Organizing device

Abstract

An organizing device provides a stand for hanging items thereon. The stand includes a base for supporting the stand in a generally vertical orientation during operation. A pivoting hang rod supports items thereon and further may provide support of the stand in a generally vertical orientation. The hang rod pivots to an extended position for supporting items thereon and to a position adjacent a support member when not in use. The stand may also provide rotatable operation.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to organizing systems, and more particularly to an organizing device including a stand for supporting items, especially garments thereon.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Efficient and organized use of building space is very desirable, particularly with respect to storage or utility space in businesses, residential homes and apartments. From appliances having space saving designs (e.g., washer and dryer stacked on top of one another) to closet organizers (e.g., wire shelving closet kits), manufacturers continue to develop new designs to maximize the use of space and provide flexibility in operation, while maintaining ease in access and user convenience.

[0003] Some known organizing systems are installed in a particular location for extended use, such as, for example, closet organizers that are secured to the closet (e.g., using mounting screws) to provide organization and storage. These permanent types of organizing systems and units are not capable of easy movement, but typically provide more secure support of stored items as a result of the secure attachment of these systems to supporting members (e.g., wall studs of a closet). However, these systems require that a user transport items to and from the installed location of the unit(s) for use (e.g., to store items thereon). This is very often inconvenient when only temporary storage or support of items is needed, for example when ironing clothes.

[0004] Other known organizing systems provide temporary storage and support. These systems are typically installed or setup for use during limited or short time periods and thereafter stored away. Further, these systems typically provide removable connection to support members (e.g., over the door) or allow for ease in setup and subsequent storage (e.g., folding parts to allow for quick setup and storage in a smaller area after use). For example, over the door clothes hanger brackets are known that attach over the top of the door, and when extended, support clothes or other items thereon. Although these types of devices may be easy to use (i.e., easy set up) and may be easily stored after use, the support provided by these brackets is limited, which can result in failure, for example, if clothing supported thereon is too heavy. However, because of the manner in which some of these devices fold or latch, set up is often not easy.

[0005] Other temporary storage devices are known that provide more support, but typically require secure attachment of at least a portion of the device to a support member. For example, support rods and retractable support members may be provided that include one end secured to a wall or other support member. Although these devices provide additional support, they require secure attachment resulting in that portion being visible (e.g., portion attached to the wall) even after use. Thus, these organizing systems and devices that provide temporary support and storage may be difficult to install, difficult to move or store, or may fail to provide adequate support for items provided (e.g., hanging) thereon.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] As recognized by the inventor hereof, it is desirable to provide an organizing system, and in particular, and organizing device such as a stand that allows for ease in setup, provides secure support of items thereon, is easily movable and can be easily stored after use. It is desirable for such an organizing stand to provide flexibility in operation while ensuring proper support of items attached thereto (e.g., clothes hanging thereon).

[0007] Various embodiments of the present invention provide a stand adapted for supporting items (e.g., garments) thereon in different locations, such as to hang clothes after washing or ironing, and that is easily set up and movable as desired or needed. The stand provides for ease in setup while maintaining support of items thereon during use. In one embodiment, a stand of the present invention includes a pivoting hang rod configured for providing contact with a support member (e.g., a wall) to support the stand during use. In another embodiment, a stand of the present invention includes a pivoting hang rod and allows for rotatable operation of the hang rod during use.

[0008] In one embodiment of the present invention, an organizing device includes a base member and a pivoting hang rod. The pivoting hang rod is adapted to contact a support surface and together with the base member is configured to maintain the organizing device in a generally vertical orientation. The pivoting hang rod may be configured to pivot to contact a support surface when extended in a generally horizontal first position and to pivot to a generally vertical second position. A connection member may provide the pivoting operation of the pivoting hang rod.

[0009] In another embodiment of the present invention, a stand for hanging objects includes a support member having an end adapted to be supported on a generally horizontal surface and a hang rod extending from the support member. The hang rod includes a free end adapted to engage a generally vertical surface to support the hanging rod in a generally horizontal orientation between the support member and the generally vertical surface. The hang rod may be pivotally mounted to the support member for pivoting between a stowed position in which the hang rod is generally parallel to the support member, and a deployed position in which the hang rod projects generally perpendicular to the support member. In the deployed position, the hang rod may be secured from rotation in a direction caused by loading on the hang rod, and may be adapted for pivoting opposing the direction of the loading. The pivotal mounting may be configured to provide about 270 degrees of pivotal movement.

[0010] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a stand is adapted to be temporarily supported on a floor and adjacent a wall for hanging articles therefrom. The stand includes a support having an end adapted to be supported on the floor and a hang rod extending from the support having a free end engaging the wall. The hang rod is supported between the support and the wall in a generally horizontal orientation. The hang rod may be pivotally mounted to the support for pivoting between a stowed position in which the hang rod is generally parallel to the support, and a deployed position in which the hang rod projects generally perpendicular to the support.

[0011] In still another embodiment of the present invention, an organizing device includes a base member, a support member connected to the base member and configured for rotation relative to the base member, and a hang rod connected to the support member and configured for pivotal movement relative to the support member. The hang rod is maintained in a generally horizontal orientation when the support member supported by the base is maintained in a generally vertical orientation. The base member may include a plurality of support legs. Further, the hang rod may be configured for pivoting between a generally horizontal position and a generally vertical position.

[0012] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiments of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a stand constructed according to the principles of the present invention;

[0015] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an upper portion of the stand of FIG. 1 showing a pivoting hang rod thereof;

[0016] FIG. 3 is another perspective view of an upper portion of the stand of FIG. 1 showing a pivoting hang rod thereof;

[0017] FIG. 4 is another perspective view of an upper portion of the stand of FIG. 1 showing a pivoting hang rod thereof;

[0018] FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of a pivoting hang rod of one embodiment of a stand of the present invention;

[0019] FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of one embodiment a stand of the present invention showing various positions of operation of the pivoting hang rod;

[0020] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a stand of the present invention showing a pivoting hang rod in a deployed position; and

[0021] FIG. 8 is another perspective view of the stand of FIG. 7 showing the pivoting hang rod in a stowed position.

[0022] Corresponding reference numerals represent corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0023] The following description of the preferred embodiments is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses. Although various embodiments of an organizing device of the present invention may be described having a particular shape or configuration and supporting particular items thereon, it is not so limited, and other shapes and configurations may be provided. Further, while shown and described primarily as a support for clothes on a hanger, different or additional items may be supported thereon.

[0024] In general, various embodiments of an organizing device of the present invention include a stand having a hang rod for supporting items (e.g., garments) thereon when in an extended generally horizontal orientation. In particular, and as shown in FIGS. 1 through 4, in one embodiment of the present invention, an organizing device is configured as a stand 20 that comprises a support member 24, having a base member 22 at one end and a hang rod 26 at the other end. More preferably, the base member 22 is a separate member connected (e.g., welded) to one end 23 of the support member 24, and extending in a first plane. The hang rod 26 is preferably a separate member connected to the support member 24 at an opposite end 25 from the base member 22. The hang rod 26 extends or projects from the support member 24 generally perpendicularly in a second plane, different from and preferably perpendicular to the first plane. The hang rod 26 is preferably pivotally mounted on the support member 24 to pivot between an extended or deployed position, as shown in FIG. 1, to allow for generally upright operation (i.e., support member 24 maintained in a generally vertical orientation), and a stowed position as shown in FIG. 2. The hang rod 26 preferably pivots relative to the support member 24 opposite from the movement caused by a load (e.g., clothes) on the hang rod 26. More preferably, the hang rod 26 pivots approximately 270 degrees in the second plane.

[0025] More preferably, the support member 24 is connected at the one end 23 at about the center of the base member 22. The base member 22 may include end covers 32 (e.g., non-slip or gripping covers) on each of its ends to resist movement (e.g., sliding) of the stand 20 during use. The base member 22 is preferably circular or cylindrical to allow for rotation of the base member 22 and support member 24, for example to allow for use of the stand 20 in a slightly angled orientation as described herein. It should be noted that the end covers 32 may be constructed of different types of material depending upon the particular requirements or needs of the stand 20. Further, the end covers 32 may be permanently connected (e.g., using contact adhesive) to the base member 22 or may be adapted for removal and replacement as needed or desired. Further, the dimensions (e.g., length) of the base member 22 may be modified based upon the particular application of the stand 20, for example, the type of items to be supported by the hang rod 26 and/or the surface on which the base member 22 may be used.

[0026] The hang rod 26 is preferably pivotally connected to the opposite end 25 of the support member 24 as shown in more detail in FIGS. 2 through 4. As shown therein, a connection member 40 is provided for pivotally connecting the hang rod 26 to the opposite end 25 of the support member 24. In one embodiment, the connection member 40 is configured to provide for connection to the support member 24 using, for example, a bolt and nut. The connection member 40 includes a support portion 42 sized dimensionally to support therein the hang rod 26. The hang rod 26 is connected within the support portion 42, for example, by welding.

[0027] The hang rod 26 extends from the connection member 40 with a first end 44 of the hang rod 26 adapted for contacting or engaging a support surface (e.g., a wall) when pivoted to an extended or deployed position for operation as shown in FIG. 1 and in more detail in FIG. 5. In particular, when in an extended or deployed position as shown in FIG. 5, the hang rod 26 is in a generally horizontal orientation with the first end 44 providing support for the stand 20 in a generally vertical orientation. The connection member 40 is configured to allow a second end 46 of the hang rod 26 to extend beyond the connection member 40 such that in the extended or deployed position the second end 46 abuts the support member 24 to support the extending hang rod 26 in a generally horizontal orientation. The first end 44 of the hang rod 26 can then contact a support surface to hold the support member 24 in a generally vertical orientation. It should be noted that the shape and configuration of the connection member 40 or its connection to the support member 24 may be modified as needed or desired to allow for the hang rod 26 to abut the support member 24 in different positions (e.g., different angles) when in operation (e.g., to hang clothes therefrom).

[0028] Further, the second end 46 preferably includes an end cap 52 (e.g., rubber or plastic end cap) that contacts the support member 24 when in the extended or deployed position to provide more secure operation, for example, to resist vibration of the hang rod 26 when placing and removing items thereon, which may cause the stand 20 to become unstable. The first end 44 of the hang rod 26 preferably also includes an end cap 48 to provide for secure contact with a support surface (e.g., a wall). The end cap 48 is configured to resist movement of the hang rod 26 when contacting the support surface. For example, the end cap 48 may be constructed of a suitable non-slip material (e.g., rubber) to resist movement when contacting a slick surface (e.g., tile). Additionally, and in one embodiment, the hang rod 26 further includes one or more grooves or indents 50 for maintaining the position of items supported on the hang rod 26, for example, clothes hanging on the hang rod 26 using hangers as shown in FIG. 1.

[0029] The stand 20 is configured for operation in a first position as shown in FIG. 6 such that the hang rod 26 is pivoted to an extended or deployed position as described herein for supporting the stand 20 in a generally vertical orientation. In this first position (i.e., extended or deployed position), the first end 44 of the hang rod 26 is pivoted into position for contacting a support member (e.g., a wall 60), with the second end 46 of the hang rod 26 abutting the support member 24. Thereafter, items (e.g., clothes) may be supported or hung from the hang rod 26.

[0030] The hang rod 26 may also be pivoted to a second position (i.e., stowed position), for example, for storing the stand 20 when not is use. In this second position, the stand 20 is compact for convenient storage, with the hang rod 26 configured for positioning adjacent the support member 24. It should be noted that a suitable locking device (e.g., locking strap) may be provided to secure the hang rod 26 to the support member 24 when in the second position.

[0031] Further, the connection between the hang rod 26 and the connection member 40 may be modified such that when in the first position, the stand 20 may be angled relative to a generally vertical orientation depending upon the particular application or use for the stand 20. For example, the distance the second end 46 of the hang rod 26 extends beyond the connection member, the point of connection between the connection member 40 and support member 24 and/or the configuration of the connection member 40 may be modified. More preferably, the connection member 40 is configured such that the stand 20 is maintained slightly angled or slanted relative to a vertical orientation (e.g., about five to ten degrees from vertical) when in the first position as shown in FIG. 1. This provides further support for the stand 20 when in operation (e.g., when hanging clothes on the hang rod 26).

[0032] The size and configuration of the various component parts of the stand 20, including the base member 22, the support member 24, the hang rod 26 and the connection member 40 may be modified as need or desired, for example, based upon the particular application for the stand 20. Further, different materials may be used for constructing the component parts of the stand 20, including for example plastic, metal or a composite material (e.g., carbon fiber).

[0033] The present invention is not limited to the stand 20 as described above. Various other embodiments of a stand of the present invention are contemplated. For example, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, a stand 20′ may include a base 80 (e.g., tripod base) at one end 92 of a support member 86 and the hang rod 26 at the opposite end 95. As shown therein, and in one embodiment, the base 80 includes a plurality of support legs 82 (e.g., three support legs 80) spaced evenly apart axially. It should be noted that additional support legs 82 may be provided as needed or desired. The support legs 82 are preferably curved and connected at one end to a support rotating member 84 as described in more detail herein and provided at the other end with end caps 86 (e.g., rubber caps) for contacting a support surface (e.g., a floor).

[0034] More preferably, the support member 86 is connected at the one end 92 to the support rotating member 84 and supported in a generally vertical orientation by the support rotating member 84 in combination with the base 80. The support rotating member 84 may be constructed in any know manner for providing rotating operation of the stand 20′, and more particularly for rotation of the support member 84 relative to the base 80.

[0035] In this embodiment, the support member 84 includes an outwardly extending curved portion 90 at the one end 92 of the support member 84 to allow for maintaining the generally vertical orientation of the stand 20′ when supporting items on the hang rod 26 and generally centering the hang rod 26 over the base 80. In particular, the outwardly extending curved portion 90 provides stability to the stand 20′, for example, when items (e.g., clothes on hangers) are hung from the hang rod 26. More particularly, the outwardly extending curved portion 90 provides stability generally about the base 80 (e.g., center of gravity over the base 80), for example when items are hung on any portion of the hang rod (e.g., items hung in the middle, at the ends or along the entire length of the hang rod 26). The hang rod 26 also is preferably configured for pivotal connection to the opposite end 95 of the support member 84 using the connection member 40 as described above.

[0036] In operation, in a first position, the hang rod 26 is pivoted to an extended or deployed position as shown in FIG. 7 and as described herein. However, in this embodiment, the stand 20′, and more particularly the support member 86 is maintained in a generally vertical orientation by the base 80. However, the hang rod 26 may also provide support of the stand 20′ by contacting a support member (e.g., a wall), for example, if the stand 20′ becomes unstable. It should be noted that in this embodiment the connection member 40 is configured such that when the hang rod 26 is in the first position, the hang rod 26 is angled slightly upward (e.g., about ten degrees from horizontal). Further, the support rotating member 84 allows for rotation of the support member 86 relative to the base 80 (i.e., support member 86 capable of 360 degrees of rotation relative to the tripod base 80). In a second position (i.e., stowed position) as shown in FIG. 8, the hang rod 26 is pivoted such that is generally adjacent to the support member 86, for example, when not is use and for storage thereof. Further, and in one embodiment, the support legs 82 are adapted for removable connection to the support rotating member 86, and may be removed in the second position making the stand 20′ more compact for storage.

[0037] Thus, the stand 20′ provides for supporting items (e.g., clothes) in all rotatable positions of the hang rod 26 relative to the base 80. For example, clothing hung on the hang rod 26 may be rotated without moving or rotating the base 80.

[0038] Embodiments of the present invention provide stands 20 and 20′ that allow ease in setup and storage, as well as stable support of items thereon during use. Pivoting operation of the hang rod 26 further simplifies setup, operation and storage of the stands 20 and 20′. Further, the stands 20 and 20′ allow for flexibility in operation, including ease in movement and subsequent setup in different locations as need or desired. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments of the stands 20 and 20′ as described herein, and modifications are contemplated. For example, the connection between the connection member 40 and hang rod 26 may be modified to accommodate different angles for supporting the stand 20 or hang rod 26. Further, and for example, the dimensions (e.g., length) of the hang rod 26 may be modified depending upon the number and type of items to be supported thereon. Also, and for example, the hang rod 26 may be modified to provide telescoping operation.

[0039] Thus, the description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and, thus, variations that do not depart from the gist of the invention are intended to be within the scope of the invention. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. An organizing device comprising:

a base member; and

a pivoting hang rod, the pivoting hang rod contacting and leaning against a generally vertical support surface to support the pivoting hang rod in a generally horizontal orientation, and together with the base member maintaing the organizing device in a generally vertical orientation.

2. The organizing device according to claim 1 wherein the pivoting hang rod is configured to pivot to contact the generally vertical support surface when extended in a generally horizontal first position and to pivot to a generally vertical second position.

3. The organizing device according to claim 2 further comprising a support member and wherein the pivoting hang rod is pivoted adjacent to the support member in the second position.

4. The organizing device according to claim 2 wherein the pivoting hang rod comprises at least one groove for maintaining items thereon when in the generally horizontal first position.

5. The organizing device according to claim 1 wherein the pivoting hang rod comprises an end cap for contacting the support surface.

6. The organizing device according to claim 2 wherein the base member includes a plurality of end covers for resisting movement of the base member when the pivoting hang rod is in the generally horizontal first position.

7. The organizing device according to claim 2 further comprising a connection member providing pivoting operation of the pivoting hang rod.

8. The organizing device according to claim 7 wherein the connection member is configured to provide the organizing device in an angled arrangement when the pivoting hang rod is in the generally horizontal first position.

9. The organizing device according to claim 3 wherein in the generally horizontal first position a first end of the pivoting hang rod contacts and leans against the generally vertical support surface, and a second end of the pivoting hang rod abuts the support member.

10. The organizing device according to claim 2 wherein the pivoting hang rod is configured to support clothing thereon in the generally horizontal first position.

11. The organizing device according to claim 1 wherein the pivoting hang rod is configured for about 270 degrees of pivotal operation.

12. A stand for hanging objects, the stand comprising:

a support member having an end adapted to be supported on a generally horizontal surface; and

a hang rod extending from the support member, and having a free end leaning against a generally vertical surface to support the hang rod in a generally horizontal orientation between the support member and the generally vertical surface.

13. The stand according to claim 12 wherein the hang rod is pivotally mounted to the support member for pivoting between a stowed position in which the hang rod is generally parallel to the support member, and a deployed position in which the hang rod projects generally perpendicular to the support member.

14. The stand according to claim 13 wherein in the deployed position the hang rod is secured from rotation in a direction caused by loading on the hang rod, and is adapted for pivoting opposing the direction of loading.

15. The stand according to claim 13 wherein the hang rod in the deployed position is secured from downward rotation relative to the support member when objects are hung on the hang rod.

16. The stand according to claim 13 wherein the pivotal mounting is configured such that in the deployed position the hang rod is secured from rotation in the direction of rotation in the hang rod caused by loading on the hang rod.

17. The stand according to claim 13 wherein the pivotal mounting is configured to provide about 270 degrees of pivotal movement.

18. A stand adapted to be temporarily supported on a floor and adjacent a wall for hanging articles therefrom, the stand comprising:

a support having an end adapted to be supported on the floor; and

a hang rod extending from the support, and having a free end engaging and leaning against the wall to support the hang rod between the support and the wall in a generally horizontal orientation.

19. The stand according to claim 18 wherein the hang rod is pivotally mounted to the support for pivoting between a stowed position in which the hang rod is generally parallel to the support, and a deployed position in which the hang rod projects generally perpendicular to the support.

20. In combination with a generally horizontal floor and an adjacent generally vertical wall, a stand for hanging objects, the stand comprising:

a support member having an end supported on the floor; and

a hang rod extending from the support member and having a free end engaging and leaning against the wall to support the hang rod between the support member and the wall in a generally horizontal orientation.

21. The stand according to claim 20 wherein the hang rod is pivotally mounted to the support member for pivoting between a stowed position in which the hang rod is generally parallel to the support member, and a deployed position in which the hang rod projects generally perpendicular to the support member.

22. An organizing device comprising:

a base member;

a support member extending generally upwardly from the base member, the support member rotatably connected to the base member for rotation about a generally vertical axis relative to the base member; and

a hang rod connected to the support member and configured for pivotal movement relative to the support member, the hang rod maintained in a generally horizontal orientation when the support member supported by the base member is maintained in a generally vertical orientation.

23. The organizing device according to claim 22 wherein the base member comprises a plurality of support legs.

24. The organizing device according to claim 22 wherein the hang rod is configured for pivoting between a generally horizontal position and a generally vertical position.

25. The organizing device according to claim 22 wherein the support member comprises a curved portion at a lower end.

26. The organizing device according to claim 22 further comprising a rotating member providing for rotation of the support member.

27. A method for hanging clothing, the method comprising:

supporting a clothing stand with a pivoting hang rod by positioning the clothing stand so that a free end of the pivoting hang rod leans against a generally vertical support surface to allow for hanging clothes thereon, the pivoting hang rod in a generally horizontal orientation for hanging clothes thereon when contacting the support surface.

28. The method according to claim 27 further comprising configuring the clothing stand to allow for pivoting of the hang rod to a position adjacent to and alongside a vertical support member of the clothing stand.

29. The method according to claim 27 further comprising resisting movement of the hang rod when in the generally horizontal orientation.

30. The method according to claim 27 further comprising maintaining the position of the clothing hanging on the pivoting hang rod when in the generally horizontal orientation.

31. The method according to claim 27 wherein the clothing stand is in an angled arrangement relative to the generally vertical support surface when the pivoting hang rod is in the generally horizontal orientation and leaning against the generally vertical support surface.

32. The method according to claim 27 wherein the clothing stand is maintained at angle between about five degrees to ten degrees from vertical when the pivoting hang rod is leaning against the generally vertical support surface.

33. The stand according to claim 20 wherein the support member is maintained at an angle between about five degrees to ten degrees from vertical when the hang rod is contacting and leaning against the wall.

34. The stand according to claim 20 further comprising a generally cylindrical base member disposed at the end of the support member being supported on the floor, the base member extending in a first plane, and wherein the hang rod extends from the support member in a second plane generally perpendicular to the first plane.

35. The organizing device according to claim 22 wherein the support member comprises a curved portion extending outwardly in a first direction generally opposite a second direction in which the hang rod extends from the support member when the hang rod is in the generally horizontal orientation.

36. The organizing device according to claim 35 wherein the curved portion of the support member generally aligns a center of the hang rod over a center of the base member when the hang rod is in the generally horizontal orientation.

37. The organizing device according to claim 22 wherein the hang rods contacts a generally vertical surface to help the base member maintain the support member in the generally vertical orientation.

38. The organizing device according to claim 22 wherein the support member is rotatable three hundred sixty degrees about the generally vertical axis.