SPACE SAVING STACKABLE TANGLE FREE CLOTHES HANGER SYSTEM

A space saving stackable tangle free clothes hanging system wherein a clothes hanger has a non-protruding hook in lieu of a protruding hook. A hanger designed to stack on top of each other to improve organization. A hanger that prevents tangling, and overlapping, designed to save time while inserting or removing the hanger. A hanger designed to eliminate stretched out collars. A screw free installation hanger system, which can be easily moved from one room to another to assist for faster times and easier laundry. A contoured hanger with a non-tilting feature.

BACKGROUND

1. Field of the Invention

Various embodiments are directed to clothes organization and more particularly to a Space Saving Stackable Tangle Free Clothes Hanger System (SSTFCHS) without a protruding hook, which prevents the hangers from becoming tangled, and saves vertical space that is wasted by the traditional hook. The Space Saving Stackable Tangle Free Clothes Hanger System is the most space saving closet system, by maximizing the horizontal and vertical space saved. A miniature closet rod is used to eliminate wasted space from the use of a traditional closet rod.

2. Description of the Related Art

The traditional clothes hanger, comprised of a hanger body upon which clothing is draped, and a protruding hook for holding the hanger on a pole or rod, has seen very little modification during the course of its history. Modifications in the prior art have consisted of variations of material used to create the hanger body, such as wire, wood or plastic; variations in shape, such as triangular or rectangular; and various methods to keep clothing from slipping off, such as slot areas to hold straps, or friction materials on the shoulder and pant bar area to keep clothing in place.

Multiple disadvantages exist with the traditional clothes hanger design. The hooks in the traditional design cause hangers to quickly become tangled if stored in a pile. Traditional hangers and closet rods require excess vertical space, and limits clothing storage in certain small areas.

Traditional closet rods come in long lengths which are difficult to maneuver, and costly to ship.

The traditional clothes hanger was designed with a flaw on purpose. If the hanger had been designed with a “true” shoulder shape/slope design, it would be nearly impossible to insert the hanger through a collar. That is why traditional clothes hangers' arms slope at a greater degree verses the natural slope of human shoulders.

Traditional contoured hangers are primarily used for suits, coats, and dresses. The problem is they “tilt” forward when clothing is placed on them. “Tilting” reduces the benefit of a contoured clothes hanger, so manufacturers have added extra contour to compensate.

The hook feature found on traditional hangers can easily stretch out the collar or neck line of garments as the user attempts to insert the hanger into the article of clothing. In order to avoid stretching out the neck the user must insert the hanger from the bottom of the shirt, pulling it up through the inside of the shirt and grasping it from the top of the shirt. This method is cumbersome and tedious; especially in the retail setting where speed (amount of time) in hanging articles of clothing is important.

There accordingly remains a need for a simple, innovative design for hanging clothing, as well as shipping and installing closet rods that eliminate the above disadvantages found in the prior art.

SUMMARY

The disadvantages shown in the prior art are solved at least in part by the Space Saving Stackable Tangle Free Clothes Hanger System. Various embodiments are directed to a new “shoulder shape/slope” hanger structure, with the hook feature not protruding from the “head” of the hanger. In its place, the hanger has a hook within the “head”, (top of hanger), which connects to the miniature closet rod. Traditional hangers are adaptable to the miniature closet rod.

The various embodiments may have numerous advantages, not all of which need be present in every embodiment. The first advantage is that with the hook not protruding from the head of the hanger, it eliminates the age old problem of stretched out necklines and collars, even if the clothing is buttoned all the way up enabling the user to quickly hang a shirt, dress, blouse or sweater with no stretching. This is also beneficial for children's clothing because the collar is smaller in size. This makes hanging up clothing faster, and is especially useful for commercial applications such as clothing retailers who need to hang up a lot of clothing in a short amount of time.

The second advantage is that the elimination of the protruding hook renders a neat, contemporary look to clothes hanging, giving a modern, edgy appearance. With the micro design a miniature closet rod can be added in doorways as the rod only hangs approximately ¾″ from what it is mounted to.

The third advantage is the handgrip. The handgrip assists with holding and inserting the hanger vertically through the collar. This method is much faster and easier to place clothing on the hanger, especially for smaller individuals, and children, because the neck collar is generally smaller on their articles of clothing.

The fourth advantage is wheelchair users can now have two rows for clothing verses one, doubling the usable closet space. With a traditional clothes hanger system the top row is over a foot higher making it unreachable by most people in a wheelchair.

The fifth advantage is that by eliminating the protruding hook, it eliminates the tangled mess that so quickly materializes when hangers are tossed together in a pile. Without the protruding hook, it is literally impossible for the hangers to tangle together, or overlap while on the rod, a welcome relief for consumers and retailers alike.

The sixth advantage is the addition of concave grooves on one side, and convex grooves on the opposite side of the hangers, which line up to allow the hangers to stack on top of each other, eliminating a piled mess of hangers and neatly stacking them. The concave grooves and convex grooves can also be assisted by neodymium magnets, or a similar device, or replaced by magnets located anywhere on the hanger. There can be one or more magnets imbedded in the hanger, and they can all be facing the same direction through the hanger to allow multiple hangers to connect together. Multiple hangers can stack up on the side of a metal surface, such as a washer or dryer.

The seventh advantage is the option of a wheel, sleeve, roller, bearing, etc., where the hook is located which allows for easy rolling or sliding of the hangers back and forth on the miniature rod.

The eighth advantage is the space savings of the design of the hanger. The hook on traditional hangers is a few inches tall. With elimination of the traditional protruding hook, a few inches of vertical closet space is saved.

The ninth advantage is the space savings of the design of the miniature closet rod. The miniature closet rod hangs approximately ¾″ below the surface from what it is mounted to and is attached by clips/brackets, or wall mounts. Traditional closet rods hang 1 to 3 inches below.

The tenth advantage is the shoulder shape/slope design. Reducing the degree of slope the hanger “arms” save vertical space by bringing the hanger arms up to a more natural shoulder shape with less slope. The lesser degree of the angle does not allow the clothing to droop down as far.

The eleventh advantage is the closet shelving can be lowered accordingly, allowing more accessibility for the user. The bottom shelving can now be lowered for wheelchair users to be classified as “usable space” for accessibility.

The twelfth advantage is the shelf clip used with the miniature rod eliminates the use of screws, creating a quick and easy installation for the user. The miniature rod then clips onto the bottom part of the shelf clip.

The thirteenth advantage is the miniature closet rod can be shipped in the same box as the hangers, eliminating expensive shipping costs which are associated with shipping standard length traditional closet rods. The miniature closet rods can come in shorter lengths which is easier for the user to maneuver, and can easily be connected together by a connection pin, which inserts into the ends of the closet rods, creating a long closet rod with a smooth finish the entire length. The miniature closet rod could also have a male and female end on opposite sides which connect together.

The fourteenth advantage is the texture can be included in the production of the hangers, applied to all or parts of the hangers or an alternate method which achieves the same goal. Texture will help prevent clothing from slipping off of the hangers and prevent “nipples” from forming on the shoulders of the clothing.

The fifteenth advantage is the new hanger “guides” itself onto the miniature closet rod. If the top of the hanger head touches the bottom of the shelf it will guide itself onto the rod. The curvature of the hanger design body also assists with guiding the hanger onto the miniature closet rod.

The sixteenth advantage is without a protruding hook, the hangers will save space in travel bags and suitcases.

The seventeenth advantage is the design of a contoured hanger. The front side of the hanger underneath the hook touches the top of the miniature closet rod and the rear side of the hanger underneath the miniature closet rod touches the bottom of the miniature closet rod which prevents the hanger from tilting forward when clothing is added. The thicker contoured hanger (coat hangers are generally ½″ to 2″ thick) and miniature closet rod have a close tolerance maximizing the use of the contour to perfectly shape the clothing.

The eighteenth advantage is the hook can be slightly flexible to “clip” onto the miniature closet rod to prevent the hanger from falling off when in use in vehicles, boats, planes, etc. A traditional clothes hanger can easily fall off when in use in vehicles, boats, planes, etc.

The nineteenth advantage is the clothes hanger can have an aerodynamic shape to allow for flight of the hanger, it can be similar to, but not limited to that of a boomerang, or any similar method with the curvature of the hanger to create an aerodynamic effect.

Other advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following descriptions, taken in connection with the accompanying figures, wherein, by way of illustration and example, an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed.

DEFINITIONS

In the following discussion, the terms “including” and “comprising” are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean “including, but not limited to . . . ” Moreover, the term “system” means “one or more components” combined together. Thus, a system can comprise an “entire system” or “subsystems” within the system.

“About” in relation to a recite distance shall mean the recited distance+/−5%.

“Apex” of an inside annular surface swept out by a radius of curvature shall mean a location on the inside annular surface where a line bisecting the hanger through the central axis intersects the inside annular surface.

“Above” and “below” in reference to a hanger shall be considered with the hook of hanger higher relative to the force of gravity.

Claiming that a portion of a hanger has a first rotational orientation such that an entrance channel defines a first span and a second rotational orientation such that an entrance channel defines a second span different than the first span shall not be read to require both rotational orientations of the portion of the hanger simultaneously present.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For a detailed description of various embodiments, reference will now be made to the accompanying illustrative drawings:

FIG. 1is the front view of a clothes hanger10(hereafter just hanger10), with the body having a more shoulder shaped/slope space saving design constructed of plastic, metal, wood, resin, composite, or a recyclable material. The hanger10does not have a protruding hook and instead has a small hook12(hereafter just “hook12”) located in the head13of the hanger, the hook12in the vicinity of where the base of a traditional hook would sit.FIG. 1further illustrates two side arms14projecting down from opposite sides near where the upper portion of the hanger10is located and upon which a garment would be draped. The left side arm14in the figure has a first extremity19, and the right side arm14in the figure has a second extremity21.

FIG. 1further depicts a bottom or pant bar16(which is optional) with a first and a second end. The first end is coupled (e.g., adhered) to the lower end of the side arms14, and in particular the first extremity19. The second end of the pant bar16is coupled (e.g., adhered) to the second extremity21. The pant bar16is located over which a garment such as pants, slacks, or skirt could be draped. In the example hanger10, the pant bar16has a length L that is centered below the head13and side arms14, and thus is centered below the hook12.

In the hanger10shown inFIG. 1, the two side arms14come together in the upper portion of the hanger10to form the upper point of an overall triangular body where the protruding hook would traditionally be housed. In lieu of the traditional hook, the hook12is located such that the body of the hook12is in the top of the hanger10. The head13defines a peak region17, and between the peak region17and the distal end of the hook12is defined an entrance channel enabling the hanger to couple to and hang on a miniature closet rod40(discussed more below). In one example embodiment the hook12can be slightly flexible to enable the hanger10to “latch” or “clip” onto the miniature closet rod40(not shown) to prevent the clothes hanger10from falling off when in use in vehicles, boats, airplanes, etc. The latching aspects are discussed in greater detail below.

In example embodiments the concave grooves20on one side of the hanger10line up with the convex grooves26on the opposite side of another hanger10. The concave grooves20and convex grooves26can also be assisted by a magnet28(e.g., neodymium) or a similar device, or replaced by multiple magnets located anywhere on the hanger10. There can be one or more magnets28imbedded in the hanger10, and they can all be facing the same direction through the hanger10to enable multiple hangers10to connect together. Multiple hangers10can stack up on the side of a metal surface, such as a washer or dryer. This enables the hangers10to stack up neatly, one on top of the other, preventing a pile of unorganized hangers10.

In an example embodiment the hand grip18is disposed in the head13below the hook12. In particular, the head13defines a bottom31below and opposite the hook12. The example hand grip18is thus disposed at the bottom31of the head13opposite the hook12. The hand grip18assists with holding and inserting the hanger10vertically through a collar. Moreover, the hand grip18assists with the ease of use for inserting and removing the hanger10from clothing. Further, the example hanger10comprises a pair of holes33through the head13. In the example system, each hole of the pair of holes defines a triangular aperture, with each apex of the pair of holes33closer to the top27of head13. In particularly the side arms14of the example hanger10each define an under surface. For example, the left side arm14defines a first under surface23that extends from the example hand grip18to the first extremity19. Likewise the right side arm14defines a second under surface25that extends from the example hand grip18to the second extremity21.

In an example embodiment the texture24can be built in to the hanger10, applied to all or part of the hanger10, or an alternate method which achieves the same goal can be added. Texture24helps prevent clothing from slipping off of the hanger10, and prevents “nipples” from forming on the shoulders of the clothing.

The example hanger10has a uniform thickness. That is, the head13has a thickness THmeasured parallel to a central axis34as defined by the hook12. Likewise each side arm14has a thickness measured parallel to the central axis34of the hook. In example embodiments the thickness TSof each arm is equal to the thickness of the head TH.

FIG. 2is the rear view of the hanger10. As inFIG. 1, the hook12is located in the center upper portion of the hanger10and the right and left side arms14and pant bar16are visible.

Referring simultaneously toFIGS. 1 and 2, in an example embodiment the hanger10comprises convex grooves26on one side of the hanger10. In the example shown, the convex grooves26span from the first extremity19to the second extremity21. The example system further comprises convex grooves that encircle each hole of the pair of holes33. Concave grooves20reside on the opposite side of hanger10. The concave grooves20likewise span from the first extremity19to the second extremity21, and around each hole of the pair of holes33. The convex grooves26and concave grooves20enable a multiple of the hangers10to be stackable to organize them and to prevent a pile of tangled clothes hangers10. That is the convex grooves26of a first hanger mate with the convex grooves26of a second hanger to neatly stack and arrange the hangers. Magnet28in each hanger10can also be used to assist with the stackable function. That is, the magnet28may hold abutting hangers10in the stacked configuration with the convex grooves mating with the concave grooves.

FIG. 3is the front view of a pant hanger22with the body having a shape that is similar to a traditional open-end pant hanger and illustratively constructed of plastic, metal, or wood, resin, composite, or a recyclable material. In the example hanger ofFIG. 3the pant hanger22has only one side arm14and a pant bar16with an open end design for ease of use hanging up garments such as pants, slacks, or skirts. Similar to the embodiments ofFIGS. 1 and 2, the example pant hanger22ofFIG. 3has concave grooves20on one side of the pant hanger22that line up with the convex grooves26on the opposite side of another pant hanger22. Magnets28can also be used to assist with the stackable function. The grooves enable the pant hangers22to stack up neatly, one on top of the other, preventing tangling. In the example embodiment ofFIG. 3the hand grip18assists with the ease of use for holding onto the pant hanger22. The example embodiment ofFIG. 3can be equipped with a roller30that is seen on the hanger10inFIG. 5.

FIG. 4is the rear view of the pant hanger22. In an example embodiment, the pant hanger22has convex grooves26on one side of the pant hanger22that line up with the concave grooves20on the opposite side of another pant hanger22. Magnets28can also be used to assist with the stackable function. This enables the pant hangers22to stack up neatly, one on top of the other, reducing tangling.

FIG. 5is the front view of the hanger10with a roller30, wheel, sleeve, bearing or any other embodiment that achieves the desired purpose of enabling the hanger10to roll. In an example embodiment the roller30will be where the hook12is located to enable the hanger10to “roll” on the miniature closet rod40(not shown). The roller30will assist the hanger10to roll back and forth with ease, assisting the user as they look through their clothing.

FIG. 6is a close up perspective view of the thicker contoured84hanger80. The contoured84hanger80is used frequently for suits, coats, and dresses. The example hanger80is discussed in greater detail below inFIGS. 18 and 19. As with the prior example embodiments, the convex grooves26on the hanger80will line up with the concave grooves20on the opposite side of another hanger80. Magnets28can also be used to assist with the stackable function. This enables the hangers80to stack up neatly, one on top of the other, reducing tangling.

As discussed in greater detail below, the design of the contoured84hanger80functions by having a close tolerance between the contoured84hanger80, the hook12, and the miniature closet rod40. The front side of the hanger80underneath the hook12touches the top of the miniature closet rod40. The rear side of the hanger80underneath the miniature closet rod40touches the bottom of the miniature closet rod40, which prevents the hanger80from tilting forward (i.e., tilting of a plane defined by hanger80in relation to a longitudinal axis of the miniature closet rod40). This increases the use of the contour84and perfectly shapes the clothing. The thickness TCof the contoured84hanger80assists with this function.

FIG. 7is a front, rear, top, or bottom view of the miniature closet rod40. In an example embodiment the miniature closet rod40can be shipped in the same box as the hangers10, eliminating expensive shipping costs which are associated with shipping standard length closet rods. The length can vary and can easily be connected together by a coupling or mounting bracket that the rod is pressed or snapped into. This would be beneficial to be able to move an entire rod from the laundry room to the closet, or from a doorway, back and forth with ease. A connection pin44would also work, which inserts into the female ends42of the miniature closet rods40, creating a long closet rod with a smooth finish the entire length. The miniature closet rod40can be cut to length by the user. The miniature closet rod40and the connecting pin44can be made of, but not limited to, metal, plastic, fiberglass, and carbon fiber. The miniature closet rod40has a diameter of approximately ⅜″, although a wide variety of dimensions will work, depending on the strength of the material. Sleeve inserts and or caps can also be added into or on the ends of the miniature closet rod40. The miniature closet rod40can be mounted by screw in clips50, miniature closet rod wall mount holders58, shelf clips60, brackets, or any other method familiar with mounting. Drilling a hole in either side of a vertical surface for the rod to fit in will work also. In an example embodiment the miniature closet rod40can be in an “L”-shaped bracket form mountable to a vertical surface to create a closet anywhere one chooses.FIG. 8is a front, rear, top, or bottom view of the miniature closet rod40. In an example embodiment the miniature closet rod40could have a male end46and a female end42on opposite sides which connect together. Sleeve inserts and or caps can also be added into or on the ends of the miniature closet rod40.

FIG. 9is a side view of a screw-in clip50which is in the open position. The screw-in clip50can be mounted underneath a horizontal surface such as a shelf66by a screw through the mounting hole54. The clip ends52are flexible and press together to clamp around the miniature closet rod40(not shown).FIG. 10is a side view of a screw-in clip50which is in the closed position. The screw-in clip50can be mounted underneath a shelf66(not shown) by a screw through the mounting hole54. The clip ends52are flexible and press together to clamp around the miniature closet rod40.FIG. 11is a top view of a screw-in clip50. The screw-in clip50can be mounted underneath a horizontal surface66by a screw through the mounting hole54.

FIG. 12is a front view of a wall mounted miniature wall mount holders58. The wall mount holders58can be mounted on a vertical surface by a screw through the mounting hole54. The miniature closet rod40(not shown) is held in position by the inside of the support56.

FIG. 13is the side view of a shelf clip60which slides onto a shelf66. The top62of the shelf clip60is angled down to create tension between the shelf clip60and the shelf66. This enables an easy, screw-less installation. The miniature shelf closet rod40snaps/sets into the rod mount64for easy installation.

FIG. 14is a front view of the interior of a closet, showing the garment70on the hanger10which is attached to the miniature closet rod40which is illustratively held in place on one end by a screw-in clip50and on the second end by a wall mount holder58. The miniature closet rod40defines a longitudinal central axis68. The screw-in clip50is connected to a bottom horizontal surface of the shelf66. The offset O between the bottom horizontal surface of the shelf66and top of the miniature closet rod40is approximately ¾″, but this dimension can vary, depending on the size of the miniature closet rod40and the screw-in clips50or wall mount holders58. The offset O in combination with the bottom horizontal surface of the shelf limits the amount a hanger10/80can rotate about the miniature closet rod40(or equivalently, about the longitudinal central axis68) to reduce inadvertent un-hooking of the hooks of the hangers10/80(discussed more below).

FIG. 15is a top view of the hanger10with a shape similar, but not limited to, that of an aerodynamic hanger10. The aerodynamic curves90located on the bottom side, but not limited to, of the hanger10can be used for flight similar to that of a boomerang, although this type of use would void the warranty. The hand grip18can be located on the side arm14of the hanger10and used to assist with throwing the hanger10in a manner to enable it to fly.

FIG. 16shows a side elevation view of a hanger80in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular,FIG. 16shows the head13of a hanger80intended to be used with a contoured hanger (but the head13ofFIG. 16may also be used with a non-contoured hanger (e.g., hanger10) as well). The example head13defines a hook12. The hook12defines a central axis100that, in the view ofFIG. 16is perpendicular to the plane of the page. In particular, the hook12defines a radius of curvature102that has a central point (where the central point is the central axis100of the hook). The radius of curvature102sweeps out an inside annular surface104. The inside annular surface begins on an entrance side of the hook12(i.e., the portion closest to the entrance channel29) and has a radial span (as illustrated by arrow106) of at least 180 angular degrees (or, equivalently stated, at least 180 degrees of circular distance). In some example embodiments, the radial span is about 225 degrees of circular distance. With radial spans much beyond 225 degrees of circular distance, it may be difficult to hook the hook12over a miniature closet rod (not shown inFIG. 16). In example embodiments, the radius of curvature102is selected for a particular miniature closet rod diameter. That is, the diameter of the miniature closet rod is slightly smaller than twice the length of the radius of curvature to enable the hanger80to slide along the miniature closet rod. In the view ofFIG. 16, sliding along the miniature closet rod would be movement axially along the central axis100(into and out of the plane of the page).

FIG. 17shows a side elevation view of a hanger80on a miniature closet rod40in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, the miniature closet rod40is shown mated with the hook12, and the longitudinal central axis68of the miniature closet rod40is coaxial with the central axis100defined by the center of the radius of curvature102(FIG. 16). More particular, the hook12is hooked over the miniature closet rod40such that the miniature closet rod40abuts the inside annular surface104of the hook12. As previously mentioned, the head13(including the hook12) has a thickness THmeasured parallel to the central axis100. In the view ofFIG. 17the thickness THis measured perpendicular to the plane of the page (as shown by the “feathers” of an arrow extending into the page). In some example embodiments, the thickness THis between and including 0.5 inches and 2.0 inches. The thickness THin combination with the radial span of the inside annular surface104reduces or prevents tilting of the hanger80. Consider, as an example, that a force is applied at the bottom31of the hanger80, the force into the page and thus tending to produce a torque on the hanger80and miniature closet rod40. However, because of the thickness THof the hanger80and the radial span of the inside annular surface104, the position of the example hanger80relative to the miniature closet rod40remains substantially unchanged. More particularly, for the example force applied into the plane of the page at the bottom31, the interaction of the inside annular surface104at upper location110on the front side of the hanger80(i.e., the portion visible inFIG. 17) and the interaction of the inside annular surface104on the back side of the hanger80at the lower location108tends to resist tilting of the hanger80on the miniature closet rod40. The closer the tolerance between the outside diameter of the miniature closet rod40and the inside diameter of the inside annular surface104, and the greater the thickness THof the head13and/or hook12, the less tilt will be present in spite of torque loads applied to the miniature closet rod40(e.g., torque loads created by clothes hanging on contoured84hanger80). In some example hangers80, the tilting may be limited to two angular degrees or less (e.g., measured from front surface of the hanger80to the longitudinal central axis68), in some cases one angular degree or less, in some cases 0.5 angular degree or less.

FIG. 18shows an overhead view of a hanger80that is contoured in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular,FIG. 18is presented to show the contour of the side arms14. The example hanger80comprises first arm14(e.g., on the left), the head13(including a hook not fully visible in this view), and a second arm14(e.g., on the right). Also visible inFIG. 18is the thickness TSof the side arms14, which thickness is equal to the thickness THof the head13. The side arms14and the head13define a radius of curvature112and a center114. In example embodiments, the center114is displaced away from the head13(or equivalently stated, the length of the radius of curvature) is greater than a length L of the hanger80(the length measured along the contour).

Because the example hanger80experiences very little or no tilt when placed on an appropriately sized miniature closet rod40(the lack of tilt because of the interaction between the inside annular surface104(FIG. 17) with the miniature closet rod40(FIG. 17)), the amount of contour may be less than traditional hangers with wire hooks. When a traditional hanger with contoured arms and a wire hook is placed on the closet rod, the wire hook does not limit the tilting of the hanger. That is, the contour moves the center of gravity of the hanger outside the hanger body (i.e., into the concave region of the hanger when viewed from above), and since the wire hook does not limit tilting the traditional contoured hanger tilts. The tilting reduces the effective contour, and thus traditional hangers have significantly greater contour to account for the fact that tilting reduces the effective contour.

FIG. 19shows an overhead view of a hanger80that is contoured in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular,FIG. 19is presented to show that the alternate embodiments of thickness TSof the side arms14need not be the same as the thickness THof the head13. As before, the example hanger80comprises first arm14(e.g., on the left), the head13(including a hook not fully visible in this view), and a second arm14(e.g., on the right). In the example embodiment the thickness TSat the distal ends of the side arms14is greater than the thickness THat the head13(e.g. TStwice as thick as TH). In the example embodiment, a center line116through the side arms14and the head13define a radius of curvature112and a center114. In example embodiments, the center114is displaced away from the center line116(or equivalently stated, the length of the radius of curvature) is greater than a length L of the hanger80(the length measured along the contour).

FIG. 20shows a side elevation view of a hanger on a miniature closet rod in accordance with at least some embodiments. In particular, in accordance with example embodiments features of the hanger10may work in conjunction with the miniature closet rod40and shelf66to limit rotation of the hanger10and thus inadvertent unhooking of the hanger10. For example, clothing hanging on traditional hangers in travel trailers tend to rotate backward and forward with acceleration and deceleration, respectively (and depending on the direction of the longitudinal central axis of the closet rod in relation to direction of travel). Depending on the rate of acceleration or deceleration, the traditional hangers may come unhooked, allowing the clothes to fall to the floor and become wrinkled. However, in accordance with example embodiments shown inFIG. 20. features of the hanger10work in conjunction with the miniature closet rod40and shelf66to limit rotation of the hanger10and thus inadvertent unhooking.

In particular, the miniature closet rod40is held below a bottom horizontal surface118of the shelf66(such as by the shelf clip60(FIG. 14)) at an offset O. That is, the distance between the bottom horizontal surface118and the top of the miniature closet rod40defines an offset O. The example hanger10defines head13and hook12hanging on the miniature closet rod40such that the central axis100of the hook is substantially coaxial with the longitudinal central axis68of the miniature closet rod40. The head13defines a thickness (not visible inFIG. 20) measured parallel to the central axis. The hanger10includes a first side arm14(e.g., extending to the left in the view ofFIG. 20) that extends from the head13to the first extremity19. The radius of curvature of the hook12(see, e.g.,FIG. 16) sweeps out an inside annular surface (again,FIG. 16) that begins on an entrance side of the hook12. In some cases, the inside annular surface begins on the entrance side of the hook12below a straight line between an apex of the inside annular surface and the first extremity (as shown by dashed line120inFIG. 20). The side arm14has a length LA measured from the central axis to the first extremity19. In example embodiments, the offset O below the bottom horizontal surface118, the inside annular surface104of the hook12, and the length LA of the side arm14are such that when the first extremity19abuts the bottom horizontal surface118as shown, the inside annular surface remains hooked on the miniature closet rod40(again as shown). Stated slightly differently, the bottom horizontal surface118and length LA of the side arm14limit the amount of rotation of the hanger10about the central axis100such that the hanger10does not become unhooked from the miniature closet rod40.

In addition to or in place of limiting rotation of the hanger10about the central axis (e.g., the central axis of the hook, or the longitudinal central axis of the miniature closet rod when coaxial with the central axis of the hook), alternate embodiments may also implement various features to latch the hanger to the miniature closet rod to further reduce or eliminate unintentional unhooking of the hangers. Using the example of travel trailers again, in addition to rotation caused by acceleration and deceleration, travel trailers experience sometimes significant changes in the up and down directions (e.g., going over a railroad track at constant speed). Traditional hangers can become unhooked by excessive oscillation in elevation. Further example embodiments thus may implement a means for latching the hanger10to the miniature closet rod40.

FIG. 21shows a side elevation view of a head of a hanger10in accordance with at least some embodiments. The example hanger10has a means for latching the miniature closet rod40(not shown) into the hook12. In fact,FIG. 21shows two means for latching: first in the form of a latch arm122that rotates about the hinge region (discussed more below); and second in the form of the hook12that rotates about the hinge region (also discussed more below). While in some cases both the latch arm122and deflectable hook12may be implemented, in other cases just the latch arm122and a rigid hook12may be used, or the latch arm122may be omitted in favor of the deflectable hook12. Focusing initially on the deflectable hook12,FIG. 21shows the head13defining a hook12. The entrance channel29is defined between the distal end124of the hook12and a portion of the peak region126of the head13(peak region126also designated inFIG. 16). The hook12defines a hinge region128, and the hook12is configured to hinge about the hinge region128(as shown by curved arrow130).

In example embodiments, the hinge region128comprises a first notch132. The first notch132defines a closed bottom, an open top, and channel that runs parallel to the central axis100of the hook12. In the view ofFIG. 21, the channel of the first notch132runs into the plane of the page, and the channel of the first notch132spans the thickness THof the head (thickness THnot specifically delineated inFIG. 21). In example embodiments where the hinge region128is created by notches, the hinge region128may further comprise a second notch134. The second notch134defines a closed bottom, an open top, and channel that runs parallel to the central axis100of the hook12. In the view ofFIG. 21, the channel of the second notch134runs into the plane of the page, and the channel of the second notch134spans the thickness THof the head (not specifically delineated inFIG. 21). Regardless of the how the hinge region128is created, in example cases the hook12rotates about the hinge region128(again as shown by arrow130).

The entrance channel29defines a span S. The hook12has a non-deflected or rest orientation in which the span S of the entrance channel29is less than twice the radius of curvature of the hook. Stated differently, in the rest orientation of the hook12the span S is slightly smaller than the diameter of the miniature closet rod40(not shown). Moreover, the hook12has a deflected or displaced rotational orientation in which the span S of the entrance channel29is greater than twice the radius of curvature of the hook. Stated differently, in the displaced orientation of the hook12the span S is slightly larger than the diameter of the miniature closet rod40(not shown). Considering for the moment that the latch arm122(or some other feature peak region126of the hanger10defining the opposite side of the span S of the entrance channel29) is rigid and thus does not move, the hanger10may be placed on the miniature closet rod40(not shown) by placing the head13in contact with the miniature closet rod, and then providing additional force to deflect the latching mechanism in the form of the hook12rotating about the hinge region128such that the span S opens enough to enable the miniature closet rod40to slide into the region136and ultimately hook on the hook12. As soon as the miniature closet rod40clears the entrance channel29, the latching mechanism in the form of the hook12returns to its non-deflected or rest orientation by the spring force associated with the material that makes up the head13(and particular the hook12).

The specification now turns to an example latching mechanism in the form of the latch arm122.FIG. 21shows the latch arm122defines a proximal end138and a distal end140. The entrance channel29is defined between the distal end140of the latch arm122and the distal end124of the hook12. The latch arm122defines a hinge region142, and the latch arm122is configured to hinge about the hinge region142(as shown by arrow144). In example embodiments, the hinge region142comprises a first notch146. The first notch146defines a closed bottom, an open top, and channel that runs parallel to the central axis100of the hook12. In the view ofFIG. 21, the channel of the first notch146runs into the plane of the page, and the channel of the first notch146spans the thickness THof the head (thickness THnot specifically delineated inFIG. 21). In example embodiments where the hinge region142is created by notches, the hinge region142may further comprise a second notch148. The second notch148defines a closed bottom, an open top, and channel that runs parallel to the central axis100of the hook12. In the view ofFIG. 21, the channel of the second notch148runs into the plane of the page, and the channel of the second notch148spans the thickness THof the head (thickness THnot specifically delineated inFIG. 21). Regardless of the how the hinge region142is created, in example cases the latch arm122rotates about the hinge region142(again as shown by arrow144).

As before, the entrance channel29defines a span S. The latch arm122has a non-deflected or rest orientation in which the span S of the entrance channel29is less than twice the radius of curvature of the hook. Stated differently, in the rest orientation of the latch arm122the span S is slightly smaller than the diameter of the miniature closet rod40(not shown). Moreover, the latch arm122has a deflected or displaced rotational orientation in which the span S of the entrance channel29is greater than twice the radius of curvature of the hook. Stated differently, in the displaced orientation of the latch arm122the span S is slightly larger than the diameter of the miniature closet rod40(not shown). Considering for the moment that the hook12is rigid and thus does not move, the hanger10may be placed on the miniature closet rod40(not shown) by placing the head13in contact with the miniature closet rod, and then providing additional force to deflect the latching mechanism in the form of the latch arm122rotating about the hinge region142such that the span S opens enough to enable the miniature closet rod40to slide into the region136and ultimately hook on the hook12. As soon as the miniature closet rod40clears the entrance channel29, the latching mechanism in the form of the latch arm122returns to its non-deflected or rest orientation by the spring force associated with the material that makes up the head13.

As mentioned, it is possible for the latching mechanism to comprise both the latch arm122and the hook12that hinges about the hinge region128. In such circumstances, the hanger10may be placed on the miniature closet rod40(not shown) by placing the head13in contact with the miniature closet rod, and then providing additional force to deflect both the hook12and the latch arm122by rotating about their respective hinge regions such that the span S opens enough to enable the miniature closet rod40to slide into the region136and ultimately hook on the hook12. As soon as the miniature closet rod40clears the entrance channel29, both the latch arm122and the hook12return to their respective non-deflected or rest orientations by the spring force associated with the material that makes up the head13. Likewise, removal of the hanger10from the miniature closet rod is performed by reversing the steps. In particular, the hook12is lifted off the miniature closet rod and the miniature closet rod is placed in the region136proximate to the entrance channel29. A force is applied to the hanger10tending to deflect both the hook12and the latch arm122by rotating about their respective hinge regions such that the span S opens enough to enable the miniature closet rod to slide out of the region136. As soon as the miniature closet rod clears the entrance channel29, both the latch arm122and the hook12return to their respective non-deflected or rest orientations by the spring force associated with the material that makes up the head13.

One example use of the disclosed embodiments is as an anti-theft device for commercial establishments such as hotels and clothing retailers. Few end users would wish to steal a hanger that could only be used with a miniature closet rod. In a hotel, as an example, the miniature closet rod could be installed as part of a rod system in the closet. In such an embodiment the hook could have a wheel such that it easily rolls along the accompanying rod system. Additionally, decorative and aesthetic accoutrements could be added to the rod system including lighting inside, above, or on the side of the rod. The hanger can be constructed of plastic, metal, wood, resin, composite, or a recyclable material, or just the top portion may be metal, or wrapped in metal or a durable material. The elimination of the protruding hook, and the addition of the stackable system, solves the problems identified in the prior art and offers a neat, contemporary look to clothes hanging.

In an example embodiment, the stackable feature with concave and convex grooves can be knobs, holes, magnets, or any other method that can be used to assist with stacking the hangers to prevent a tangled mess.

In an example embodiment, the user removes the existing traditional closet rod in the closet and affixes the miniature closet rod to the underside of the closet shelving that is in place above the traditional closet rod. The miniature closet rod can be of varying sizes although ⅜″ to ½″ diameter is sufficient to enable the hanger to connect smoothly, while maximizing the vertical space saved and minimizing the visual of the miniature rod. The user will save approximately 6″ of vertical closet space (approximately ¾ of a cubic foot per linear foot) by using this system rather than a traditional clothes hanger and closet rod. In addition, the user may elect to affix additional short, wall mount miniature closet rods to hang the clothing parallel, instead of perpendicular, to the wall behind the clothing for additional hanging space. These articles of clothing could lie against the back wall and the miniature closet rods would thereby provide additional hanging, storage, for articles that are used less frequently.

The same system may be used under laundry room cabinets, in small spaces, under doorways or anywhere that a user desires to hang clothing but does not wish to mount a bulky and unsightly traditional clothes rod, especially if using the metal L bracket to enable even more potential hanging spaces.

Yet another embodiment for the system is for it to be applied to tie or belt holders in the same fashion it is used in place of the traditional hook on hangers.

The versatility of this system is that the hangers guide themselves to hang up and are just as easily removed, providing another benefit in speed of hanging up and removing clothes. Yet another benefit is when in use in vehicles, RV's for example, if the hanger sways the arm of the hanger will hit the shelving above it to prevent the hanger from falling off.

The miniature closet rod may be any color to blend in with its surroundings. In an embodiment, a ⅜″ diameter rod could be mounted to the top of a doorway. If the doorway is white, the rod can be white. The rod would be minimally visible verses a traditional closet rod, yet the user could quickly and easily hang clothing in the doorway. This could be of value in a laundry room or even in a living room or bedroom. Many people enjoy folding their laundry while watching TV in a living room or den. With this embodiment they can hang their clothes without making multiple trips to the bedroom closet. The closet rod can be removable for ease of moving from one room to another.

The color of the rods and the hangers can be virtually any color, depending on the user's preference.

The term hanger used herein can refer to any clothes hanger that has a body capable of supporting an article of clothing. As an example, some clothes hangers are in a rectangular, rather than triangular shape, and may have clips to hold pants or other garments. The type of hanger body or material of which it is constructed is not an obstacle to the use of the miniature hook method. Tie and belt holders are another example.

The hanger shape can be that with an aerodynamic shape, it can be similar to the shape of a boomerang, but not limited to, allowing the hanger to be thrown for flight. The hand grip can assist with the use of the aerodynamic hanger and can be placed anywhere on the hanger to assist with the throwing of the hanger.

While the disclosed invention has been described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments thereof, many changes, modifications, alterations and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention should therefore not be limited to the particular preferred embodiment disclosed but should include all embodiments that could fall within the scope of the claims.

Accordingly, the various embodiments shown in the drawings and described in detail above are intended to be illustrative, not limiting, and various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims set forth below.