TOWEL RACK

A towel rack includes a laterally extending cross structure and a fluid flow path traversing the laterally extending cross structure. A forced air unit is positioned in the laterally extending cross structure. A heating element heats air which is moved via the forced air unit through the fluid flow path. A vent is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to a towel rack and, more particularly, to a towel rack for warming and drying a towel.

Using a warm and dry towel to dry oneself off is a comforting feeling and preferable alternative to a damp cold towel. In order to have readily available warm dry towels, some users utilize towel warmers. While these towel warmers provide some warmth, they do not evenly warm/dry towels and mostly heat the towel at the point of contact. Therefore, a need exists for an apparatus to evenly warm and dry a towel.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a towel rack includes a laterally extending cross structure. A fluid flow path traverses the laterally extending cross structure. A forced air unit is positioned in the laterally extending cross structure. A heating element heats air which is moved via the forced air unit through the fluid flow path. A vent is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. The laterally extending cross structure is configured to support a towel and cause the towel to receive air which emitted from the vent.

In some embodiments of the first aspect, the laterally extending cross structure can include a plurality of cross bars forming a cross bar conduit. The plurality of cross bars can extend between a first lateral support and a second lateral support. The plurality of cross bars can include a first plurality of cross bars forming a first cross bar conduit. A second plurality of cross bars can form a second cross bar conduit. The vent can include a first vent traversing the first cross bar conduit. A second vent can traverse the second cross bar conduit. The second cross bar conduit can be larger than the first cross bar conduit.

Optionally, in the first aspect, the laterally extending cross structure can include a first lateral sidewall extending from a base. A second lateral sidewall can extend from the base. Ends of the first lateral sidewall and ends of the second lateral sidewall can be configured to form a space between the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall. The vent can be configured to emit the air into the space.

It may be desired, in the first aspect, that a first lateral support and a second lateral support are provided. The laterally extending cross structure can extend between the first lateral support and the second lateral support. The fluid flow path can traverse the laterally extending cross structure and at least one of the first lateral support and the second lateral support. The vent can be located in at least one of the laterally extending cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support and can be in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. The laterally extending cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support can be configured to cause the towel to form a space which receives the air which emitted from the vent. The laterally extending cross structure can be formed integrally with the first lateral support and the second lateral support as a panel and the cross structure can extend from a base.

It can be contemplated, in the first aspect, that the cross structure is formed in a lattice configuration. An aromatherapy cartridge can be in fluid communication with the fluid flow path so that the air emitted from the vent is mixed with aromatherapy particles from the aromatherapy cartridge. The towel rack can be configured to kill at least one of a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof. A horizontally moveable slat can slide along the laterally extending cross structure to facilitate increasing heat capture. The towel rack can be configured to heat an article, garment, or towel to a pre-selected temperature in a range of 135° F.-220° F. and maintain that pre-selected temperature for a pre-selected period of time in a range of 10 sec.-120 min. The towel rack can be further configured to cool the article, garment, or towel to a temperature which is less than the pre-selected temperature.

According to a second aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a towel rack includes a first section. The first section includes a plurality of first section cross bars coupled thereto and wherein each of the plurality of first section cross bars comprise a first section cross bar conduit. At least one first section vent is provided. The at least one first section vent traverses the first section cross bar conduit of at least one of the plurality of first section cross bars. A second section is provided. The second section includes a plurality of second section cross bars coupled thereto and wherein each of the plurality of second section cross bars comprise a second section cross bar conduit. At least one second section vent is provided. The at least one second section vent traverses the second section cross bar conduit of at least one of the plurality of second section cross bars. A plurality of lateral supports is provided. The first section and the second section are fluidly connected via the plurality of lateral supports. At least one forced air unit is in fluid communication with a channel within the plurality of lateral supports. The channel within the plurality of lateral supports is in fluid communication with the at least one first section vent, the at least one second section vent, or combinations thereof. The second section cross bar conduit is larger than the first section cross bar conduit.

In some embodiments of the second aspect, at least one heating element and a controller can be provided. The at least one forced air unit can include an air moving component. The controller can be operatively coupled to the at least one heating element and the air moving component to control air temperature and flow through the at least one vent. The at least one heating element can be located in the at least one forced air unit. The at least one heating element can be located in at least one of the plurality of lateral supports. The at least one heating element can be located in the first section. The at least one heating element can be located in the second section. The plurality of lateral supports can include a first lateral support and a second lateral support. The at least one forced air unit can be coupled to the first lateral support. At least one stopper can be obstructively positioned within the conduit proximal to the second lateral support. A plurality of stoppers can be obstructively positioned within at least one first section cross bar conduit, at least one second section cross bar conduit, or combinations thereof, and proximal to the second lateral support. An attachable aroma therapy element can be provided including a clip, a housing, at least one slot, and a scented compound. The scented compound can be positioned within the housing. The at least one slot can traverses the housing. The attachable aroma therapy element can be coupled to at least one of the plurality of first section cross bars or to at least one of the plurality of first section cross bars adjacent to at least one first section vent or at least one second section vent by way of the clip. The at least one slot can be operatively aligned with the at least one first section vent or the at least one second section vent. At least two of the plurality of first section cross bars can include at least one first section vent, at least two of the plurality of second section cross bars can include at least one second section vent, or combinations thereof.

According to a third aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a method for assembling a towel drying rack includes connecting one or more lateral supports to a plurality of cross bars. A first portion of the plurality of cross bars constitutes a first section of the towel drying rack. A second portion of the plurality of cross bars constitutes a second section of the towel drying rack. A second section cross bar conduit is larger than a first section cross bar conduit. The method also includes fluidly connecting a channel within at least one of the lateral supports to at least one first section cross bar conduit and at least one second section cross bar conduit. The method also includes fluidly connecting at least one vent formed into at least one of the plurality of cross bars to at least one first section cross bar conduit or at least one second section cross bar conduit. The method also includes fluidly connecting a forced air unit to at least one of the channel within at least one of the lateral supports, at least one first section cross bar conduit, and at least one second section cross bar conduit.

In some embodiments of the third aspect, the method can also include directing airflow, by the forced air unit, into the channel within the at least one of the lateral supports. The method can also include directing airflow from the channel into the at least one first section cross bar conduit, the at least one second section cross bar conduit, or combinations thereof. The method can also include directing airflow from the at least one first section cross bar conduit, the at least one second section cross bar conduit, or combinations thereof out of the at least one vent formed into at least one of the plurality of cross bars toward a towel or garment. The method can also include fluidly connecting one or more heating elements to one or more of the forced air unit, each conduit of the plurality of cross bars, and the channel. The method can also include heating airflow generated by the forced air unit before the airflow exits the at least one vent formed into at least one of the plurality of cross bars. The method can also include connecting a controller to one or more of the elements of the towel drying rack; and manually or remotely controlling the operation of the towel drying rack via the controller. The method can also include attaching an aroma therapy element over at least one vent formed into the at least one of the plurality of cross bars.

According to a fourth aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a garment drying rack includes at least one lateral support comprising a channel within an interior of the lateral support. At least one forced air unit is in fluid communication with the channel and configured to generate airflow into the channel. A plurality of cross bars is provided. Each of the plurality of cross bars includes a conduit positioned within an interior of each of the plurality of cross bars. The conduit of each of the plurality of cross bars is in fluid communication with the channel. A first portion of the plurality of cross bars constitutes a first section of the garment drying rack. A second portion of the plurality of cross bars constitutes a second section of the garment drying rack. A second section cross bar conduit is larger than a first section cross bar conduit. A plurality of vents is provided. At least a first vent of the plurality of vents is in fluid communication with a first conduit of one of the plurality of cross bars and at least a second vent of the plurality of vents is in fluid communication with a second conduit of one of the plurality of cross bars.

In some embodiments of the fourth aspect, one or more heating elements can be provided in fluid communication with one or more of the forced air unit. The conduit can be positioned within the interior of each of the plurality of cross bars, and the channel. The one or more heating elements can be configured to heat the airflow before it exits the plurality of vents. At least one aroma therapy element can be positioned over at least one of the plurality of vents configured to provide a scent that is spread via the airflow exiting the at least one of the plurality of vents.

In some embodiments, a method is provided for heating an article, garment, or towel to a pre-selected temperature in a range of 135° F.-220° F. and maintaining that pre-selected temperature for a pre-selected period of time in a range of 10 sec.-120 min. The heating can be sufficient to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof. The article, garment, or towel can be in contact with a towel rack as disclosed herein. The article, garment, or towel can be in contact with a garment drying rack as described herein. The method can include cooling the article, garment, or towel to a temperature which is less than the pre-selected temperature.

The towel racks described herein can be configured to heat an article, garment, or towel to a pre-selected temperature in a range of 135° F.-220° F. and maintain that pre-selected temperature for a pre-selected period of time in a range of 10 sec.-120 min. The heating can be sufficient to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof. The towel racks described herein can be configured to cool the article, garment, or towel to a temperature which is less than the pre-selected temperature.

The garment drying racks described herein can be configured to heat an article, garment, or towel to a pre-selected temperature in a range of 135° F.-220° F. and maintain that pre-selected temperature for a pre-selected period of time in a range of 10 sec.-120 min. The heating can be sufficient to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof. The garment drying racks described herein can be configured to cool the article, garment, or towel to a temperature which is less than the pre-selected temperature.

According to a fifth aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a towel rack includes a base. A first lateral sidewall extends from the base. A second lateral sidewall extends from the base. Ends of the first lateral sidewall and ends of the second lateral sidewall are configured to form a space between the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall. At least one of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall are configured to provide a fluid flow path which traverses the respective first lateral sidewall and second lateral sidewall. A forced air unit is provided. A heating element heats air which is moved via the forced air unit through the fluid flow path. An internal vent is located in the at least one of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall and is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and configured to emit the air into the space. The first lateral sidewall, the second lateral sidewall, or a combination thereof, is configured to support at least one towel.

In some embodiments of the fifth aspect, the first lateral sidewall can be configured to support a first towel. The second lateral sidewall can be configured to support a second towel. The ends of the first lateral sidewall can be coupled to the ends of the second lateral sidewall. The forced air unit can be located in the base. The first towel and the second towel can be dried by the air emitted into the space. The first towel and the second towel can be heated by the air emitted into the space. The first towel and the second towel can be cooled by the air emitted into the space.

Optionally, in the fifth aspect, an external vent can be located in an outer surface of the first lateral sidewall. The internal vent can be configured to emit air toward a portion of the at least one towel located in the space. The external vent can be configured to emit air toward a portion of the at least one towel that is located adjacent the outer surface of the first lateral sidewall. The at least one towel can be dried by the air emitted by the external vent. The at least one towel can be heated by the air emitted by the external vent. The at least one towel can be cooled by the air emitted by the external vent.

It may be desired, in the fifth aspect, that an external vent is located in an outer surface of the second lateral sidewall. The internal vent can be configured to emit air toward a portion of the at least one towel located in the space. The external vent can be configured to emit air toward a portion of the at least one towel that is located adjacent the outer surface of the second lateral sidewall. The at least one towel can be dried by the air emitted by the external vent. The at least one towel can be heated by the air emitted by the external vent. The at least one towel can be cooled by the air emitted by the external vent.

It may be contemplated, in the fifth aspect, that a first external vent is located in an outer surface of the first lateral sidewall. A second external vent can be located in an outer surface of the second lateral sidewall. The internal vent can be configured to emit air toward portions of a first towel and a second towel located in the space. The first external vent can be configured to emit air toward a portion of the first towel that is located adjacent the outer surface of the first lateral sidewall. The second external vent can be configured to emit air toward a portion of the second towel that is located adjacent the outer surface of the second lateral sidewall. The first towel and the second towel can be dried by the air emitted into the space. The first towel can be dried by the air emitted by the first external vent. The second towel can be dried by the air emitted by the second external vent. The first towel and the second towel can be heated by the air emitted into the space. The first towel can be heated by the air emitted by the first external vent. The second towel can be heated by the air emitted by the second external vent. The first towel and the second towel can be cooled by the air emitted into the space. The first towel can be cooled by the air emitted by the first external vent. The second towel can be cooled by the air emitted by the second external vent.

In some embodiments of the fifth aspect, a base vent can be located in the base and configured to emit air upward into the space. The first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall can be not integrally formed. A first lateral support can be provided. A first end of the first lateral sidewall can be coupled to a first end of the second lateral sidewall by the first lateral support. A second lateral support can be provided. A second end of the first lateral sidewall can be coupled to a second end of the second lateral sidewall by the second lateral support. The first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall can form a cylinder extending from the base. The first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall can form an elongated oval extending from the base. The first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall can form an elongated rectangle extending from the base. At least one of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall can include a solid wall extending between a top and the base.

Optionally, in the fifth aspect, at least one of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall can include sidewall segments that are spaced apart between a top and the base. Both of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall can include sidewall segments that are spaced apart between a top and the base. Each of the sidewall segments can be equally spaced apart between the top and the base. Each of the sidewall segments can have the same thickness. At least two of the sidewall segments can have a different thickness. A thickness of the sidewall segments can increase from the base to the top. A thickness of the sidewall segments can decrease from the base to the top. Each of the sidewall segments can have the same height. At least two of the sidewall segments can have a different height. A height of the sidewall segments can increase from the base to the top. A height of the sidewall segments can decrease from the base to the top. At least one of the sidewall segments can include an internal vent. Each of the sidewall segments can include an internal vent. At least one of the sidewall segments can include an external vent located in an outer surface of the sidewall segment. Each of the sidewall segments can include an external vent located in an outer surface of the sidewall segment.

In some embodiments of the fifth aspect, at least one of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall can include a top vent located in a top surface of the respective first lateral sidewall and second lateral sidewall. A thickness of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall can increase from the base to the top. A thickness of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall can decrease from the base to the top. An aromatherapy cartridge can be in fluid communication with the fluid flow path so that the air emitted from the vent is mixed with aromatherapy particles from the aromatherapy cartridge. The towel rack can be configured to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.

According to a sixth aspect of the disclosed embodiments, a towel rack includes a first lateral support and a second lateral support. A cross structure extends between the first lateral support and the second lateral support. At least one of the cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support is configured to provide a fluid flow path which traverses at least one of the cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support. A forced air unit is provided. A heating element heats air which is moved via the forced air unit through the fluid flow path. A vent is located in at least one of the cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support and is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. The cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support are further configured to support a towel and cause the towel to form a space which receives air which emitted from the vent.

In some embodiments of the sixth aspect, the vent can be configured to emit the air toward a portion of the towel. The cross structure can include a lower cross structure and an upper cross structure. The vent can be located in the lower cross structure and configured to emit the air in any direction. The vent can be located in the upper cross structure and configured to emit the air in any direction. A vent can be located in two of the lower cross structure, the upper cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support. A vent can be located in three of the lower cross structure, the upper cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support. A vent can be located in each of the lower cross structure, the upper cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support. A lower cross structure vent can be located in the lower cross structure and configured to emit air in any direction. An upper cross structure vent can be located in the upper cross structure and configured to emit air in any direction. A first lateral support vent can be located in the first lateral support and configured to emit air in any direction. A second lateral support vent can be located in the second lateral support and configured to emit air in any direction.

Optionally, in the sixth aspect, at least one of the lower cross structure and the upper cross structure can include a first vent configured to emit air in any direction. A second vent can be configured to emit air toward the towel. The second vent can be located on at least one of a front and back of the at least one of the lower cross structure and the upper cross structure. The first vent can be located on at least one of a top and bottom of the at least one of the lower cross structure and the upper cross structure.

It may be desired, in the sixth aspect, that the lower cross structure is differently sized from the upper cross structure. A plurality of intermediate cross structures can extend between the first lateral support and the second lateral support between the lower cross structure and the upper cross structure. The lower cross structure can have a diameter that is different than a diameter of the upper cross structure. Each of the plurality of intermediate cross structures can have a different diameter. The diameter of the each of the plurality of intermediate cross structures can be different than the diameter of the lower cross structure and the diameter of the upper cross structure. The diameter of each of the plurality of intermediate cross structures can increase when moving from the lower cross structure to the upper cross structure. The diameter of each of the plurality of intermediate cross structures can decrease when moving from the lower cross structure to the upper cross structure.

It may be contemplated, in the sixth aspect, that a plurality of intermediate lateral supports extends between the lower cross structure and the upper cross structure between the first lateral support and the second lateral support. The cross structure can be formed in a lattice configuration.

In some embodiments of the sixth aspect a base is provided. The first lateral support and the second lateral support can extend from the base. The cross structure can be formed integrally with the first lateral support and the second lateral support as a panel and the cross structure can extend from the base. The cross structure can house the forced air unit and the heating element. The base can house the forced air unit and the heating element. The forced air unit and the heating element can be housed in one of the first lateral support and the second lateral support.

Optionally, in the sixth aspect, the space can be configured to be at least partially sealed when a towel is supported by the cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support. The air emitted into the space can be configured to be at least partially trapped by the towel when a towel is supported by the cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support.

It may be desired, the sixth aspect, that the cross structure includes a front panel and a back panel extending from the cross structure to support the towel. The front panel can extend at an angle relative to the back panel. At least one of the front panel and the back panel can extend parallel to a vertical axis. At least one of the front panel and the back panel can extend at an oblique angle to a vertical axis. At least one of the front panel and the back panel can have an adjustable length along an axis of the cross structure. The front panel can include a first front panel located adjacent the first lateral support. A second front panel can be located adjacent the second lateral support. The back panel can include a first back panel located adjacent the first lateral support. A second back panel can be located adjacent the second lateral support. At least one of the front panel and the back panel can extend an entire length of the cross structure. A plurality of cross structures can extend between the first lateral support and the second lateral support. Each of the plurality of cross structures can include a respective front panel and back panel.

In some embodiments of the sixth aspect, an aromatherapy cartridge can be in fluid communication with the fluid flow path so that the air emitted from the vent is mixed with aromatherapy particles from the aromatherapy cartridge. The towel rack can be configured to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.

Optionally, in the sixth aspect, a horizontally moveable slat can slide along the cross structure to facilitate increasing heat capture. The cross structure can be formed integrally with the first lateral support and the second lateral support as a panel.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In an embodiment of the disclosure, a heated towel rack is provided as an apparatus for heating and/or drying towels. The heated towel rack may comprise a plurality of cross bars vertically arranged between one or more lateral support structures that serve as the racks a user on which a user may be able to hang a towel or other garment. At least one cross bar of the plurality of cross bars may include at least one vent configured to evenly distribute heated (or non-heated) air to the towel or garment, allowing the towel or garment to be evenly warmed and/or dried. In some embodiments, a plurality of cross bars may comprise a plurality of vents.

In some embodiments, a heated towel rack may include one or more (in some embodiments, two) lateral supports, at least one forced air heating unit in fluid communication with at least one channel within a lateral support, and a plurality of cross bars coupled between the one or more lateral supports. At least one cross bar of the plurality of cross bars may include at least one vent that traverses into a conduit within the cross bar. The channel of the lateral support may be in fluid communication with the at least one vent by way of the conduit of the cross bar. In some configurations, the at least one cross bar may be rotatably coupled with the at least one lateral support. The rotatable coupling between the cross bar(s) and the lateral support(s) would allow for the rotation of individual cross bars allowing a user to direct the angle of the vent(s) in order to redirect forced heated air to their liking.

In some embodiments, the at least one forced air heating unit may include at least one heating element, a fan, and a controller. The controller may be operatively coupled to the at least one heating element and the fan in order to control air temperature and airflow through the vent(s).

In some embodiments, the heated towel rack may include a first lateral support and a second lateral support. The first lateral support and the second lateral support may be differentiated by the attachment of the forced air heating unit. For example, the first lateral support may be coupled to at least one forced air heating unit, while the second lateral support may lack any direct coupling to a forced air heating unit. In alternative embodiments, the at least one forced air heating unit may not be coupled to a lateral support and may be coupled to a support cross bar that is in fluid communication with the at least one cross bar. In some embodiments, the heated towel rack may include a stopper that is obstructively positioned within the conduit proximal to the second lateral support to prevent heated air to enter the channel of the second lateral support. In some embodiments, the conduit may taper towards the first lateral support, such that the width of the conduit as it approaches the second lateral support is wider than the width of the conduit near the first lateral support.

In some embodiments, the heated towel rack may be configured with at least two lateral supports that comprise a first section and a second section. The first section may be proximal to the at least one forced air heating unit. The second section may be distal to the at least one forced air heating unit. The conduits of the plurality of cross bars in the second section may be larger than plurality of vents in the first section to evenly distribute the airflow through the towel rack.

In some embodiments, the heated towel rack may include an attachable aroma therapy element comprising one or more of: a clip, a housing, at least one slot, and/or a scented compound. The scented compound may be positioned within the housing. The at least one slot may traverse through the housing. The attachable aroma therapy element may be configured to couple to a cross bar adjacent to a vent. The at least one slot may be operatively aligned with the vent in order to allow the scented compound to enter into the surrounding environment via the airflow directed out of the vent and therefore through the housing of the aroma therapy element.

In some embodiments, the heated towel rack may be configured with the at least one cross bar having a cylindrical shape (profile). Alternatively, the heated towel rack may be configured with the at least one cross bar having a rectangular shape (profile). In some embodiments, the heated towel rack may be configured with a plurality of cross bars having similar or dissimilar shapes for each of the cross bars, where a portion of the cross bars may be differently shaped than another portion of the cross bars.

ReferencingFIGS.1-5, a heated towel rack100is an apparatus for drying and/or warming towels. A towel102placed on the rack receives heated air forced through a plurality of vents that help dry and heat a towel to a comfortable temperature. The heated towel rack100is configured to be mounted or attached to a surface (for example a counter or a wall), but alternative configurations may be provided that allow the towel rack to be a standing structure on the ground. The attachment to a wall may comprise adhesive, physical connectors, screws, nails, slots, and/or other connecting elements. In other embodiments, the towel rack may be freestanding and may function without being attached to a surface or wall.

Referring toFIG.2, the heated towel rack100comprises an at least two lateral supports202, a forced air heating unit210, and a plurality of cross bars212. The at least two lateral supports202are positioned parallel to one another and provide a support structure for the heated towel rack100. In some embodiments, the lateral supports202may not be aligned parallel and may form a “V” shape and/or “A” shape. In some embodiments, the at least two lateral supports may be individually referenced as a first lateral support220and a second lateral support222. In some embodiments, the towel rack100may only comprise a single lateral support.

As shown inFIG.4, the at least two lateral supports202include a channel410that is in fluid communication with the forced air heating unit210and the plurality of cross bars212. The plurality of cross bars212are coupled between the at least two lateral supports202. Each cross bar of the plurality of cross bars212include a conduit408that is in fluid communication with the channel410of at least one lateral support of the at least two lateral supports202. Each cross bar of the plurality of cross bars212include at least one vent218that traverses into the conduit408. In some embodiments, the cross bar212may comprise a plurality of vents, while in other embodiments, the cross bar212may comprise a single vent218that may extend over a portion of the cross bar212. The vent(s)218act as an exhaust point for heated air from the forced air heating unit210. The forced air heating unit210generates heat and forces air through the channel410at least one of the lateral supports202and through the vents218by way of the conduit408.FIG.5illustrates an exemplary embodiment where the airflow may be directed only through the first lateral support220, while in other embodiments the airflow could be present in (or directed through) the second lateral support222and/or both the first lateral support220and the second lateral support222.

The forced air heating unit210forces heated air through the heated towel rack100. In some configurations, the forced air heating unit210may comprise a fan406and a heating element404. The fan406creates the air movement for forcing or directing heated air through the channel410of a lateral support of the at least two lateral supports202. The heating element404generates heat raising the temperature of the surrounding air that is forced through the heated towel rack100. In some configurations, the fan406may be positioned between the heating element404and the channel410. In alternative configurations, the heating element404may be positioned between the fan406and the channel410.

As shown inFIG.2, the forced air heating unit210may be operated utilizing a controller204communicating with a user device208by way of a wireless communication module206. A user may operate a user interface through the user device208to communicate control signals for changing the temperature and volume of air being pushed out through the plurality of vents218. The control signals would be received by the controller204through a wireless communication module206to control the temperature settings of the heating element404and the speed of the fan406. The wireless communication module206may communicate wirelessly with the user device208through any wireless communications technology including, but not limited to WiFi, near field communications (NFC), Bluetooth, mobile communications standards (e.g., Long Term Evolution (LTE), etc.,), and etc. In some configurations, the controller204may be accomplished by an electro-mechanical switch that turns the device on/off. The electro-mechanical switch may additionally incorporate a timer mechanism and/or a temperature sensor to control when the forced air heating unit210turns on or off. In some embodiments, the controller204may be operated via a remote control configured to communicate with the controller204via a wireless connection, such as infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF), or another wireless connection. In some embodiments, the controller204may be operated via manual manipulation and/or remote manipulation using any of the above described methods.

In some embodiments, the controller204may comprise an input for the user to control the temperature of the air that is directed into the towel rack100via the forced air heating unit210. In some embodiments, the heating element404may be optionally activated or not activated with the fan406, depending on if the user wishes for the air directed out of the vents218to be heated or room temperature. In some embodiments, the heating element404may comprise multiple heat settings, where a user may choose one of a plurality of heat settings via the controller204and/or communication with the controller204.

In some embodiments, the towel rack100may comprise a power source209configured to power the other elements of the towel rack100. For example, the power source209may comprise battery power, where one or more battery may be connected to a part of the towel rack100and in communication with the controller204and/or the forced air heating unit210. The power source209may also comprise corded, plug-in, or hard-wired power, where a cord may be connected to a part of the towel rack100and in communication with the controller204and/or the forced air heating unit210.

In some configurations, more than one forced air heating unit210may be utilized in the heated towel rack. In a two unit arrangement, one forced air heating unit may be positioned on the lower portion of one lateral support, while the other forced air heating unit may be positioned the opposite end of the neighboring lateral support. Alternatively, one or more fans may be positioned on (or within) one or more support cross bar (which may be parallel to cross bars and attached to the lateral supports). In some embodiments, the towel rack may comprise two or more fans positioned on the support cross bars, where each of the multiple fans may direct airflow to only a portion of the cross bars and vents. For example, a first fan may provide airflow to an upper portion of the towel rack (and may be positioned on the upper portion of the towel rack), and a second fan may provide airflow to a lower portion of the towel rack (and may be position on the lower portion of the towel rack).

In some configurations, the forced air heating unit210may include more than one heating element404. In some embodiments, the heating element(s)404may be positioned within the conduit408and/or within the channel410and may be utilized in addition to or as an alternative to the single heating unit configurations that have been previously described. In some embodiments, the fan406of the forced air heating unit210, and/or the entire forced air heating unit210, may be positioned anywhere on the towel rack100that is in fluid communication with the channel410, the conduit408, and/or the vents218. For example, the forced air heating unit210may be positioned on one of the support cross bars (described above), wherein the support cross bar(s) may comprise a channel within the support cross bar to provide fluid communication between the forced air heating unit210and the rest of the towel rack (i.e., the conduit, channels, and/or vents).

In some embodiments, the controller204may cause the forced air heating unit210and/or the heating element(s)404to produce heat and/or heated air at a temperature in the range of 100° F.-220° F.

In an embodiment, controller204may execute a program to cause the towel rack100to heat an article, garment, or towel to a pre-selected temperature in a range of 135° F.-220° F. and to maintain (or prevent from falling below) that pre-selected temperature for a pre-selected period of time in a range of 10 sec.-120 min. In an embodiment, controller204may execute a program to cause the towel rack100to heat an article, garment, or towel to a pre-selected temperature, e.g., 185° F., and to maintain that pre-selected temperature for a pre-selected period of time, e.g. 40 minutes. The controller204may then execute a program (or another portion of a first program) to cool the article, garment, or towel down to a temperature below the pre-selected temperature (e.g., cool the article, garment, or towel from 185° F. to 110° F.).

In the example shown inFIGS.2-5, the heated towel rack100is configured with a single forced air heating unit210positioned on the lower portion of a lateral support. The region proximal to the forced air heating unit210is considered the first section214, while the region distal to the forced air heating unit210is considered the second section216. Similarly, the lateral support coupled to the forced air heating unit210is considered the first lateral support220, while the other lateral support is considered the second lateral support222.

To help improve airflow from the forced air heating unit210through the channel410and subsequently the conduit408of the plurality of cross bars212, the conduit408of the plurality of cross bars212in the second section216may be larger than the conduit408in the first section214. Additionally, the plurality of vents218in the second section216may be larger than the plurality of vents218in the first section214. Through changing the width of either, or in combination, the plurality of vents218of the conduit408, the flow rate and temperature of heated air through the plurality of vents218may be consistent across all of the plurality of vents218. In some embodiments, the number of vents218may be different in the first section214and the second section216to provide consistent airflow to all of the vents218.

In some embodiments, one or more of the cross bars212may comprise vents218on the back side of the cross bar212. In some embodiments, one or more of the cross bars212may comprise vents218on the front side and/or the back side of the cross bar212. In some embodiments, one or more of the cross bars212may not comprise vents218while other cross bars212may comprise vents218. Also, in some embodiments, some cross bars may comprise a greater number of vents than other cross bars.

The heated towel rack100may also incorporate at least one stopper402to help airflow through the conduit408of the plurality of cross bars212. A stopper402is obstructively positioned within a cross bar212on the end of the cross bar212proximal to the second lateral support222. In some embodiments, any number of the cross bars212may comprise a stopper402. In some embodiments, one or more of the cross bars212may not comprise a stopper to allow for fluid communication between the channels410of the lateral supports220and222. In some configurations, more than one forced air heating unit210may be incorporated into a heated towel rack, the stopper402may not be needed in these configurations. In some configurations, the stopper402may be utilized to block portions of the channel410within the lateral support that do not interface with the conduit408. In some configurations, the conduit408may taper such that the width of the conduit408towards the second lateral support222is larger than the width of the conduit408proximal to the first lateral support220.

In some embodiments, one or more elements of the towel rack100may comprise a metal material. In some embodiments, one or more elements of the towel rack100may comprise a plastic material, such as a thermoplastic, a polymer, and/or another plastic material. In some embodiments, one or more elements of the towel rack100may comprise a ceramic material. The material may be selected to prevent damage from heating by the heating elements of the forced air heating unit.

In some embodiments, the towel rack100may comprise snap fit components, wherein the towel rack100may ship in multiple pieces or components which may then be assembled by a customer. In some embodiments, a front surface or panel (i.e., that faces away from the wall when the towel rack100is install onto a wall) may be configured to be replaceable and may comprise a variety of colors or designs. In some embodiments, additional front surfaces or panels may be sold separately from the towel rack100. This may be useful for a user who has installed the towel rack100in their bathroom or other room, and then changes the decorations or design of the room, and then wish to change the appearance of the towel rack100to coordinate with the new design.

In some embodiments, the towel rack100may be sized to fit or accommodate a particular size of towel or other garment. For example, the towel rack100may be sized to fit a bath sheet, a body towel, a hand towel, a washcloth, a robe, or another garment.

ReferencingFIGS.6-8, an attachable aroma therapy element600may couple over at least one vent218on a cross bar212of the heated towel rack100allowing a scented compound to be released with the heated air that exits the vent218. As shown inFIG.8, the attachable aroma therapy element600comprises a plurality of slots802, a housing804, and a clip806. The plurality of slots802traverse through the housing804creating a passage for heated air to exit when the attachable aroma therapy element600is placed over a vent218. In other words, the slots802may extend through to the back surface of the vent218. The housing804holds the scented compound in place allowing heated air from the vent218to pass through the plurality of slots802and carrying the scented compound into the surrounding space. The scented compound may be configured as a disposable insert. The clip806functions as the attachment mechanism for securing the attachable aroma therapy element600to the cross bar212. The clip806may couple to the cross bar212adjacent to the vent218to allow the plurality of slots802to align with the vent218.

ReferencingFIG.9, a heated towel rack900is an alternative configuration of the heated towel rack100(as shown inFIG.1) with the plurality of cross bars912being rectangularly shaped such that they have a rectangular profile. The heated towel rack900comprises a forced air heating unit210, at least two lateral supports202, and a plurality of cross bars912. In the heated towel rack100shown inFIG.1, the plurality of cross bars212are generally cylindrical in shape with the plurality of vents218having a semi elliptical profile. In the heated towel rack900, the plurality of cross bars912of the heated towel rack900are rectangular in shape. The plurality of vents218of the plurality of cross bars912may have a rectangular profile. In some configurations, the plurality of vents218may have any shape profile (e.g., elliptical, tear drop, etc.) to vent the forced heated air.

The term “wireless communication” in this context refers to the transfer of information between two or more points that are not connected by an electrical conductor. Common wireless technologies use electromagnetic wireless telecommunications, such as radio. With radio waves distances can be short, such as a few meters for television, or as far as thousands or even millions of kilometers for deep-space radio communications. Wireless communication encompasses various types of fixed, mobile, and portable applications, including two-way radios, cellular telephones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), and wireless networking. Other examples of applications of radio wireless technology include GPS units, garage door openers, wireless computer mice, keyboards and headsets, headphones, radio receivers, satellite television, broadcast television and cordless telephones. Less common methods of achieving wireless communications include the use of light, sound, magnetic, or electric fields.

The term “user interface” in this context refers to logic to receive signals from device inputs such as a mouse, keyboard, or microphone, and to correlate those inputs with visual features rendered on an optical display. A user interface determines how a human operator interacts with and controls a device. User interfaces are comprised of elements with which the human operator interacts to affect device behavior. Examples of user interface elements are (1) command language (text): the operator inputs program-specific instructions or codes into the device, (2) menus: the operator selects elements from displayed lists, (3) buttons: the operator selects (typically by clicking the mouse cursor on) defined areas of the display.

Referring toFIGS.10and11, a towel rack1010includes a base1012and a lateral sidewall1014extending from the base1012. The lateral side wall1014is configured to form an internal space1016. The lateral sidewall1014includes a front lateral sidewall1018and a rear lateral sidewall1020that are coupled together to define the space1016. That is, ends1022of the front lateral sidewall1018are joined to ends1024of the rear lateral sidewall1020so that an apex1026of the front lateral sidewall1018is positioned opposite an apex1028of the rear lateral sidewall1020. In the illustrated embodiment, the front lateral sidewall1018and the rear lateral sidewall1020are integrally formed as a cylinder extending from the base1012. At least one of the front lateral sidewall1018and the rear lateral sidewall1020is configured as a solid wall extending from the base1012to a top1030of the lateral sidewall1014. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the front lateral sidewall1018and the rear lateral sidewall1020includes a solid wall extending from the base1012to the top1030of the lateral sidewall1014. It will be appreciated that, as described below, at least one of the front lateral sidewall1018and the rear lateral sidewall1020can be formed in a non-solid configuration.

The lateral sidewall1014is configured to support at least one towel1040, as shown inFIG.13. That is, the front lateral sidewall1018, the rear lateral sidewall1020, or a combination thereof, is configured to support the at least one towel1040. In the illustrated embodiment, the front lateral sidewall1018is configured to support a first towel1042, and the rear lateral sidewall1020is configured to support a second towel1044. A portion1046of the first towel1042is located in the space1016, and another portion1048of the first towel1042is located adjacent an outer surface1060of the front lateral sidewall1018. A portion1050of the second towel1044is located in the space1016, and another portion1052of the second towel1044is located adjacent an outer surface1062of the rear lateral sidewall1020.

At least one of the front lateral sidewall1018and the rear lateral sidewall1020are configured to provide a fluid flow path which traverses the respective front lateral sidewall1018and rear lateral sidewall1020. In some embodiments, the fluid flow path can also traverse through at least a portion of the base1012. The fluid flow path is in fluid communication with a forced air unit1070that emits air through the fluid flow path. A heating element1072heats the air which is moved via the forced air unit1070through the fluid flow path.FIG.12illustrates various locations for positioning the forced air unit1070and the heating element1072. In one embodiment, the forced air unit1070and the heating element1072are located in the base1012. In another embodiment, the forced air unit1070and the heating element1072are located in the lateral sidewall1014. In yet another embodiment, the forced air unit1070and the heating element1072are located in a combination of the base1012and the lateral sidewall1014.

Referring back toFIGS.10and11, at least one internal vent1080is located in the lateral sidewall1014and in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and configured to emit the air into the space1016. In the illustrated embodiment, at least one front internal vent1082is located in the front lateral sidewall1018, and at least one rear internal vent1084is located in the rear lateral sidewall1020. The at least one front internal vent1082and the at least one rear internal vent1084is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and configured to emit the air into the space1016. At least one front external vent1090is located on the outer surface1060of the front lateral sidewall1018and is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and configured to emit air toward the portion48of the first towel1042located adjacent an outer surface1060of the front lateral sidewall1018. At least one rear external vent1092is located on the outer surface1062of the rear lateral sidewall1020and is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and configured to emit air toward the portion1052of the second towel1044located adjacent an outer surface1062of the rear lateral sidewall1020. An internal vent1080,1082, an external vent1090,1092, or combinations thereof may be located at any place along the vertical dimension of the lateral sidewall1014. At least one top vent1100is located in the top30of the lateral sidewall1014and is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and configured to emit air toward the at least one towel1040. For example, at least one top vent can be located in the top1030of the front lateral sidewall1018, the top1030of the rear lateral sidewall1020, or a combination thereof to emit air toward the first towel1042, the second towel1044, or both. A base vent1102is located in the base1012and is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and configured to emit air into the space1016. The at least one front internal vent1082, the at least one rear internal vent1084, the at least one front external vent1090, the at least one rear external vent1092, the at least one top vent1100, the at least one base vent1102, or any combination thereof can be configured to dry the first towel1042, the second towel1044, or both. The at least one front internal vent1082, the at least one rear internal vent1084, the at least one front external vent1090, the at least one rear external vent1092, the at least one top vent1100, the at least one base vent1102, or any combination thereof can also be configured to heat the first towel1042, the second towel1044, or both. The at least one front internal vent1082, the at least one rear internal vent1084, the at least one front external vent1090, the at least one rear external vent1092, the at least one top vent1100, the at least one base vent1102, or any combination thereof can also be configured to cool the first towel1042, the second towel1044, or both.

Referring toFIGS.14-18, various embodiments of the towel rack1010are illustrated.FIG.14illustrates the towel rack1010having a groove or notch1120extending around a bottom1122of the lateral sidewall1014. The groove1120is configured to receive an end1124of the at least one towel1040. That is, the end1124of the at least one towel1040is tucked into the groove1120so that the towel1040is held tightly against the respective outer surface1060of the front lateral sidewall1018or the outer surface1062of the rear lateral sidewall1020.FIG.15illustrates the towel rack1010, wherein a thickness1130of the top1030of the front lateral sidewall1018and the rear lateral sidewall1020is less than a thickness1132of the bottom1122of the front lateral sidewall1018and the rear lateral sidewall1020. That is, the thickness of the lateral sidewall1014decreases from the base1012to the top1030.FIG.16illustrates the towel rack1010, wherein the thickness1130of the top1030of the front lateral sidewall1018and the rear lateral sidewall1020is greater than the thickness1132of the bottom1122of the front lateral sidewall1018and the rear lateral sidewall1020. That is, the thickness of the lateral sidewall1014increases from the base1012to the top1030.FIG.17illustrates an embodiment of the towel rack1010, wherein the first lateral sidewall1018and the second lateral sidewall1020form an elongated oval extending from the base1012.FIG.18illustrates an embodiment of the towel rack1010, wherein the first lateral sidewall1018and the second lateral sidewall1020form an elongated rectangle extending from the base1012.

Referring now toFIG.19, a towel rack1200includes a base1202and a front lateral sidewall1204and a rear lateral sidewall1206extending from the base1202. The front lateral sidewall1204and the rear lateral sidewall1206are not integrally formed. Ends1210of the front lateral sidewall1204and ends1212of the rear lateral sidewall1206are coupled to a pair of lateral supports1220so that an apex1222of the front lateral sidewall1204and an apex1224of the rear lateral sidewall1206are positioned opposite one another and the front lateral sidewall1204and the rear lateral sidewall1206define a space1230. The towel rack1200can include any of the vents described with respect to the towel rack1010, i.e. at least one front internal vent1082, the at least one rear internal vent1084, the at least one front external vent1090, the at least one rear external vent1092, the at least one top vent1100, the at least one base vent1102, or any combination thereof. The towel rack1200can also include lateral support vents1240located in at least one of the lateral supports1220. The lateral support vents1240can be internal vents, external vents, or both. The towel rack1200can also include any of the configurations described inFIGS.14-18.

FIG.20illustrates an embodiment of the towel rack1200, wherein each of the front lateral sidewall1204and the rear lateral sidewall1206includes a plurality of sidewall segments1300. In some embodiments, only the front lateral sidewall1204includes a plurality of sidewall segments1300. In another embodiment, only the rear lateral sidewall1206includes a plurality of sidewall segments1300. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the sidewall segments1300is equally spaced apart between the top1302of the respective front lateral sidewall1204and rear lateral sidewall1206and the base1202. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the sidewall segments1300can have variable spacing. Also, in the illustrated embodiment, each of the sidewall segments1300has the same thickness1310and height1312.

At least one of the sidewall segments1300includes an internal vent1320that is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and configured to emit air into the space1230. In some embodiments, each of the sidewall segments1300includes an internal vent1320. At least one of the sidewall segments1300includes an external vent1322located in an outer surface1324of the sidewall segment1300that is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and configured to emit air outward. In some embodiment, each of the sidewall segments1300includes an external vent1322. In some embodiments, at least one of the sidewall segments1300includes a top vent1324and/or a bottom vent1326. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.20, fluid flow path extends through the lateral supports1220and each of the plurality of sidewall segments1300that includes an internal vent1320, an external vent1322, a top vent1324, and/or bottom vent1326. The embodiment illustrated inFIG.20can also include lateral support vents1240.

At least two of the sidewall segments1300can have a different thickness1310. The thickness1310of the sidewall segments1300can decrease from the base1202to the top1302. The thickness1310of the sidewall segments1300can increase from the base1202to the top1302. At least two of the sidewall segments1300can have a different height1312. The height1312of the sidewall segments1300can increase from the base1202to the top1302. The height1312of the sidewall segments1300can decrease from the base1202to the top1302.

FIG.21illustrates an embodiment of the towel rack1010including an aromatherapy cartridge1440. It should be noted that the aromatherapy cartridge1440can also be used with the towel rack1200. The aromatherapy cartridge1440includes a housing1442that encloses a solid gel1444having aromatherapy particles. The gel1444is solid so that the aromatherapy cartridge1440can be positioned in any orientation. The housing1442includes vents1446that emit the aromatherapy particles when the gel1444is heated. The gel is activated when the air emitted from the towel rack1010reaches a predetermined temperature. In one embodiment, the predetermined temperature is approximately 225° F.

The aromatherapy cartridge1440can be clipped to the towel rack1010and located adjacent any of the vents described above. Alternatively, the aromatherapy cartridge1440is positioned in a slot1450formed in the towel rack1010and located in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. The slot1450can be arranged in any of the lateral supports or sidewalls1014described herein. In some embodiments, the slot1450is positioned in the base1012. The air emitted through the fluid flow path heats the gel1444to the predetermined temperature so that the aromatherapy particles are distributed in to the space1016.

Referring toFIGS.22and23a towel rack2010for drying, heating, and/or cooling a towel includes a left lateral support2012and a right lateral support2014. An upper cross structure2016and a lower cross structure2018extend between the left lateral support2012and the right lateral support2014. In some embodiments, the upper cross structure2016is differently sized from the lower cross structure2018. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper cross structure2016extends between a top2020of the left lateral support2012and a top2022of the right lateral support2014, and the lower cross structure2018extends between a bottom2024of the left lateral support2012and a bottom2026of the right lateral support2014so that the left lateral support2012, the right lateral support2014, the upper cross structure2016, and the lower cross structure2018form a box or rectangular configuration. In some embodiments, the upper cross structure2016can extend between any portion of the left lateral support2012and the right lateral support2014, and/or the lower cross structure2018can extend between any portion of the left lateral support2012and the right lateral support2014. The upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014are configured to support a towel2030, as shown inFIG.24. The towel2030is configured to be supported so that upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, the right lateral support2014, and the towel2030to form a space2032. The space2032is configured to be at least partially sealed when the towel2030is supported by upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014.

The towel rack2010can be secured to a wall. For example, at least one of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014can be secured to the wall with a bracket. In another embodiment, shown inFIG.28, the towel rack2010includes a base2050. In the illustrated embodiment, the left lateral support2012and the right lateral support2014extend from the base2050, and the lower cross structure2018extends along the base2050. In some embodiments, the lower cross structure2018can extend through the base2050.

Referring back toFIGS.22and23, at least one of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014are configured to provide a fluid flow path which traverses at least one of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014. The towel rack2010includes a forced air unit2040that is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and configured to force air through the fluid flow path. A heating element2042is in fluid communication with the forced air unit2040and configured to heat the air that is moved via the forced air unit2040through the fluid flow path. Referring toFIG.27, the forced air unit2040and the heating element2042can be located in any one the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014. In some embodiments, multiple heating elements can be located in the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014, or combinations thereof. In the embodiment shown inFIG.28, the forced air unit2040and the heating element2042are located in the base2050.

Referring back toFIGS.22and23, a vent2060is located in the at least one of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014. The vent is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and is configured to emit air from the fluid flow path into the space2032. That is, the space2032receives air which emitted from the vent2060from the forced air unit2040. In the illustrated embodiment, the air emitted from the vent2060is heated by the heating element2042to dry and/or heat the towel2030. In some embodiments, the air emitted from the vent2060is not heated by the heating element2042and the air cools the towel2030. A vent2060can be located in two of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014. A vent2060can be located in three of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014. A vent2060can be located in each of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014.

In some embodiments, a lower vent2062is located in an upper surface2080of the lower cross structure2018and configured to emit the air upward into the space2032. An upper vent2064can be located in a lower surface2082the upper cross structure2016and configured to emit the air downward into the space2032. Another lower vent2065can be located in a front surface2084and/or a rear surface2086of the lower cross structure2018and configured to emit air toward a portion of the towel2030. Another upper vent2066can be located in a front surface2088, a rear surface2090, and/or an upper surface2092of the lower cross structure2018and configured to emit air toward a portion of the towel2030. A left lateral vent2068can be located in an inner surface2094of the left lateral support2012and configured to emit air into the space2032. Likewise, a right lateral vent2070can be located in an inner surface2096of the right lateral support2014and configured to emit air into the space2032. Another left lateral vent2072can be located in a front surface98and/or a rear surface100of the left lateral support2012and configured to emit air toward a portion of the towel2030. Another right lateral vent2074can be located in a front surface2102and/or a rear surface2104of the right lateral support2014and configured to emit air toward a portion of the towel2030. It will be appreciated that the towel rack2010can includes any combination of vents2062,2064,2066,2068,2070,2072, and/or2074.

FIGS.25and26illustrate different embodiments for securing the towel2030to the towel rack2010. InFIG.25, the towel2030is secured to at least one of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014with a of clip2120that is secured to the respective one of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014. It will be appreciated that as few as one clip2120can be used to secured the towel2030. It will also be appreciated that a plurality of clips2120can be used to secure the towel2030. InFIG.26, the towel2030is secured into a groove2122form in at least one of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, the right lateral support2014. It will be appreciated that only one of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014can include a groove2122. Alternatively, any combination of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014can include a groove2122. The space2032is configured to be at least partially sealed when the towel2030is secured to at least one of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014. The air emitted into the space2032is configured to be at least partially trapped by the towel when a towel is secured to at least one of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, the left lateral support2012, and the right lateral support2014.

Referring now toFIG.29, a towel rack2200includes all of the elements of the towel rack2010, and additionally includes a plurality of intermediate cross structures2202extending between the left lateral support2012and the right lateral support2014. The intermediate cross structures2202are located between the upper cross structure2016and the lower cross structure2018. Each of the intermediate cross structures2202can include an upper surface vent2204, a lower surface vent2206, a front surface vent2208, a rear surface vent2210, or any combination thereof in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. The upper surface vent2204and the lower surface vent2206of each intermediate cross structure2202can be configured to emit air into the space2032. The front surface vent2208and the rear surface vent2210can be configured to emit air toward a portion of the towel2030.

As illustrated inFIGS.30and31, each of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, and the intermediate cross structures2202include a front panel2220and a back panel2222extending from the respective cross structure2016,18,202. The front panel2220and/or the back panel2222can have an adjustable length2226along an axis2230of the respective cross structure2016,2018,2202. In the illustrated embodiment, each front panel2220includes left front panel2240located adjacent the left lateral support2012and a right front panel2242located adjacent the right lateral support2014. In the illustrated embodiment, each back panel2222includes left back panel2244located adjacent the left lateral support2012and a right back panel2246located adjacent the right lateral support2014. In some embodiments, the front panel2220and/or the back panel2222extends an entire length2250of the respective cross structure2016,2018,2202.

Referring toFIG.32, wherein the front panels2220of each respective cross structure2016,2018,2202extend at an angle relative to the back panels2222. In some embodiments, the front panels2220of only some of the respective cross structures2016,2018,2202extend at an angle relative to the back panels2222. The front panel2220and the back panel2220of at least one respective cross structure2016,2018,2202can extend parallel to a vertical axis2260of the towel rack2010. The front panel2220and the back panel2220of at least one respective cross structure2016,2018,2202can extend at an oblique angle relative to the vertical axis2260of the towel rack2010. The front panel2220of at least one respective cross structure2016,2018,2202extends at an oblique angle relative to the respective back panel2222.

FIG.33illustrates the towel rack2200, wherein the cross structures2016,2018,2202have different diameters. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower cross structure2018has a diameter2300that is greater than a diameter2302of the upper cross structure2016. A diameter2304of the each of the plurality of intermediate cross structures2202is greater than the diameter2302of the upper cross structure2016and less than the diameter2300of the lower cross structure2018. The diameter2304of each of the plurality of intermediate cross structures2202increases when moving from the upper cross structure2016to the lower cross structure2018.

FIGS.34-36illustrate the towel rack shown inFIG.33having different size cross structures2016,2018, and2202, wherein each of the upper cross structure2016, the lower cross structure2018, and the intermediate cross structures2202include the front panel2220and the back panel2222extending from the respective cross structure2016,2018,2202, as described inFIGS.32-34. It will be appreciated that any combination of the cross structures2016,2018,2202, shown inFIGS.36-38, can include the front panel2220and the back panel2222.

Referring toFIG.37, the towel rack2010can include a plurality of intermediate lateral supports2400extending between the upper cross structure2016and the lower cross structure2018. Each of the plurality of intermediate lateral supports2400is located between the left lateral support2012and the right lateral support2014. It will be appreciated that the towel rack2200can also be configured with the plurality of intermediate lateral supports2400so that a lattice2402is formed, as shown inFIG.38. The intermediate supports2400and/or lattice2402can be configured with any combination of vents, as described above, that are in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. Additionally, the plurality of intermediate supports2400and/or lattice2402can be utilized with any of the features described herein.

Referring now toFIG.39, the towel rack2200can include at least one horizontally movable slat2420coupled to the upper cross structure2016. The horizontally movable slat2420may be configured as a strip, a bar, a barrier or a heat capture structure of any material. In some embodiments, the horizontally movable slat2420can also be coupled to the lower cross structure2018. The horizontally movable slat2420is configured to move horizontally along the towel rack2200to an edge of the towel2030so that the towel2030and the horizontally movable slat2420seal the space2032. Accordingly, the towel rack2200can be adjusted to any size towel2030by moving the horizontally movable slat2420. In some embodiments, the towel rack2200includes a pair of horizontally movable slats2420, wherein each horizontally movable slat2420is positioned on one side of the towel2030. The towel2030can be clipped to the horizontally movable slat2420using a clip2120, as set forth inFIG.25. In other embodiments, the horizontally movable slat2420can include a groove2122for securing the towel, as set forth inFIG.26. The horizontally movable slats2420can be cut to slide on the cross structures2016,2018,2202, or over the lattice2402, or over any structure of the disclosed embodiments by being affixed in any manner. The horizontally movable slats2420can also include pins to fix the horizontally movable slats2420at a particular location. In some embodiments, the horizontally movable slats2420can increase heat capture in the towel rack2010,200.

FIG.40illustrates an embodiment of the towel rack2010including an aromatherapy cartridge2440. It should be noted that the aromatherapy cartridge2440can also be used with the towel rack2200. The aromatherapy cartridge2440includes a housing2442that encloses a solid gel2444having aromatherapy particles. The gel2444is solid so that the aromatherapy cartridge2440can be positioned in any orientation. The housing2442includes vents2446that emit the aromatherapy particles when the gel2444is heated. The gel is activated when the air emitted from the towel rack2010reaches a predetermined temperature. In one embodiment, the predetermined temperature is approximately 225° F.

The aromatherapy cartridge2440can be clipped to the towel rack2010and located adjacent any of the vents described above. Alternatively, the aromatherapy cartridge2440is positioned in a slot2450formed in the towel rack2010and located in fluid communication with the fluid flow path. The slot2450can be arranged in any of the lateral supports or cross structures described herein. In some embodiments, the slot2450is positioned in the base2050. The air emitted through the fluid flow path heats the gel2444to the predetermined temperature so that the aromatherapy particles are distributed in to the space2032.

Referring now toFIG.41, a towel rack2500includes a cross structure formed integrally with a pair of lateral supports to form a panel2502. The towel rack2500include at least one vent2504configured to emit air, as described above. The towel rack2500can be positioned on a base, as described above. Additionally, the towel rack2500can include any of the features described inFIGS.22-40, for example, varying degrees of thickness, a slot for an aromatherapy cartridge, the ability to kills pathogens, germs, bacteria, and/or viruses, horizontally moveable slats, a groove to retain the towel, clips, etc.

It will be appreciated that any of the features described above can be reasonably combined to form other embodiments of a towel rack and/or garment rack.

Any theory, mechanism of operation, proof, or finding stated herein is meant to further enhance understanding of principles of the present disclosure and is not intended to make the present disclosure in any way dependent upon such theory, mechanism of operation, illustrative embodiment, proof, or finding. It should be understood that while the use of the word preferable, preferably or preferred in the description above indicates that the feature so described can be more desirable, it nonetheless cannot be necessary and embodiments lacking the same can be contemplated as within the scope of the disclosure, that scope being defined by the claims that follow.

In reading the claims it is intended that when words such as “a,” “an,” “at least one,” “at least a portion” are used there is no intention to limit the claim to only one item unless specifically stated to the contrary in the claim. When the language “at least a portion” and/or “a portion” is used, the item can include a portion and/or the entire item unless specifically stated to the contrary.

It should be understood that only selected embodiments have been shown and described and that all possible alternatives, modifications, aspects, combinations, principles, variations, and equivalents that come within the spirit of the disclosure as defined herein or by any of the following claims are desired to be protected. While embodiments of the disclosure have been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same are to be considered as illustrative and not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the precise forms disclosed. Additional alternatives, modifications and variations can be apparent to those skilled in the art. Also, while multiple inventive aspects and principles have been presented, they need not be utilized in combination, and many combinations of aspects and principles are possible in light of the various embodiments provided above.

The following clauses enumerated consecutively from 1 through 141 provide for various aspects of the present invention. In one embodiment, in a first paragraph (1), the present invention provides: a towel rack comprising:a laterally extending cross structure;a fluid flow path traversing the laterally extending cross structure;a forced air unit positioned in the laterally extending cross structure;a heating element that heats air which is moved via the forced air unit through the fluid flow path; anda vent in fluid communication with the fluid flow path, wherein the laterally extending cross structure is configured to support a towel and cause the towel to receive air which emitted from the vent.2. The towel rack of clause 1, wherein the laterally extending cross structure includes a plurality of cross bars forming a cross bar conduit.3 The towel rack of clause 2, wherein the plurality of cross bars extends between a first lateral support and a second lateral support.4. The towel rack of clause 2, wherein the plurality of cross bars includes:a first plurality of cross bars forming a first cross bar conduit; anda second plurality of cross bars forming a second cross bar conduit.5. The towel rack of clause 2, wherein the vent includes:a first vent traversing the first cross bar conduit; anda second vent traversing the second cross bar conduit.6. The towel rack of clause 2, wherein the second cross bar conduit is larger than the first cross bar conduit.7. The towel rack of clause 1, wherein the laterally extending cross structure includes:a first lateral sidewall extending from a base; anda second lateral sidewall extending from the base.8. The towel rack of clause 7, wherein ends of the first lateral sidewall and ends of the second lateral sidewall are configured to form a space between the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall.9. The towel rack of clause 8, wherein the vent is configured to emit the airinto the space.10. The towel rack of clause 1, further comprising:a first lateral support;a second lateral support,wherein the laterally extending cross structure extends between the first lateral support and the second lateral support, wherein the fluid flow path traverses the laterally extending cross structure and at least one of the first lateral support and the second lateral support.11. The towel rack of clause 10, wherein the vent is located in at least one of the laterally extending cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support and is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path.12. The towel rack of clause 11, wherein the laterally extending cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support are configured to cause the towel to form a space which receives the air which emitted from the vent.13. The towel rack of clause 10, wherein the laterally extending cross structure is formed integrally with the first lateral support and the second lateral support as a panel and the cross structure extends from a base.14. The towel rack of clause 1, wherein the cross structure is formed in a lattice configuration.15. The towel rack of clause 1, further comprising an aromatherapy cartridge in fluid communication with the fluid flow path so that the air emitted from the vent is mixed with aromatherapy particles from the aromatherapy cartridge.16. The towel rack of clause 1, wherein the towel rack is configured to kill at least one of a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.17. The towel rack of clause 1, further comprising a horizontally moveable slat that slides along the laterally extending cross structure to facilitate increasing heat capture.18. The towel rack of clause 1, wherein the towel rack is configured to heat an article, garment, or towel to a pre-selected temperature in a range of 135° F.-220° F. and maintain that pre-selected temperature for a pre-selected period of time in a range of 10 sec.-120 min.19. The towel rack of clause 18, wherein the towel rack is further configured to cool the article, garment, or towel to a temperature which is less than the pre-selected temperature.20. A towel rack comprising:a first section, wherein the first section comprises a plurality of first section cross bars coupled thereto and wherein each of the plurality of first section cross bars comprise a first section cross bar conduit;at least one first section vent, wherein the at least one first section vent traverses the first section cross bar conduit of at least one of the plurality of first section cross bars;a second section, wherein the second section comprises a plurality of second section cross bars coupled thereto and wherein each of the plurality of second section cross bars comprise a second section cross bar conduit;at least one second section vent, wherein the at least one second section vent traverses the second section cross bar conduit of at least one of the plurality of second section cross bars;a plurality of lateral supports, wherein the first section and the second section are fluidly connected via the plurality of lateral supports;at least one forced air unit in fluid communication with a channel within the plurality of lateral supports;wherein the channel within the plurality of lateral supports is in fluid communication with the at least one first section vent, the at least one second section vent, or combinations thereof, and wherein the second section cross bar conduit is larger than the first section cross bar conduit.21. The towel rack of clause 20, further comprising at least one heating element and a controller, wherein the at least one forced air unit comprises an air moving component, and wherein the controller is operatively coupled to the at least one heating element and the air moving component to control air temperature and flow through the at least one vent.22. The towel rack of clause 21, wherein the at least one heating element is located in the at least one forced air unit.23. The towel rack of clause 21, wherein the at least one heating element is located in at least one of the plurality of lateral supports.24. The towel rack of clause 21, wherein the at least one heating element is located in the first section.25. The towel rack of clause 21, wherein the at least one heating element is located in the second section.26. The towel rack of clause 20, wherein the plurality of lateral supports comprise a first lateral support and a second lateral support, wherein the at least one forced air unit is coupled to the first lateral support.27. The towel rack of clause 26, wherein at least one stopper is obstructively positioned within the conduit proximal to the second lateral support.28. The towel rack of clause 26, comprising a plurality of stoppers obstructively positioned within at least one first section cross bar conduit, at least one second section cross bar conduit, or combinations thereof, and proximal to the second lateral support.29. The towel rack of clause 20, further comprising an attachable aroma therapy element comprising a clip, a housing, at least one slot, and a scented compound, wherein:the scented compound is positioned within the housing;the at least one slot traverses the housing;the attachable aroma therapy element is coupled to at least one of the plurality of first section cross bars or to at least one of the plurality of first section cross bars adjacent to at least one first section vent or at least one second section vent by way of the clip; andthe at least one slot is operatively aligned with the at least one first section vent or the at least one second section vent.30. The towel rack of clause 20, wherein at least two of the plurality of first section cross bars comprise at least one first section vent, at least two of the plurality of second section cross bars comprise at least one second section vent, or combinations thereof.31. A method for assembling a towel drying rack, the method comprising:connecting one or more lateral supports to a plurality of cross bars, wherein a first portion of the plurality of cross bars constitutes a first section of the towel drying rack, and wherein a second portion of the plurality of cross bars constitutes a second section of the towel drying rack, and wherein a second section cross bar conduit is larger than a first section cross bar conduit;fluidly connecting a channel within at least one of the lateral supports to at least one first section cross bar conduit and at least one second section cross bar conduit;fluidly connecting at least one vent formed into at least one of the plurality of cross bars to at least one first section cross bar conduit or at least one second section cross bar conduit; andfluidly connecting a forced air unit to at least one of the channel within at least one of the lateral supports, at least one first section cross bar conduit, and at least one second section cross bar conduit.32. The method of clause 31, further comprising:directing airflow, by the forced air unit, into the channel within the at least one of the lateral supports;directing airflow from the channel into the at least one first section cross bar conduit, the at least one second section cross bar conduit, or combinations thereof; anddirecting airflow from the at least one first section cross bar conduit, the at least one second section cross bar conduit, or combinations thereof out of the at least one vent formed into at least one of the plurality of cross bars toward a towel or garment.33. The method of clause 31, further comprising fluidly connecting one or more heating elements to one or more of the forced air unit, each conduit of the plurality of cross bars, and the channel.34. The method of clause 33, further comprising heating airflow generated by the forced air unit before the airflow exits the at least one vent formed into at least one of the plurality of cross bars.35. The method of clause 31, further comprising connecting a controller to one or more of the elements of the towel drying rack; and manually or remotely controlling the operation of the towel drying rack via the controller.36. The method of clause 31, further comprising attaching an aroma therapy element over at least one vent formed into the at least one of the plurality of cross bars.37. A garment drying rack comprising:at least one lateral support comprising a channel within an interior of the lateral support;at least one forced air unit in fluid communication with the channel and configured to generate airflow into the channel;a plurality of cross bars, wherein each of the plurality of cross bars comprise a conduit positioned within an interior of each of the plurality of cross bars, wherein the conduit of each of the plurality of cross bars is in fluid communication with the channel, wherein a first portion of the plurality of cross bars constitutes a first section of the garment drying rack, and wherein a second portion of the plurality of cross bars constitutes a second section of the garment drying rack, and wherein a second section cross bar conduit is larger than a first section cross bar conduit; anda plurality of vents, wherein at least a first vent of the plurality of vents is in fluid communication with a first conduit of one of the plurality of cross bars and wherein at least a second vent of the plurality of vents is in fluid communication with a second conduit of one of the plurality of cross bars.38. The garment drying rack of clause 37, further comprising one or more heating elements in fluid communication with one or more of the forced air unit, the conduit positioned within the interior of each of the plurality of cross bars, and the channel, wherein the one or more heating elements are configured to heat the airflow before it exits the plurality of vents.39. The garment drying rack of clause 37, further comprising at least one aroma therapy element positioned over at least one of the plurality of vents configured to provide a scent that is spread via the airflow exiting the at least one of the plurality of vents.40. A method of heating an article, garment, or towel to a pre-selected temperature in a range of 135° F.-220° F. and maintaining that pre-selected temperature for a pre-selected period of time in a range of 10 sec.-120 min.41. The method of clause 40, further comprising the article, garment, or towel in contact with the towel rack as disclosed in any one of clauses 20 through 30.42. The method of clause 40, further comprising the article, garment, or towel in contact with the garment drying rack as disclosed in any one of clauses 37 through 39.43. The method of clause 40, clause 41, or clause 42, further comprising cooling the article, garment, or towel to a temperature which is less than the pre-selected temperature.44. The towel rack of any of clauses 20 through 30, wherein the towel rack is configured to heat an article, garment, or towel to a pre-selected temperature in a range of 135° F.-220° F. and maintain that pre-selected temperature for a pre-selected period of time in a range of 10 sec.-120 min.45. The towel rack of clause 44, wherein the towel rack is further configured to cool the article, garment, or towel to a temperature which is less than the pre-selected temperature.46. The garment drying rack of any of clauses 37 through 39, wherein the garment drying rack is configured to heat an article, garment, or towel to a pre-selected temperature in a range of 135° F.-220° F. and maintain that pre-selected temperature for a pre-selected period of time in a range of 10 sec.-120 min.47. The garment drying rack of clause 46, wherein the garment drying rack is further configured to cool the article, garment, or towel to a temperature which is less than the pre-selected temperature.48. The method of clause 40, wherein the heating is sufficient to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.49. The method of clause 41, wherein the heating is sufficient to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.50. The method of clause 42, wherein the heating is sufficient to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.51. The method of clause 43, wherein the heating is sufficient to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.52. The towel rack of clause 44, wherein the towel rack is configured to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.53. The towel rack of clause 45, wherein the towel rack is configured to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.54. The garment drying rack of clause 46, wherein the garment drying rack is configured to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.55. The garment drying rack of clause 47, wherein the garment drying rack is configured to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.56. A towel rack comprising:a base;a first lateral sidewall extending from the base;a second lateral sidewall extending from the base, wherein ends of the first lateral sidewall and ends of the second lateral sidewall are configured to form a space between the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall, wherein at least one of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall are configured to provide a fluid flow path which traverses the respective first lateral sidewall and second lateral sidewall;a forced air unit;a heating element to heat air which is moved via the forced air unit through the fluid flow path;an internal vent located in the at least one of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall and in fluid communication with the fluid flow path and configured to emit the air into the space, wherein the first lateral sidewall, the second lateral sidewall, or a combination thereof, is configured to support at least one towel.57. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein the first lateral sidewall is configured to support a first towel, and the second lateral sidewall is configured to support a second towel.58. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein the ends of the first lateral sidewall are coupled to the ends of the second lateral sidewall.59. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein the forced air unit is located in the base.60. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein the at least one towel is dried by the air emitted into the space.61. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein the at least one towel is heated by the air emitted into the space.62. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein the at least one towel is cooled by the air emitted into the space.63. The towel rack of clause 56, further comprising an external vent located in an outer surface of the first lateral sidewall, wherein the internal vent is configured to emit air toward a portion of the at least one towel located in the space, and the external vent is configured to emit air toward a portion of the at least one towel that is located adjacent the outer surface of the first lateral sidewall.64. The towel rack of clause 63, wherein the at least one towel is dried by the air emitted by the external vent.65. The towel rack of clause 63, wherein the at least one towel is heated by the air emitted by the external vent.66. The towel rack of clause 63, wherein the at least one towel is cooled by the air emitted by the external vent.67. The towel rack of clause 56, further comprising an external vent located in an outer surface of the second lateral sidewall, wherein the internal vent is configured to emit air toward a portion of the at least one towel located in the space, and the external vent is configured to emit air toward a portion of the at least one towel that is located adjacent the outer surface of the second lateral sidewall.68. The towel rack of clause 67, wherein the at least one towel is dried by the air emitted by the external vent.69. The towel rack of clause 67, wherein the at least one towel is heated by the air emitted by the external vent.70. The towel rack of clause 67, wherein the at least one towel is cooled by the air emitted by the external vent.71. The towel rack of clause 56, further comprising:a first external vent located in an outer surface of the first lateral sidewall; anda second external vent located in an outer surface of the second lateral sidewall, wherein the internal vent is configured to emit air toward portions of a first towel and a second towel located in the space,wherein the first external vent is configured to emit air toward a portion of the first towel that is located adjacent the outer surface of the first lateral sidewall, andwherein the second external vent is configured to emit air toward a portion of the second towel that is located adjacent the outer surface of the second lateral sidewall.72. The towel rack of clause 71, wherein:the first towel and the second towel are dried by the air emitted into the space,the first towel is dried by the air emitted by the first external vent, andthe second towel is dried by the air emitted by the second external vent.73. The towel rack of clause 71, wherein:the first towel and the second towel are heated by the air emitted into the space,the first towel is heated by the air emitted by the first external vent, andthe second towel is heated by the air emitted by the second external vent.74. The towel rack of clause 71, wherein:the first towel and the second towel are cooled by the air emitted into the space,the first towel is cooled by the air emitted by the first external vent, andthe second towel is cooled by the air emitted by the second external vent.75. The towel rack of clause 56, further comprising a base vent located in the base and configured to emit air upward into the space.76. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall are not integrally formed.77. The towel rack of clause 76, further comprising:a first lateral support, wherein a first end of the first lateral sidewall is coupled to a first end of the second lateral sidewall by the first lateral support; anda second lateral support, wherein a second end of the first lateral sidewall is coupled to a second end of the second lateral sidewall by the second lateral support.78. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall form a cylinder extending from the base.79. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall form an elongated oval extending from the base.80. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall form an elongated rectangle extending from the base.81. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein at least one of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall comprises a solid wall extending between a top and the base.82. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein at least one of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall comprises sidewall segments that are spaced apart between a top and the base.83. The towel rack of clause 82, wherein both of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall comprise sidewall segments that are spaced apart between a top and the base.84. The towel rack of clause 82, wherein each of the sidewall segments is equally spaced apart between the top and the base.85. The towel rack of clause 82, wherein each of the sidewall segments has the same thickness.86. The towel rack of clause 82, wherein at least two of the sidewall segments have a different thickness.87. The towel rack of clause 86, wherein a thickness of the sidewall segments increases from the base to the top.88. The towel rack of clause 86, wherein a thickness of the sidewall segments decreases from the base to the top.89. The towel rack of clause 82, wherein each of the sidewall segments has the same height.90. The towel rack of clause 82, wherein at least two of the sidewall segments have a different height.91. The towel rack of clause 90, wherein a height of the sidewall segments increases from the base to the top.92. The towel rack of clause 90, wherein a height of the sidewall segments decreases from the base to the top.93. The towel rack of clause 82, wherein at least one of the sidewall segments includes an internal vent.94. The towel rack of clause 82, wherein each of the sidewall segments includes an internal vent.95. The towel rack of clause 82, wherein at least one of the sidewall segments includes an external vent located in an outer surface of the sidewall segment.96. The towel rack of clause 82, wherein each of the sidewall segments includes an external vent located in an outer surface of the sidewall segment.97. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein at least one of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall includes a top vent located in a top surface of the respective first lateral sidewall and second lateral sidewall.98. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein a thickness of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall increases from the base to the top.99. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein a thickness of the first lateral sidewall and the second lateral sidewall decreases from the base to the top.100. The towel rack of clause 56, further comprising an aromatherapy cartridge in fluid communication with the fluid flow path so that the air emitted from the vent is mixed with aromatherapy particles from the aromatherapy cartridge.101. The towel rack of clause 56, wherein the towel rack is configured to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.102. A towel rack comprising:a first lateral support;a second lateral support;a cross structure extending between the first lateral support and the second lateral support, wherein at least one of the cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support is configured to provide a fluid flow path which traverses at least one of the cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support;a forced air unit;a heating element that heats air which is moved via the forced air unit through the fluid flow path; anda vent is located in at least one of the cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support and is in fluid communication with the fluid flow path, wherein the cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support are further configured to support a towel and cause the towel to form a space which receives air which emitted from the vent.103. The towel rack of clause 102, wherein the vent is configured to emit the air toward a portion of the towel.104. The towel rack of clause 102, wherein the cross structure includes a lower cross structure and an upper cross structure.105. The towel rack of clause 104, wherein the vent is located in the lower cross structure and configured to emit the air in any direction.106. The towel rack of clause 104, wherein the vent is located in the upper cross structure and configured to emit the air in any direction.107. The towel rack of clause 104 wherein a vent is located in two of the lower cross structure, the upper cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support.108. The towel rack of clause 104, wherein a vent is located in three of the lower cross structure, the upper cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support.109. The towel rack of clause 104, wherein a vent is located in each of the lower cross structure, the upper cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support.110. The towel rack of clause 104, wherein:a lower cross structure vent is located in the lower cross structure and configured to emit air in any direction,an upper cross structure vent is located in the upper cross structure and configured to emit air in any direction,a first lateral support vent is located in the first lateral support and configured to emit air in any direction, anda second lateral support vent is located in the second lateral support and configured to emit air in any direction.111. The towel rack of clause 104, wherein at least one of the lower cross structure and the upper cross structure comprises:a first vent configured to emit air in any direction, anda second vent configured to emit air toward the towel.112. The towel rack of clause 111, wherein the second vent is located on at least one of a front and back of the at least one of the lower cross structure and the upper cross structure.113. The towel rack of clause 111, wherein the first vent is located on at least one of a top and bottom of the at least one of the lower cross structure and the upper cross structure.114. The towel rack of clause 104, wherein the lower cross structure is differently sized from the upper cross structure.115. The towel rack of clause 104, further comprising a plurality of intermediate cross structures extending between the first lateral support and the second lateral support between the lower cross structure and the upper cross structure.116. The towel rack of clause 115, wherein the lower cross structure has a diameter that is different than a diameter of the upper cross structure.117. The towel rack of clause 116, wherein each of the plurality of intermediate cross structures has a different diameter, wherein the diameter of the each of the plurality of intermediate cross structures is different than the diameter of the lower cross structure and the diameter of the upper cross structure.118. The towel rack of clause 117, wherein the diameter of each of the plurality of intermediate cross structures increases when moving from the lower cross structure to the upper cross structure.119. The towel rack of clause 117, wherein the diameter of each of the plurality of intermediate cross structures decreases when moving from the lower cross structure to the upper cross structure.120. The towel rack of clause 104, further comprising a plurality of intermediate lateral supports extending between the lower cross structure and the upper cross structure between the first lateral support and the second lateral support.121. The towel rack of clause 102, wherein the cross structure is formed in a lattice configuration.122. The towel rack of clause 102, further comprising a base, wherein the first lateral support and the second lateral support extend from the base.123. The towel rack of clause 122, wherein the cross structure is formed integrally with the first lateral support and the second lateral support as a panel and the cross structure extends from the base.124. The towel rack of clause 123, wherein the cross structure houses the forced air unit and the heating element.125. The towel rack of clause 122, wherein the base houses the forced air unit and the heating element.126. The towel rack of clause 102, wherein the forced air unit and the heating element are housed in one of the first lateral support and the second lateral support.127. The towel rack of clause 102, wherein the space is configured to be at least partially sealed when a towel is supported by the cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support.128. The towel rack of clause 127, wherein the air emitted into the space is configured to be at least partially trapped by the towel when a towel is supported by the cross structure, the first lateral support, and the second lateral support.129. The towel rack of clause 102, wherein the cross structure further comprises a front panel and a back panel extending from the cross structure to support the towel.130. The towel rack of clause 129, wherein the front panel extends at an angle relative to the back panel.131. The towel rack of clause 129, wherein at least one of the front panel and the back panel extends parallel to a vertical axis.132. The towel rack of clause 129, wherein at least one of the front panel and the back panel extends at an oblique angle to a vertical axis.133. The towel rack of clause 129, wherein at least one of the front panel and the back panel has an adjustable length along an axis of the cross structure.134. The towel rack of clause 129, wherein the front panel includes:a first front panel located adjacent the first lateral support, and a second front panel located adjacent the second lateral support.135. The towel rack of clause 129, wherein the back panel includes:a first back panel located adjacent the first lateral support, anda second back panel located adjacent the second lateral support.136. The towel rack of clause 129, wherein at least one of the front panel and the back panel extends an entire length of the cross structure.137. The towel rack of clause 129, further comprising a plurality of cross structures extending between the first lateral support and the second lateral support, wherein each of the plurality of cross structures includes a respective front panel and back panel.138. The towel rack of clause 102, further comprising an aromatherapy cartridge in fluid communication with the fluid flow path so that the air emitted from the vent is mixed with aromatherapy particles from the aromatherapy cartridge.139. The towel rack of clause 102, wherein the towel rack is configured to kill a pathogen, germ, bacterium, a virus, or combinations thereof.140. The towel rack of clause 102, further comprising a horizontally moveable slat that slides along the cross structure to facilitate increasing heat capture.141. The towel rack of clause 102, wherein the cross structure is formed integrally with the first lateral support and the second lateral support as a panel.