WO2020198346A1

WO2020198346A1 - Article hanger

Info

Publication number: WO2020198346A1
Application number: PCT/US2020/024693
Authority: WO
Inventors: Timothy Magner; Truman Kendall WILLS
Original assignee: Timothy Magner; Wills Truman Kendall
Priority date: 2019-03-25
Filing date: 2020-03-25
Publication date: 2020-10-01

Abstract

An article hanger can comprise an article support comprising a first arm, a second arm, and a central portion located between the first arm and the second arm. The article hanger can further comprise a hanging device comprising a hook and a bracket fixedly attached to the hook and configured to be removably attached to the central portion.

Description

ARTICLE HANGER

The present application claims priority to and the benefit of United States provisional patent application number 62/823,417 filed March 25, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Field

[0001] The field of the disclosure relates generally to article hangers and, more particularly, to article hangers comprising an article support and a hanging device removably attached to the article support.

Background

[0002] Article hangers are typically fabricated from plastic and/or a combination of plastic and metal with a hook permanently attached to an article support. For example, suppliers commonly ship clothing articles hung on plastic article hangers to retailers for viewing by potential purchasers. Once a clothing article is sold, the plastic article hanger is commonly removed and disposed of by the retailer. Unfortunately, retailers may simply choose to dispose of the plastic article hangers without recycling. Furthermore, because article hangers may be made from different types of plastic and include multiple materials (such as metal hooks and clips, vinyl and rubber padding to prevent slipping), most recovery programs have banned recycling of plastic article hangers. As a result, the plastic article hangers typically end up in landfills. Some estimates report that 54 million article hangers per day— or nearly 20 billion per year— end up in landfills. Further, because plastic can take up to 1,000 years to decompose, the impact of these one-use plastic article hangers on the environment is significant. Accordingly, a need exists for an alternative to traditional plastic article hangers that is more sustainable and environmentally friendly, and that can be provided to retailers without a significant increase in cost. Brief Summary

[0003] The embodiments of the present disclosure described below are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may appreciate and understand the principles and practices of the present disclosure.

[0004] In accordance with some embodiments, an article hanger can comprise an article support comprising a first arm, a second arm, and a central portion located between the first arm and the second arm. The article hanger can further comprise a hanging device comprising a hook and a bracket fixedly attached to the hook and configured to be removably attached to the central portion.

[0005] Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description. It is to be understood, however, that the detailed description of the various embodiments and specific examples, while indicating exemplary and other embodiments of the present disclosure, are given by way of illustration and not limitation. Many changes and modifications within the scope of the present disclosure may be made without departing from the spirit thereof, and the disclosure includes all such modifications.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006] These, as well as other objects and advantages of this disclosure, will be more completely understood and appreciated by referring to the following more detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the disclosure in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, of which:

[0007] FIG. 1 depicts a front view of an article hanger in accordance with embodiments of the disclosure;

[0008] FIG. 2 depicts a rear view of the article hanger of FIG. 1;

[0009] FIG. 3 depicts a front perspective view of a hanging device of the article hanger of FIG. 1;

[0010] FIG. 4 depicts a side view the hanging device of FIG. 3; [0011] FIG. 5 depicts a front view of an article support of the article hanger of FIG. 1;

[0012] FIG. 6 depicts a front view of another embodiment of an article support; and

[0013] FIG. 7 depicts a parent panel containing multiple article supports.

Detailed Description

[0014] The present disclosure is now illustrated in greater detail by way of the following detailed description, which represents the best presently known mode of carrying out the disclosure. It should be understood, however, that this description is not to be used to limit the present disclosure. Rather, this description is provided for the purpose of illustrating the general features of the disclosure.

[0015] The apparatuses and methods disclosed in this document are described in detail by way of examples and with reference to the figures. Unless otherwise specified, like numbers in the figures indicate references to the same, similar, or corresponding elements throughout the figures. It will be appreciated that modifications to disclosed and described examples, arrangements, configurations, components, elements, apparatuses, methods, materials, etc. can be made and may be desired for a specific application. In this disclosure, any identification of specific shapes, materials, techniques, arrangements, etc. are either related to a specific example presented or are merely a general description of such a shape, material, technique, arrangement, etc. Identifications of specific details or examples are not intended to be, and should not be, construed as mandatory or limiting unless specifically designated as such. Selected examples of apparatuses and methods are hereinafter disclosed and described in detail with reference made to the figures.

[0016] It will thus be seen according to the present disclosure a highly advantageous object for hanging or carrying an article has been provided. The disclosure is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, and that many modifications and equivalent arrangements may be made thereof within the scope of the disclosure, which scope is to be accorded the broadest interpretation of the appended claims so as to encompass all equivalent structures and products. [0017] With reference to the drawings, FIGS. 1-2 illustrate an article hanger 10 for hanging an article such as, but not limited to, any sort of clothing article. In some embodiments, the article hanger 10 may hang the article (e.g., clothing article) for storage, transportation, and/or display. The article hanger 10 of the present disclosure comprises an article support 50 and a hanging device 20 configured to be removably attached to the article support 50. Thus, the article hanger 10 may be assembled by removably attaching the hanging device 20 to the article support 50. Once assembled the article hanger 10 may be used to hang an article for storage, transportation, display and/or other purposes. Once the article hanger 10 has served its purpose, or if the article support 50 becomes damaged, the article hanger can be disassembled by detaching the hanging device 20 from the article support 50. Then the article support 50 may be discarded and the hanging device 20 may be reused with a new article support 50. In this manner, costs can be reduced by reusing the hanging device 20. Furthermore, different types of article supports may be assembled to form the article hanger depending on the application. As such, a single hanging device may be used for a wide range of different article supports to form unique article hangers.

[0018] In addition to providing a potential cost savings for retailers, the practice of re-using one or more pieces of a multi-piece article hanger 10 provides a benefit to the environment. For example, when one or more pieces of a multi-piece article hanger 10 are reused, less resources are expended to produce such article hangers. In addition, by reusing one or more pieces of a multi-piece article hanger 10, less waste may be produced. Environmental benefits can also be realized by manufacturing one or more pieces of a multi-piece article hanger 10 from certain materials, as described further herein.

[0019] As shown in FIGS. 3-4, the hanging device 20 can comprise a hook 30 and a bracket 40. The hook 30 and the bracket 40 may be integrally formed and may be made from the same material. In another embodiment presently contemplated, the hook 30 of the hanging device 20 may be made from a different material from the bracket 40 or the hook 30 and the bracket 40 may be constructed out of a combination of the same or different materials. The hook 30 and the bracket 40 may be made of any suitable material known to a person of ordinary skill in the art. For example, hook 30 and the bracket 40 may be made from metal (including steel), plastic (including polystyrene, polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), or other suitable alternatives known to those of ordinary skill in the art. In other embodiments, the hook 30 and the bracket 40 are made from different materials, and can be made from any of the materials identified herein, a mixture of one or more of the materials mentioned herein, or any material known by a person of ordinary skill in the art. When hook 30 and the bracket 40 are made from different materials, the hook 30 may be joined with the bracket 40 by connection means to form a unitary hanging device 20. Connection means can include, but are not limited to, welding (such as ultrasonic welding), adhesives (such as pressure sensitive adhesives), fasteners, lamination, or other equivalent means for joining the hook 30 with the bracket 40 known by those of skill in the art. Advantageously, the hanging device 20 may be made from one or more materials capable of withstanding many repeated uses.

[0020] The hanging device 20 may have a height or length of from approximately 5.08 centimeters (approximately 2 inches) to approximately 12.7 centimeters (approximately 5 inches). In some embodiments, the hanging device 20 can be from approximately 6.35 centimeters (approximately 2.5 inches) to approximately 12.07 centimeters (approximately 4.75 inches) long. In one embodiment, the hanging device 20 is approximately 11.43 centimeters (approximately 4.5 inches) long. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the hanging device 20 can be longer or shorter than the ranges disclosed herein.

[0021] The length of the hanging device 20 may be equal to the sum of the length of the hook 30 and the length of the bracket 40, as discussed further herein. In some embodiments, the length of the hanging device 20 may be less than the sum of the length of the hook 30 and the length of the bracket 40. For example, a portion of the length of the hook 30 can overlap with at least a portion of the length of the bracket 40. In some embodiments a portion of the length of the hook 30 runs almost entirely concurrent with the length of the bracket 40, as shown for example in FIGS. 2 and 4.

[0022] Hook 30 may have a height or length of from approximately 2.54 centimeters (approximately 1 inch) to approximately 12.7 centimeters (approximately 5 inches). In some embodiments, hook 30 can be from approximately 3.81 centimeters (approximately 1.5 inches) to approximately 12.07 centimeters (approximately 4.75 inches) long. In some embodiments, hook 30 is approximately 11.43 centimeters (approximately 4.5 inches) long. The present disclosure contemplates that the bracket 40 may have a height or length of from approximately 1.27 centimeters (approximately 0.5 inches) to approximately 3.81 centimeters (approximately 1.5 inches). In some embodiments, the bracket 40 can be from approximately 1.905 centimeters (approximately 0.75 inches) to approximately 3.175 centimeters (approximately 1.25 inches) long. In some embodiments, the bracket 40 can be approximately 2.54 centimeters (approximately 1 inch) long. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that either hook 30 and/or the bracket 40 can be longer or shorter than the ranges disclosed herein, however.

[0023] The hook 30 may have any suitable size and shape to be used, for example, as a clothes hanger for hanging on a bar, closet hanger dowel, support hook, or similar structure. For example, hook 30 may comprise an open hook having a generally arcuate or rounded shape, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 1- 2. An inner diameter defined by the arcuate shape of the hook 30 can be from approximately 1.588 centimeters (approximately 0.625 inches) to approximately 6.35 centimeters (approximately 2.5 inches). In some embodiments, the inner diameter defined by the arcuate shape of the hook 30 can be from approximately 2.54 centimeters (approximately 1 inch) to approximately 3.81 centimeters (approximately 1.5 inches). In other embodiments, hook 30 can comprise open hook having a more rectangular or squared shape, which can be seen with references to FIG. 3. An inner width defined by the top portion of the rectangular hook may be, in some embodiments, from approximately 1.588 centimeters (approximately 0.625 inches) to approximately 6.35 centimeters (approximately 2.5 inches). In some embodiments, the inner diameter defined by the top portion of the rectangular hook can be from approximately 1.778 centimeters (approximately 0.7 inches) to approximately 3.81 centimeters (approximately 1.5 inches).

[0024] As shown, the hanging device 20 can comprise the hook 30 and the bracket 40 fixedly (e.g., integrally) attached to the hook 30 and configured to be removably attached to a central portion 90 of the article support 50. In some embodiments, the bracket 40 can comprise a bracket slot 120 configured to receive the central portion 90 of the article support 50. As shown in FIG. 4, the bracket slot 120 can comprise a base 150 at a first end of the bracket slot 120 and an opening 155 at a second end of the slot that is opposite the first end. The opening of the slot faces a direction 157 extending along a support axis 35 of the hanging device 20 toward the hook 30. As shown in FIGS. 3-4, the first side and the second side of the bracket slot 120 can be open such that the bracket slot 120 comprises a through slot extending the width "Wl" of the bracket 40 that is taken along a direction perpendicular to the support axis 35 of the hanging device 20.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 4, the bracket slot 120 can comprise a slot width 121a, 121b, 121c defined between a first wall 130 and a second wall 140 opposite the first wall 130 wherein the bracket slot 120 is defined by the first wall 130, second wall 140 and the base 150. In some embodiments, the first wall 130 and/or the second wall 140 may be provided with a protrusion 160 that extends inwardly to define a reduced slot width 121b of the slot that may be less than the slot width 121a at the first end of the slot and less than the slot width 121c at the second end of the slot. As shown, the protrusion 160 can comprise a crimped portion of the first wall 130 to simplify fabrication and can comprise a rounded or other shaped end (e.g., chamfered end) to facilitate insertion of an object into and out of the bracket slot 120. In some embodiments, the first wall 130 may comprise an extension 170 extending from the protrusion 160 to the opening 155 at the second end of the bracket slot 120. In some embodiments, the slot width 121a of a first portion of the bracket slot 120 positioned at the base 150 of the bracket slot 120 can be less than the slot width 121c of a second portion of the bracket slot 120 positioned at the opening 155 of the bracket slot 120. The larger sized slot width 121c of the second portion of the bracket slot 120 can facilitate reception of an object into the bracket slot 120.

[0026] In some embodiments, the slot width 121a at the first end of the bracket slot 120 can be from approximately 0.3175 centimeter (approximately 0.125 inches) to approximately 1.27 centimeters (approximately 0.5 inches), and the slot width 121c at the second end of the bracket slot 120 can be from approximately 0.4763 centimeter (approximately 0.1875 inches) to approximately 1.27 centimeters (approximately 0.5 inches). Alternatively, the slot width 121a can be from approximately 0.4763 centimeter (approximately 0.1875 inches) to approximately 0.9525 centimeter (approximately 0.375 inches), and the slot width 121c can be from approximately 0.635 centimeter (approximately 0.25 inches) to approximately 0.9525 centimeter (approximately 0.375 inches). In some embodiments, the slot width 121a can be approximately 0.635 centimeter (approximately 0.25 inches) and the slot width 121c can be approximately 0.8731 centimeter (approximately 0.34375 inches). A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the slot width 121a and/or the slot width 121c can be greater or less than the ranges disclosed herein.

[0027] Each protrusion, if provided, extends a distance from one of the first wall 130 and the second wall 140. In some examples, the protrusion 160 extends a maximum or minimum distance of from approximately 0.254 centimeter (approximately 0.1 inches) to approximately 0.635 centimeter (approximately 0.25 inches). In other embodiments, the maximum or minimum distance the protrusion 160 extends from approximately 0.3175 centimeter (approximately 0.125 inches) to approximately 0.508 centimeter (approximately 0.2 inches). In some embodiments, the maximum or minimum distance the protrusion 160 extends is approximately 0.4763 centimeter (approximately 0.1875 inches). A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the maximum or minimum distance the protrusion 160 extends can be greater than or less than the ranges disclosed herein.

[0028] The protrusion 160 can be located at various heights from the base 150 of the bracket slot 120. As illustrated in FIG.4, the protrusion 160 can be located closer to the opening 155 than the base 150 although the protrusion 160 can be positioned in alternative locations in further embodiments. In some embodiments, the extension 170 can be provided between the protrusion 160 and the opening 155 of the bracket slot 120 although the protrusion 160 may be located at the opening 155 without an extension 170 in further embodiments. As illustrated in FIG 4, the bracket slot 120 can comprise a first height HI below the protrusion 160 that is greater than a second height H2 defined by the extension 170 above the protrusion 160. In alternate embodiments, the first height HI below the protrusion 160 can be approximately equal to or smaller than the second height H2 defined by the extension 170 above the protrusion 160. In some embodiments, HI can be from approximately 0.635 centimeter (approximately 0.25 inches) to approximately 1.905 centimeters (approximately 0.75 inches) and H2 can be from approximately 0.3175 centimeter (approximately 0.125 inches) to approximately 1.27 centimeters (approximately 0.5 inches).

Alternatively, HI can be from approximately 0.9525 centimeter (approximately 0.375 inches) to approximately 1.588 centimeters (approximately 0.625 inches) and H2 can be from approximately 0.4762 centimeter (approximately 0.1875 inches) to approximately 0.9525 centimeter (approximately 0.375 inches). In some embodiments, HI can be approximately 1.429 centimeters (approximately 0.5625 inches) and H2 can be approximately 0.635 centimeter (approximately 0.25 inches). A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that either HI and/or H2 can be greater or less than the ranges disclosed herein, however.

[0029] In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket 40 may comprise the illustrated clip 110 wherein the first wall 130 is configured to flex about the base 150 to clip the central portion 90 of the article support 50 to the hanging device 20. Providing the bracket 40 as a clip can help secure the bracket to the central portion 90 of the article support 50 and therefore inhibit inadvertent detachment of the central portion 90 from the article support 50.

[0030] Although the figures contained herein illustrate that the bracket 40 with the opening 155 of the bracket slot 120 facing the direction 157, it will be understood that features of the bracket 40 discussed above may apply to another embodiment of the bracket where the opening of the slot faces in a direction opposite direction 157. However, it can be beneficial to provide the opening of the bracket slot 120 facing the direction 157 to allow the base 150 to support the weight of the article support 50.

[0031] Turning now to FIGS. 1-2, the article support 50 of the article hanger 10 can extend along a direction substantially transverse to the direction 157 extending along a support axis 35 of the hanging device 20 (see FIGS. 3-4) when the hanging device is removably attached to the article support 50. In some embodiments, the article support 50 can comprise a first arm 70, a second arm 80 and the central portion 90 located between the first arm 70 and the second arm 80. For example, the first arm 70 and the second arm 80 may be configured to hang an article of clothing on the article support 50. As shown in FIG. 5, in some embodiments, the first arm 70 and the second arm 80 can comprise article slots 190 configured to receive shoulder straps of an article of clothing. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6, the first arm 70 and the second arm 80 may include outer protrusions 200 configured to help prevent shoulder straps of an article of clothing from sliding off of the support arms. Although not shown, further article supports may have additional features. For example, when article hanger 10 is used to hang an article of clothing, the article support 50 may include a horizontal bar extending between a lower end of the first arm 70 and a lower end of the second arm 80 that can be used to hang articles such as pants, skirts, accessories, etc. Additionally, or alternatively, the article support 50 may include one or more clips. For example, one or more clips may be located in either one or both of the first arm 70 and the second arm 80 to hang articles such as pants, skirts, accessories, etc. A person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that any combination of one or more of the features described herein can be included on the article support 50.

[0032] As shown in FIGS. 5-6, in some embodiments, the central portion 90 of the article support 50 can comprise a recess 60. In some embodiments, the recess can comprise a through opening extending through the central portion 90 although the recess may comprise a groove that does not extend all the way through the thickness of the central portion 90 in further embodiments. In some embodiments, as shown, the recess 60 can comprise an elongated recess, such as the illustrated elongated through slot that can be substantially centered in a horizontal direction of the central portion 90. Although shown as an elongated recess, the recess 60 may be configured in any suitable size and shape to engage with the hanging device 20 to form the article hanger 10. For example, the embodiment shown in the figures contained herein has a recess 60 that is elongated in a horizontal direction and having a generally rectangular shape. In other embodiments, however, the recess 60 may be elongated in a vertical direction. Alternatively, rather than having a generally rectangular shape, the recess 60 may have a circular, oval, elliptical, squared, crossed, or any other geometric shape suitable for engaging with the bracket 40 of the hanging device 20. As best shown in FIG. 1, the recess 60 can engage with the protrusion 160 of the bracket 40 when the article hanger 10 is assembled. By engaging the recess 60 with the protrusion 160, the article support 50 and the hanging device 20 are more securely assembled together, are less likely to become inadvertently disassembled, and can provide greater support for an article hung with the article hanger 10.

[0033] In some embodiments, the central portion 90 of the article support 50 may further include a hanger slot 180. As shown with reference to FIGS. 1-2, when the article is assembled, the hanger slot 180 can face away from the hook 30 of the hanging device 20. As shown, in some embodiments, the slot may be formed by an outer peripheral edge of the central portion 90. In one embodiment, hanger slot 180 can be substantially aligned with the recess 60. The hanger slot 180 may be configured in any suitable size and shape to engage with the hanging device 20 to form article hanger 10. For example, the embodiments shown in the figures contained herein has a hanger slot 180 with a generally rectangular shape. Alternatively, rather than having a generally rectangular shape, hanger slot 180 may have a rounded or arched shape, or any other geometric shape configured to receive the bracket 40 of the hanging device 20. For example, as best shown in FIGS. 1-2, the hanger slot 180 receives the bracket 40 when article hanger 10 is assembled. In some embodiments, width of the hanger slot 180 is substantially equal to the width "Wl" of the bracket 40 so that the hanger slot 180 can removably receive the bracket 40 in a close fit manner. As such, due to the close fit of the bracket 40 with the hanger slot 180, reduced rotational motion between the bracket 40 and the article support 50 may result that can provide a more sturdy and stable attachment between the bracket 40 and the article support 50.

[0034] The article support 50 may be made of any suitable material known to a person of ordinary skill in the art. For example, the article support 50 may be made from an organic material, such as cellulose fiber. In some embodiments, the article support 50 may be fabricated from paper-based material, such as paperboard, recycled paperboard, laminated paperboard, corrugated cardboard, or other suitable alternatives known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Such organic materials have desirable biodegradable features that are environmentally friendly. Alternatively, an article support 50 made from organic material may be recycled. In some embodiments, the article support 50 may comprise a polymeric material that may be recycled. In some embodiments, the article support 50 is made from a material having a thickness between approximately 1.5 mm (approximately 0.05906 inch) and approximately 7.8 mm (approximately 0.3071 inch). In other embodiments, the article support 50 is made from a material having a thickness between approximately 2 mm (approximately 0.07874 inch) and approximately 6.4 mm (approximately 0.252 inch). In some embodiments, the article support 50 can be made from a material having a thickness of approximately 4 mm (approximately 0.1575 inch). In some embodiments, the article support 50 may comprise a substantially flat panel with a substantially constant thickness throughout substantially the entire substantially flat panel article support. The bracket slot 120 of the bracket 40 can be configured to cooperate with the thickness of the article support 50 comprising a flat panel. For example, bracket slot 120 can be sized so that it can receive a portion of the article support 50 therein. Furthermore, if the article support 50 is provided as a flat panel (e.g., of organic material), the thickness of the flat panel may be reduced if it is compressed by the bracket 40 (e.g., if the bracket comprises the clip 110).

[0035] As shown in FIG. 5, the article support 50 for use with an article hanger 10 for hanging or carrying an article has a length L generally defined from end of first arm 70 to an opposing end of second arm 80. Length L of the article support 50 can vary based on the particular application for which article hanger 10 will be used. For example, if article hanger 10 will be used to hang or carry adult clothing, length L of the article support 50 will be longer than length L of an article support 50 used in an article hanger 10 to hang or carry children's clothing. In some embodiments, length L of the article support 50 can be between approximately 25.4 centimeters (approximately 10 inches) and approximately 50.8 centimeters (approximately 20 inches). In other embodiments, length L of the article support 50 can be between approximately 33.02 centimeters (approximately 13 inches) and approximately 46.99 centimeters (approximately 18.5 inches). In still other embodiments, length L of the article support 50 can be between approximately 38.1 centimeters (approximately 15 inches) and approximately 43.18 centimeters (approximately 17 inches). In some embodiments, length L of the article support 50 can be approximately 40.64 centimeters (approximately 16 inches).

[0036] As further shown in FIG. 5, a height H of the article support 50 is generally defined from top end of the central portion 90 to a bottom end of either the first arm 70 or second arm 80. Height H of the article support 50 can vary based on the particular application for which article hanger 10 will be used. For example, if article hanger 10 will be used to hang or carry adult clothing, height H of the article support 50 will be greater than height H of an article support 50 used in an article hanger 10 to hang or carry children's clothing. Height H can be a function of length L of the article support 50. In some embodiments, height H of the article support 50 can be between approximately 5.08 centimeters (approximately 2 inches) and approximately 15.24 centimeters (approximately 6 inches). In other embodiments, height H of the article support 50 can be between approximately 7.62 centimeters (approximately 3 inches) and approximately 13.97 centimeters (approximately 5.5 inches). In still other embodiments, length L of the article support 50 can be between approximately 10.16 centimeters (approximately 4 inches) and approximately 12.7 centimeters (approximately 5 inches). In some embodiments, length L of the article support 50 can be approximately 11.43 centimeters (approximately 4.5 inches).

[0037] Turning now to FIG. 7, a substantially flat parent panel 210 of material is shown from which a plurality of the article supports 50 comprising substantially flat support panels may be manufactured. In some embodiments, as shown, the substantially flat parent panel 210 may be provided with a weakened line in the size and shape of the substantially flat support panels to be separated from the parent panel 210. For example, the weakened line may comprise a scored line (e.g., slit line) along which a user may manually press the support panels out of the parent panel 210. Furthermore, as shown, the shapes of the support panels may be designed so that they nest with one another to maximize the number of support panels that may be produced by the parent panel 210 while reducing scrap material when the support panels are separated from the parent panel 210. For instance, a common weakened line may border abutting edges of two adjacent support panels 50a, 50b such that a single separation procedure may free the abutting edges of adjacent support panels 50a, 50b while reducing waste material. Providing a parent panel 210 with weakened lines (e.g., score lines) can help a user to manually produce the number of article supports 50 at a needed time. The parent panel 210 with weakened lines outlining the article supports is beneficial to allow compact storage and/or reduced shipping and handling costs as several parent panels 210 may be shipped to efficiently provide a user with a large number of article supports 50 in a relatively small package.

[0038] In another embodiment, a die or other cutting device may be used to cut the support panels from the parent panel by various techniques. For example, a die cutter, laser cutter, or router cutter may be used to cut the article supports 50 from parent panel 210. Likewise, when present, the article support 50 features such as recess 60, hanger slot 180, and article slots 190 may be cut using any suitable method described herein when the article support 50 is cut from parent panel 210. Alternatively, outline of features such as recess 60, hanger slot 180, or article slots 190 may be scored into sheet when the article supports 50 are either cut from parent panel 210 or scored therein, as described above. When features are scored in this manner, they may be manually removed at a later time. For example, when article hanger 10 is assembled by engaging the hanging device 20 with the article support 50, as described further herein, scrap material may be removed to form recess 60, hanger slot 180, and/or article slots 190 at that time.

[0039] The article support 50 may then be assembled with the hanging device 20 to produce the assembled article hanger 10. In some embodiments, the central portion may be removably attached to the bracket 40. For example, the central portion 90 may be received within the bracket slot 120 of the bracket 40. In some embodiments, the bracket 40 may be closely fit within the hanger slot 180 to help arrest the relative angular position of the bracket 40 relative to the article support 50 in the desired relative position. The closely fit bracket 40 within the hanger slot 180 can be achieved by providing the width of the hanger slot 180 in the central portion 90 of the article support 50 as substantially equal to the width "Wl" of the bracket 40. Throughout the application, the width of the hanger slot 180 being substantially equal to the width "Wl" of the bracket 40 means that the width "Wl" has sufficient clearance to avoid binding of the bracket 40 within the hanger slot 180 while providing a close fit that prevents significant relative rotational movement between the article support 50 and the hanging device 20 when the article support 50 is assembled with the hanging device 20. Furthermore, the hanging article hanger 10 may comprise a catch device configured to inhibit a detachment of the bracket 40 from the central portion 90. For instance, in some embodiments, the catch device can comprise the recess 60 and the protrusion 160, wherein the protrusion 160 can be configured to be removably received in the recess 60. As shown, the central portion 90 can comprise the recess 60 and the bracket 40 can comprise the protrusion 160 although the central portion 90 may comprise the protrusion 160 and the bracket 40 can comprise the recess 60 in further embodiments.

[0040] The present disclosure also encompasses methods for assembling an article hanger. In one embodiment, which can be further understood with reference to FIGS. 1-2, the method can include inserting the central portion 90 of the article support 50 into the bracket slot 120 by linearly translating the article support 50 relative to the hanging device 20 in direction 220 and/or linearly translating the hanging device 20 relative to the article support 50 in direction 240. The method can include inhibiting a detachment of the bracket 40 from the central portion 90. For example, the central portion 90 can be received in the bracket slot 120 while the protrusion 160 is inserted into the recess 60 to further aid in retaining the article support 50 in the bracket 40. In some embodiments, the step of attaching the article support 50 to the bracket 40 further includes inserting the bracket 40 into the hanger slot 180 of the central portion 90 of the article support 50 to arrest the angular orientation of the hanging device 20 relative to the article support 50. Once fully inserted into the bracket slot 120, an edge defining the hanger slot 180 can be engaged with the base 150 of bracket 40 and can be held against the base 150 by way of the catch device.

[0041] In some embodiments, the article support 50 can optionally be provided as a substantially flat support panel. In some embodiments, the substantially flat support panel can be separated from a substantially flat parent panel. In some embodiments, separating can comprise manually separating the substantially flat support panel from the substantially flat parent panel 210 along a weakened line of the substantially flat parent panel 210 in a size and a shape of the substantially flat support panel. In other embodiments, separating can comprise cutting the substantially flat support panel from the substantially flat parent panel 210.

[0042] To disassemble article hanger 10, the article support 50 is detached from the hanging device 20. In some embodiments, the article support 50 is pulled upwardly out of bracket slot 120 to disengage the article support from the bracket 40. An upward force exerted on the article support 50 is sufficient to disengage the protrusion 160 from the recess 60. A person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that article hanger 10 can be disassembled by any other suitable means. For example, article hanger 10 can be turned upside down. Flook 30 of the hanging device 20 may be held against or supported by a surface, such as a tabletop or countertop. Meanwhile, a downward force is exerted on the article support 50 to disengage the article support 50 from the bracket 40. The downward force exerted can be sufficient to disengage protrusion 160 from recess 60.

[0043] The ability to disassemble article hanger 10 when not in use provides many advantages.

For example, the hanging device 20 may be relatively expensive and made from metal such as steel. In such embodiments, the hanging device 20 can be designed to be reused while the less expensive article support

50 may be discarded if damaged or after use. Advantageously, the article support 50 is made from a recyclable material so that the article support 50 can be recycled, which will aid in reducing the amount of waste materials received by landfills when article hangers, such as clothes hangers, are discarded. In some embodiments, the article support 50 can comprise an organic material (e.g., cardboard) that can be recycled or may decompose in a landfill in a more favorable manner than other materials. On the other hand, by making the hanging device 20 from one or more materials capable of withstanding many repeated uses, the hanging device 20 may be reused even after the article support 50 becomes damaged or otherwise needs to be discarded or recycled in an environmentally friendly manner.

[0044] The following are example embodiments of the disclosure with the understanding that further example embodiments may be provided in accordance with the disclosure. Furthermore, any of the embodiments discussed below may be used alone or in combination with any of the other embodiments discussed below.

[0045] Embodiment 1. An article hanger can comprise an article support comprising a first arm, a second arm, and a central portion located between the first arm and the second arm. The article hanger can further comprise a hanging device comprising a hook and a bracket fixedly attached to the hook and configured to be removably attached to the central portion.

[0046] Embodiment 2. The article hanger of embodiment 1, wherein the article support can comprise an organic material.

[0047] Embodiment 3. The article hanger of embodiment 2, wherein the organic material can comprise cellulose fiber.

[0048] Embodiment 4. The article hanger of any one of embodiments 1-3, wherein the bracket can comprise a slot configured to receive the central portion.

[0049] Embodiment 5. The article hanger of embodiment 4, wherein the slot of the bracket can comprise a base at a first end of the slot and an opening at a second end of the slot that is opposite the first end. The opening of the slot can face a direction extending toward the hook. [0050] Embodiment 6. The article hanger of embodiment 5, wherein a width of a first portion of the slot can be less than a width of a second portion of the slot.

[0051] Embodiment 7. The article hanger of embodiment 6, wherein the first portion of the slot can be positioned at the base of the slot and the second portion of the slot can be positioned at the opening of the slot.

[0052] Embodiment 8. The article hanger of any one of embodiments 1-7, wherein the bracket can comprise a clip.

[0053] Embodiment 9. The article hanger of any one of embodiments 1-8, wherein the central portion can comprise a slot configured to receive the bracket.

[0054] Embodiment 10. The article hanger of embodiment 9, wherein a width of the slot of the central portion can be substantially equal to a width of the bracket.

[0055] Embodiment 11. The article hanger of any one of embodiments 1-10, further comprising a catch device that can be configured to inhibit a detachment of the bracket from the central portion.

[0056] Embodiment 12. The article hanger of embodiment 11, wherein the catch device can comprise a recess and a protrusion configured to be removably received in the recess.

[0057] Embodiment 13. The article hanger of embodiment 12, wherein the central portion can comprise the recess and the bracket can comprise the protrusion.

[0058] Embodiment 14. The article hanger of any one of embodiments 1-13, wherein the article support can comprise a substantially flat panel.

[0059] Embodiment 15. A method of assembling the article hanger of claim 4 can comprise inserting the central portion into the slot of the bracket by linearly translating at least one of the article support and the hanging device. The method can further comprise inhibiting a detachment of the bracket from the central portion.

[0060] Embodiment 16. The method of embodiment 15, wherein the inhibiting a detachment can comprise inserting a protrusion into a recess. [0061] Embodiment 17. The method of any one of embodiments 15-16, wherein the method can further comprise inserting the bracket into a slot of the central portion when linearly translating.

[0062] Embodiment 18. The method of any one of embodiments 15-17, wherein the method can further comprise separating the article support as a substantially flat support panel from a substantially flat parent panel.

[0063] Embodiment 19. The method of embodiment 18, wherein the separating can comprise manually separating the substantially flat support panel from the substantially flat parent panel along a weakened line of the substantially flat parent panel in a size and a shape of the substantially flat support panel.

[0064] Embodiment 20. The method of embodiment 18, wherein the separating can comprise cutting the substantially flat support panel from the substantially flat parent panel.

[0065] The inventors hereby state their intent to rely on the Doctrine of Equivalents to determine and assess the reasonably fair scope of their disclosure as it pertains to any apparatus, system, method or article not materially departing from but outside the literal scope of the disclosure as set out in the following claims.

Claims

Claims What is claimed is:

1. An article hanger comprising:

an article support comprising a first arm, a second arm, and a central portion located between the first arm and the second arm; and

a hanging device comprising a hook and a bracket fixedly attached to the hook and configured to be removably attached to the central portion.

2. The article hanger of claim 1, wherein the article support comprises an organic material.

3. The article hanger of claim 2, wherein the organic material comprises cellulose fiber.

4. The article hanger of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the bracket comprises a slot configured to receive the central portion.

5. The article hanger of claim 4, wherein the slot of the bracket comprises a base at a first end of the slot and an opening at a second end of the slot that is opposite the first end, wherein the opening of the slot faces a direction extending toward the hook.

6. The article hanger of claim 5, wherein a width of a first portion of the slot is less than a width of a second portion of the slot.

7. The article hanger of claim 6, wherein the first portion of the slot is positioned at the base of the slot and the second portion of the slot is positioned at the opening of the slot.

8. The article hanger of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the bracket comprises a clip.

9. The article hanger of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the central portion comprises a slot configured to receive the bracket.

10. The article hanger of claim 9, wherein a width of the slot of the central portion is substantially equal to a width of the bracket.

11. The article hanger of any one of claims 1-10, further comprising a catch device configured to inhibit a detachment of the bracket from the central portion.

12. The article hanger of claim 11, wherein the catch device comprises a recess and a protrusion configured to be removably received in the recess.

13. The article hanger of claim 12, wherein the central portion comprises the recess and the bracket comprises the protrusion.

14. The article hanger of any one of claims 1-13, wherein the article support comprises a substantially flat panel.

15. A method of assembling the article hanger of claim 4 comprising:

inserting the central portion into the slot of the bracket by linearly translating at least one of the article support and the hanging device; and then

inhibiting a detachment of the bracket from the central portion.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the inhibiting a detachment comprises inserting a protrusion into a recess.

17. The method of any one of claims 15-16, further comprising inserting the bracket into a slot of the central portion when linearly translating.

18. The method of any one of claims 15-17, further comprising separating the article support as a substantially flat support panel from a substantially flat parent panel.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the separating comprises manually separating the substantially flat support panel from the substantially flat parent panel along a weakened line of the substantially flat parent panel in a size and a shape of the substantially flat support panel.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the separating comprises cutting the substantially flat support panel from the substantially flat parent panel.