to body 10, in an aesthetically pleasing manner. The shape of back plate 14 has been chosen for its strong design but this can be varied somewhat. The overall design element is very strong to make a very useful article that works better than conventional towel rails but in a multi-use article, which looks stylish and takes up less space.
  • Post 12 is shown as 1 10 millimetres in length, and suitable for use for most domestic situations.
  • the length is similar to the spacing of conventional towel rails from the wall, so as to not to project any more than conventional towel rails, but with all the benefits.
  • the illustrated form of the apparatus is for use for a standard bath towel.
  • Other forms of the invention where the body is smaller will be of similar relative dimensions and so the post length will also be shorter.
  • Other post lengths could be used instead to suit the particular needs for the articles to be hung.
  • Other forms of the invention may use substantially round holes to receive and space the towel, for example for light materials such as flannels or tea towels, as somewhat a variant.
  • a single aperture may be used in addition to hang other items, such as a flannel in addition to the towel to be hung up.
  • FIG. 3 to 6 a second preferred embodiment of the invention will be described similar to the first and with similar reference numerals used, and again the towel itself is omitted for ease of illustration.
  • the main difference between the first and second embodiment is the shaping of the body for use with a shelf held on the posts behind.
  • Use of the removable shelf provides yet another inventive and useful aspect.
  • hanging apparatus 101 has body 1 10, posts 1 12a and 1 12b and back plate 1 14.
  • the method of use, construction and provision to the customer is the same for all forms of the invention, in that this would be either direct, retail, wholesale or through a professional advisor, such as an interior designer.
  • the apparatus may be installed at a suitable location about the property to hang one or more items.
  • hanging apparatus is made of metal, aluminium with a strong resistant finish useful for use with a damp towel.
  • the material may be varied to suit the room where it is to be installed, for example.
  • Body 1 10 has dimensions of 430 x 50 x 5 millimetres as illustrated for use with a bath towel and has rounded corners as for the first embodiment. However, different to the first embodiment, a cut-out is formed to remove most of the rectangular body between from the middle section (not labelled) and this is in particular so that the person can slide their hand in and out easily to the shelf behind. Other small shaping as may be necessitated by manufacturer are also included.
  • a pair of apertures 1 16 and 1 18 are positioned one at each side of body 1 10 on either side of the middle section cut out.
  • the body part has a height of 50 millimetres and in this form of the invention the body is therefore wider than the rest where the cut-out of 30 millimetres has been made for access to the shelf. For manufacturing, it is also beneficial to remove some of the material cost and for the consumer the overall weight of the article through use of including the cut-out.
  • Each of apertures 1 16 and 1 18 is again generally teardrop shaped with the wider opening part (not labelled) towards the outside of body 1 10 tapering towards the centre.
  • the dimensions of the teardrops 1 16 and 1 18 are 48 millimetres in length with a width of 20 millimetres at the rounded widest part tapering to a point.
  • the angle and shaping of apertures 1 16 and 1 18 are carefully designed to enable the quick insertion, and catching of the material so as to be held firmly in place.
  • each teardrop aperture 1 16 and 1 18 narrows from the opening to a point 1 17 and 1 19 respectively to allow towels or material sheets to be hung.
  • the simple sliding action, including with both hands together enables the towel to be readily hung in a single move.
  • a back plate is used, as for the first embodiment however it is in two parts 1 14a and 1 14b each attached to posts 1 12a and 1 12b used to screw mount the apparatus to the surface through holes 120 and 122 (refer Figure 4 in particular).
  • Each back plate 1 14a and 1 14b each has a shaped part 126a and 126b at the base useful as a hook to hang other items below the shelf.
  • the addition of hooks 126a and 126b gives a further advantage over the prior art, as an additional function for use with the inventive hanging apparatus, which in this form not only includes the hooks but also the shelf. In other forms of the invention the hook apparatus may be omitted.
  • Posts 1 12a and 1 12b are shown as 1 10 millimetres in length, but may be varied somewhat, provided the towel is spaced suitably from the wall.
  • Shelf 124 is included as mentioned above with easy access through the cut-out in body 1 10. Shelf 124 rests on posts 1 12a and 1 12b attached via back plates 1 14a and 1 14b to provide a convenient place put items.
  • a further advantage of the invention is that a shelf and storage place is created with the improved, compact towel hanging apparatus, with additional hooks to hang further items.
  • the method of use of the second embodiment is exactly as for the first with the additional benefit of the shelf.
  • the shelf is provided with the rest of the apparatus as a kit. This can also be true of other additional features where supplied.
  • FIG. 7 a further third preferred embodiment is disclosed, similar to the first and second, and with similar reference numerals being used.
  • Hanging apparatus 201 has body 210, post plate 212 attached via attachment plate 214 to the surface, in this case a wall.
  • Figure 7 shows the item from above, with broken lines to indicate bends in the material, for the front body facing forward, and the attachment plate for attachment to the surface.
  • the shape is very much as Figure 4 how ever there is no cut-out, the apertures are shaped differently and there are more, and the post plate is shaped differently.
  • Hanging apparatus 101 in this form of the invention is made of aluminium, with a powder coating.
  • Back plate 214 is mounted to the wall through use of screw fixings so that the entire hanging apparatus 201 is strongly mounted thereto.
  • the curved edges of the front body 210 are continued in the back plate, the subtle softening of the edges.
  • Post plate 212 includes more significant curving, more than aesthetics this assists the apparatus to be picked up and held in the hand.
  • the handy grip enables installation to be quicker and easier, including for a Do-it-yourself enthusiast.
  • apertures 215, 216, 217 and 218 The most significant difference of hanging apparatus 201 , when compared to the first and second embodiment is apertures 215, 216, 217 and 218.
  • the tapering shape is useful, and is enhanced by scalloped edges 224. These scalloped edges further assist to help to hold the towel in place, resisting backward movement, and holding the towel tight. Once it is time to remove the towel this can be done in the same way as the other embodiments simply tugging gently to remove the towel.
  • the smooth edges of the apertures enable the towel to be easily released but also hold the towel strongly in place, a new clever development.
  • This surprisingly clever and effective invention in all its forms and variants is likely to be readily adopted by the interior design industry as it can make good use of space in a highly useful and attractive manner.
  • This surprisingly clever and effective invention is likely to be readily adopted by the interior design industry as it can make good use of space in a highly useful and attractive manner.

Landscapes

  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Public Health (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Textile Engineering (AREA)
  • Supports Or Holders For Household Use (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un appareil de suspension pour suspendre une serviette ou similaire, l'appareil de suspension comprenant un corps, un moyen d'installation pour installer le corps de manière espacée vis-à-vis d'une surface et un ou plusieurs moyens de suspension. Le moyen de suspension est conçu pour maintenir une serviette de manière espacée, celui-ci comprenant une ouverture destinée à recevoir au moins une partie de la serviette. Lors de l'utilisation, la serviette est maintenue par le moyen de suspension espacé de la surface par le moyen d'installation de telle sorte que l'exposition à l'air de la serviette est améliorée. L'invention concerne également des variantes. L'invention concerne également des procédés d'utilisation.
PCT/AU2017/051223 2016-11-07 2017-11-06 Appareil de suspension WO2018081876A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2017353359A AU2017353359A1 (en) 2016-11-07 2017-11-06 Hanging apparatus
AU2019100979A AU2019100979A4 (en) 2016-11-07 2019-08-30 Hanging apparatus

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AU2016904534A AU2016904534A0 (en) 2016-11-07 Hanging apparatus
AU2016904534 2016-11-07

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2018081876A1 true WO2018081876A1 (fr) 2018-05-11

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ID=62076300

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/AU2017/051223 WO2018081876A1 (fr) 2016-11-07 2017-11-06 Appareil de suspension

Country Status (2)

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AU (3) AU2017101908A4 (fr)
WO (1) WO2018081876A1 (fr)

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN110604495B (zh) * 2019-09-01 2021-03-19 杭州恩拓家居有限公司 一种毛巾架及一种浴室柜
CN110604496B (zh) * 2019-09-20 2021-03-19 杭州恩拓家居有限公司 浴室柜

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2178113A (en) * 1938-05-13 1939-10-31 William O Dailey Holder for towels and other articles
FR1256317A (fr) * 1960-05-04 1961-03-17 Un fixe-torchons dont les parties prenantes souples sont établies sur un plan horizontal
US5575046A (en) * 1992-08-25 1996-11-19 Klingers Peg-Free Clothes Lines Pty. Limited Holder for suspending articles
DE20008127U1 (de) * 2000-05-05 2000-07-27 Roth Eckart Klemmhalter für textile Gegenstände

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2178113A (en) * 1938-05-13 1939-10-31 William O Dailey Holder for towels and other articles
FR1256317A (fr) * 1960-05-04 1961-03-17 Un fixe-torchons dont les parties prenantes souples sont établies sur un plan horizontal
US5575046A (en) * 1992-08-25 1996-11-19 Klingers Peg-Free Clothes Lines Pty. Limited Holder for suspending articles
DE20008127U1 (de) * 2000-05-05 2000-07-27 Roth Eckart Klemmhalter für textile Gegenstände

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU2017353359A2 (en) 2021-06-10
AU2019100979A4 (en) 2019-10-03
AU2017353359A1 (en) 2019-05-16
AU2017101908A4 (en) 2021-08-19

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