HANDRAIL RETURN

Abstract

A handrail return for a handrail is provided. The hollow body can include a first end, a second end, a rib, and a projection. The first end can include a first projection and a first aperture. The first projection can have a first height. The first aperture can be disposed through the first end and the exterior surface. The first aperture can permit for coupling between the hollow body and the handrail. The rib can be disposed along a portion of the interior surface. The projection can be disposed on the interior surface between the first protrusion and the second end. The projection can have a projection height being greater than the first height and configured to interact with the handrail to limit a depth of the handrail within the hollow body.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/725,714, filed on Nov. 27, 2024. The entire disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present technology relates to a handrail return, including a handrail return for a wooden handrail.

INTRODUCTION

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

A handrail serves as an important feature in both residential and commercial buildings, providing support and guidance along a stairway or a walkway. Building codes have evolved to address concerns, including requirements that handrail terminations be closed to adjacent walls rather than ending abruptly in open space. This regulatory change emerged from recognition that a protruding handrail end can create a hazardous condition where an individual can catch clothing, a handbag, or other personal items, potentially causing falls and injuries as people navigate a stairway.

Approaches to handrail installations that meet building code requirements include a labor-intensive manual process that demands skill and time from an installer. For certain installations, a worker must precisely cut a 45-degree angle on each end of the handrail and prepare matching short rail sections with complementary angles, then secure the pieces together using adhesives and/or fasteners. This method presents multiple challenges, including the difficulty of achieving clean, professional-looking joints, particularly for a less experienced installer. The process becomes more problematic when a powered nail gun is employed, as nails can deflect due to wood grain variations, creating a hazard for a worker holding the small end of a handrail piece in position during installation.

The resulting installations often require additional finishing work to achieve an acceptable appearance, including filling visible fastener holes with wood putty, sanding, and touch-up painting or staining. For the average homeowner attempting to bring existing handrails into code compliance, this process can consume several hours and can still produce suboptimal results due to the precision required for proper angle cuts and joint assembly. Further, a professional contractor can regularly assign the task to an entry-level worker, yet the complexity of achieving quality results makes this an inefficient use of labor resources.

While end fittings exist for specialized applications such as high-end decorative wooden handrails and metal railing systems used in commercial and industrial settings, no comparable solutions are readily available for a standard wooden handrail profile found in residential construction. The universal profile, manufactured to consistent millwork specifications and sold at major home improvement retailers, represents the vast majority of handrail installations in residential applications.

Accordingly, there is a continuing need for a simplified installation solution that can provide code-compliant handrail terminations while reducing labor time and improving installation quality.

SUMMARY

In concordance with the instant disclosure, a simplified installation solution that can provide code-compliant handrail terminations while reducing labor time and improving installation quality, has surprisingly been discovered. The present technology includes articles of manufacture, systems, and processes that relate to a handrail return extension device and building code compliance solution.

In certain embodiments, a handrail return for a handrail is provided. The handrail return can include a hollow body having an interior surface and an exterior surface. The interior surface can be configured to receive a handrail. The hollow body can include a first end, a second end, a rib, and a projection. The first end can include a first projection and a first aperture. The first projection can have a first height. The first aperture can be disposed through the first end and the exterior surface. The first aperture can permit for coupling between the hollow body and the handrail. The rib can be disposed along a portion of the interior surface. The projection can be disposed on the interior surface between the first protrusion and the second end. The projection can have a projection height being greater than the first height and configured to interact with the handrail to limit a depth of the handrail within the hollow body.

In certain embodiments, a handrail return kit for a handrail is provided. The handrail return kit can include the handrail return, as described herein, and a coupling means. The coupling means can be configured to be received by the first aperture. The coupling means can secure the handrail return to the handrail.

In certain embodiments, a method for installing a handrail return kit on a handrail is provided. The method can include providing the handrail and the handrail return kit, as described herein. The method can include a step of placing the handrail return on the handrail. The handrail return can be secured to the handrail with the coupling means, whereby the handrail return kit is installed on the handrail.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the description provided herein. The description and specific examples in this summary are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a handrail return, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is front elevational view of a first end of the handrail return shown in FIG. 1, where the handrail return is cut into two pieces;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional, top plan view of an interior of the handrail return taken at 3-3 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is left-side elevational view of a second end of the handrail return;

FIG. 5 is cross-sectional, bottom plan view of the interior of the handrail return taken at 5-5 of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is bottom plan view of the handrail return including a first aperture;

FIG. 7 is an environmental view depicting a handrail return kit installed on a first terminus of a handrail;

FIG. 8 is an environmental view depicting a handrail return kit installed on a second terminus of a handrail; and

FIG. 9 is a flowchart depicting a method for installing a handrail return kit on a handrail.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description of technology is merely exemplary in nature of the subject matter, manufacture and use of one or more inventions, and is not intended to limit the scope, application, or uses of any specific invention claimed in this application or in such other applications as can be filed claiming priority to this application, or patents issuing therefrom. Regarding methods disclosed, the order of the steps presented is exemplary in nature, and thus, the order of the steps can be different in various embodiments, including where certain steps can be simultaneously performed, unless expressly stated otherwise. “A” and “an” as used herein indicate “at least one” of the item is present; a plurality of such items can be present, when possible. Except where otherwise expressly indicated, all numerical quantities in this description are to be understood as modified by the word “about” and all geometric and spatial descriptors are to be understood as modified by the word “substantially” in describing the broadest scope of the technology. “About” when applied to numerical values indicates that the calculation or the measurement allows some slight imprecision in the value (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If, for some reason, the imprecision provided by “about” and/or “substantially” is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then “about” and/or “substantially” as used herein indicates at least variations that can arise from ordinary methods of measuring or using such parameters.

Although the open-ended term “comprising,” as a synonym of non-restrictive terms such as including, containing, or having, is used herein to describe and claim embodiments of the present technology, embodiments can alternatively be described using more limiting terms such as “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of.” Thus, for any given embodiment reciting materials, components, or process steps, the present technology also specifically includes embodiments consisting of, or consisting essentially of, such materials, components, or process steps excluding additional materials, components or processes (for consisting of) and excluding additional materials, components or processes affecting the significant properties of the embodiment (for consisting essentially of), even though such additional materials, components or processes are not explicitly recited in this application. For example, recitation of a composition or process reciting elements A, B and C specifically envisions embodiments consisting of, and consisting essentially of, A, B and C, excluding an element D that can be recited in the art, even though element D is not explicitly described as being excluded herein.

Disclosures of ranges are, unless specified otherwise, inclusive of endpoints and include all distinct values and further divided ranges within the entire range. Thus, for example, a range of “from A to B” or “from about A to about B” is inclusive of A and of B. Disclosure of values and ranges of values for specific parameters (such as amounts, weight percentages, etc.) are not exclusive of other values and ranges of values useful herein. It is envisioned that two or more specific exemplified values for a given parameter can define endpoints for a range of values that can be claimed for the parameter. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have value A and also exemplified to have value Z, it is envisioned that Parameter X can have a range of values from about A to about Z. Similarly, it is envisioned that disclosure of two or more ranges of values for a parameter (whether such ranges are nested, overlapping or distinct) subsume all possible combination of ranges for the value that might be claimed using endpoints of the disclosed ranges. For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have values in the range of 1-10, or 2-9, or 3-8, it is also envisioned that Parameter X can have other ranges of values including 1-9, 1-8, 1-3, 1-2, 2-10, 2-8, 2-3, 3-10, 3-9, and so on.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it can be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element or layer, or intervening elements or layers can be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there can be no intervening elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. can be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms can be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, can be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms can be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device can be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

The present disclosure provides a handrail return 100 for a handrail 101, shown generally in FIGS. 1-6. The handrail return 100 can provide an end fitting for a handrail 101 (e.g., a wooden handrail) and can allow for quick installation while meeting building code requirements for closed handrail 101 ends. The handrail return 100 can be installed on a terminal end of the handrail 101 and can be secured to the handrail 101, as described in a method 300 for installing a handrail return kit 200, shown generally in FIGS. 7-9. The handrail return 100 for the handrail 101 can include a hollow body 102 having an interior surface 104, an exterior surface 106, a first end 108, a second end 110, a plurality of ribs 112, and a projection 114.

The handrail return 100 can include a unitary body construction that provides advantages in both manufacturing efficiency and operation. The unitary hollow body 102 can reduce potential failure points that could arise from multi-piece assemblies, while simultaneously creating a smooth, continuous exterior surface 106 that effectively mitigates against snagging during operation. The seamless construction militates against clothing, a handbag, or other personal items from catching on the handrail, thereby addressing the concerns that led to building code requirements for a closed handrail terminus.

The handrail return 100 can be manufactured from a variety of suitable materials, including thermoplastic polymers such as ABS, polypropylene, or nylon, which offer excellent durability, paintability, and cost-effectiveness for residential applications. Alternative materials such as aluminum, composite materials, or other engineered plastics can also be employed depending upon specific application requirements, environmental conditions, or aesthetic preferences. The material selection flexibility can allow the handrail return 100 to be adapted for various environments while maintaining the paintability characteristics that enable color matching with existing rail mounts and hardware. A skilled artisan can select a suitable material for the handrail return 100 within the scope of the present disclosure.

The manufacturing flexibility of the handrail return 100 extends to multiple production methodologies, providing scalability across different market segments and production volumes. Injection molding represents the preferred approach for high-volume commercial production, delivering consistent dimensional accuracy and superior surface finish while enabling cost-effective mass manufacturing suitable for major retail distribution channels. The injection molding process allows for precise control of wall thickness, rib geometry, and internal features while maintaining the structural integrity required for building code compliance. Additionally, additive manufacturing techniques such as 3D printing using fused deposition modeling (FDM) or stereolithography (SLA) processes provide versatility for rapid prototyping, customization for unique applications, or small-batch production runs. These manufacturing approaches enable efficient testing of design iterations, accommodation of specialized requirements, and economical production for niche markets or regional distribution. A skilled artisan can select a suitable manufacturing technique for the handrail return 100 within the scope of the present disclosure.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 6, the hollow body 102 can be substantially L-shaped, allowing an end of the handrail return 100 to receive the handrail 101 while the other end of the handrail return 100 terminates against a wall. Advantageously, the substantially 90-degree bend of the hollow body 102 allows for the desired termination of the handrail 101 to meet building code requirements and militate against parts of the body, clothing, bags, and/or accessories from catching on the handrail 101. Where installed, the substantially L-shaped hollow body 102 allows the handrail return 100 to transition smoothly from the horizontal handrail 101 section to the vertical wall termination point. For this purpose, the exterior surface 106 of the hollow body 102 can include a smooth, rounded contour specifically designed to militate against snagging of clothing, bags, or other items. The blunt, rounded surface allows an object to deflect away from the handrail return 100 rather than becoming caught between the handrail 101 and the wall.

In certain embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the hollow body 102 can have a substantially circular cross section relative a transverse axis of the hollow body 102. The circular cross-sectional configuration can provide several advantages including uniform wall thickness distribution, structural integrity under loading conditions, and manufacturing efficiency during the injection molding process or 3D printing process. However, a skilled artisan can select a suitable cross-sectional shape for the hollow body 102 within the scope of the present disclosure based on specific application requirements, manufacturing constraints, or aesthetic preferences. Alternative cross-sectional configurations can include oval, elliptical, rectangular, square, or polygonal shapes, each offering distinct characteristics suited to particular installation environments or handrail profiles. For instance, an oval cross-section can provide enhanced compatibility with certain standard millwork handrail profiles, while a rectangular cross-section can offer improved material distribution and reduced manufacturing costs. The selection of cross-sectional geometry can also influence the interior surface 104 configuration, affecting how the ribs 112 and projection 114 interact with the inserted handrail 101 to ensure proper fit, retention, and load distribution.

As shown in FIG. 7, the interior surface 104 of the hollow body 102 can be configured to receive the handrail 101, providing a secure and precise fit that accommodates the handrail 101. In this way, the handrail return 100 can be used with one end of the handrail 101 (e.g., the first end 108) and can also be used (e.g., flipped 180 degrees) with the other end of the handrail 101 (e.g., the second end 110).

With reference to FIGS. 2-3, the first end 108 of the handrail return 100 can include a first protrusion 116 and a first aperture 118. The first protrusion 116 can extend from the interior surface 104 into the hollow body 102 a first height (H1) and can create a partial obstruction within the hollow body 102. The first protrusion 116 can work to position the handrail 101 within the first end 108 of the hollow body 102 and create a friction fit between the handrail 101 and the hollow body 102. In this way, the first protrusion 116 can militate against the handrail return 100 from rotating about the handrail 101 when placed on the handrail 101. As shown in FIG. 2, the first protrusion 116 can be configured as a pillar 117 and can include more than one pillar 117, with each pillar having a top surface disposed in the same plane. As shown in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, the first protrusion 116 includes three pillars 117. A skilled artisan can select a suitable number of pillars 117 for the first protrusion 116 and placement of the pillars within the first end 108 within the scope of the present disclosure.

With continued reference to FIG. 2, the hollow body 102 can include a space 119 between each pillar 117. In certain embodiments, where the hollow body 102 has a substantially circular cross section relative the transverse axis of the hollow body 102, the pillars 117 of the first protrusion 116 can have varied heights relative to the interior surface 104 due to a pillar 117 being disposed on a curved wall surface of the interior surface 104. However, it should be appreciated that each pillar 117 can extend into the hollow body 102 such that the top surface of each pillar 117 is disposed within the same plane and does not extend further into the hollow body 102 than the other pillars 117.

In addition to the friction fit between the handrail 101 and the hollow body 102, the first aperture 118 can permit for coupling the handrail return 100 to the handrail 101 via a coupling means 202, shown in FIG. 8. The first aperture 118 can be disposed through the first protrusion 116 and the exterior surface 106. The coupling means 202 can be installed through the exterior surface 106 and the first protrusion 116 and into the handrail 101 for a quick and easy installation. Examples of the coupling means 202 include one or more fasteners, including nails or screws, such as self-tapping wood screws for use with a wooden handrail 101.

With reference to FIG. 3, the second end 110 of the handrail return 100 can be disposed opposite the first end 108 on the hollow body 102. In embodiments in which the handrail return 100 is substantially L-shaped, the first end 108 can include the stem of the L-shape and the second end 110 can include the step of the L-shape, or vice versa.

Turning now to FIG. 4, in certain embodiments, the second end 110 can have a second protrusion 120 and a second aperture 122. The second protrusion 120 can be disposed in the same plane as the first protrusion 116 or a different place of than the first protrusion 116, depending on the type of handrail 101 the handrail return 100 will be used with in operation. The second protrusion 120 can extend from the interior surface 104 into the hollow body 102 at a second height (H2) and can create a partial obstruction within the hollow body 102. In certain embodiments, the second height (H2) can be substantially the same as the first height (H1). Alternatively, in which the handrail 101 includes ends of different sizes, the first height (H1) and the second height (H2) can be different to allow the handrail return 100 to accommodate various handrail 101 configurations. The second protrusion 120 can work to position the handrail 101 within the second end 110 of the hollow body 102 and create a friction fit between the handrail 101 and the hollow body 102. In this way, the second protrusion 120 can militate against the handrail return 100 from rotating about the handrail 101 when placed on the handrail 101.

In addition to the friction fit between the handrail 101 and the hollow body 102, the second aperture 122 can permit for coupling the handrail return 100 to the handrail 101 via the coupling means 202. The second aperture 122 can be disposed through the second protrusion 120 and the exterior surface 106. The coupling means 202 can be installed through the exterior surface 106 and the second protrusion 120 and into the handrail 101 for a quick and easy installation.

As shown in FIG. 4, the second protrusion 120 can be configured as a pillar 117 and can include more than one pillar 117, with each pillar 117 having a top surface disposed in the same plane. As shown in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 4, the hollow body 102 can include a space 119 between each pillar. In certain embodiments, the second protrusion 120 includes three pillars 117. In certain embodiments where the hollow body 102 has a substantially circular cross section relative the transverse axis of the hollow body 102, the pillars 117 can have varied heights. However, it should be appreciated that each pillar 117 can extend into the hollow body 102 such that the top surface of each pillar 117 is disposed within the same plane and does not extend further into the hollow body 102.

It should be appreciated that, in certain embodiments, both the first end 108 and the second end 110 can be configured to receive the handrail 101. The bidirectional functionality of the handrail return 100 can provide flexibility within respect to installation and usage in operation. In embodiments, in which both the first end 108 and the second end 110 can receive the handrail 101, the substantially symmetrical internal configuration of the hollow body 102, including the positioning of the ribs 112 and the central projection 114, enables the reversible design while maintaining consistent structural integrity and secure handrail 101 engagement regardless of orientation. In this way, the handrail return 100 can be used with one end of the handrail 101 (e.g., positioned with the first end 108 receiving the handrail 101) and can also be used (e.g., flipped 180 degrees about a longitudinal axis) with the other end of the handrail 101 (e.g., positioned with the second end 110 receiving the handrail 101). The reversible functionality provides substantial practical benefits during installation, as a contractor and/or a homeowner need only stock a single part configuration to address handrail terminations at both the top and bottom of staircases, or at either end of level walkway handrails. The bidirectional configuration can militate against the need for separate “left-hand” and “right-hand” configurations, thereby reducing manufacturing complexity, inventory requirements, and potential installation errors that could occur from selecting incorrect orientation-specific components. Additionally, the reversible configuration can accommodate varying wall configurations and installation constraints, as the installer can orient the handrail return 100 in whichever direction provides optimal wall clearance and aesthetic appearance while maintaining code compliance.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the hollow body 102 can include a rib 112 positioned to optimize both structural performance and manufacturing efficiency. The rib 112 can be disposed along a portion of the interior surface 104, extending longitudinally to provide enhanced structural integrity while maintaining the hollow configuration that reduces material usage and manufacturing costs. The rib 112 serve multiple functional purposes, including militating against rotational movement of the inserted handrail 101 relative to the hollow body 102, which promotes consistent alignment and can militate against the handrail return 100 from becoming loose or misaligned during use. The rib 112 can be disposed opposite the first protrusion 116 and the second protrusion 120 within the hollow body 102, creating a balanced internal geometry that distributes loading forces evenly across the interior surface 104 when the handrail return 100 is subjected to applied loads. The positioning of the rib 112 also facilitates proper load transfer from the handrail 101 to the mounting hardware through the first aperture 118 and second aperture 122, promoting that mechanical stresses are distributed effectively throughout the structure rather than being concentrated at specific attachment points. The ribbed configuration can also enhance the dimensional stability of the hollow body 102 during the cooling phase of injection molding, reducing the potential for warping, shrinkage, or other dimensional variations that could affect the fit between the interior surface 104 and the standard millwork handrail profiles.

Additionally, the rib 112 can be configured to complement the projection 114, working together to create a secure engagement system that limits the insertion depth of the handrail 101 into the handrail return 100 while providing multiple points of contact that resist both rotational and translational movement. In certain embodiments shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the handrail return 100 can include more than one rib 112 for further structural support. For example, the handrail return 100 can include three ribs 112 evenly positioned about the interior surface 104 relative the surface area free from the first protrusion 116 and the second protrusion 120. A skilled artisan can select a suitable number of ribs 112 within the scope of the present disclosure based on factors including the specific handrail profile dimensions, expected load conditions, material properties of the selected thermoplastic, and manufacturing requirements such as mold complexity and cycle time considerations.

With reference to FIGS. 2, 4, and 5, the projection 114 can be disposed on the interior surface 104 of the hollow body 102 between the first end 108 and the second end 110, positioned to provide optimal mechanical interaction with the inserted handrail 101. The projection 114 can be disposed adjacent to and between the first protrusion 116 and the second protrusion 120, creating a centrally located stop mechanism that works in coordination with. The central positioning can promote that the projection 114 functions effectively regardless of which end of the hollow body 102 is used for installation, supporting the bidirectional functionality that allows the handrail return 100 to be oriented in either direction to accommodate varying installation requirements and wall configurations. The projection can have a projection height (H3) that is greater than the first height (H1) and the second height (H2), establishing a positive mechanical stop that militates against over-insertion of the handrail 101. The height differential can ensure that the projection 114 contacts a terminal face of the handrail 101 before the handrail 101 can be inserted so deeply that the handrail 101 compromises the structural integrity of the connection or interferes with the proper positioning of the coupling means 202 through the first aperture 118 or second aperture 122. The projection 114 can be configured to interact with the handrail 101 to limit a depth of the handrail 101 within the hollow body 102 when installed into either of the first end 108 or the second end 110, thereby establishing consistent and repeatable installation parameters that eliminate guesswork for installers. The depth limitation function provides multiple advantages, including ensuring proper wall clearance is maintained, militating against the handrail return 100 from being pushed too far onto the handrail 101 where handrail 101 might interfere with adjacent wall surfaces, and maintaining optimal load distribution between the handrail 101 and the coupling means 202. The projection 114 also serves as a reference point that can help an installer achieve consistent positioning across multiple installations, thereby improving the professional appearance of the finished installation while reducing installation time compared to traditional methods that require precise measurement and cutting of 45-degree angles.

The present disclosure provides a handrail return kit 200, shown generally in FIGS. 7-8. The handrail return kit 200 can include various coupling means 202 designed to provide secure attachment between the handrail return 100 and the handrail 101 through the first aperture 118 and second aperture 122.

The coupling means 202 can be any suitable fastening mechanism, including, for example, a bolt, a screw, a threaded fastener, a pin, or combinations thereof. The selection of the coupling means 202 can depend on factors including the type of material the handrail 101 is construction from. The coupling means 202 can also include a washer, a spacer, a lock washer, or other hardware components to ensure proper fit, militate against loosening due to vibration, and distribute loads appropriately across the contact surfaces. A skilled artisan can select a suitable coupling means 202 within the scope of the present disclosure.

In addition to a screw that provides removable mechanical fastening suitable for field installation by the contractor and/or the homeowner, the kit 200 can also include more permanent coupling means 202 such as structural adhesives, epoxy compounds, or polyurethane-based bonding agents. The permanent adhesive solutions offer several advantages including enhanced weather resistance for exterior applications, and improved load distribution across the joint interface. Epoxy-based coupling means can provide high bond strength suitable for high-traffic commercial installations or applications where enhanced structural integrity is desired. Two-part structural adhesives included in the kit 200 can be formulated specifically for wood-to-plastic bonding applications, ensuring compatibility with both the handrail 101 material properties and the thermoplastic composition of the hollow body 102.

Additionally, the kit 200 can include hybrid coupling approaches such as adhesive-backed mechanical fasteners that combine the convenience of screw installation with the permanent bonding characteristics of structural adhesives, or anaerobic thread-locking compounds that secure mechanical fasteners while militating against loosening due to vibration or thermal cycling. The selection of coupling means 202 can be tailored to specific installation requirements, with removable options like a wood screw suitable for temporary or home installations or situations where future removal can be necessary, while permanent adhesive coupling means provide optimal performance for long-term installations where maximum bond strength and weatherability are priorities.

The present disclosure provides a method 300 for installing the handrail return kit on a handrail 101, as shown in FIG. 9. The method 300 can include a step 302 of providing the handrail 101 and a step 304 of providing the handrail return kit 200, as described herein. The handrail return 100 can be placed on the handrail 101 in a step 306. It should be appreciated that where the handrail return 100 is to be used on the first terminus (e.g. the top) of the handrail 101, the first end 108 can be placed on the handrail 101 and where the handrail return 100 is to be used on the second terminus (e.g. the bottom) of the handrail 101, the second end 110 can be placed on the handrail 101. The step 306 of placing the handrail return 100 on the handrail can include a step 308 of sliding the one of the first end 108 and the second end 110 of the handrail return 100 onto the handrail 101 until the terminal end of the handrail 101 abuts the projection 114. The handrail return 100 can be secured to the handrail 101 with the coupling means in a step 310, whereby the handrail return kit 200 is installed on the handrail 101. It should be appreciated that the method 300 can include a step 312 of installing a second handrail return 100 at the other end of the handrail 101 by repeating the method 300 steps described herein.

It should be appreciated that the handrail return 100 offers versatile installation options, providing a contractor or homeowner with flexibility to accommodate various project timelines and construction phases. The handrail return 100 can be retrofitted onto a preexisting handrail 101 that has already been mounted to the wall, allowing for quick code compliance updates to existing installations without requiring removal or modification of the mounted handrail system. Alternatively, the handrail return 100 can be installed prior to the handrail 101 installation on the wall, enabling contractors to pre-assemble the complete handrail system with code-compliant terminations before mounting the entire assembly to the wall brackets.

Advantageously, the handrail return 100 provides a smooth rounded exterior surface to militate against snagging of clothing, bags, and other accessories. The interior profile of the handrail return 100 can be configured to accommodate the common wooden handrail sizes and cross-sectional shapes sold at major retailers, providing a cost-effective solution. Additionally, the interior profile can militate against the handrail return 100 from rotating during installation.

EXAMPLES

The following examples demonstrate embodiments of the present disclosure in use. The examples are provided for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications, alternatives, and variations of the examples can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

In a first example, the handrail return 100 can be installed in a residential stairway. A homeowner needs to install a handrail along a basement stairway to meet updated building code requirements. The installation begins by placing the handrail return 100 on the exposed terminal end of the wooden handrail 101 at the top of the stairway. The first protrusion 116, the ribs 112, and the projection 114 guide the positioning of the handrail 101 within the hollow body 102, militating against rotation and facilitating proper alignment. The projection 114 limits the insertion depth of the handrail 101 to maintain consistent positioning. The installer secures the handrail return 100 using a standard wood screw through the aperture in the first protrusion 116, completing the installation in under one minute, which represents a time savings when compared to other methods. The smooth, rounded exterior surface 106 of the installed handrail return 100 militates against snagging of clothing or bags as a resident uses the stairway. The paintable surface allows the homeowner to color-match the handrail return to existing hardware, creating a professional finished appearance without visible fasteners or putty.

In a second example, the handrail return 100 can be installed in a multi-unit property renovation. A property management company needs to update handrails 101 in a 500-unit multilevel residential complex to meet current building codes. The handrail return kit 200 provides a standardized solution that can be implemented consistently across stairwells accessing all units. Maintenance staff can quickly install the handrail returns without specialized woodworking skills or equipment. The hollow body 102 slides onto the bottom of the standard wooden handrail 101, with the second protrusion 120 facilitating proper alignment and militating against rotation. The projection 114 can maintain consistent installation depth across all units.

Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments can be embodied in many different forms, and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are not described in detail. Equivalent changes, modifications and variations of some embodiments, materials, compositions and methods can be made within the scope of the present technology, with substantially similar results.

Claims

1. A handrail return for a handrail, comprising:

a hollow body configured to receive the handrail, the hollow body including an interior surface; an exterior surface; a first end including a first protrusion and a first aperture, the first protrusion having a first height, and the first aperture disposed through a sidewall of the first end and the exterior surface, the first aperture permitting coupling between the hollow body and the handrail; a second end; a rib disposed along a portion of the interior surface; and a projection disposed on the interior surface between the first protrusion and the second end, the projection having a projection height being greater than the first height and configured to interact with the handrail to limit a depth of the handrail within the hollow body.

2. The handrail return of claim 1, wherein the second end includes

a second protrusion having a second height, the second protrusion disposed in a same plane as the first protrusion, the second height being substantially the same as the first height, and

a second aperture disposed through the second end and the exterior surface, the second aperture permitting coupling between the hollow body and the handrail.

3. The handrail return of claim 2, wherein the projection is centrally disposed between the first protrusion and the second protrusion.

4. The handrail return of claim 2, wherein the second height is less than the projection height.

5. The handrail return of claim 1, wherein the hollow body has an L-shaped configuration.

6. The handrail return of claim 1, wherein the hollow body has a substantially circular cross-section relative to a transverse axis of the hollow body.

7. The handrail return of claim 1, wherein the first protrusion includes a plurality of pillars.

8. The handrail return of claim 7, wherein a top surface of each pillar is coplanar.

9. The handrail return of claim 7, wherein the hollow body includes a space between each pillar.

10. The handrail return of claim 1, wherein the rib is disposed opposite the first protrusion within the hollow body.

11. The handrail return of claim 1, wherein the hollow body has a unitary body construction.

12. The handrail return of claim 1, wherein

the second end includes a second protrusion having a second height, the second protrusion disposed in a same plane as the first protrusion, the second height being substantially the same as the first height, and a second aperture disposed through the second end and the exterior surface, the second aperture permitting coupling between the hollow body and the handrail,

the projection is centrally disposed between the first protrusion and the second protrusion,

the second height is less than the projection height,

the hollow body has an L-shaped configuration, a unitary body construction, and circular cross-section relative to a transverse axis of the hollow body, and

the first protrusion and the second protrusion include a plurality of pillars, each pillar having a top surface that is coplanar, and a space disposed between each pillar.

13. A handrail return kit for a handrail, comprising:

the handrail return of claim 1; and

a coupling means configured to be received by the first aperture, the coupling means for securing the handrail return to the handrail.

14. The handrail return kit of claim 13, wherein the coupling means is configured to permanently secure the handrail return to the handrail.

15. A handrail return system, comprising:

the handrail return kit of claim 13; and

a handrail.

16. The handrail return of claim 15, wherein the projection is configured to contact a terminal face of the handrail.

17. The handrail return of claim 15, wherein the projection militates against over-insertion of the handrail.

18. A method for installing a handrail return kit on a handrail, comprising:

providing the handrail;

providing the handrail return kit including a handrail return including a hollow body including an interior surface configured to receive the handrail and an exterior surface, the hollow body including a first end including a first protrusion and a first aperture, the first protrusion having a first height, and the first aperture disposed through the first end and the exterior surface, the first aperture permitting coupling between the hollow body and the handrail, a second end, a rib disposed along a portion of the interior surface, and a projection disposed on the interior surface between the first protrusion and the second end, the projection having a projection height being greater than the first height and configured to interact with the handrail to limit a depth of the handrail within the hollow body, and a coupling means configured to be received by at least one of the first aperture and the second aperture, the coupling means for securing the handrail return to the handrail; and

placing the handrail return on the handrail.

19. The method of claim 18, further including a step of securing the handrail return to the handrail with the coupling means, whereby the handrail return kit is installed on the handrail.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the step of placing the handrail return on the handrail includes a step of sliding the handrail into one of the first end and the second end of the handrail return until the handrail abuts the projection.