Patent Publication Number: US-2003230688-A1

Title: Merchandise display hooks and merchandise suspension arms used therein

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0001] 1. Field of the Invention  
       [0002] The present invention relates to article display hooks which are employed for displaying a large number of articles such as merchandise enclosed in packages having hangers or through holes at the upper end, and to article suspension arms used therein.  
       [0003] 2. Description of the Related Art  
       [0004] A method for suspending articles of merchandise on horizontal metal arms by hangers or through holes provided at the upper end of packages enclosing the articles is widely employed for effectively displaying a large number of articles of merchandise. For example, a merchandise display unit  80  shown in FIG. 16(A) has been used. The display unit  80 , as shown in FIG. 16(A) comprises a hook  82  with a substantially ⊃-like cross section which engages by a downward recess  83  with a horizontal bar material  89  composed of an angular steel tube, and a metal arm  84  in which a rear end portion  86  is welded W to the upper surface of the hook  82 . A gradually inclined section  85  obtained by bending is positioned at the distal end of arm  84 .  
       [0005] A merchandise display unit  81  shown in FIG. 16(B) has also been used. The display unit  81 , as shown in FIG. 16(B), comprises a hook  82  identical to the above-described hook and a pair of long and short arms  84 ,  87  parallel to each other and connected by a vertical section  88  at the rear ends thereof, those arms having inclined sections  85  at the distal ends thereof and being welded W to the hook  82  in the same manner as described above. The hook  82  was obtained by bending a steel sheet, and arms  84 ,  87  were obtained by bending after chamfering both ends of small-diameter steel rods to obtain a semispherical surface thereon. The upper arm  87  shown in FIG. 16(B), is used for fitting a merchandise display plate (not shown in the figure) on the inclined section  85  and supporting the plate thereon.  
       [0006] The hooks  82  and arms  84 ,  87  of aforesaid display units  80 ,  81  are corrosion protected, for example, by chromium plating, over the entire surface after the above-mentioned welding W.  
       [0007] On the other hand, a merchandise display unit  90  has also been used which is designed, as shown in FIGS.  16 (C), (c), for being supported on a metal net N fabricated by arranging a plurality of horizontal wires and a plurality of vertical wires in a grid-like fashion and spot welding in the intersection points. This merchandise display unit  90  comprises a base plate  97  comprising at the upper end thereof a pair of hangers  98  and a hanging groove  99  for hanging on a horizontal wire of net N, and an arm  92  fixed to the base plate  97  by welding W the vertical section  94  located at the rear end of the arm. An inclined section  93  is positioned at the distal end of this arm  92 .  
       [0008] A merchandise display unit  91  shown in FIG. 16(D) has also been used. This merchandise display unit  91 , as shown in FIG. 16(D), comprises a base plate  97  identical to the above-described base plate and a pair of long and short arms  92 ,  96  welded W to a vertical section  94  at the rear ends thereof, extending horizontally and parallel to each other from the upper part and lower part, and having inclined sections  93 ,  95  at the distal ends thereof.  
       [0009] The base plates  97  and arms  92 ,  96  of aforesaid display units  90 ,  91  are corrosion protected, for example, by chromium plating, over the entire surface after the above-mentioned welding W.  
       [0010] However, the problem associated with merchandise display units  80 ,  81 ,  90 ,  91  was that because they had to be used separately in a configuration comprising one arm  84 ,  92  and a configuration comprising two arms  84 ,  87  or  92 ,  96 , the number of structural components required for merchandise display was large and the stock was increased. Another problem was that because chamfering of both ends of steel rods, bending of steel plates or steel rods, welding W and plating were required for each merchandise display unit  80 ,  81 ,  90 ,  91 , the number of production processes was large and the cost was increased. Moreover, because the entire structure was from a metal, it had a large weight. Moreover, when the merchandise configuration in the selling space is changed, it is necessary to replace the merchandise display units  80 ,  81 ,  90 ,  91 , which requires much labor and efforts. In addition, because all merchandise display units had metal-plated inorganic surfaces, it was difficult to match the marketing concept of each selling space.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0011] It is an object of the present invention to resolve the above-described problems inherent to the conventional technology and to provide a merchandise display hook such that the number of arms can be easily adjusted with a small number of components, the number of production processes and cost can be reduced, and the merchandise arrangement can be changed rapidly, the hook also being such that it can be matched easily with the marketing concept of each selling space, and also to provide a merchandise suspension arm which is used in the hook.  
       [0012] In order to attain the above-described object, the present invention was based on a concept of providing a article suspension arm and a hook for supporting the arm separately from each other so that they can be assembled and molding the arm and hook mainly from a synthetic resin.  
       [0013] Thus, the first article display hook ( 1 ) in accordance with the present invention comprises a downward recess for engagement with a horizontal bar material, a first groove provided substantially horizontally and substantially orthogonal to the bar material at the upper surface, a first fixing orifice provided substantially perpendicular to the bottom portion of the first groove, a second groove provided substantially vertically and substantially orthogonal to the bar material at the rear surface, and a second fixing orifice provided substantially horizontally on the bottom portion of the second groove, the hook being substantially entirely composed of a synthetic resin.  
       [0014] With such a hook, a first arm having a vertical insertion section at the rear end can be engaged with and supported in the first groove and first fixing groove, and a second arm with a rear end having a substantially ⊃-like shape can be engaged with and supported in the second groove and second fixing groove. Therefore, one or two arms can be selected and supported by using at least one of the first arm and second arm. As a result, the number of components that have to be selling spaced can be decreased and the number of production processes and cost are reduced by comparison with those of the conventional merchandise display units. Moreover, because substantially the entire structure is composed of a synthetic resin, it has a small weight and can be imparted with any color or design. Therefore, by selecting the first arm and second arm, it is possible to change easily the merchandise arrangement or merchandise configuration in the selling space and satisfy the requirements of marketing concept of each selling space. In the present specification, the rear surface indicates the position on the side opposite to the front surface side representing the marketing space where the protruding arm is located.  
       [0015] The first article display hook also includes a hook ( 2 ) in which at least one of the first groove and second groove comprises a pair of opening edges that can be elastically deformed and are narrower than the inner diameter of the groove with a substantially round cross section.  
       [0016] With such a hook, the first and second arms can be strongly supported on the hook, the risk of the arms being inadvertently pulled out from the hook or shaken is avoided, and a large number of articles can be displayed while being suspended in a stable state.  
       [0017] Furthermore, the second article display hook ( 3 ) in accordance with the present invention comprises a downward recess for engagement with a horizontal bar material, a through hole provided substantially horizontally and substantially orthogonal to the bar material in the vicinity of the upper surface, a vertical hole provided substantially vertically and substantially orthogonal to the bar material in the vicinity of the rear surface and linked to the rear end of the through hole, a vertical hook-shaped recess provided close to the rear end of the through hole and at the upper end of the vertical hole, the hook being substantially entirely composed of a synthetic resin, wherein when a vertical insertion section at the rear end side of a second arm is inserted in the vertical hole, a hook-shaped projection provided on the second arm is fitted into the hook-shaped recess, and when the first arm is inserted into the through hole, a protrusion at the lower end in the hook-shaped projection of the second arm is fitted into an upward notch provided at the rear end of the first arm.  
       [0018] With such a hook, the protrusion at the lower end of the hook-shaped projection provided in the vertical insertion section of the second arm inserted in the vertical hole is fit into the notch provided at the rear end of the first arm inserted into the through hole. At the same time, when the second arm is inserted into the vertical hole, the hook-shaped projection provided in the vertical insertion section at the rear end side of the second arm is fit into the hook-shaped recess. Therefore, the first and second arms can be strongly supported in a state in which they are joined to each other. Further, when only the first arm is supported, a plugging piece that can be inserted into the groove having a protrusion and the above-mentioned hook-shaped projection is used instead of the second arm.  
       [0019] On the other hand, the third article display hook ( 4 ) in accordance with the present invention comprises a hook body comprising a hanger for hanging on a horizontal wire comprised in a net in which wires are arranged in a grid-like fashion in the longitudinal and lateral direction, a groove with a substantially ⊃-like shape in the side view thereof which is open at the front surface side below the hanger, depressions positioned on both sides and the front surface side of the groove, and small-diameter portions enclosed in the depressions, the entire hook body having integral configuration and being substantially entirely composed of a synthetic resin, and an arm fixing section comprising integrally a circular arc groove opposing the vertical portion of the groove, an engagement groove having the circular arc groove on the bottom surface, a pair of elastically deformable foot sections extending from both sides of the engagement groove to the rear surface side for individual insertion into the depressions on both sides, and a pair of stopping protrusions formed opposite the distal end of the pair of foot sections for stopping at the rear surface of the small-diameter portion enclosed in the depressions, the arm fixing section being substantially entirely composed of a synthetic resin.  
       [0020] With such a hook, at least one of the two arms having an insertion section at the rear end thereof, or an arm unit comprising two parallel arms and having a ⊃-like shape containing a vertical insertion section at the rear end can be selectively engaged with the ⊃-like groove of hook body and the circular arc groove of the arm fixing section engaging therewith and can be strongly supported without longitudinal or lateral waggles.  
       [0021] As a result, the number of components that have to be selling spaced can be decreased and the number of production processes and cost are reduced by comparison with those of the conventional merchandise display units. Moreover, because substantially the entire structure is composed of a synthetic resin, it has a small weight and can be imparted with any color or design. Therefore, by selecting any of the arms, it is possible to change easily the merchandise arrangement or merchandise configuration in the selling space and satisfy the requirements of marketing concept of each selling space.  
       [0022] The first, second, and third article display hooks also include a hook ( 5 ) in which a metal reinforcing plate with a substantially ⊃-like or L-like cross section is provided in a buried condition along the recess, or a metal reinforcing plate is provided in a buried condition along the hanger of the hook body and has a cross section similar in shape to that of the hanger. With such a hook, the vicinity of the recess of the first and second hook for display or the vicinity of the hanger of the third hook for display is reinforced with the metal reinforcing plate provided in a buried condition. For this reason, the appearance of cracks or plastic deformation such as elongation and the like in the vicinity of the recess and hanger can be reliably prevented and a stable article display function can be demonstrated over a long period even when a large number of articles are suspended on one or two arms supported on the hooks.  
       [0023] In addition to the below-described arms, the conventional thin and long steel bars may be used in the first, second, and third article display hooks upon bending and plating.  
       [0024] The article suspension arm ( 6 ) in accordance with the present invention has a rear end side thereof supported on a article display hook comprising a downward recess for engagement with a horizontal bar material, or a hanger for hanging on a horizontal wire comprised in a net in which wires are arranged in a grid-like fashion in the longitudinal and lateral direction, the arm comprising a metal rod arranged along the center of the arm, and a synthetic resin covering the periphery of the metal rod, including both ends thereof.  
       [0025] With such a configuration, when a thin long steel wire is cut and bent without chamfering or plating and then set, for example, in an injection molding die and the die is filled with a molten resin, an arm is obtained which is entirely coated with the synthetic resin and has any color or design on the surface.  
       [0026] Therefore, the weight of the article suspension arm itself can be reduced by comparison with the conventional arms, and when the arm is matched with the above-described first and second article display hooks, the selling space itself can be made more colorful and the marketing concept of the selling space can be represented even easier. Further, in the below-described various modes, the arms can comprise a horizontal section, an inclined section at the distal end thereof, and a vertical insertion section at the rear end of the horizontal section, and the hook-shaped projection and the like can be provided integrally, as in the arm supported on the second hook, with the resin covering the periphery of the arm.  
       [0027] The fourth article display hook ( 7 ) in accordance with the present invention is composed of a pair of left and right resin semi-units that can be joined together, wherein each of the pair of resin semi-units comprises a downward recess for engagement with a horizontal bar material, a substantially horizontal first groove open at the front surface side at mutually joining surfaces, and a second groove linked to the rear end side of the first groove, formed substantially vertically, and having the upper end thereof open on the upper surface of each resin semi-unit.  
       [0028] With such a configuration, the pair of left and right semi-units can be joined together and supported by hanging the recess thereof on the horizontal bar material in a state in which the horizontal portion of the third article suspension arm with a substantially L-like rear end portion is inserted into the first groove and the rear end portion is inserted into the lower, substantially half portion of the second groove. Furthermore, the pair of left and right semi-units can be also joined together and supported by hanging the recess thereof on the horizontal bar material in a state in which the lower horizontal portion of the fourth article suspension arm, in which the rear end portion has a substantially ⊃-like shape and which has pairs of substantially parallel upper and lower inclined portions and horizontal portions, is inserted into the first groove and the rear end thereof is inserted into the upper, substantially half portion of the second groove. Thus, the third arm comprising one horizontal portion for suspending articles and the fourth arm having two horizontal portions can be selected appropriately and sandwiched in the grooves of the pair of resin semi-units, followed by joining the semi-units together.  
       [0029] For this reason, the number of components that have to be selling spaced can be decreased and the number of production processes and cost are reduced by comparison with those for the conventional merchandise display units. Moreover, because substantially the entire structure is composed of a synthetic resin, it has a small weight and can be imparted with any color or design. Therefore, by selecting the third arm and fourth arm, it is possible to change easily the merchandise arrangement or merchandise configuration in the selling space and satisfy the requirements of marketing concept of each selling space.  
       [0030] In the present specification, the front surface indicates the selling space side where the protruding arm is located.  
       [0031] The fifth article display hook ( 8 ) in accordance with the present invention is composed of a pair of left and right resin semi-units that can be joined together, wherein each of the pair of resin semi-units comprises a hanger for hanging on a horizontal wire of a net in which wires are arranged in a grid-like fashion in the longitudinal and lateral direction, and a groove with a substantially ⊃-like shape in the side view thereof which has both ends open in the upper and lower parts of mutually joining surfaces on the front surface side thereof. With such a configuration, the pair of left and right semi-units can be joined together and supported by hanging the hanger thereof on the horizontal wire of the net in a state in which a substantially L-like rear end portion of the third article suspension arm is inserted into the upper horizontal portion and the upper, substantially half of the vertical portion in the ⊃-like groove. Further, the pair of left and right semi-units can be also joined together and supported by hanging the hanger thereof on the horizontal wire of the net in a state in which the substantially ⊃-like rear end portion of the fourth article suspension arm having pairs of substantially parallel upper and lower inclined portions and horizontal portions is inserted into the entire ⊃-like groove.  
       [0032] Thus, because the third and fourth arms can be selected, the number of components that have to be selling spaced can be decreased and the number of production processes and cost are reduced by comparison with those for the conventional merchandise display units. Moreover, because substantially the entire structure is composed of a synthetic resin, it has a small weight and can be imparted with any color or design. Therefore, it is possible to change easily the merchandise arrangement or merchandise configuration in the selling space and satisfy the requirements of marketing concept of each selling space.  
       [0033] Furthermore, the present invention also includes the article display hook ( 9 ), wherein the pair of left and right resin semi-units comprise at the mutually joining surfaces thereof depressions or convex sections that can be engaged with each other. With such a configuration, the joining surfaces of both of the pair of resin semi-units can be accurately and easily positioned in a state in which the parts of the arm close to the rear end thereof are sandwiched in the respective grooves of the semi-units. For this reason, the article display hooks in which the parts of the third or fourth article suspension arm close to the rear end thereof are sandwiched between the grooves can be rapidly assembled allowing for easy changes in the merchandise arrangement or merchandise configuration in the selling space.  
       [0034] The above-mentioned depressions and convex sections can be provided in the vicinity of a plurality of through holes for screws or female threaded holes for screwing together the pair of resin semi-units or no less than two thereof can be provided on the joining surfaces in the positions away from the channels of joining screws.  
       [0035] Furthermore, the present invention also includes the article display hook ( 10 ), wherein a metal reinforcing plate with a substantially L-like or ⊃-like cross section is provided in a buried condition along the periphery of the recess, or a metal reinforcing plate with a substantially inverted U-like shape is provided in a buried condition along the inner side of the hanger in the pair of left and right resin semi-units. With such a configuration, the vicinity of the recess in the fourth display hook or the vicinity of the hanger in the fifth display hook can be reinforced by the buried metal reinforcing plate. As a result, the appearance of cracks or plastic deformation such as elongation and the like in the vicinity of the recess and hanger can be reliably prevented and a stable article display function can be demonstrated over a long period even when a large number of articles are suspended on the third or fourth article suspension arm supported on the hooks.  
       [0036] In addition to the below-described arms, the conventional thin and long steel bars may be used in the fourth and fifth article display hooks upon bending and plating.  
       [0037] The article suspension arm ( 11 ) in accordance with the present invention, which is used in the fourth and fifth article display hooks, comprises a metal rod arranged along the center of the arm composed of an inclined portion at the distal end thereof, a horizontal portion in the medium part, and a rear end portion positioned at the rear end side and having a substantially L-like or ⊃-like cross section in the side view thereof, and a synthetic resin covering the periphery of the metal rod including both ends thereof, wherein the vicinity of the rear end portion is sandwiched between the two grooves of the pair of resin semi-units in the article display hooks. With such a configuration, when a thin long steel wire is cut and bent without chamfering or plating and then set, for example, in an injection molding die and the die is filled with a molten resin, an arm is obtained which is entirely coated with the synthetic resins and has any color or design on the surface. Therefore, the weight of the article suspension arm can be reduced by comparison with the conventional metal arms, and when the arm is matched with the above-described fourth and fifth article display hooks, the selling space itself can be made more colorful and the marketing concept of the selling space can be represented even easier.  
       [0038] Further, the above-described modes include both the configuration with a single inclined portion and a single horizontal portion and the configuration with a pair of upper and lower thereof. Moreover, the term “distal end” used hereinabove refers to the selling space side and the term “rear end side” refers to the rear surface side of the selling space and the rear surface side of the hook.  
       [0039] Furthermore, the term “article” used herein includes not only merchandise or goods but also articles which are being used in house, for example, kitchenware, picture frames or the like. Also, the term “display” used herein includes the act which does not aim at showing for people. 
     
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
     [0040]FIG. 1(A) is a perspective view of the first merchandise display hook and the arms used therein. FIG. 1(B) is a cross-sectional view along the B-B line in FIG. 1(A). FIG. 1(C) is a different perspective view of the hook;  
     [0041] FIGS.  2 (A), (B) are a plan view and vertical cross-sectional view of the hook. FIG. 2(C) is a perspective view illustrating a state in which one arm is supported on the hook. FIG. 2(D) is a schematic view illustrating a state in which the arm is engaged with a groove of the hook. FIG. 2(E) is a vertical cross-sectional view of the hook having the arm supported thereon;  
     [0042] FIGS.  3 (A), (B) are perspective views illustrating the states immediately before and immediately after another arm has been additionally supported on the hook. FIG. 3(C) is a vertical cross-sectional view of the hook having two arm supported thereon;  
     [0043] FIGS.  4 (A), (B) are a side surface view and a partial expanded view illustrating the first and second arms used in the second merchandise display hook. FIGS.  4 (C), (D) are a perspective view and plan view of the hook. FIG. 4(E) is a vertical cross-sectional view illustrating the state in which the hook is used. FIG. 4(F) is a perspective view of a plugging piece used in the hook;  
     [0044] FIGS.  5 (A)-(C) are vertical cross-sectional views illustrating the state in which second merchandise display hook is used, following the state shown in FIG. 4(E);  
     [0045] FIGS.  6 (A), (B) are perspective views illustrating the third merchandise display hook and the arms used therein;  
     [0046] FIGS.  7 (A)-(C) are a perspective view, side view, and front view illustrating the hook body of the third merchandise display hook. FIGS.  7 (D), (E) are the end views along the D-D line and E-E line in FIG. 7(C). FIG. 7(F) is a schematic view illustrating the state in which an arm fixing section is engaged with the hook body;  
     [0047] FIGS.  8 (A), (B) are the perspective views illustrating the state in which one or two arms are supported on the hook;  
     [0048] FIGS.  9 (A), (B) are perspective views illustrating the states immediately before and immediately after the arms of different types have been supported on the hook;  
     [0049] FIGS.  10 (A)-(C) are a perspective view, plan view, and bottom view of the first merchandise display hook in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 10(D) is a partial cross-sectional view along the D-D line in FIG. 10(A). FIG. 10(E) is an exploded view in the position shown in FIG. 10(D). FIG. 10(E) is an exploded perspective view of the hook;  
     [0050]FIG. 11(A) is a side view illustrating one resin semi-unit in the hook. FIG. 11(B) is a perspective view of the first merchandise suspension arm. FIG. 11(C) is an expanded cross-sectional view along the C-C line in FIG. 11(B). FIGS.  11 (D), (E) are a side view and a perspective view illustrating the state in which the first arm is supported on the hook;  
     [0051]FIG. 12(A) is a perspective view of the second merchandise suspension arm. FIGS.  12 (B), (C) are a side view and a perspective view illustrating the state in which the second arm is supported on the hook;  
     [0052] FIGS.  13 (A), (B) are perspective views at different angles of the second merchandise display hook in accordance with the present invention. FIG. 13(C) is a side view of one resin semi-unit in the hook. FIG. 13(D) is a partial cross-sectional view along the D-D line in FIG. 13(A). FIG. 13(E) is an exploded view in the position shown in FIG. 13(D);  
     [0053]FIG. 14(A) is an exploded perspective view of the second merchandise display hook. FIGS.  14 (B), (C) are a side view and a perspective view illustrating the state in which the first merchandise suspension arm is supported on the hook;  
     [0054] FIGS.  15 (A), (B) are a side view and a perspective view illustrating the state in which the second merchandise suspension arm is supported on the second merchandise display hook; and  
     [0055] FIGS.  16 (A)-(D) are side views illustrating the conventional merchandise display unit. FIG. 16( c ) is a perspective view illustrating the vicinity of the base plate in the merchandise display unit shown in FIG. 16(C). 
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
     [0056] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below together with the drawings. The merchandise suspension arm will be hereinbelow sometimes called simply an arm.  
     [0057] [First Embodiment] 
     [0058]FIG. 1(A) shows a first merchandise display hook  20  and a first arm  1  and a second arm  6  used therein. The first arm  1  comprises an elongated horizontal section  2 , an inclined section  3  at the distal end thereof, and a vertical insertion section  4  at the rear end and has a substantially L-like shape. Further, the second arm  6  comprises an elongated horizontal section  8 , an inclined section  7  at the distal end thereof, a vertical insertion section  9  at the rear end, and a horizontal insertion section  10  at the lower end thereof. The arms  1 ,  6 , as shown in FIG. 1(B), are composed of a metal rod  12  such as a steel wire positioned along the center and a synthetic resin (for example, polypropylene)  14  covering the periphery and both ends thereof. The entire metal rod  12  can be coated with the synthetic resin  14  by setting the rod, with both ends thereof being cut off, in an injection molding die or the like and filling the mold with a molten resin. Any color or design can be provided on the surface.  
     [0059] The first merchandise display hook  20 , as shown in FIGS.  1 (A) and  1 (C), is in the form of a substantially rectangular solid substantially entirely composed of a synthetic resin (for example, polypropylene) and comprises a downward recess  24  for engagement with a horizontal bar material (not shown in the figures) consisting of an angular steel tube or the like, a first support portion  30  positioned on the side of an upper surface  21 , and a second support portion  40  positioned on the side of a rear surface  23 .  
     [0060] As shown in FIGS.  1 (A) and  1 (C) and FIG. 2(B), a thin front section  25  and a substantially angular body  22  are positioned on both sides of recess  24 . Projections  26 ,  27  for reinforcement are so as to protrude vertically in the center of inner walls  22   a ,  25   a  facing each other inside the recess  24 . A metal reinforcing plate  16  with a substantially ⊃-like cross section following the recess  24  is provided in a buried condition, as shown in FIG. 2(B), in the vicinity of recess  24 . This metal reinforcing plate  16  is obtained by bending a thin steel sheet or the like and is composed of a pair of long and short vertical sections  17 ,  18  and a horizontal section  19 .  
     [0061] Further, as shown in FIG. 1(C) and FIG. 2(A) the first support portion  30  comprises an open portion  34  in the front-back direction of the upper surface  21  of the hook  20 , a pair of opening edges  33  positioned symmetrically on both sides of the open portion  34 , a horizontal groove (first groove)  32  positioned on the inner side therebetween, a cavity  36  having no opening edge  33  close to the rear end of the groove  32 , and a first fixing orifice  38  sinking vertically at the rear end of the cavity  36 .  
     [0062] A pair of opening edges  33 ,  33  have a substantially &gt;-like cross section, can be deformed elastically, and form an opening portion  34  with a diameter less than the inner diameter of the groove (groove body)  32  which has a substantially round cross section.  
     [0063] The longitudinal direction of the groove  32 , as shown in FIG. 2(B), is perpendicular, in a plan view, to the bar material (b) composed, for example, of an angular steel tube engaging with the recess  24  of the hook  20 .  
     [0064] Further, as shown in FIG. 1(C) and FIG. 2(B), the second support portion  40  comprises an opening portion  44  extending in the vertical direction in the vicinity of the rear surface  23  of the hook  20 , a pair of opening edges  43 ,  43  positioned on both side of the opening portion  44 , a vertical groove (second groove)  42  positioned on the inner side therebetween, a cavity  46  having no opening edge  43  close to the lower end of the groove  42 , and a second fixing orifice  48  sinking horizontally at the lower end of the groove. The opening edges  43 ,  43  also have a substantially &gt;-like cross section and can be deformed elastically. The groove  42  has a substantially round cross section, and the longitudinal direction thereof, as shown in FIG. 2(B), is perpendicular, in a side view, to the bar material (b) engaging with the recess  24 .  
     [0065] When only one arm  1  is supported on the merchandise display hook  20 , as shown in FIG. 2(C), part of the first arm  1  close to the rear end of horizontal section  2  is inserted downward from the opening portion  34  between the opening edges  33 ,  33  of the first support portion  30 . At this time, as shown by a broken line in FIG. 2(D), the opening edges  33 ,  33  are elastically deformed so as to come into contract in the lateral direction when the horizontal section  2  of arm  1  is inserted downward. As a result, the horizontal section  2  of arm  1  is tightly engaged with the groove  32  of substantially the same cross section. At the same time, the insertion section  4  of arm  1  is inserted into the first fixing orifice  38 , as shown in FIG. 2(E), and the distal end  5  thereof is comes into contact with or close to the bottom surface of this fixing orifice  38 .  
     [0066] As a result, as shown in FIG. 2(C), the first arm  1  is strongly supported on the first merchandise display hook  20 , without shaking or being pulled out from the first support portion  30 , and a large number of articles of merchandise can be suspended and displayed with good stability.  
     [0067] Further, as shown in FIG. 2(E), a metal reinforcement plate  16   a  with a substantially L-like cross section, which is composed only of a vertical section  17  and a horizontal section  19 , may be used instead of the metal reinforcing plate  16 .  
     [0068] When the second arm  6  is to be additionally supported on the merchandise display hook  20  where the first arm  1  has already been supported, as shown in FIG. 3(A), the vertical insertion section  9  and horizontal insertion section  10  of the second arm  6  are moved horizontally toward the second support portion  40  at the rear surface  23  side of hook  20 . As a result, as shown in FIG. 3(C), the lower about half of the insertion section  9  of the second arm  6  passes through the opening portion  44  between the opening edges  43 ,  43  which are elastically deformed in the same manner as described above and becomes engaged with the groove  42 . In addition, the insertion section  10  of arm  6 , as shown in FIG. 3(C), is inserted into the second fixing orifice  48 , and the distal end  11  thereof is brought in contact with or close to the bottom surface of this fixing orifice  48 . As a result, as shown in FIG. 3(B), the second arm  6  is strongly supported on the hook  20 , without vertical or horizontal shaking or being pulled out from the second support portion  40 . Therefore, a large number of articles of merchandise can be suspended and displayed with good stability.  
     [0069] Therefore, with the first merchandise display hook  20 , at least one of the first and second arms  1 ,  6  can be strongly supported, and a large number of articles of merchandise (not shown in the figure) can be suspended or merchandise display plates can be mounted on the inclined section  7  of arm  6 . Furthermore, the surface of the hook  20  and the arms  1 ,  6  can be of the same color or they can be provided with a uniform design. As a result, articles of merchandise can be easily viewed in the selling space, customers can be made comfortable, and purchasing enthusiasm can be heightened. The conventional thin and long steel bars may be used in the first merchandise display hook  20  upon bending and plating.  
     [0070] [Second Embodiment] 
     [0071]FIG. 4 illustrates the second merchandise display hook  20   a.    
     [0072]FIG. 4(A) shows the first arm  1   a  and second arm  6   a  used in the second merchandise display hook  20   a . The first arm  1   a  is composed of an elongated horizontal section  2  and an inclined section  3  at the distal end thereof and has a substantially linear shape. The second arm  6   a  is composed of an elongated horizontal section  8 , an inclined section  7  at the distal end thereof, and a vertical insertion section  9  at the rear end thereof.  
     [0073] As shown in FIG. 4(B), the first and second arms  1   a ,  6   a  are composed of a metal rod  12  positioned along the center and a synthetic resin  14  covering the periphery and both ends thereof.  
     [0074] As shown in FIG. 4(B), an upward flat plane  2   a  and a notch  2   b  provided upward in the vicinity of the rear end are formed close to the rear end of the horizontal section  2  in the first arm  1   a . Furthermore, a hook-shaped projection  9   a  passing down from the inner corner portion formed with the horizontal section  8  is provided in a protruding condition at the insertion section  9  at the rear end of the second arm  6   a . A downward small groove  9   b  and a protrusion  9   c  are formed at the lower end of the hook-shaped projection. These are entirely formed from the above resin  14 .  
     [0075] FIGS.  4 (C) and  4 (D) are a perspective and a plan view illustrating the second merchandise display hook  20   a , respectively. This merchandise display hook  20   a , as shown in FIGS.  4 (C) and  4 (D), is also in the form of a substantially rectangular solid approximately entirely composed of a synthetic resin and comprises a downward recess  24  for engagement with a horizontal bar material (not shown in the figures) consisting of an angular steel tube or the like, a first support portion  30   a  positioned on the side of an upper surface  21 , and a second support portion  40   a  positioned on the side of a rear surface  23 . As shown in FIG. 4(C), a thin front section  25  and a substantially angular body  22  are positioned on both sides of recess  24 .  
     [0076] The first support portion  30   a  comprises a through hole  35  which passes approximately horizontally in the vicinity of upper surface  21  and has an irregular cross section which is substantially round and has a flat surface at the top thereof.  
     [0077] Further, the second support portion  40   a , as shown in FIG. 4(D), comprises a vertical hole  42   a  with a round cross section which passes in the up-down direction in the vicinity of the rear surface  23  of the merchandise display hook  20   a  and a bottom wall  49  at the lower end of the vertical hole  42   a.    
     [0078] As shown in FIG. 4(E), the rear end of the through hole  35  and the upper end of the vertical hole  42   a  are linked to each other, and as shown in FIG. 4(D), a hook-shaped recess  45  with a ⊃-like cross section is formed close to the vertical hole  42   a  at the rear end of through hole  35 .  
     [0079] The second merchandise display hook  20   a  is used as follows.  
     [0080] First, as shown in FIG. 4(E), the first arm  1   a  is inserted horizontally into the through hole  35 . At this time, a part close to the rear end of horizontal section  2  where the flat plane  2   a  has been formed in the first arm  1   a  is inserted into the through hole  35  and the notch  2   b  at the rear end thereof is positioned below the hook-shaped recess  45  positioned close to the vertical hole  42   a  at the rear end of through hole  35 .  
     [0081] Then, as shown in FIG. 5(A), the vertical insertion section  9  of the second arm  6   a  is inserted into the vertical hole  42   a . At this time, the lower end of the insertion section  9  in the second arm  6   a  is positioned slightly above the bottom wall  49 .  
     [0082] In such a state, the second arm  6   a  is pushed downward as shown by a vertical arrow in FIG. 5(A). As a result, as shown in FIG. 5(B), the protrusion  9   c  of the second arm  6   a  is fit into the notch  2   b  of the first arm  1   a . At the same time, the vertical insertion section  9  of the second arm  6   a  moves downward into the vertical hole  42   a  and comes into contact with or close to the bottom wall  49 . As a result, as shown in FIG. 5(B), the first and second arms  1   a ,  6   a  are joined to each other and strongly supported on the merchandise display hook  20   a.    
     [0083] Further, a plugging piece P is used when only the first arm  1   a  is supported on the merchandise display hook  20   a . The plugging piece P is formed from a synthetic resin and comprises, as shown in FIG. 4(F), a cylindrical body p fitting into the vertical hole  42   a , a hook-shaped projection p 1  protruding to the outside therefrom, and a downward small groove p 2  and protrusion p 3  positioned at the lower end of the hook-shaped projection p 1 .  
     [0084] As shown in FIG. 5(C), the first arm  1   a  is passed into the through hole  35  in the above-described manner, and the protrusion p 3  of plugging piece P having the body p thereof inserted into the vertical hole  42   a  is fit into the notch  2   b  of the first arm  1   a . As a result, as shown in FIG. 5(C), only the first arm  1   a  can be supported on the merchandise display hook  20   a.    
     [0085] The above-described second merchandise display hook  20   a  can demonstrate functions and produce effects identical to those of the first merchandise display hook  20 .  
     [0086] The conventional thin and long steel bars may be also used in the second merchandise display hook  20   a  upon bending and plating.  
     [0087] [Third Embodiment] 
     [0088]FIG. 6(A) shows the third merchandise display hook  60  and first arm  1  and second arm  50  supported thereon. The second arm  50 , as shown in FIG. 6(A), comprises a horizontal section  52  which is slightly longer that the horizontal section  2  of the first arm  1 , an inclined section  53  at the distal end thereof, and an insertion section  54  rising vertically from the rear end of the horizontal section  52  and is composed of a metal rod  12  similar to the above-described rod and a synthetic resin  14  covering the periphery.  
     [0089] The merchandise display hook  60 , as shown in FIG. 6(A) is composed of a hook body  60 A and an arm fixing section  72 . The hook body  60   a , as shown in FIGS.  7 (A) through (C), is composed of an upper portion  64 , an intermediate small-diameter portion  65 , and a lower portion  70 . A pair of downward hanging grooves  61 , a pair of hangers  62  surrounding the grooves  61 , and a depression  63  positioned between the hangers  62  are provided at the rear surface side of the upper portion  64 . A horizontal wire N of the below-described net is inserted into the pair of hanging grooves  61 . Furthermore, the depression  63  receives the vertical wire n of the below-described net, but also can be omitted.  
     [0090] As shown in FIGS.  7 (A) through (D), a small-diameter portion  65  with a substantially rectangular cross section is positioned between the upper part  64  and lower part  70  of hook body  60   a , and depressions  66  with a channel-like shape in a plan view and a rectangular shape in a side view are positioned on both sides and the front of the small-diameter portion  65 .  
     [0091] As shown in FIGS.  7 (A) through (C), a downward contact portion  71  is positioned on the rear surface of the lower part  70  and is in contact with the horizontal wire N of the below-described net. Further, as show in FIGS.  7 (C) and  7 (E), a vertical depression  71   a  is positioned in the center on the rear surface side of contact portion  71 . This depression  71   a  also receives the vertical wire n of the net, but also can be omitted.  
     [0092] As shown in FIGS.  7 (A) through (C), a groove m open at the front surface side and having a substantially ⊃-like shape in the side view thereof is located from the upper portion  64  to the lower portion  70 , in the vicinity of the small-diameter portion  65  on the front surface side of hook body  60   a . This groove m is composed of a horizontal groove  68  with a semicircular cross section which is open downward in the upper part  64 , a vertical groove (vertical portion)  67  with a semicircular cross section which is connected at a right angle to the rear end of the horizontal groove  68  and positioned on the front surface side of the small-diameter portion  65 , and a horizontal groove  69  with a semicircular cross section which is connected at a right angle to the lower end of the vertical groove  67  and is open upward in the lower portion  70 .  
     [0093] Further, as shown in FIGS.  7 (B),  7 (C) and  7 (E), a metal reinforcing plate  60   b  with a substantially inverse U-like cross section along the hanger  62  is provided in a buried condition so as to surround the hanging groove  61  in the hanger  62  of hook body  60   a.    
     [0094] On the other hand, the arm fixing section  72  is composed of a synthetic resin similar to the above-described resin and, as shown in FIG. 6(A) and FIG. 7(F), comprises an engagement groove  73  for engagement with the small-diameter portion  65 , a pair of leg sections  74  which extend from both ends thereof to the rear surface side and can be deformed elastically, a circular arc groove  76  positioned in the center of the bottom surface of the engagement groove  73 , and a pair of stopping protrusions  75  formed opposite each other at the distal ends of leg sections  74 . This arm fixing section  72 , as shown in FIG. 6(A) and FIG. 7(F), is disposed so that the small-diameter portion  65  of hook body  60   a  is engaged with the engagement groove  73  and that the circular arc groove  76  faces the vertical groove (vertical portion)  67  of groove m.  
     [0095] As shown in the upper part of FIG. 7(F), if the arm fixing section  72  is inserted along the leftward arrow shown in the same figure, the pair of leg sections  74 ,  74  are elastically deformed outwardly and move along both side surfaces of the small-diameter portion  65  of hook body  60   a . Then, as shown in FIG. 7(F), at the same time as the stopping protrusions  75  of each leg section  74  are stopped on the rear surface of small-diameter portion  65 , the circular arc groove  76  together with the vertical groove  67  of groove m form a vertical through hole with a round cross section. As a result, the arm fixing section  72  is engaged with the hook body  60 , while being positioned in the depression  66 , thereby forming the third merchandise display hook  60 .  
     [0096] Thus, as shown in FIG. 6(A), after the rear end portion of the horizontal section  2  and insertion section  4  of the first arm  1  have been inserted into the horizontal groove  68  and vertical groove  67  of groove m, and after the rear end portion of horizontal section  52  and insertion section  54  of the second arm  50  have been inserted into the vertical groove  67  and horizontal groove  69  of groove m, the arm fixing section  72  is engaged in the above-described manner with the hook body  60   a.    
     [0097] As a result, as shown in FIG. 8(A), the first and second arms  1 ,  50  are supported, with the horizontal sections  2 ,  52  thereof being parallel to each other, on the merchandise display hook  60  that was thus formed. Moreover, because the rear end portions of horizontal sections  2 ,  52  and the insertion sections  4 ,  54  are surrounded by the vertical groove  67  and horizontal grooves  68 ,  69  of groove m and by the circular arc groove  76  of arm fixing section  72 , the arms  1  and  50  can produce high resistance to waggles in the longitudinal and lateral directions. Therefore, if the above-described merchandise display hook  60  is hooked on a horizontal wire N of a net, then a large number of articles of merchandise can be suspended with good stability on the horizontal sections  2 ,  52  of the first and second arms  1 ,  50  or merchandise display plates (not shown in the figures) can be reliably mounted on the inclined section  3  of the first arm  1 . Further, as shown in FIG. 8(A), a vertical wire n of the net is inserted in the recesses  63 ,  71   a.    
     [0098] As shown in FIG. 6(B), the arm fixing section  72  can be also engaged with the hook body  60   a  in the above-described manner after the rear end portion of horizontal section  2  and the insertion section  4  of the first arm  1  have been inserted in the horizontal groove  68  and vertical groove  67  of groove m, and a cover  77  has been inserted in the vertical groove  67  and horizontal groove  69  of groove m. The cover  77  is also composed of the above-described synthetic resin and, as shown in FIG. 6(B), comprises integrally joined to each other a cylindrical insertion section  78  for insertion into the vertical groove  67  of groove m and the circular arc groove  76  of arm fixing section  72  and an R-like section  79  with the lower side having a substantially semicircular cross section for insertion from the lower end of vertical groove  67  into the horizontal groove  69 .  
     [0099] As a result, as shown in FIG. 8(B), the first arm  1  is supported on the merchandise display hook  60  in a state in which the horizontal section  2  thereof is horizontal, and because the rear end portion of horizontal section  2  and the insertion section  4  are surrounded by the vertical groove  67  and horizontal groove  68  of groove m and by the circular arc groove  76  of arm fixing section  72 , the arm  1  can produce high resistance to waggles in the longitudinal and lateral directions. The horizontal groove  69  of groove m is covered with the cover  77  flush with the front surface of arm fixing section  72 .  
     [0100] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 9(A), a third arm  56  with an elongated ⊃-like shape in the side view thereof may be also supported on the third merchandise display hook  60 . The third arm  56  is an arm unit composed of a pair of a long and short horizontal sections  52 ,  57 , inclined sections  53 ,  58  positioned at the distal ends thereof, and a vertical insertion section  59  connecting the rear ends of the horizontal sections  52 ,  57 . The third arm comprises the above-described metal rod  12  as a center covered on the periphery thereof with the synthetic resin  14 .  
     [0101] As shown in FIG. 9(A), after the rear end portions of horizontal sections  52 ,  57  and the insertion section  59  of arm  56  have been inserted into the horizontal grooves  68 ,  69  and vertical groove  67  of groove m of hook body  60   a , the arm fixing section  72  is engaged in the above-described manner with the hook body  60   a.    
     [0102] As a result, as shown in FIG. 9(B), the third arm  56  is supported, with the horizontal sections  52 ,  57  being horizontal, on the merchandise display hook  60  that has been formed. Moreover, because the rear end portions of horizontal sections  52 ,  57  and the insertion section  59  are surrounded by the circular arc groove  76  of arm fixing section  72  and groove m, the arm  56  can produce high resistance to waggles in the longitudinal and lateral directions. Therefore, if the above-described merchandise display hook  60  is hooked on a horizontal wire N of a net, then a large number of articles of merchandise can be suspended with good stability on the horizontal sections  52 ,  57  of the third arm  56  or merchandise display plates (not shown in the figures) can be reliably mounted on the inclined section  58  of horizontal section  57 .  
     [0103] With the third merchandise display hook  60 , which is composed of the above-described hook body  60   a  and arm fixing section  72 , either only the first arm  1  can be supported, or the first and second arms  1 ,  50  or the third arm  56  can be selectively supported. Therefore, a large number of articles of merchandise can be selected, arranged and suspended, or merchandise display plates can be mounted on the inclined section  3 . Furthermore, the surface of the hook  60  and arms  1 ,  50 ,  56  can be colored in the same or contrasting colors or can be provided with a uniform design. As a result, merchandise can be easily viewed in the selling space and customers can be made comfortable which will heighten their purchasing enthusiasm.  
     [0104] The conventional thin and long steel bars may be used in the third merchandise display hook  60  upon bending and plating.  
     [0105] (Fourth Embodiment)  
     [0106]FIG. 10(A) is a perspective view illustrating the fourth merchandise display hook S 1 . FIGS.  10 (B),  10 (C), and  10 (F) are a plan view, bottom view and exploded perspective view of hook S 1 .  
     [0107] The merchandise display hook S 1 , as shown in FIGS.  10 (A)-(C), and  10 (F), comprises a pair of left and right resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b  which are composed of front surfaces S 3   a , S 3   b  facing a selling space (not shown in the figures), outer side surfaces S 4   a , S 4   b  having a substantially trapezoidal shape in the side view thereof, joining surfaces S 5   a , S 5   b  which are brought into contact with each other, upper surfaces S 6   a , S 6   b  having a substantially rectangular shape in the plan view thereof, bottom surfaces S 7   a , S 7   b , and rear surfaces S 8   a , S 8   b . As shown in FIGS.  10 (A),  10 (C), and  10 (F), a downward recess S 9  is formed in the bottom surfaces S 7   a , S 7   b , this recess being formed by the downward recesses S 9   a , S 9   b  for engagement with the below-described horizontal bar material and connected in the lateral direction. The resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b  are obtained, for example, by injection molding of a polypropylene resin.  
     [0108] As shown in FIG. 10(F), substantially horizontal first grooves S 10   a , S 10   b  that have a substantially semicircular cross section with one end thereof being open on the front surfaces S 3   a , S 3   b  and substantially vertical second grooves S 12   a , S 12   b  that have a substantially semicircular cross section with one end thereof being open on the upper surfaces S 6   a , S 6   b  and are linked to the rear end sides of the first grooves S 10   a , S 10   b  are formed on the joining surfaces S 5   a , S 5   b  of semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b.    
     [0109] The rear ends of the first grooves S 10   a , S 10   b  are connected at a substantially right angle to the intermediate portion of the second groove S 12   a , S 12   b  and together form a substantially T-like configuration. As shown in FIGS.  10 (A) and  10 (C), if the resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b  are brought into surface contact on the joining surfaces S 5   a , S 5   b , then the first grooves S 10   a , S 10   b  form a horizontal first fixing hole S 10  with a substantially round cross section, and the second grooves S 12   a , S 12   b  form a vertical second fixing hole S 12  with a substantially round cross section.  
     [0110] The above-described resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b  are screwed together with three screws S 20 , as shown in FIGS.  10 (A) and  10 (F). As shown in FIG. 10(F) and presented as an example in FIGS.  10 (D) and  10 (E), a disk-like convex section S 13  and a female threaded hole S 14  extending horizontally from the central portion of the convex section toward the outer side surface S 4   a  are formed on the joining surface S 5   a  of resin semi-unit S 2   a.    
     [0111] Furthermore, a depression S 15  for engagement with the convex section S 13 , a through hole S 16  extending horizontally from the central portion of the depression toward the outer side surface S 4   b , a conical portion S 17  and a disk-like step S 18  positioned close to the outer side surface S 4   b  are formed in the joining surface S 5   b  of resin semi-unit S 2   b.    
     [0112] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 10(F), a screw S 20  is composed of a male threaded portion S 22 , an inclined dish-like portion S 23  at the base end thereof, a head S 24 , and a plus groove S 25  provided in the head S 24 .  
     [0113] As will be described below, at the same time as the first and second merchandise suspension arms are sandwiched between the opposing first grooves S 10   a , S 10   b  and second grooves S 12   a , S 12   b , three convex sections S 13  are individually engaged with the depressions S 15 . In such a state, the male threaded portion S 22  of screw S 22  is inserted from the outer side surface S 4   b  of resin semi-unit S 2   b  through the step S 18 , conical portion S 17 , and through hole S 16  of resin semi-unit S 2   b  and then screwed, as shown in the example presented in FIG. 10(D), in the female threaded holes S 14  of resin semi-unit S 2   a . At this time, the dish-like portion S 23  and head S 24  of screw S 20  are positioned inside the conical portion S 17  of resin semi-unit S 2   b . As a result, as shown in FIG. 10(A), a merchandise display hook S 1  can be assembled in which an end of the first fixing hole S 10  is open on the front surfaces S 3   a , S 3   b  and the upper end of the second fixing hole S 12  is open on the upper surfaces S 6   a , S 6   b.    
     [0114] Further, it is also possible to use two or more of screws S 20 . Furthermore, a configuration is also possible in which two or more of convex sections S 13  and depressions S 15  are provided in any position of joining surfaces S 5   a , S 5   b  which is not the position of female threaded hole S 14  or through hole S 16 .  
     [0115] As illustrated by the resin semi-unit S 2   a  shown in FIG. 11(A), a metal reinforcement plate S 26  is provided in a buried condition along the periphery close to the front surface S 3   a  in the downward recess S 9   a . The reinforcement plate S 26  was obtained by bending a thin steel sheet, comprises a long vertical section S 27  and a short horizontal section S 28 , and is similarly provided in a buried condition in the same position of resin semi-unit S 2   b  (not shown in the figure). Furthermore, the metal reinforcement plate S 26  may have a substantially ⊃-like cross section along the recess S 9   a . Furthermore, because the resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b  are made from the resin, they can be imparted with any color.  
     [0116]FIG. 11(B) shows the first merchandise suspension arm S 30 . The arm S 30  is composed of an inclined portion S 31  at the distal end thereof, a long intermediate horizontal portion S 32 , and a rear end portion S 33  positioned at the rear end of the horizontal portion S 32  and having a substantially L-like shape in a side view thereof. As illustrated by the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 11(C), the arm S 30  has a two-layer structure consisting of a metal rod S 35  of substantially the similar shape along the central part of the above-described portions and a synthetic resin S 34  composed, for example, of polypropylene and coated on the periphery of the metal rod including both end surfaces thereof. More specifically, the outer diameter of the above-described portions is about 5 mm and the outer diameter of metal rod S 35  is about 2-3 mm. If the metal rod S 35  with both ends thereof in an as-cut state is set into a die of an injection molding apparatus (not shown in the figure) and the die is filled with a molten resin, then the entire rod is coated with the synthetic resin S 34  and any color or design can be represented on the surface. The synthetic resin S 34  may have a color identical or similar to that of resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b . Furthermore, when the horizontal portion S 32  is fixed, as described below, in the fourth merchandise display hook S 1  which is obtained by screwing together the resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b , it is somewhat raised up from the horizontal line.  
     [0117] Fixing the first merchandise suspension arm S 30  to the fourth merchandise display hook S 11  will be described hereinbelow based on FIGS.  11 (D) and  11 (E).  
     [0118] For example, as shown in FIG. 11(D), first, a part of horizontal portion S 32  which is close to the rear end thereof and the rear end portion S 33  of the merchandise suspension arm S 30  are inserted through the entire length of the first groove S 10   a  and the lower about half of the second groove S 12   a  in the resin semi-unit S 2   a . Then, the joining surface S 5   b  of resin semi-unit S 2   b  is brought into surface contact with the joining surface S 5   a  of resin semi-unit S 2   a  and, at the same time, a plurality of convex sections S 13  of the former are positioned by individually engaging with a plurality of depressions S 15  of the latter.  
     [0119] In such a state, the male threaded portion S 22  of screw S 20  is inserted from the outer side surface S 4   b  of resin semi-unit S 2   b  through the step S 18 , conical portion S 17 , and through hole S 16  of resin semi-unit S 2   b  and screwed thereafter into the female threaded hole S 14  of resin semi-unit S 2   a . At this time, a resin cover (not shown in the figures) may be fit into the step S 18  of resin semi-unit S 2   b  to hide the head S 24  of screw S 20 .  
     [0120] As a result, as shown in FIG. 11(E), a part of horizontal portion S 32  which is close to the rear end thereof and the rear end portion S 33  of the merchandise suspension arm S 30  are inserted into and fixed in the lower halves of the first fixing hole S 10  and of the second fixing hole S 12  formed in the fourth merchandise display hook S 1 , which is assembled from the resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b . As shown in FIG. 11(D), a bar material S 29  consisting of an angular steel tube or the like is engaged with the recess S 9  consisting of recesses S 9   a , S 9   b  of hook S 1  having the arm S 30  secured thereto and supports the hook S 1  and arm S 30 . The opening of the second fixing hole S 12  may be closed with a disk-like cap (not shown in the figure).  
     [0121] A large number of merchandise packages or hook-shaped portions provided at the upper end of articles of merchandise themselves (not shown in the figures) are hooked and suspended on the horizontal portion S 32  of this arm S 30 . As a result, a large number of articles of merchandise can be displayed while being suspended from the horizontal portion S 32  of the first arm S 30 . Furthermore, a plate-like display member (not shown in the figures) displaying the name, type, or price of the merchandise may be mounted on the inclined portion S 31  at the distal end of the arm. Moreover, the marketing concept of the selling space can be clearly demonstrated to the customers by painting the resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b  forming the hook S 1  and the synthetic resin S 34  forming the surface of arm S 30  so as to impart them with identical or similar colors or mutually opposite colors.  
     [0122] It is also possible to bring the joining surface S 5   a  of resin semi-unit S 2   a  into contact with the joining surface S 5   b  and screw them together after the first merchandise suspension arm S 30  has been inserted into the first and second grooves S 10   b , S 12   b  of resin semi-unit S 2   b.    
     [0123]FIG. 12(A) shows the second merchandise suspension arm S 36 . This arm S 36  comprises an inclined portion S 31  at the lower distal end, an elongated horizontal portion S 32  positioned in the middle, an upper inclined portion S 37 , an elongated horizontal portion S 38  positioned in the middle, and a rear end portion S 39  positioned at the rear ends of the horizontal portions S 32 , S 38 , connecting them, and producing a substantially ⊃-like shape in the side view of the arm S 36 . The upper horizontal portion S 38  is somewhat shorter than the lower horizontal portion S 32 , and each of the above-described portions is composed of the above-described metal rod S 35  disposed along the center thereof and the above-mentioned synthetic resin S 34  covering the periphery of the rod S 35 . When the horizontal portions S 32 , S 38  are fixed to the fourth merchandise display hook S 1  which is obtained by screwing together the resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b , as described hereinbelow, the horizontal portions S 32 , S 38  are set so as to be slightly raised above the respective horizontal lines.  
     [0124] Fixing the second merchandise suspension arm S 36  to the fourth merchandise display hook S 1  will be described hereinbelow based on FIGS.  12 (B) and  12 (C).  
     [0125] For example, as shown in FIG. 12(B), first, a part of the lower horizontal portion S 32  which is close to the rear end thereof and the lower about half of the rear end portion S 39  of the merchandise suspension arm S 36  are inserted into the entire length of the first groove S 10   a  and the upper about half of the second groove S 12   a  in the resin semi-unit S 2   a.    
     [0126] Then, the joining surface S 5   b  of resin semi-unit S 2   b  is brought into contact with the joining surface S 5   a  of resin semi-unit S 2   a , and a plurality of convex sections S 13  of the former are positioned by individually engaging with a plurality of depressions S 15  of the latter. In such a state, in the same manner as described above, the male threaded portion S 22  of screw S 20  is inserted from the outer side surface S 4   b  of resin semi-unit S 2   b  through the step S 18 , conical portion S 17 , and through hole S 16  of resin semi-unit S 2   b  and screwed thereafter into the female threaded hole S 14  of resin semi-unit S 2   a.    
     [0127] The joining surface S 5   a  of resin semi-unit S 2   a  may be brought in contact with the joining surface S 5   b  and screwing may be conducted after the second merchandise suspension arm S 36  has been inserted into the first and second grooves S 10   b , S 12   b  of resin semi-unit S 2   b . Further, a cover (not shown in the figures) may be fit into the step S 18  of resin semi-unit S 2   b  to hide the head S 24  of screw S 20 .  
     [0128] As a result, as shown in FIG. 12(C), the fourth merchandize display hook S 1  is assembled from the resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b  and the horizontal portion S 32  and the rear end portion S 39  of the second merchandise suspension arm S 36  are inserted into and fixed in the first fixing hole S 10  and the lower about half of the second fixing hole S 12  formed in the hook S 1 . As shown in FIG. 12(B), a bar material S 29  consisting of an angular steel tube or the like is engaged with the recess S 9  of hook S 1  having the arm S 36  fixed thereto and supports the hook S 1  and arm S 36 .  
     [0129] Then, hook-like portions provided at the upper end of a large number of merchandise packages or the like (not shown in the figures) are hooked and suspended on the lower horizontal portion S 32 . Furthermore, a plate-like display member (not shown in the figures) displaying the name, type, or price of the merchandize is mounted on the upper inclined portion S 37 . Alternatively, articles of merchandise of a small height are also suspended from the upper horizontal portion S 38 . As a result, a large number articles of merchandize can be displayed while being suspended down from the horizontal portions S 32 , S 38  of the second arm S 36 , and information relating to the merchandise can be provided close to the upper inclined portion S 37 .  
     [0130] With such fourth merchandise display hook S 1 , the first merchandise suspension arm S 30  or the second merchandise suspension arm S 36  is selectively sandwiched between the first grooves S 10   a , S 10   b  and second grooves S 12   a , S 12   b  in the resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b  forming the hook S 1 . As a result, one horizontal portion S 32  or two horizontal portions S 32 , S 38  can be selected for hanging and supporting on the horizontal bar material S 29 .  
     [0131] For this reason, the number of components that have to be selling spaced can be decreased and the number of production processes and cost are reduced by comparison with those for the conventional hooks. Moreover, because substantially the entire resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b  forming the hook S 1  are composed of a synthetic resin, they have a small weight and can be arbitrarily colored or put designs. Therefore, by selecting the first arm S 30  and second arm S 36 , it is possible to change easily the merchandise arrangement or merchandise-configuration in the selling space and satisfy the requirements of marketing concept of each selling space.  
     [0132] On the other hand, the weight of the first and second merchandise suspension arms S 30 , S 36  can be reduced by comparison with that of the conventional metal arms, and matching colors of the arms and those of the fourth merchandise display hook S 1  makes the selling space itself more colorful and the marketing concept of the selling space can be represented even easier.  
     [0133] In addition to the above-described arms S 30 , S 36 , the conventional thin and long steel bars may be used in the fourth merchandise display hook S 1  upon bending and plating.  
     [0134] [Fifth Embodiment] 
     [0135]FIG. 13 relates to a fifth merchandise display hook S 40 . FIGS.  13 (A) and  13 (B) are the perspective views of the hook at different view angles, FIG. 13(C) is a right side view of a resin semi-unit S 42   a  of hook S 40 , and FIG. 13(D) is a cross-sectional view along the D-D line in FIG. 13(A).  
     [0136] In the merchandise display hook S 40 , as shown in FIGS.  13 (A)-(D), a pair of resin semi-units S 42   a , S 42   b  are assembled by screwing them together. The resin semi-units S 42   a , S 42   b  are obtained by injection molding of a synthetic resin such as polypropylene and are elongated bodies comprising a front surface S 43   a , S 43   b , outer side surface S 44   a , S 44   b , joining surface S 45   a , S 45   b , inclined upper.surface S 46   a , S 46   b , inclined bottom surface S 47   a , S 47   b , and rear surface S 48   a , S 48   b.    
     [0137] At the upper end of resin semi-units S 42   a , S 42   b , as shown in FIGS.  13 (A)-(C), there are arranged hangers S 50   a , S 50   b  protruding downward at an angle on the side of rear surfaces S 48   a , S 48   b , hanging grooves S 51   a , S 51   b  located below the hangers S 50   a , S 50   b , and longitudinal grooves S 52   a , S 52   b  positioned therebetween. Further, at the lower end of resin semi-units S 42   a , S 42   b , there are positioned contact sections S 54   a , S 54   b  extending downward at an angle from the bottom surfaces S 47   a , S 47   b  on the side of rear surfaces S 48   a , S 48   b , and longitudinal grooves S 55   a , S 55   b  positioned therebetween.  
     [0138] Metal reinforcing plates with a substantially inverted U-like shape following the profile of hanging grooves S 51   a , S 51   b  may be provided in a buried condition on the inner side of hangers S 50   a , S 50   b.    
     [0139] As shown in FIGS.  13 (C) and  14 (A), grooves S 60   a , S 60   b  which have a substantially ⊃-like shape in a side view thereof and both ends open on top and bottom of front surfaces S 43   a , S 43   b  are formed in the joining surfaces S 54   a , S 45   b  of resin semi-units S 42   a , S 42   b . Those grooves S 60   a , S 60   b  are composed of an upper horizontal portion S 62 , lower horizontal portion S 64 , and a vertical portion S 66  connecting the rear ends thereof.  
     [0140] Furthermore, as shown in FIGS.  13 (B)-(E) and FIG. 14(A), through holes S 57 , conical portions S 58 , and steps S 59  are formed in the horizontal direction at the upper and lower ends of resin semi-unit S 42 A, and disk-like depressions S 68  are formed in the through holes S 57  on the joining surface S 45   a  side. On the other hand, female threaded holes S 67  are formed in the horizontal direction at the upper and lower ends of resin semi-unit S 42   b , and cylindrical convex sections S 69  for engagement with the depressions S 68  are provided in the protruding condition on the joining surface S 45   b  side at the upper and lower ends of resin semi-unit S 42   b.    
     [0141] As shown in FIG. 14(A), male threaded portions S 22  of screws S 20  are inserted from the outer side surface S 44   a  of semi-unit S 42   a  through the steps S 59 , conical portions S 58 , and through holes S 57 , and then screwed, as shown in FIG. 13(D), into the female holes S 67  of resin semi-unit S 42   b . At this time, the dish-like portion S 23  and head S 24  of screws S 20  are positioned inside the conical portions S 58  of resin semi-unit S 42   a . As a result, as shown in FIGS.  13 (A), (B), (D), a fifth hook S 40  can be assembled in which ends of horizontal fixing holes S 70 , S 72  are open by the grooves S 60   a , S 60   b  in the upper and lower parts of front surfaces S 43   a , S 43   b . Further, as shown in FIG. 13(D), a vertical fixing hole S 47  composed of vertical portions S 66  of grooves S 60   a , S 60   b  is positioned inside the hook S 40 .  
     [0142] Fixing the first merchandise suspension arm S 30  to the fifth merchandise display hook S 40  will be explained below based on FIGS.  14 (B) and  14 (C).  
     [0143] For example, as shown in FIG. 14(B), first, a part of horizontal portion S 32  which is close to the rear end thereof and the rear end portion S 33  of the first merchandise suspension arm S 30  are inserted into the upper horizontal portion S 62  and the upper about half of vertical portion S 66  in the groove S 60   a  of resin semi-unit S 42   a . Then, the joining surface S 45   b  of resin semi-unit S 42   b  is brought into surface contact with the joining surface S 45   a  of resin semi-unit S 42   a  and, at the same time, the upper and lower convex sections S 69  of the latter are positioned by individually engaging with the upper and lower depressions S 68  of the former. Then, the male threaded portion S 22  of screw S 20  is inserted from the outer side surface S 44   a  of resin semi-unit S 42   a  through the step S 59 , conical portion S 58 , and through hole S 57  and screwed into the female threaded hole S 67  of resin semi-unit S 42   b . At this time, a resin cover (not shown in the figures) may be fit into the step S 59  of resin semi-unit S 42   a  to hide the head S 24  of screw S 20 .  
     [0144] As a result, as shown in FIG. 14(C), the horizontal portion S 32  and the rear end portion S 33  of the first merchandise suspension arm S 30  are inserted into and fixed in the fixing hole S 70  and the upper about half of fixing hole S 74  formed in the fifth merchandise display hook S 40 , which is assembled from the resin semi-units S 42   a , S 42   b . As shown in FIG. 14(C), the hangers S 50   a , S 50   b  of hook S 40  having the arm S 30  fixed thereto are hanged and supported on any of horizontal wires S 76  of the net obtained by grid-like joining a plurality of horizontal wires S 76  and a plurality of vertical wires S 78  composed of large-diameter wires. At this time, the vertical wire S 78  close to the horizontal wire S 76  is inserted in the longitudinal grooves S 52   a , S 52   b  and longitudinal grooves S 55   a , S 55   b  of hook S 40 . The open portion of fixing hole S 72  may be closed with a disk-like cap (not shown in the figures).  
     [0145] Hook-like portions provided at the upper end of a large number of merchandise packages or articles of merchandise themselves (not shown in the figures) are hooked and suspended on the horizontal portion S 32  of the upper arm S 30 . As a result, a large number of articles of merchandise can be displayed while being suspended from the horizontal portion S 32  of the first arm S 30 . Furthermore, the above-mentioned display member may be mounted on the inclined portion S 31  at the distal end of the arm. Moreover, the marketing concept of the selling space can be clearly demonstrated to the customers by painting the resin semi-units S 42   a , S 42   b  forming the hook S 40  and the synthetic resin S 34  forming the surface of arm S 30  so as to impart them with identical or similar colors or mutually opposite colors.  
     [0146] It is also possible to bring the joining surface S 45   a  of resin semi-unit S 42   a  into contact with the joining surface S 45   b  and screw them together after the first merchandise suspension arm S 30  has been inserted into the groove S 60   b  of resin semi-unit S 42   b.    
     [0147] Fixing the second merchandise suspension arm S 36  to the fifth merchandise display hook S 40  will be described hereinbelow based on FIGS.  15 (A) and  15 (B).  
     [0148] For example, as shown in FIG. 15(A), first, parts of the horizontal portions S 32 , S 38  which are close to the rear ends thereof and the rear end portion S 39  of the second merchandise suspension arm S 36  are inserted into the upper horizontal portion S 62 , lower horizontal portion S 64 , and vertical portion S 66  of the groove S 60   a  of resin semi-unit S 42   a . Then, the joining surface S 45   b  of resin semi-unit S 42   b  is brought into surface contact with the joining surface S 45   a  of resin semi-unit S 42   a , and the upper and lower convex sections S 69  of the latter are positioned by individually engaging with the upper and lower depressions S 68  of the former. The male threaded portion S 22  of screw S 20  is then inserted from the outer side surface S 44   a  of resin semi-unit S 42   a  into the through hole S 57  and the like and screwed into the female threaded hole S 67  of resin semi-unit S 42   b . At this time, a cover may be fit into the step S 59  of resin semi-unit S 42   a.    
     [0149] As a result, as shown in FIG. 15(B), parts of horizontal portions S 32 , S 38  close to the rear ends thereof and the rear end portion S 39  of the second merchandise suspension arm S 36  are inserted into and fixed in the fixing holes S 70 , S 72  and the fixing hole S 74  formed in the fifth merchandise display hook S 40  which is assembled from the resin semi-units S 42   a , S 42   b . As shown in FIG. 15(B), the hangers S 50   a , S 50   b  of hook S 40  having the arm S 36  fixed thereto are hanged and supported on the horizontal wire S 76  of the net. At this time, the vertical wire S 78  close to the horizontal wire S 76  is inserted in the longitudinal grooves S 52   a , S 52   b  and longitudinal grooves S 55   a , S 55   b  of hook S 40 .  
     [0150] Then, hook-shaped portions provided at the upper end of a large number of merchandise packages or the like (not shown in the figures) are hooked and suspended on the lower horizontal portion S 32  and a plate-like display member displaying the name or price of the merchandise is mounted on the upper inclined portion S 37 . Alternatively, articles of merchandise of a small height are also suspended from the upper horizontal portion S 38 . As a result, a large number of merchandize items can be displayed while being suspended from the horizontal portions S 32 , S 38  of the second arm S 36 , and information relating to the merchandise can be provided close to the upper inclined portion S 37 .  
     [0151] With the above-described fifth merchandise display hook S 40 , the first merchandise suspension arm S 30  for or the second merchandise suspension arm S 36  is selectively sandwiched and held between the ⊃-like grooves S 60   a , S 60   b  in the resin semi-units S 42   a , S 42   b  forming the hook. As a result, one horizontal portion S 32  or two horizontal portions S 32 , S 38  can be selected for hanging and supporting on the horizontal wire S 76  of the net.  
     [0152] For this reason, the number of components that have to be selling spaced can be decreased and the number of production processes and cost are reduced by comparison with those for the conventional hooks. Moreover, because substantially the entire resin semi-units S 42   a , S 42   b  forming the hook S 40  are composed of a synthetic resin, they have a small weight and can be arbitrarily colored or put designs. Therefore, by selecting the first arm S 30  and second arm S 36 , it is possible to change easily the merchandise arrangement or merchandise configuration in the selling space and satisfy easily the requirements of marketing concept of each selling space.  
     [0153] In addition to the above-described arms S 30 , S 36 , the conventional thin and long steel bars may be used in the fifth merchandise display hook S 40  upon bending and plating. Moreover, the longitudinal grooves S 52   a , S 52   b , S 55   a , S 55   b  of hook S 40  may be omitted.  
     [0154] [Other Embodiments] 
     [0155] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments explained hereinabove.  
     [0156] For example, the grooves  32 ,  42  or through hole  35  of the first merchandise display hook  20  may be slightly inclined in the vertical or horizontal direction and the fixing holes  38 ,  48  may be also similarly inclined.  
     [0157] Furthermore, the through hole  35  or vertical hole  42   a  in the second merchandise display hook  20   a  may be also slightly inclined in the vertical or horizontal direction.  
     [0158] In the hook body  60   a  and arm fixing section  72  in the third merchandise display hook  60 , two grooves m and two circular arc grooves  76  can be formed on the left and right sides so as to be spread in the widthwise direction, and one or two arms can be selectively supported by the left and right grooves m.  
     [0159] The cross sectional shape of the synthetic resin covering the metal rods of arms is not limited to the round shape and may be semicylindrical with the upper part of the cross section being semicircular and the lower part being quadrangular, or the entire cross section can be polygonal, for example, quadrangular, hexagonal, octagonal, and the like. Accordingly, the cross sectional shapes of grooves  32 , m, S 10   a , S 10   b , S 60   a , S 60   b  can be made substantially similar to those cross sectional shapes.  
     [0160] Furthermore, the first grooves S 10   a , S 10   b  of the fourth and fifth merchandise display hooks S 1 , S 40  or the upper and lower horizontal portions S 62 , S 64  of the grooves S 60   a , S 60   b  may be slightly inclined with respect to the horizontal direction, and the second grooves S 12   a , S 12   b  or the vertical portion S 66  of the groove S 60  may be similarly inclined in the vertical direction.  
     [0161] In addition, the merchandise suspension arms in accordance with the present invention are not limited to the above-described first and second arms S 30 , S 36  and include other configurations, provided that they comprise the inclined portions S 31 , S 37 , horizontal portions S 32 , S 38 , and end portions S 33 , S 39  and have a two-layer structure composed of synthetic resin S 34  and metal rod S 35 .  
     [0162] Further, the resin semi-units S 2   a , S 2   b , S 42   a , S 42   b  may be joined together by using bolts similar to the screws S 20 .