ADJUSTABLE STORAGE ASSEMBLY

Abstract

An adjustable shelf assembly includes an elongated tension-mounted rod, an elongated frame, and at least one shelf attached to the frame. The elongated tension-mounted rod has a first end and a second end and generally extends in a first plane. The elongated frame has a first end attached to the tension-mounted rod and an opposing second end. The frame generally extends in a second plane which is perpendicular to the first plane of the tension-mounted rod. The at least one shelf has a base wall configured to support objects placed thereon. The base wall generally extends in a third plane which is parallel to and spaced apart from the first plane of the tension mounted-rod.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/722,476, filed Nov. 5, 2012, entitled “Adjustable Storage Assembly,” the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

An embodiment of the present invention relates generally to an adjustable storage assembly and, more particularly, to an adjustable shower storage system configured to be positioned between a shower head assembly and a support wall of a bath or shower stall enclosure. The assembly may be used as a shower caddy because it is desirable to have an assembly capable of supporting a variety of bathing articles that a user generally requires when bathing or taking a shower.

Numerous types of shower caddies have been developed to support such articles so that a person taking a shower can readily access such articles. One type of such conventional shower caddies includes caddies which are mounted over and supported by a shower head assembly. One problem with such conventional shower caddies is that the weight of the shower caddy and the articles stored therein must be completely borne by the shower head assembly, which can result in damage to the shower head assembly.

Another problem with such conventional shower caddies is that they are not always compatible with the layout of the shower and with the shower head assembly. For example, many shower head assemblies, such as handheld shower head assemblies, generally have a hose or flexible tube which generally rests against a shower wall. Other handheld shower head assemblies have a slide bar on which the shower head is mounted. However, conventional shower caddies are often difficult to mount over such handheld shower head assemblies because placement of the caddy is often obstructed by the flexible hose or slide bar which is positioned below the base or shower head. Also, positioning of the hose is often obstructed by the caddy. Specifically, difficulties arise because there is no space for the tube or hose of the handheld shower assembly to lay, or the caddy cannot be used because of the obstructing slide bar.

Thus, it is desirable to provide an improved shower storage system configured to be mounted over a shower head assembly. More particularly, it is desirable to provide a shower storage system which is configured to be mounted over a shower head assembly in such a manner that the storage system does not interfere with any components of the shower head assembly and the risk of damage to the shower head assembly is significantly minimized or eliminated

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to an adjustable shelf assembly comprising an elongated tension-mounted rod, an elongated frame, and at least one shelf attached to the frame. The elongated tension-mounted rod has a first end and a second end and generally extends in a first plane. The elongated frame has a first end attached to the tension-mounted rod and an opposing second end. The frame generally extends in a second plane which is perpendicular to the first plane of the tension-mounted rod. The at least one shelf has a base wall configured to support objects placed thereon. The base wall generally extends in a third plane which is parallel to and spaced apart from the first plane of the tension mounted-rod

In another embodiment, the present invention is directed to a combination of an adjustable shelf assembly and a shower head assembly. The adjustable shelf assembly is configured to be removably mountable on the shower head assembly. The shower head assembly has a base, a head portion and an arm extending from the base. The shower head assembly generally defines a first longitudinal plane. The adjustable shelf assembly comprises an elongated tension-mounted rod, an elongated frame and at least one shelf attached to the frame. The elongated tension-mounted rod has a first end and a second end and extends in a first lateral plane generally perpendicular to the first longitudinal plane of the shower head assembly. The elongated frame has a first end attached to the tension-mounted rod and an opposing second end. The frame generally extends in a second longitudinal plane which is parallel to and spaced apart from the first longitudinal plane of the shower head assembly. The at least one shelf has a base wall configured to support objects placed thereon. The base wall generally extends in a second lateral plane which is parallel to and spaced apart from the first lateral plane of the tension mounted-rod.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The following detailed description of a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purposes of illustrating the invention, there are shown in the drawings embodiments which are presently preferred. It is understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of an adjustable storage assembly in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1B is a front elevational view of the adjustable storage assembly shown in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1C is a right side elevational view of the adjustable storage assembly shown in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an adjustable storage assembly in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of a support rod of the adjustable storage assembly shown in FIGS. 1A and 2;

FIG. 4 is a front elevation cross-sectional view the support rod shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 4A is an enlarged front elevation view of a tension mechanism of the support rod shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 5 is a perspective exploded view of the support rod shown in FIG. 3 with the shower fixture support rotated 180°;

FIG. 5A is an enlarged front elevation view of the metal collars of the support rod shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 5B is an enlarged perspective exploded view of the end cap of the support rod shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 5C is an enlarged perspective exploded view of the shower fixture support of the support rod shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the support rod of the adjustable storage assembly shown in FIG. 1A in an installed position secured to a shower head assembly;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the adjustable storage assembly shown in FIG. 2 in an installed position secured to a shower head assembly; and

FIG. 8 is a compilation of several possible configurations of adjustable storage assemblies in accordance with preferred embodiments of the present invention in installed positions secured to respective shower head assemblies.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The words “right”, “left”, “lower”, and “upper” designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words “inwardly” and “outwardly” refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the adjustable storage assembly and designated parts thereof. The terminology includes the above-listed words, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. Additionally, the words “a” and “an”, as used in the claims and in the corresponding portions of the specification, mean “at least one.”

Referring to the drawings in detail, wherein like numerals and characters indicate like elements throughout, there is shown in FIGS. 1A-2 a presently preferred embodiment of an adjustable storage assembly in accordance with the present invention. With reference initially to FIGS. 1-2, the adjustable storage assembly preferably functions as an adjustable shelf assembly, and more preferably as a shower caddy, generally designated 10.

With particular reference to FIGS. 1A-2, the adjustable storage assembly 10 comprises an elongated frame 12, an elongated support rod 14, and at least one shelf 30 attached to the frame 12. Preferably, the frame 12 has a first or top end 12a which is removably attached to the support rod 14 and an opposing second or bottom end 12b. In one embodiment, the frame 12 is preferably made of metal wire. In another embodiment, the frame 12 is preferably made of a polymeric material. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any suitable material may be used to form the frame 12, such as a metal coated with a polymeric material and the like, or a combination of these materials. Preferably, the frame 12 is made of a corrosion resistant material.

Referring to FIGS. 1A-1C. the support rod 14 is a generally horizontally-oriented rod and preferably generally extends in a first lateral plane L1 defined by a generally central lateral axis L1 of the rod 14. The frame 12 is a generally vertically-oriented structure and preferably generally extends in a first vertical longitudinal plane L2 defined by a generally central longitudinal axis L2 of the frame 12. More preferably, the frame 12 extends in a longitudinal plane L2 which is perpendicular to the lateral plane L1 of the support rod 14. More particularly, the frame 12 preferably extends perpendicularly from the horizontally-oriented support rod 14 along the vertical longitudinal plane L2.

The frame 12 preferably comprises at least a first elongated support bar or frame member 18 to which at least one shelf 30 is attached. More preferably, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the frame 12 comprises a first elongated frame member 18 and a generally parallel second elongated support bar or frame member 20 spaced apart from the first elongated frame member 18, such that the at least one shelf 30 generally extends between the first and second frame members 18, 20. Each of the first and second elongated frame members 18, 20 has respective first or top ends 18a, 20a and opposing second or bottom ends 18b, 20b. The top ends 18a, 20a and bottom ends 18b, 20b of the first and second elongated frame members 18, 20 generally correspond to and define the top end 12a and bottom end 12b of the frame 12, respectively. As such, the first and second frame members 18, 20 generally extend perpendicularly from the horizontally-oriented support rod 14 along the vertical longitudinal plane L2 of the frame 12. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the frame 12 is not limited to comprising one or two frame members, and may alternatively comprise three or more elongated frame members (not shown).

In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the frame 12 is preferably an integral and monolithic structure, such that the first and second frame members 18, 20 are integrally formed. More specifically, at the top ends 18a, 20a of the first and second frame members 18, 20, a first horizontally-oriented connector rod 24, formed integrally with the first and second frame members 18, 20, preferably traverses the space between the first and second frame members 18, 20 so as to ensure that the frame members 18, 20 are secured to each other. More preferably, at the bottom ends 18b, 20b of the first and second frame members 18, 20, a second horizontally-oriented connector rod 26, also formed integrally with the first and second frame members 18, 20, preferably traverses the space between the first and second frame members 18, 20 to secure the frame members 18, 20 to each other.

In another embodiment, the frame 12 is not an integral structure, such that the first and second frame members 18, 20, the first transversely extending connector rod 24, and the optional second transversely extending connector rod 26 are separate and distinct components of the frame 12. In such an embodiment, one end of the first connector rod 24 is attached to the top end 18a of the first frame member 18 and an opposing end of the first connector rod 24 is attached to the top end 20a of the second frame member 20, such that the first and second frame members 18, 20 are secured to each other by the first connector rod 24. Similarly, one end of the second connector rod 26 is attached to the bottom end 18b of the first frame member 18 and an opposing end of the second connector rod 26 is attached to the bottom end 20b of the second frame member 20.

In one embodiment, the top end 12a of the frame 12 is preferably removably attached to the horizontally-oriented support rod 14, such that the frame 12 may be selectively mounted on and detached from the support rod 14. Preferably, each of the top ends 18a, 20a of the first and second frame members 18, 20 has a curved or rounded surface profile, such that the top end 12a of the frame 12 is formed as a generally bent-over portion having a U-shaped cross-section. More preferably, the top end 12a of the frame 12, and more particularly each of the top ends 18a, 20a of the first and second frame members 18, 20, forms a hook 28 shaped and sized to removably engage the support rod 14. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the frame 12 may alternatively be permanently mounted on the support rod 14.

In one embodiment, the support rod 14 preferably includes one or more collars or sleeves 16, each of which at least partially surrounds a portion of an external periphery of the support rod 14. The top ends 18a, 20a of the first and second frame members 18, 20 preferably engage the one or more sleeves 16, such that the exterior surface of the support rod 14 is not damaged by the frame 12. The sleeves 16 may be movable or fixedly secured on the external periphery of the support rod 14. The sleeves 16 are preferably formed of a molded plastic, such as polycarbonate, polystyrene, polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), styrene acrylonitrile (SAN), polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rubber, and the like. Most preferably, the sleeves 16 are formed of PVC.

At least one shelf 30 is preferably attached or secured to the frame 12 between the top end 12a and the bottom end 12b of the frame 12. More preferably, a plurality of shelves 30 are attached or secured to the frame 12, such that the shelves 30 are spaced apart from each other in the direction of the longitudinal plane L2 of the frame 12. In one embodiment, at least a first shelf 30 and a second shelf 30 are attached to the frame 12, with the second shelf 30 being spaced apart from and beneath the first shelf 30 in the direction of the longitudinal plane L2 of the frame 12. The frame 12 may further be provided with a row of hooks 35 which may be positioned anywhere along the length of the frame 12 (see FIG. 1B).

Each shelf 30 preferably has an open top end 30a and an opposing bottom end 30b. In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1A, each shelf 30 preferably includes a horizontally-oriented base wall 32 at the bottom end 30b thereof. The base wall 32 is preferably configured to support one or more articles or objects placed thereon, particularly bathing articles, such as soap, shampoo and/or conditioner. The base wall 32 preferably generally extends in a second horizontal lateral plane L4 which is generally parallel to and spaced apart from (and more particularly spaced beneath) the lateral plane L1 of the support rod 14 and generally perpendicular to the longitudinal plane L2 of the frame 12.

In one embodiment, the base wall 32 is preferably formed by a plurality of spaced-apart generally parallel support bars 34 extending transversely across the bottom end 30b of the shelf 30. As a result of the spaces between the plurality of horizontal bars 34, the horizontally-oriented base wall 32 of each shelf 30 not only supports objects placed thereon, but also forms and functions as a drainage member.

In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the base wall 32 of each shelf 30 may be formed of a sheet of solid polymeric or metallic material 25, with apertures 27 formed therethrough. Such a base wall 32 is also configured to support objects placed thereon and function as a drainage member.

More particularly, as shown in FIGS. 1A-2, each shelf 30 preferably has a basket-like configuration. However, each of the shelves 30 need not have a basket-like configuration and need not be of uniform or identical shapes and sizes. Instead, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, each shelf 30 may have any appropriate shape and configuration, as long as each shelf 30 is capable of supporting one or more objects thereon. It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that the adjustable storage assembly 10 may include any number of shelves 30 (the shelves 30 being shown in FIGS. 1A-1C).

A preferred embodiment of the structure and method for attaching the shelves 30 to the frame 12 is now described herein. Preferably, each of the first and second frame members 18, 20 has a generally ladder-like configuration. More specifically, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, the first frame member 18 preferably has a first elongated support bar 18c, a second elongated support bar 18d spaced apart from the first support bar 18c, and a plurality of spaced-apart rungs 19 extending therebetween. Similarly, the second frame member 20 preferably has a first elongated support bar 20c, a second elongated bar 20d spaced apart from the first support bar 20c, and a plurality of spaced-apart rungs 21 extending therebetween. Preferably, each of the elongated support bars 18c, 18d, 20c, 20d generally extends in the direction of the longitudinal plane L2 of the frame 12 and perpendicular to the lateral plane L1 of the support rod 14.

Each of the spaced-apart rungs 19, 21 is preferably formed as a horizontally-oriented bar 19, 21 extending in a lateral plane generally parallel to the lateral plane L1 of the support rod 14. The position of each rung 19 of the first frame member 18 preferably corresponds to and is horizontally aligned with the position of a counterpart rung 21 of the second side frame member 20. A plurality of through apertures 22 are thus formed in the first and second frame members 18, 20 in between each of the spaced-apart rungs 19, 21.

Preferably, the rungs 19, 21 and one or more of the apertures 22 are used for securing a shelf 30 to the frame 12 in one of a plurality of positions along the length of the frame 12. More preferably, each shelf 30 is preferably equipped with one or more fasteners 36 sized and shaped to engage the rungs 19, 21 and the through apertures 22 of the first and second frame members 18, 20 in order to secure the shelf 30 to the frame 12 at a desired height and spacing. In a preferred embodiment, each shelf 30 is equipped with at least two spaced-apart fasteners 36, one of which is aligned with the first frame member 18 and the other of which is aligned with the second frame member 20 for securing the shelf 30 to the frame 12.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that any number of fasteners may be used and each fastener may have any appropriate shape and configuration, as long as the fastener is capable of securing the shelf 30 to the frame 12. For example, if the frame 12 includes only one frame member, then only one fastener 36 will likely be necessary to secure the shelf 30 to the frame 12.

In a preferred embodiment, at least a portion of each fastener 36 has an S-shaped configuration, such that each fastener 36 includes at least two curved portions 36a and one generally straight portion 36b extending therebetween. In an assembled position of the adjustable storage assembly 10, the curved portions 36a of each fastener 36 engage or contact a pair of adjacent rungs 19, 21 of each of the first and second frame members 18, 20 and the straight portion 36b of each fastener 36 extends through the aperture 22 formed between the rungs 19, 21. More particularly, with respect to each frame member 18, 20, one of the curved portions 36a of each fastener 36 engages a first rung 19, 21; the other of the curved portions 36a engages a second rung 19, 21 which is adjacent to the first rung 19, 21; and the straight portion 36b extends at an angle through the through aperture 22 formed between the pair of adjacent rungs 19, 21.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the shelves 30 may be removably or fixedly secured to the frame 12 by the fasteners 36. It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that the fasteners 36 may be integrally formed with each shelf 30, or may be separate and distinct components from each shelf 30. For example, in one embodiment, each fastener 36 may further include an attachment bar 37 extending from one of the curved portions 36a toward the base wall 32 of the shelf 30. The attachment bar 37 is preferably secured to or integrally formed with the shelf 30, and more preferably with the base wall 32 of the shelf 30.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the shelves 30 may be attached or secured to the frame 12 by a variety of known conventional techniques and mechanisms. More particularly, it will further be understood by those skilled in the art that the frame 12 and the shelves 30 may have alternate configurations, as long as the shelves 30 are capable of being secured to the frame 12. For example, in one embodiment, the frame 12 may be formed as one or more spaced-apart rods (not shown) with a plurality of spaced apart apertures (not shown) formed therein, and each shelf 30 may be equipped with a fastener portion (not shown) configured to engage the apertures to secure the shelf 30 to the frame 12. In another embodiment, the frame 12 may be formed as one or more spaced-apart rods (not shown), and each shelf 30 may be secured to the frame 12 by a bracket, a clamp, an adhesive, corresponding mating Velcro fasteners, and the like.

Referring to FIGS. 3-5, the support rod 14 preferably includes a first outer tube 38 and a second inner tube 40. The second inner tube 40 is telescopingly received by and within the first outer tube 38 along the longitudinal axis L1 of the support rod 14, such that the support rod 14 is adjustable in length. The first and second tubes 38, 40 are preferably made from a metal, such as cold-rolled steel, but may also be constructed using plastic, acrylic, or like material, and combinations thereof

Referring to FIG. 5, a sleeve 41 is preferably provided between the first outer tube 38 and the second inner tube 40 to accommodate the telescopic or sliding movement of the first and second tubes 38, 40 relative to each other. The sleeve 41 is preferably comprised of a polymeric material but it is within the spirit and scope of the present invention that the sleeve 41 be comprised of any material for facilitating telescopic or sliding movement of the first and second tubes 38, 40. It will also be understand that the sleeve 41 may be omitted entirely.

Referring to FIGS. 4-4A, preferably, the support rod 14 is a tension-mounted rod 14. More specifically, in one embodiment, each of the first and second tubes 38, 40 is preferably at least partially hollow along the longitudinal axis L1 for receiving respective ends of a tension mechanism 44. Tension mechanism 44 is a preferred embodiment of the type of tension mechanism to be used in the adjustable storage assembly 10. U.S. Pat. No. 5,330,061, which is assigned to Zenith Products Corp. and is incorporated herein by reference, describes another preferred embodiment of a tension mechanism of the type for use in the adjustable storage assembly 10. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that any appropriate conventional tension mechanism may be utilized in the adjustable storage assembly 10, as long as the mechanism ensures that the adjustable storage assembly 10 will be adequately supported above a ground surface.

Referring to FIGS. 4-4A, a first end of the tension mechanism 44 includes a threaded shaft 46 bracketed by an end flange 48 and a center flange 50. As can be seen in FIG. 4B, a diameter of the threaded shaft 46 is larger proximate the end flange 48 than a diameter of the threaded shaft 46 proximate the center flange 50. That is, the threaded shaft 46 is frusto-conically shaped. A collar 52 threadingly engages with the threaded shaft 46 for rotation and movement along the longitudinal axis L1 of the support rod 14. The collar 52 is preferably made from rubber, preferably of low durometer. However, other materials may be used, such as polycarbonate, polystyrene, polypropylene, ABS, SAN, polyurethane, PVC, or the like. The collar 52 is substantially C-shaped in cross-section, i.e., a slot 54 is formed in the collar 52 extending longitudinally. The slot 54 allows a diameter of the collar 52 to expand as the collar 52 is rotated along the threaded shaft 46 from its contracted state near the center flange 50 to the expanded state (not shown) near the end flange 48.

Referring to FIGS. 4-4A, the tension mechanism 44 includes a shank or anchor portion 56 extending from the center flange 50 away from the threaded shaft 46. A diameter of the anchor portion 56 is preferably constant along the longitudinal axis L1. The anchor portion 56 is preferably solid, while the threaded shaft 46 is preferably substantially hollow along the longitudinal axis L1 of the support rod 14. However, both the threaded shaft 46 and the anchor portion 56 may be hollow, solid, or combinations thereof. The threaded shaft 46, the anchor portion 56, and the flanges 48, 50 are preferably integrally formed of a molded polymeric material. Specifically, materials such as polycarbonate, polystyrene, polypropylene, ABS, SAN, polyurethane, PVC, rubber, or the like may be used. However, the threaded shaft 46, the anchor portion 56, and the flanges 48, 50 may also be separate pieces assembled together and made of differing materials.

The second, inner tube 40 of the support rod 14 preferably fixedly receives the anchor portion 56 therein. Preferably, the anchor portion 56 is press fit into the second, inner tube 40, and a dimple (not shown) is subsequently formed in the second, inner tube 40 to further lock the anchor portion 56 in place. However, the anchor portion 56 may also be fixed to and within the second, inner tube 40 by other mechanisms and methods, such as the use of adhesives, fasteners, welds, and the like.

The support rod 14 preferably includes a first, proximal end 14a and an opposing second, distal end 14b. The first proximal end 14a of the support rod 14 is preferably closed by a plug 51, and more preferably by a threaded plug 51. The second distal end 14b of the support rod 14 may be formed as or secured to an end cap or mounting bracket 42.

In one embodiment, the mounting bracket 42 is preferably formed as an integral, one-piece component. Referring to FIGS. 5 and 5B, in another embodiment, the mounting bracket 42 is preferably formed of a first mounting member 78 configured to engage the distal end 14b of the support rod 14 and a second mounting member 80 having a flat end face 80a configured to engage a first vertically-oriented support surface 58, such as a wall of a bath or shower stall enclosure, to support the adjustable storage assembly 10 above a ground surface (see FIG. 6).

Preferably, at least the end face 80a and more preferably the entire second mounting member 80 is formed as or provided with a resilient pad made of a rubber (natural or synthetic), foam, an elastomeric plastic or any other semi-pliable material having a sufficiently high coefficient of friction to ensure secure mounting of the adjustable storage assembly 10 to the first support surface 58. The first mounting member 78 is preferably formed of the same material as the support rod 14.

The distal end 14b of the support rod 14, the first mounting member 78 and the second mounting member 80 are preferably secured to each other by one or more mechanical fasteners 82. More preferably, in one embodiment, the interior of the distal end 14b of the support rod 14 is provided with a cylindrical insert 83 with an opening 83a extending therethrough. Also, each of the first and second mounting members 78, 80 preferably includes a through-hole 84, 86 in a position corresponding to that of the opening 83a of the cylindrical insert 83. The fastener 82 thus extends through the through-holes 84, 86 of the first and second mounting members 78, 80 and into the opening 83a of the cylindrical insert 83 to secure the distal end 14b of the support rod 14 and the first and second mounting members 78, 80 to each other. Preferably, the cylindrical insert is press-fitted into the distal end 14b of the support rod 14. More preferably, the opening 83a and the through-holes 84, 86 are threaded, such that the fastener 82 is a screw. However, it will be understood that the fastener 82 may take any appropriate form, such as a bolt, peg, dowel, nail, and the like.

Alternatively or additionally, the first and second mounting members 78, 80 may be secured to each other by another mechanism, such as an adhesive, and subsequently secured to the distal end 14b of the support rod 14 by a mechanical fastener 82. Also, in one embodiment, each of the first and second mounting members 78, 80 may include a second through hole 88, 90 configured to receive a fastener (not shown) to permanently mount the support rod 14 to the support surface 58. In such an embodiment, a cap 92 is preferably provided for aesthetic purposes to cover the holes 88, 90.

The adjustable storage assembly 10 is configured to be removably mounted on and secured to a shower head assembly 60 (see FIGS. 6-8). More preferably, in the installed position of the adjustable storage assembly 10, the support rod 14 is mounted over a shower head assembly 60. The shower head assembly 60 preferably includes a base 76, a shower head 62, and a support arm 70 extending from the base 76. The shower head assembly 60 may be a handheld shower head assembly (as shown) or a wall-mounted shower head assembly. For certain configurations of the shower head assembly 60, the arm 70 preferably connects the base 76 and the shower head 62.

The shower head assembly 60 preferably generally defines a second vertical longitudinal plane L3, which is generally parallel to and spaced apart from the longitudinal plane L2 of the frame 12 and which is generally perpendicular to the lateral plane L1 of the support rod 14. The vertical longitudinal plane L3 of the shower head assembly 60 preferably generally corresponds to a generally central longitudinal axis L3 of the shower head assembly 60. As such, as shown in FIG. 6, in an installed position of the adjustable storage assembly 10, the longitudinal plane L2 of the frame 12 is preferably laterally offset from the longitudinal plane L3 of the shower head assembly 60.

Accordingly, a shower fixture support 64 is preferably provided on the support rod 14 proximate the first end 14a thereof. The shower fixture support 64 is configured to engage and be removably mounted on a portion of the shower head assembly 60. The shower fixture support 64 has a body 65 that is generally U- or C-shaped in cross-section. The body 65 of the shower fixture support 64 has a first end 64a and an opposing second end 64b. Referring to FIGS. 5 and 5C, a first through aperture 66 is preferably formed in the second end 64b of the support 64 and is configured to slidingly and rotatably receive the support rod 14 therethrough. More particularly, the first aperture 66 is of a size and shape configured to received either of the first and second tubes 38, 40 of the support rod 14 in a tight rotatable fit. Most preferably, the first aperture 66 is sized and shaped to received the first, outer tube 38 therein in a tight rotatable fit.

The second end 64b of the support 64 preferably further includes a second through aperture 71 which extends perpendicular to and is in fluid communication the first aperture 66. The second aperture 71 is preferably sized and shaped to receive a first rotatable fastener 73 therein. The first fastener 73 is preferably a screw and, more preferably a set screw, but may take any appropriate form, such as a bolt, peg, dowel, nail, and the like.

A U- or C-shaped recess or slot 68 is preferably formed in the body 65 of the shower fixture support 64 between the first and second ends 64a, 64b thereof. More preferably, the slot 68 is formed proximate the first end 64a and spaced apart from the first aperture 66 of the second end 64b. The slot 68 of the support 64 is configured to receive a portion of the shower head assembly 60 therein for mounting the adjustable shelf assembly 10 on the shower head assembly 60. The slot 68 is preferably partially, and more preferably entirely, lined with a strip 75 of material made of a rubber (natural or synthetic), foam, an elastomeric plastic or any other semi-pliable material.

The first end 64a of the support 64 preferably includes a third through aperture 77 which extends parallel to the second aperture 71. The third aperture 77 is preferably sized and shaped to receive a second rotatable fastener 72, such as a lock screw or nut, therein. In one embodiment, three die cuts 79 are formed in the rubber strip 75 in the area of the third aperture 77, so as to form a movable flap 81. Thus, as the second fastener 72 extends through the third aperture 77, the movable flap 81 will move upon contact with the second fastener 72 to avoid unnecessary tension on the rubber strip 75.

Preferably, at least two sleeves or collars 69 are provided on the external periphery of the support rod 14, and more preferably on the external periphery of the first tube 38. The collars 69 are preferably at least slightly spaced apart from each other and at least partially surround respective portions of the exterior periphery of the first tube 38. Preferably, the collars 69 are permanently affixed to the first tube 38 of the support rod 14, such as by welding.

The shower fixture support 64 is properly positioned at a predetermined location on the support rod 14. More particularly, the shower fixture support 64 is preferably positioned on the first outer tube 38 of the support rod 14, such that the metal collars 69 are disposed within the first aperture 66. The shower fixture support 64 is generally locked in place at the predetermined location by inserting the first fastener 73 through the second aperture 71 and the inserting the second fastener 72 through the third aperture 77, and then tightening both fasteners 73, 72 until the distal end of each fastener 73, 72 engages the first tube 38, and more particularly engages a portion 67 of the first tube 38 between the spaced apart metal collars 69.

As shown in FIG. 6, the shower head assembly 60 is preferably secured to a second support surface 74, such as another wall of the bath or shower stall enclosure, which extends generally perpendicular to the first support surface 58. Preferably, the base 76 of the shower head assembly 60 is directly secured to the second support surface 74 and the support arm or support pipe 70 of the shower head assembly 60 extends from the base 76. In one embodiment, the slot 68 of the shower fixture support 64 is preferably configured to receive the support arm 70 of the shower head assembly 60 therein.

The support arm 70 of the shower head assembly 60 may be oriented in a generally vertical direction or a generally horizontal direction. As such, as shown in FIG. 6, the shower fixture support 64 is preferably rotatable about the lateral axis L1 of the support rod 14, as shown by the dotted arrow Al. In a first position, the shower fixture support 64 is preferably generally vertically-oriented, such that the slot 68 receives a generally horizontally-oriented support arm 70 (see FIGS. 6-7). In a second position (not shown), the shower fixture support 64 is rotated approximately 90° about the lateral plane L1 of the support rod 14, such that the shower fixture support 64 is generally horizontally-oriented and the slot 68 receives a generally vertically-oriented support arm 70.

The rotatable structure of the shower fixture support 64 also enables selective positioning of the adjustable shelf assembly 10 relative to the shower head assembly 60. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the support rod 14 may be positioned at least slightly beneath the central lateral plane of the base 76 and the shower fixture support 64 may be positioned on the support rod 14 such that the slot 68 is situated above the lateral plane L1 of the support rod 14. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7, for the same shower head assembly 60, the shower fixture support 64 may be rotated 180°, such that the support rod 14 is positioned at least slightly above the central lateral plane of the base 76 and the slot 68 of the shower fixture support 64 is situated beneath the lateral plane L1 of the support rod 14. Preferably, the support rod 14 and the shower fixture support 64 are positioned at least slightly above the central lateral plane of the base 76 of the shower head assembly 60, as shown in FIG. 7.

Adjustment, and more particularly rotation, of the position of the shower fixture support 64 is controlled by the second fastener 72 or by the first and second fasteners 73, 72. More particularly, rotating the first and/or second fasteners 73, 72 in a first direction loosens and enables rotation of the shower fixture support 64 relative to the support rod 14, while rotating the first and/or second fasteners 73, 72 in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, places the shower fixture support 64 in the locked position to secure a portion of the shower head assembly 60 within the slot 68 of the shower fixture support 64.

In use, the adjustable storage assembly 10, including the support rod 14, the shower fixture support 64, the frame 12 and the one or more shelves 30, is positioned on a shower head assembly 60 (see FIGS. 6-7). Preferably, a user positions the support arm 70 of the shower head assembly 60 within the slot 68 of the shower fixture support 64. Thus, in the assembled position, the support rod 14 extends generally horizontally away from the shower head assembly 60 toward the first support surface 58. In addition, the vertical longitudinal plane L2 of the frame 12 is spaced apart from (i.e., offset relative to) and parallel to the vertical longitudinal plane L3 of the shower head assembly 60 (see FIG. 7).

The user then rotates the second fastener 72 and/or the first fastener 73 to place the shower fixture support 64 in the locked position, such that the shower head assembly 60 is securely attached to the adjustable storage assembly 10. In the starting position of the adjustable storage assembly 10, the collar 52 of the tension mechanism 44 preferably abuts the center flange 50.

The user the adjusts the support rod 14, and more particularly adjusts a length of the support rod 14, by sliding the first and second tubes 38, 40 with respect to one another (see arrow A2 of FIG. 6) along the longitudinal axis L1 of the support rod 14, until the support rod 14 is level between the shower head 62 and the support surface 58 and the flat end face 80a of the end cap 42 is in contact with the support surface 58. Once the desired length of the support rod 14 has been achieved, the user places the adjustable storage assembly 10 in a locked position. To do so, the user rotates the first, outer tube 38 with respect to the second, inner tube 40 in a first direction (see arrow A3 of FIG. 6), which causes rotation of the threaded shaft 46 and the anchor portion 56 with respect to the collar 52. The collar 52 then moves along the threaded shaft 46 away from the center flange 50 and toward the end flange 48. The collar 52 frictionally engages an inner surface of the first, outer tube 38 as the collar 52 expands during movement toward the end flange 48, which prevents further respective sliding movement between the first and second tubes 38, 40. The collar 52 also acts as a locking nut and provides increased tension between the shower head assembly 60 and the support surface 58 to support the adjustable storage assembly 10 above the ground surface.

Thus, in the installed position of the adjustable storage assembly 10, the adjustable storage assembly 10 is positioned adjacent or proximate a lateral side of the shower head assembly 60. More particularly, in the installed position of the adjustable storage assembly 10, the frame 12 and the shelves 30 attached thereto are situated between the first vertically-oriented support surface 58 and the shower head assembly 60. More preferably, in the installed position of the adjustable storage assembly 10, the first end 14a of the support rod 14 remains a free and unattached end, the opposing second end 14b engages the first vertically-oriented support surface 58 by the tension mechanism 44, and the shower head assembly 60 is supported between the first and second ends 14a, 14b. Also, the entirety of the structure of the frame 12 and the shelves 30 attached thereto is positioned between the first vertically-oriented support surface 58 and the shower head assembly 60.

The adjustable storage assembly 10 is thus supported between the first vertically-oriented support surface 58 and the shower head assembly 60 without the use of any adhesives or fasteners. In addition, at least a portion of the frame 12 rests against the second support surface 74.

The adjustable storage assembly 10 is particularly beneficial for use with a shower head assembly 60 including a slide bar or a flexible hose/tube. Specifically, because the adjustable storage assembly 10 is positioned laterally with respect to the shower head assembly 60 (i.e., offset from the longitudinal axis L3 of the shower head assembly 60), the space below the shower head 62 remains free and open for positioning of the slid bar or flexible tube of the shower head assembly 60. Accordingly, mounting of the adjustable storage assembly 10 is not obstructed by the bar or hose, or vice versa.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the adjustable storage assembly 10 may include portions of the frame 12 and additional shelves 30 which are not positioned between the first vertically-oriented support surface 58 and the shower head 62.

It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that adhesives, fasteners, and the like may be utilized to provide an additional level of support for maintaining the adjustable storage assembly 10 between the first vertically-oriented support surface 58 and the shower head assembly 60. For example, in one embodiment, the end cap 42 may include one or more mounting holes for receiving fasteners therethrough to secure the support rod 14 to the first support surface 58. The adjustable storage assembly 10 may also include a securing member, such as a suction cup (not shown) to keep the frame member 14 and the frame 12 positioned against the second support surface 74.

It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that there is no limitation on the number, configuration and arrangement of the frame members and shelves. FIG. 8 depicts various possible configurations and designs of the adjustable storage assembly 10, each depicted design having different numbers of frame members and/or shelves, shelves of different designs, and different arrangements of the frame members and/or shelves. The adjustable storage assembly 10 may also include accessories, such as a mirror, hooks, towel rods and the like.

From the foregoing, it can be seen that embodiments of the present invention comprise an adjustable storage assembly. One of ordinary skill in the art would recognize that other conventional materials and fabrication techniques could be substituted.

It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes could be made to the embodiments described above without departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. Also, based on this disclosure, a person of ordinary skill in the art would further recognize that the relative proportions of the components illustrated could be varied without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. It is understood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover modifications within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An adjustable shelf assembly comprising:

an elongated tension-mounted rod having a first end and a second end, the tension-mounted rod generally extending in a first plane;

an elongated frame having a first end attached to the tension-mounted rod and an opposing second end, the frame generally extending in a second plane which is perpendicular to the first plane of the tension-mounted rod; and

at least one shelf attached to the frame, the at least one shelf having a base wall configured to support objects placed thereon, the base wall generally extending in a third plane which is parallel to and spaced apart from the first plane of the tension mounted-rod.

2. The adjustable shelf assembly of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of shelves attached to the frame, the plurality of shelves being spaced apart from each other in a direction of the second plane of the frame.

3. The adjustable shelf assembly of claim 1, wherein the first end of the frame is removably attached to the tension-mounted rod.

4. The adjustable shelf assembly of claim 1, wherein the first end of the elongated frame is formed as a hook configured to engage the tension-mounted rod.

5. The adjustable shelf assembly of claim 1, wherein the first end of the frame is fixedly attached to the tension-mounted rod.

6. The adjustable shelf assembly of claim 1, further comprising at least one fastener attaching the at least one shelf to the frame.

7. The adjustable shelf assembly of claim 6, wherein at least a portion of the at least one fastener has a generally S-shaped cross section.

8. The adjustable shelf assembly of claim 1, wherein the frame comprises a first frame member and a second frame member spaced apart from the first frame member, the at least one shelf generally extending between the first and second frame members.

9. The adjustable shelf assembly of claim 8, further comprising a first fastener attaching a portion of the at least one shelf to the first frame member and a second fastener attaching another portion of the at least one shelf to the second frame member.

10. The adjustable shelf assembly of claim 9, wherein at least a portion of each of the first and second fasteners has a generally S-shaped cross section.

11. The adjustable shelf assembly of claim 1, further comprising a shower fixture support attached to the tension-mounted rod between the first and second ends thereof, the shower fixture support being spaced apart from the second plane of the frame.

12. The adjustable shelf assembly of claim 11, wherein the shower fixture support is rotatably mounted on the tension-mounted rod.

13. The adjustable shelf assembly of claim 1, wherein the second end of the tension-mounted rod is attached to a surface mount configured to be detachably secured to a support surface.

14. A combination of an adjustable shelf assembly and a shower head assembly, the adjustable shelf assembly being configured to be removably mountable on the shower head assembly, the shower head assembly having a base, a head portion and an arm extending from the base, the shower head assembly generally defining a first longitudinal plane, the adjustable shelf assembly comprising:

an elongated tension-mounted rod having a first end and a second end, the tension-mounted rod extending in a first lateral plane generally perpendicular to the first longitudinal plane of the shower head assembly;

an elongated frame having a first end attached to the tension-mounted rod and an opposing second end, the frame generally extending in a second longitudinal plane which is parallel to and spaced apart from the first longitudinal plane of the shower head assembly; and

at least one shelf attached to the frame, the at least one shelf having a base wall configured to support objects placed thereon, the base wall generally extending in a second lateral plane which is parallel to and spaced apart from the first lateral plane of the tension mounted-rod.

15. The combination of an adjustable shelf assembly and a shower head assembly of claim 14, further comprising a shower fixture support attached to the tension-mounted rod between the first and second ends thereof, the shower fixture support being spaced apart from the frame and configured to engage a portion of the shower head assembly.

16. The combination of an adjustable shelf assembly and a shower head assembly of claim 15, wherein the shower fixture support is rotatably mounted on the tension-mounted rod.

17. The combination of an adjustable shelf assembly and a shower head assembly of claim 15, wherein the shower fixture support has a first end and an opposing second end, the first end including a first opening which at least partially surrounds a portion of the tension-mounted rod and the second end including a second opening which at least partially surrounds a portion of the arm of the shower head assembly.

18. The combination of an adjustable shelf assembly and a shower head assembly of claim 17, wherein at least a portion of the second opening is lined with a material selected from the group consisting of rubber, foam, and an elastomeric plastic.

19. The combination of an adjustable shelf assembly and a shower head assembly of claim 15, wherein the second end of the tension-mounted rod is attached to a surface mount configured to be detachably secured to a support surface.