Information
-
Patent Grant
-
6431418
-
Patent Number
6,431,418
-
Date Filed
Wednesday, September 22, 199925 years ago
-
Date Issued
Tuesday, August 13, 200222 years ago
-
Inventors
-
Original Assignees
-
Examiners
Agents
-
CPC
-
US Classifications
Field of Search
US
- 223 61
- 223 63
- 223 37
- 223 38
- 223 85
- 223 95
- 223 96
- 223 89
- 038 1029
- 038 1021
- 038 10221
- 038 70
-
International Classifications
-
Abstract
The present invention provides a folding frame and other devices for use in association with cases/luggage for folding clothes (240, 242) into compact packages for storage and/or transport. The frames have transverse bars that define curved transitions for smooth folding therearound, which avoid creasing of the clothing folded onto the frame.
Description
This is the U.S. national phase of International Application No. PCT/GB96/03143 filed Dec. 19, 1996.
This invention relates to a case for personal wear and associated devices.
An object of the invention is to provide cases/luggage and associated items in which items of clothing can be packaged in a folded condition in relatively small space, suited for example to baggage space requirements in an aeroplane cabin, without unduly creasing the clothing. The invention may also be used as a low cost packaging system for example in the packaging of new items of clothing for use in retail outlets or in the transportation of items of clothing for use by the ‘mail order’ companies. Other possible uses of the present invention include a space-efficient means of storing clothing without it becoming unduly creased, so that the items of clothing may be unpacked with minimal creases, ready to wear.
According to a broad first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a frame for folding clothing thereon, the frame having one or more members thereto, which members define curved transitions for smoothing folding therearound. The members extend across the frame substantially parallel to one another. Preferably the members have at least one separator there between that are arranged substantially perpendicularly to the members. Most preferably the frame is of a generally rectangular configuration comprising two opposing members that define the curved transitions for smooth folding of clothing therearound and two opposing separators that extend between and connect the members.
The curved members have, in general terms, sufficient radius of curvature to reduce the formation of creases in clothes folded around them. The optimal radius of curvature depends upon the nature of clothing in terms of weight, fabric etc but preferably the radius is within the range 0.5-3 cm.
Most preferably the separators are substantially rigid in order to keep the curved members at a substantially fixed distance apart. In certain circumstances, it may be desirable for the distance between the curved members to be adjustable. This is most conveniently provided by a frame having separators of adjustable length. The advantage of such a frame is that in use, on folding clothing around the frame and securing such clothing to the frame, the length of separators may then be increased so increasing the distance between the curved members which has the effect of tightening the clothing folded onto the frame thus reducing the formation of creases and reducing any preformed creases in the clothing.
The length of separators may be adjustable by means of a ratchet system and/or the separators may be telescopic rods which may be extended or retracted as required.
In such an adjustable frame it is preferable for at least one curved member to be rotatable about its longitudinal axis to facilitate the stretching of the clothing on the frame. But, in order to also facilitate initial folding of clothing over the rotatable curved member(s), most preferably the curved member(s) are rotatable on a friction bearing, so that more force than simply the weight of the clothing is required to rotate the curved member(s). It is also preferred to provide the curved members with a substantially non-slip outer surface.
Most conveniently, in use, the item(s) of clothing are releasably retained in position on the frame by at least one holding device. The holding device preferably comprises an enclosure for the frame, but may comprise instead, or in addition, securing means such as clips or the like for releasably attaching the clothing directly onto the frame. The enclosure most preferably comprises a cover composed of flexible material such as fabric which may be packed in luggage, or comprises a case, which is preferably dimensioned to fall within the size restrictions generally imposed by air-lines to enable the case to be used as air-line carry-on luggage.
Any suitable securing means may be used, but conveniently the clothing is releasably attachable directly to the frame by means of at least one clip or the like. Preferably the securing means is mountable onto the frame and conveniently the securing means are slidably mounted on the frame. It is particularly preferred for at least one curved member to have at least one clip associated therewith for this purpose. Most preferably, the clip(s) are slidably mounted onto at least one curved member for attaching to the ends of clothes folded onto the frame. The clips are particularly useful for securing trousers onto the frame.
For clothes having a neck aperture such as shirts, jackets, dresses etc the securing means may comprise a hanger of suitable dimensions to fit inside the neck of the clothing for supporting the clothing. The hanger is connectable to the frame by any suitable connecting means such as adjustable and/or elasticated cords, loops etc associated with the hanger.
The curved member may also have a sheet of flexible material attached thereto. In use, the item of clothing may be retained onto the frame by means of the clip(s) and/or the sheet of material may then be wrapped around the frame loaded with clothing. Preferably the material is wrapped tightly and secured in the wrapped configuration by means of releasable securing means such as hooks, press-studs, fasteners, VELCRO RTM or the like.
It will be appreciated that the sheet of material need not be attached to the frame, but may simply be provided as a separate enclosure for the frame.
In this manner the item of clothing is secured in place on the frame and held under tension which reduces any creases already in the clothing prior to its folding around the frame and reduces the formation of any further creases by the folding. A compact package is accordingly provided which is easy to store and/or transport, in any orientation but which avoids creasing of the clothing.
With regard to retention of the item(s) of clothing in the frame, in certain circumstances there is preferably provided a transverse bar extending across one end of the frame which is releasably connectable to the main frame. The bar conveniently comprises two substantially parallel elements hinged at one end and closable at the other between which elements clothing may be clamped in use.
Items of clothing such as jackets, dresses etc, which are wider than the width of the frame may be folded onto the frame of the present invention by folding the clothing so that it is of a width that fits onto the frame prior to folding the clothing around the frame. In order to reduce the formation of creases at those additional folds, particularly at the points where the clothing is folded over the curved members, most preferably at least one flexible cord is provided which in use is placed along those folds, The flexible cord(s) has a curved outer surface for smooth folding therearound. Preferably the flexible cord(s) has temporary attachment means secured at one or both ends thereof for releasably attaching the cord to the frame.
A frame of smaller dimensions may be provided for the folding of smaller items of clothing such as neck-ties, scarves or the like. As with the frame hereinbefore described, the ties/scarves etc would most preferably be held in position on the frame by securing means and/or an enclosure such as a box, pouch, case, wrap of flexible material etc.
It may be desirable to secure a series of frames together in a linear array for example for suspending a set of frames in a vertical array in a wardrobe as a space-saving measure. For this purpose, suitable means to enable the frames to be linked together are provided. Conveniently the curved members and/or separators have apertures therein or hooks, loops attached thereto through which a cord or the like may be threaded between adjacent frames to link them together.
Clothing is folded onto the frame of the present invention in the following manner. The item of clothing is folded over one member which defines a curved transition such that that member is located along that fold, subsequently the so folded clothing is folded anain over a second member such that that second member is located along that subsequent fold. The so folded clothing is then retained on the frame in the folded condition.
Where the item(s) of clothing to be folded onto the frame is of a size that extends beyond the width of the frame, the method of folding includes the additional steps of folding the clothing to a size within the width of the frame and locating a flexible cord along the or each additional fold, prior to folding the clothing onto the frame as described above.
Clothes that are folded on a frame, secured thereto and/or packaged within an enclosure, in accordance with the present invention advantageously are easily packed and they may be stored in relatively small spaces without unduly creasing the clothing and may be carried, stored etc in any orientation. Space-efficient packing and storing is becoming increasingly important in crowded travel and urban environments. A particular beneficial use of the present invention is as compact luggage, especially for airline carry-on luggage, where size restrictions are generally imposed. Further uses include efficient stacking of clothing on shelves or in drawers instead of by hanging in a wardrobe. Furthermore the present invention advantageously allows packaged clothing to be handled in a modular fashion.
The frame may be provided in various dimensions suitable for use in folding various types of clothing for example western-style clothing such as trousers, jackets, skirts, dresses, shirts, blouses and (middle) eastern style clothing such as Arabic dress, Japanese yukata etc. A smaller scale frame is particularly suitable for use for folding neck ties, scarves or the like.
It will be appreciated that more than one item of clothing may be folded onto a single frame.
The curved transition(s) may be of a smoothly curved nature or may be approximate to a smooth curve for example by being made up of multiple angled faces.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a case for storing an item of personal wear, said case comprising an elongate support, means for releasably retaining the item of personal wear on said support, at least one hinge construction extending across the support whereby the support can be folded on itself, together with the retained said item, about such hinge construction, such hinge construction being arranged to bend or pivot to define a curved transition between the adjacent parts of the support, and means for releasably retaining the support folded on itself as aforesaid.
With this arrangement, the folding support provides a convenient case for storing an item of personal wear, in folded condition, and the curved configuration of the (or each) hinge construction minimises or avoids creasing at the (or each) fold. It is therefore possible to fold an item of personal wear, into a relatively small package without this resulting in unsightly creases.
This invention may be used for storing any suitable item of personal wear. Moreover, it is to be understood that the case may be used for single items or multiple items, in the latter case the items being stored side-by-side and/or one on top of another.
With regard to the elongate support, this may take any suitable form and may be formed from any suitable material. Preferably it is of the nature of a sheet or strip and is formed from a suitable stiff or semi stiff material particularly a plastics material such as polypropylene although other materials such as card may also be used.
The hinge construction may be separate from the material of the support but attached thereto whereby the said parts of the support are formed separately and are linked by the hinge construction. Alternatively, the said parts of the support and the hinge construction may be formed integrally in one piece.
The curved configuration of the hinge construction may be of a smoothly curved nature or it may approximate to a smooth curve in that it is made up by multiple angled faces.
The hinge construction may be defined by a flexible strip which conveniently may be formed from a stiff or semi-stiff strip to which requisite flexibility is imparted by multiple side-by-side score lines or other lines of weakness, such arrangement facilitating bending in a curved (or approximate curved) manner.
There may be two or more hinge constructions dividing the support into three or more parts. In a particularly preferred embodiment there are two hinge constructions dividing the support into three substantially equal length parts, this being particularly convenient for folding a tie.
With regard to the retention of the item on the support, preferably there is provided a transverse bar across one end of the support whereby the item can be folded or looped around this bar. Conveniently, the bar may be fixed at the end of the support with a gap being provided in the support alongside the bar whereby the item can be passed through the gap and then around the bar.
Alternatively or additionally there may be provided one or more straps or other fixing devices for releasably attaching the item to the body of the support.
With regard to the retention of the support in folded condition, this may comprise linking structures releasably connectable between parts of the support using any suitable kind of attachment means such as VELCRO (RTM), zips, press studs.
Most preferably, one or more side flaps are provided which wrap around the folded support and releasably attach thereto to act as a cover as well as retaining the support in folded configuration.
Thus, there may be two flaps, one on each side edge of the support and which fold respectively onto the top and bottom sides of the folded support to provide opposite covers therefore. These flaps may have end tabs which fold over the respective ends of the folded support. Other constructions are also possible including for example an extended side flap which will wrap over both sides of the folded support.
Alternatively or additionally, the folded support may fit within a bag or sleeve.
According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a carrying case for a folded jacket comprising an elongate closable bag with a suspension support for the jacket at one end, and a folding frame having one or more hinges thereto which hinges define curved transitions for smooth folding therearound.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a jacket folding support comprising a suspension device, two retaining projections extendable alongside each other and connected to the suspension device for supporting the shoulders of the jacket with the jacket folded centrally to bring said shoulders next to each other, and a retaining device for retaining the jacket on the said projections.
This jacket folding support has many beneficial uses as it reduces the space normally occupied by a hanging jacket. A particularly advantageous application is the attachment of the support to the side of a chair for example in an aeroplane, conference room etc. The retaining device and retaining projections may be provided as separate devices that are connectable together. In this form, the jacket folding support has particular application in hotels, aeroplanes, ocean liners etc where the retaining device may be securely attached to a static object such as wardrobe, seat etc.
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided a trouser folding device comprising a suspension device and connected thereto a folding frame having one or more members thereon which define curved transitions for smooth folding therearound. Preferably this fits within a closable bag.
The folding frame of the trouser folding device may be incorporated as part of the folding frame of the carrying case according to the first aspect of the present invention to provide a carrying case for a folded jacket and trousers.
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a flexible sheet of material having temporary securing means integral therewith, the material being wrappable and closable around a frame for folding clothing thereon, the frame having one or more members thereto, which members define curved transitions for smoothing folding therearound.
A suitably shaped piece of material is preferably secured onto the upper and/or lower extensions of the vertical spacer bars/legs of a trouser folding frame, for example by the use of appropriately located eyelets in the material through which the extensions/legs may protrude. The material is then wrapped around the clothing and frame until the edges of the material meet where they may be secured together using VELCRO (RTM), a hook and eye system, press-studs or other temporary securing means, to provide a tightly wrapped, closed package.
According to a seventh aspect of the present invention there is provided a clamping device comprising openable jaw members having a fixed member there between against which each jaw member may clamp at least one item of clothing in use.
Most preferably two openable jaw members are provided which are biased in the closed position by a resilient tension member such as a spring clip as in conventional “butterfly” clips. However, in contrast with known clips in the present invention a fixed member is provided that acts as a partition between the jaw members whereby items may be separately clamped on either side of the fixed member, between the fixed member and a jaw member.
According to a eighth aspect of the present invention there is provided a flexible cord for use in folding clothing having a curved outer surface for smooth folding therearound. Preferably the outer surface is composed of a flexible resilient material. Advantageously, the cord is flexible laterally but not under tension.
The cord preferably has temporary attachment means such as hook(s), clip(s), stud(s) etc. secured at one or both ends thereof.
The cord preferably comprises a central core composed of rope-like material surrounded by an outer substantially non-compressible sponge-like material. The cord may be provided in a variety of diameters according to its purpose. Most preferably the diameter is greater than approximately 1 cm. The cord may be composed of woven threads, rubber or plastics material.
According to a ninth aspect of the present invention there is provided an item of luggage comprising one or more of the other aspects of the present invention to provide a means for packaging clothing in a minimal space whilst avoiding creasing of the clothing along its folds.
Conveniently the item of luggage is provided with a suspension attachment device fixed to a side wall thereof, to which the various folding devices of the present invention may be secured.
According to a tenth aspect of the present invention there is provided a case for storing multiple shirts comprising two interconnected storage parts, each part adapted to store one or more folded shirts, each part incorporating transverse stiffening to resist crushing of the shirt, each part being at least partially open on one side, and the two parts being movable to a closed position at which the parts overlie each other to close the said open sides thereof.
Preferably the transverse stiffening is arranged to resist crushing of the shirt in both the vertical and horizontal axes.
According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention there is provided an item of luggage comprising in detachable combination some or all of the items of the above aspects of the present invention.
According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention there is provided an item of luggage, preferably although not necessarily according to the ninth aspect, incorporating a weight measuring device with an indicator thereto.
The invention will now be described further by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1
shows a diagrammatical representation of a face side plan view of an unfolded carrying case for a folded jacket in accordance with the second aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 2
shows a diagrammatical representation of a rear side plan view of the carrying case shown in
FIG. 1
;
FIG. 3
shows a diagrammatical representation of the stages of folding the carrying case of
FIGS. 1 and 2
;
FIG.
3
(
a
) shows an unfolded face-side plan view;
FIG.
3
(
b
) shows an unfolded rear-side plan view;
FIG.
3
(
c
) shows a first folded face-side plan view;
FIG.
3
(
d
) shows a first folded rear-side plan view;
FIG.
3
(
e
) shows a fully folded face-side plan view;
FIG.
3
(
f
) shows a diagrammatic representation of a perspective view of the carrying case of FIG.
3
(
e
);
FIG. 4
shows a perspective view of a jacket folding support in accordance with the third aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 5
shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a jacket folding support;
FIG. 6
shows a perspective view of alternative embodiments of the retaining device and retainer stop device of FIGS.
4
/
5
;
FIG. 7
shows a diagrammatical representation of a further alternative embodiment of a jacket folding support;
FIG. 8
shows a diagrammatical representation of the support of
FIG. 4
in use;
FIG. 9
shows a diagrammatical representation of the support of
FIG. 7
used in conjunction with the carrying case of
FIGS. 1-3
;
FIG. 10
shows a diagrammatical representation of a further alternative embodiment of a jacket folding support;
FIG. 11
shows an alternative configuration of the aperture of the retainer of the embodiment of the jacket folding support shown in
FIG. 10
;
FIG. 12
shows an alternative embodiment of the jacket retainer of the jacket folding support shown in
FIG. 11
;
FIG. 13
shows a further alternative embodiment of a jacket retainer;
FIG. 14
shows a further alternative embodiment of a jacket folding support;
FIG. 15
shows yet a further alternative embodiment of jacket folding support;
FIG. 16
shows use of the jacket folding in an aircraft;
FIG. 17
shows a diagrammatical representation of a two-part jacket folding support;
FIG. 18
shows an alternative embodiment of the two-part jacket folding support of
FIG. 12
;
FIG. 19
shows a still further embodiment of a two-part jacket folding support;
FIG. 20
shows a diagrammatical representation of a trouser folding device in accordance with the fourth aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 21
shows a diagrammatical representation of the stages of folding a pair of trousers using the device of
FIG. 20
;
FIG. 22
shows an alternative embodiment of trouser folding device;
FIG. 23
shows a still further alternative embodiment of trouser folding device;
FIG. 24
shows a still further embodiment of trouser folding device;
FIG.
25
(
a
) shows a perspective view of a still further alternative embodiment of a trouser folding device;
FIGS.
25
(
b
)(
c
) show a diagrammatical representation of a folding frame in accordance with the present invention having a dress secured thereto;
FIG. 26
shows a diagrammatical representation of a trouser folding device enclosed within a fabric cover;
FIG. 27
shows an alternative embodiment of an enclosure for a trouser folding device;
FIG. 28
shows a clamp device in accordance with a further aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 29
shows a flexible cord in transverse section in accordance with a still further aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 30
shows a diagrammatical representation of the flexible cord of
FIG. 29
in use in combination with a jacket folding support;
FIG. 31
shows a diagrammatical representation of the arrangement of
FIG. 30
as used for folding a jacket;
FIG. 32
shows an item of luggage in accordance with the ninth aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 33
shows a clamp for use in conjunction with an item of luggage as shown in
FIG. 32
;
FIG. 34
shows a diagrammatical representation of the perspective view of a case for storing multiple shirts in accordance with the fourth aspect of the present invention, in an (a) empty, open configuration, (b) filled, open configuration and (c) closed configuration;
FIG. 35
shows a diagrammatical representation of a perspective view of an item of luggage in accordance with the ninth aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 36
is a plan view of one form of a tie case according to the second aspect of the present invention;
FIG. 37
is a side perspective view showing the tie case in partially closed condition;
FIG. 38
is a sectional view of one end of the tie case; and
FIGS. 39-41
are diagrammatic perspective views of an alternative embodiment in different stages of folding.
With reference to
FIG. 1
, a carrying case
2
is shown which is composed of a fabric cover
4
in which the jacket
6
is placed. The cover can be composed of any suitable material such as plastics, paper or metallic foils. The carrying case
2
is shaped to contain a jacket
6
having the shoulders
8
of the jacket
6
folded back on themselves resulting in the jacket being folded vertically in half. As shown in
FIG. 2
, once inside the carrying case
2
the whole can be folded in a manner defined by folding frames
10
which assist folding at the appropriate points and provide support to the folded jacket.
The carrying case
2
operates as shown in FIG.
3
. FIGS.
3
(
a
) and (b) show the carrying case
2
fully zipped from both sides and illustrates there are two folding frames
10
, one for each side. These two frames
10
are offset and joined at a rolling hinge
12
(or other device providing a curved surface) which prevents creasing of the jacket where folding occurs. The folding frame
10
on each side together with its intervening rolling hinge
12
forms a fixed shape for the enclosed jacket to be folded round without sharp angles, so reducing the likelihood of creasing. The frames on each side are offset, which creates a Z shape when it is fully folded as illustrated in FIG.
3
(
f
).
In an alternative embodiment the carrying case may include a single folding frame split by a single rolling hinge which may be simply folded once. Whilst such a folded package may be longer than if it were multiply folded, it is flatter which may be desirable in certain circumstances.
As can be seen in
FIG. 3
these folding frames
10
are of rectangular shape and are composed of a thin but rigid material, which may be for example, plastics, metal or wood. They are attached in the middle by a rolling hinge
12
of creased polypropylene sheeting or similar plastics or other closely connected pieces of light, yet rigid material such as wood, metal connected by sewn or glued material sheeting. The distance between the creases and the stiffness of the joining material, whether the thinner polypropylene or the glued material sheeting, determines the effective radius of curvature of the rolling hinge. For example the creases of the rolling hinge should be further apart in a jacket folding frame than for a shirt folding frame as described for example in International Application No. PCT/GB 94/00880.
A window
14
of a transparent or semi-transparent plastics material is provided in the fabric cover
4
of carrying case
2
allowing the enclosed jacket to be visible whilst the carrying case is closed.
It will accordingly be appreciated that a carrying case in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention enables jackets to be packed in a manner whereby the width of the pack is around half as wide as previous methods of packing jackets and the sleeves hang vertically so reducing creases on the sleeves when folding.
For full practicality a hanger is required that can hang a jacket in the before mentioned vertical fashion. The hanger described herein provides an important aid for this now form of packing jackets. Not only is it a packing aid but it allows one to hang a coat or a jacket in a much smaller cupboard/wardrobe space than before. This in turn allows new more compact wardrobes to be built for smaller rooms, for new aircraft, for ships and public places where space for wardrobes is at a premium. Alternatively when fully folded, loaded carrying cases
2
may be stacked in a cupboard, obviating the need for a hanger.
As can be seen in
FIG. 4
, a jacket folding hanger support
16
(hereinafter referred to as a hanger
16
) consists of a rigid frame having two arms
20
for supporting the shoulders of a jacket. Arms
20
extend from two rods
21
. Spacer elements
22
are fitted between the rods
21
to hold the arms
20
at a fixed distance apart. A third arm
24
extends perpendicularly from the rods
21
. This provides both the suspension point at the centre of gravity of the jacket on the frame and provides a means on which the jacket retaining device
30
may be mounted. A folding hook
26
used for hanging is pivotally attached by means of a hinge
27
located at the centre of gravity on a bar
28
extending across the space
38
between the frame defining the arm
24
. A jacket retaining device
30
is pivotally attached to and suspending from arm
24
. The retaining device
30
is of circular cross section. However, alternative shaped retaining devices may be used, but these should preferably have a curved surface where the device touches the jacket in order to prevent a crease forming.
A retainer stop device
34
extends from the arm
24
and is positioned such that the lower part of the retaining device
30
may pivot upwardly in the direction indicated by arrow
36
but is prevented from pivoting in the opposite direction beyond its vertical axis. The space
38
permits pivotal movement of the retainer
30
.
FIG. 5
shows an alternative embodiment of the jacket holding support described above.
An alternative retainer
30
and retainer stop device
34
is shown in FIG.
6
. In the embodiment shown in FIG.
6
(
a
) the retainer
30
is supported on the arm
24
and stop device
34
by transverse rods
31
and
35
. The rods
31
are free to slide along arm
24
as indicated by arrow
33
. The lower part of the retainer device
30
may pivot upwardly in the direction indicated by arrow
36
as before. Three upstanding pairs of stops
37
are positioned on the frame of the retainer stop device
34
. FIG.
6
(
b
) shows an embodiment where the retainer
30
is secured to the hanger by hinge
420
. In use, the retainer is pivoted backwards to enable a jacket to be drawn into position and subsequently the retainer is pivoted forwards and locked into position by latch
430
.
In the embodiment of the hanger
16
shown in FIG.
6
(
a
) the arms
20
and
24
are hinged to a rigid L-shaped body
40
. A foldable hook
42
is pivotally attached to the body
40
. With this arrangement, the arm
24
may be folded downwardly as indicated by arrow
44
, arms
20
may be folded outwardly as indicated by arrow
46
and hook
42
may be folded upwardly, so forming a conventional hanger as shown in FIG.
6
(
b
). Alternatively the arms
20
and
24
and hook
42
may be folded so as to form the jacket folding hanger support
16
as shown in FIG.
6
(
c
).
With reference to
FIG. 7
, in use the shoulders
8
of the jacket
6
are folded back on themselves and the jacket
6
is slid onto the hanger
16
such that each arm
20
(only one of which is shown) protrudes into and supports each shoulder
8
of the jacket. As the jacket is drawn onto the frame, the collar region
9
of the jacket
6
abuts the retainer
30
causing it to pivot upwardly and away from the jacket, thus allowing the jacket to be drawn completely onto the hanger past the retainer
30
. Once the collar region
9
has passed the retainer
30
, the retainer
30
returns to its original vertical position and since it is prevented from pivoting beyond it vertical axis in the opposing direction by the retainer stop
34
, the jacket
6
is held in position on hanger
16
and is prevented from backwardly slipping off the arms
20
. If the embodiment of retainer
30
and retainer stop
34
employed is that shown in
FIG. 5
, then as the jacket is drawn onto the frame, the collar region of the jacket abuts the retainer
30
causing it to pivot upwardly and away from the jacket in the same manner allowing the jacket to be drawn completely onto the hanger past the retainer
30
as before. However whilst the rods
35
are clear above the upstanding stops
37
the retainer
30
may be slid along arm
24
towards the jacket collar so that the jacket may be pushed fully onto the hanger. Once at the desired position the lower part of the retainer
30
may pivot back and be held in position by abutment of the rods
35
against the appropriate pair of stops
37
. By providing a series of stops
37
the retainer may be located at a series of positions along arm
24
.
Although not shown in
FIG. 7
it is most preferable for the rear surface
46
of the retainer
30
to be rounded to reduce creasing of the jacket. Furthermore it is preferable that the front surface
48
is also rounded to prevent the retainer
30
from snagging the jacket as the jacket is drawn onto the frame.
FIG. 8
shows the support of
FIG. 4
in use,
The jacket folding support hanger
16
may be used in conjunction with the carrying case
2
in the manner illustrated in FIG.
9
. The carrying case
2
is provided with a rigid bar
50
secured across the top part of the fabric cover of the carrying case
2
. A support member
51
is located at the centre of the bar onto which the hook
26
of the hanger may be secured.
A further alternative embodiment of such a jacket folding support is shown by way of example only in FIG.
10
. In this embodiment the jacket retaining device
30
has slot
104
through it which is positioned along the longitudinal axis of the retaining device. As may be seen in the Figure, the slot preferably diverges at its lower end forming a circular aperture
106
. The retainer
30
is secured to the frame
108
of the jacket folding support by means of at least one fixed guide pin
110
that passes through the slot
104
. The function of these guide pins in the position shown in
FIG. 10
is to restrict the travel of the jacket retainer to the direction defined by the line between the two pine and to prevent the jacket retainer from pivoting so preventing the jacket from slipping off the arms of the hanger in use. Accordingly the pins may be replaced by a bar with a rectangular cross section. It is preferable that there is not too much play between the guide pin(s) and the slot otherwise in use the jacket may force the retainer backwards to such an angle that it may slip free of the arms. The slot preferably passes fully through the jacket retainer as shown in
FIG. 10
, providing a secure arrangement for use and manufacture. Alternatively a groove formed in the surface of the retainer may be provided on opposing sides of the retainer into which shorter guide pin(s) located on opposing surfaces of the frame
8
protrude. A plurality of guide pins of any suitable size and cross-section to fit through the slot or into the grooves may be used. In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 10
the retainer
30
suspends from two guide pins
110
of circular cross-section that pass through the slot
104
. In this manner the retainer is unable to pivot from the substantially vertical position shown in FIG.
1
.
Preferably the retainer
2
has a detachable base portion
112
which advantageously has a rounded surface. The rounded surface avoids snagging of the material of the jacket in use. In certain circumstances it might be desirable to provide an additional slot (not shown) that extends from the aperture
106
to the base portion so that on removal of the base portion the retainer may be drawn off the guide pins
110
and thus completely removed from the frame.
By the arrangement shown in
FIG. 10
, in use the retainer
30
may be raised relatively to the guide pins
110
until the guide pins
110
are located within the aperture
106
of the slot. The aperture
106
is dimensioned such that retainer is pivotable around the guide pins when the guide pins
110
are located in the aperture
106
. The retainer
30
in this particular embodiment may be pivoted around the fixed guide pins
110
located within the aperture
106
until the retainer lies substantially horizontally. With the retainer in this position the jacket (not shown) may be been drawn into position on the frame as described earlier, the retainer
30
may then be rotated back to the substantially vertical position and lowered relatively to the guide pins
110
until it is returned to the position as shown in FIG.
10
. In this manner the collar region of the jacket is now folded around the retainer
30
and the jacket is thus held in position on the frame and the shoulders of the jacket are prevented from backwardly slipping off the arms
14
.
It will be appreciated that the aperture
106
may be of any suitable shape which accommodates the guide pin(s) and permits pivotal movement of the retainer
30
around the guide pins
110
. As shown in
FIG. 10
, the aperture
106
of the slot may pass through the retainer and may be circular in cross-section. An alternative cross-section is shown diagrammatically in
FIG. 11
which only permits clockwise rotation from the vertical position of the retainer
3
about guide pins
110
as indicated by arrows
105
. It will be appreciated that the aperture may be replaced by indentations formed in opposing surfaces of the retainer suitably dimensioned to accommodate guide/pins located on opposing surfaces of the frame.
A further alternative embodiment of jacket retainer is shown in FIG.
12
. In this embodiment the guide pin
110
is configured as a bar having a substantially rectangular cross-section and the aperture
106
of the slot is configured to provide a shoulder
111
which allows the retainer to rest upon the guide pin
110
on slight pivotal movement clockwise of the retainer about the guide pin
210
when located in the aperture.
A further alternative embodiment of retainer is shown in FIG.
13
. In this embodiment the retainer is provided as a half-cylinder having guide rails
113
instead of a slot through which the guide pin(s)
110
pass.
In a simplified embodiment, the retainer may be provided with a longitudinal slot through which passes a single guide pin. The retainer may then simply be raised or lowered relatively to the guide pin as required for drawing the jacket onto the frame and holding the jacket in position on the frame respectively.
Any suitable suspension device may be secured to the frame of the jacket support for hanging purposes. In the preferred embodiment shown in
FIG. 10
a cantilevered hook
116
extends from the frame. A cantilevered arm
1
18
as shown in
FIG. 14
may alternatively be used which is adapted to engage with a cooperating channelled support device (not shown) from which the jacket folding support may suspend. The engagement of the arm
118
and channel is preferably effected by engagement of a spring-loaded ball-bearing with a circular recess. In the embodiment shown in
FIG. 14
the ball-bearing
122
is located on the arm
118
and the circular recess is located in the channel, but it will be appreciated that the positioning of the ball-bearing and recess could be reversed.
With reference to
FIG. 15
, optionally a lateral support frame
124
may be secured to or be integrally formed with the main frame
108
to provide additional strengthening of the main frame
108
. The frame
124
may be advantageously formed into a handle to assist in guiding the arms
20
into the shoulders of the jacket in use.
FIG. 16
illustrates by way of example only a possible use of the jacket folding support in an air craft for passengers' use.
Alternatively a small stand for the jacket folding support could be provided, which could also be used in an office for example.
In certain circumstances it may be preferable for the jacket folding support to comprise a combination of two separable parts, wherein one part comprises a suspension device and two retaining projections and the second part comprises a retaining device for retaining the jacket on the projections. Most preferably the second part additionally comprises a suspension support for engaging the first part.
Preferably the retaining device and the suspension support (if present) of the second part of the jacket folding support are mounted/mountable on a frame suitable for use in conjunction with a carrying case for example of the type disclosed earlier.
The accompanying
FIG. 17
shows, by way of example only, an embodiment of a two-part jacket folding support. As can be seen from
FIG. 17
the first part consists of a substantially rigid jacket frame
119
having two arms
20
for supporting the shoulders of a jacket, and a third arm
122
which acts as a suspension device for the jacket folding support.
FIG. 17
shows the second part which consists of a supporting bracket
121
having two staggered elongate strips of rigid material
123
,
125
from which a suspension support
129
and jacket retainer
30
depend respectively.
FIG. 17
shows the combined use of those two parts of the jacket folding support. Using leverage and gravity, in use the suspension support
129
prevents the jacket frame
119
from slipping off the bracket
121
whilst the jacket retainer
30
prevents the jacket (not shown) from slipping off the jacket frame. The support bracket may be conveniently fitted within a carrying case. This jacket frame and bracket may also be used, for example, as a packaging system built into the side of a seat in a vehicle, such as an aircraft, for use by a passenger.
FIG. 18
shows, by way of example only, an alternative embodiment of a two part jacket folding support. As may be seen from
FIG. 9
the first part consists of a substantially rigid jacket frame having two arms
20
for supporting the shoulders of a jacket. A cantilevered arm
132
extends from the frame which acts as a suspension device for the jacket folding support. A spring-loaded ball-bearing
133
is mounted at one end of the arm
132
.
FIG.
18
(
b
) shows the second part of the jacket folding support which consists of a flanged body
134
defining an elongate channel
136
dimensioned to receive arm
132
of the first part. The channel
136
has a circular recess formed in it (not shown) positioned to receive the ball bearing
133
of arm
132
. A jacket retainer
30
of circular cross section depends from the body
134
. Such a flanged body defining an elongate channel (but without a jacket retainer depending therefrom) would be suitable for use with the above mentioned unitary jacket folding support with a cantilevered arm as shown by way of example only in FIG.
5
.
Most preferably the flanges
137
of the channel have apertures (not shown) therethrough to accommodate screws to enable the second part to be secured for example to a case support
139
which may be secured at the top of a carrying case. The jacket support frame and case support may be composed of any suitable material such as wood, plastics or metal.
FIG.
18
(
c
) shows the manner in which the two separable parts shown in FIGS.
18
(
a
) and
18
(
b
) fit together in use. Arm
132
fits within channel
136
and is retained in position by the engagement of the ballbearing
133
into the circular recess (not shown) of channel
136
. As described earlier, the positions of the ball-bearing and circular recess could be reversed. It will be appreciated that any suitable engaging means could be alternatively employed.
FIG. 19
shows, by way of example only, a still further embodiment of a two part jacket folding support. As can be seen from FIG.
19
(
a
) the first part consists of a substantially rigid jacket frame having two hinged arms
20
for supporting the shoulders of a jacket that are hinged to a support section
135
. The arms are thus able to be positioned in the open position shown in FIG.
19
(
a
) to form a conventional hanger or folded together along hinges
121
as shown in FIG.
19
(
c
) to form a jacket folding support hanger according to the present invention.
Conveniently the frame may be made by cutting out the appropriate shape from a plastics sheet (e.g. polypropylene sheet) and creasing the sheet to form hinges
121
. In the embodiment shown, upper
140
and lower
141
substantially rigid loops are secured to the frame. A conventional folding hook
142
is secured to the upper loop
140
. The hook acts as the suspension device when the arms of the frame are positioned as shown in FIG.
19
(a) to provide a conventional hanger. The hook
142
is preferably pivotally attached to the loop
140
by means of a hinge so that when the frame is to be used as a jacket folding support device, the hook
142
may be folded substantially flat against the support section
135
of the frame. Optionally, slidable latches
143
or the like may be provided which when slid across the hinges
121
of the frame ensure the arms
120
remain in the open position when required to provide a conventional hanger.
FIG.
19
(
b
) shows the second part of the jacket folding support which consists of a jacket retainer
144
which depends from a support bar/hook device
150
. The support bar is substantially L-shaped orientated such that one limb
151
is substantially horizontal and the other limb
152
extends downwardly substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the retainer. The retainer
144
depends from limb
151
and limb
152
is formed into a support hook
153
at its lower end. Most preferably limb
151
has at least one aperture therethrough for accommodating screw(s) to enable the second part to be secured, for example, in a carrying case such as the type disclosed earlier.
The retainer may alternatively depend from a separate bar (not shown) above a support bar/hook device
150
which device may be slidably supported on rails beneath that separate bar. In this manner the support bar/hook device may be slidable away from and towards the retainer as required to facilitate engagement with the jacket frame in use.
FIG.
19
(
c
) shows the manner in which the two separable parts shown in FIG.
19
(
a
) and
19
(
b
) fit together in use. The jacket frame is supported by the support hook
153
by passing the limb
152
through the upper
140
and lower
141
loops, the lower loop resting on the support hook. The support hook may alternatively be configured so that it curves inwardly towards the jacket frame in use. The lower loop would then not be required as the base of the support section
135
of the frame could be supported on the support hook instead.
The embodiment shown in
FIG. 19
provides a jacket frame where the arms
20
may be flexed when in the closed position shown in FIG.
19
(
c
) such that they may be as close as can be allowed by the thickness of the jacket being folded onto the jacket folding support in use. This enables a jacket to be packaged in an extremely thin space without creasing. This jacket frame may also be used as a conventional hanger and thus advantageously has a dual function.
FIG. 20
shows a trouser folding device
52
which consists of, a rectangular frame
54
of rigid material having two crossbars
56
and
58
of circular cross section integral therewith. The circular cross-sectional cross bars
56
,
58
allow trousers to be folded on the frame
54
without creases in the trousers forming where they are folded. Alternatively a rounded surface may be provided for example by fitting rollers of circular cross section over the cross bars or by fitting a curved plastics moulding onto the surfaces of cross bars with which the trousers are in contact. The radius of curvature of the rounded surface should be of a sufficient size to prevent creases forming in the trousers, for example a larger radius of curvature is generally required for more readily creasable fabrics than for more crease resistant fabrics. With reference to
FIG. 21
, in use trousers
60
are hung in the usual manner over the lower bar
58
such that they are halved as in normal trouser hanging systems (
FIG. 21
a
). The frame
54
is then rotated 180° such that the bar
58
that the trousers were hung over moves to the top (FIG.
21
(
b
)). The frame
54
continues its rotation through a further 180° (FIG.
21
(
c
)) by which point the trousers are folded into a quarter of their normal length with the waist-band and base of the trousers hanging together at the base of the device
52
. They may be held on the frame
54
by clips
62
attached to the lower cross-bar
58
, that grip both ends of the trousers.
The trouser device
52
may incorporate a system that removes creases, by means of two ratchets
64
on each vertical spacer rod
66
of the frame
54
, such that once the trousers
60
are placed on the frame
54
, as described above with the ends secured to the frame
54
in the clips
62
, then the horizontal cross-bars
56
,
58
may be drawn apart until the tension of the trousers stretched over the frame no longer permits the cross-bars to be drawn further apart. Rollers provided on the cross-bare mentioned above will assist this action to proceed smoothly. By this means creases in the trousers may be reduced in severity, an important aid to travellers.
FIG. 22
shows by way of example only an alternative embodiment of trouser folding device comprising a folding frame having one or more members thereon which define curved transitions for smooth folding there around. With reference to FIG.
22
(
a
) the folding frame comprises a rectangular frame
155
consisting of two cross bars
156
and
157
of circular cross-section, as described earlier, and two vertical spacer bars
158
and
159
which extend beyond the periphery of those sides of the rectangle defined by the two cross bars
156
and
157
. FIG.
22
(
b
) illustrates the folding frame having an item of clothing half folded on the frame, The frame is not restricted to use for folding trousers, it may be used for folding all types of clothing. To facilitate hanging, preferably a suspender bar
160
having a hanging hook
161
or the like mounted thereon is secured to and extends between the vertical spacer bars
158
and
159
as shown by way of example only in FIG.
23
. Conveniently, so as not to hinder the folding of trousers onto the frame, the suspender bar is composed of two parts
162
and
163
which may be hooked together to form a complete bar after a pair of trousers has been loaded onto the frame.
In order to allow a jacket additionally to be laid over such a folding device after the trousers have been loaded thereon, as described earlier, the folding frame preferably has legs extending therefrom. Most preferably the lower legs
164
are of a length which allows the jacket to hang above the feet
165
as shown by way of example only in the accompanying FIG.
24
. Loops
166
may be provided on the upper legs
167
to allow a conventional hanger to be threaded therethrough. Alternatively the upper legs may be connected together by a suspender bar having a hanging hook or the like mounted thereon as described above. The bar may be made up of two or more engageable parts as described earlier. Depending on the clothing to be folded onto the frame, the lower legs may be absent or of a relatively short length enabling tighter packaging to be achieved.
With reference to FIG.
25
(
a
) a frame of larger dimensions is shown whereby the trousers
60
are folded into a third of their length by threading the trousers through the frame in a Z manner as shown. This requires two sets of clips
62
,
63
for each end of the trousers if it is required to tension them to remove creases. It is also possible to attach clips along the creases of the trousers to reinforce these creases during storage or travel.
To adapt to trousers of different lengths it is possible alternatively or additionally to attach the trouser clips to the cross-bar via elastic to produce the required tension.
The device may be hung vertically in a cupboard via a foldable hook
64
suspended from the ends of the upper cross-bar or, wrapped securely round its frame and stored in its cover, may be stacked in a cupboard as with the jacket hereinbefore described and providing similar storage advantages.
Once folded into the frame
54
the trousers may be held in place by enclosing the whole in a fabric cover
68
as shown in FIG.
11
. The device accordingly allows trousers to be stored in a smaller space either by hanging or stacking.
With reference to FIG.
25
(
b
), items of clothing having a neck aperture such as a dress, shirt, Arabic dress etc may be secured to the frame using a strut or rod
440
which fits inside the neck aperture, supporting the shoulders of the clothing. The strut
440
is secured to the frame by means of elasticated/adjustable straps
450
. This has particular application for folding of laundered shirts. FIG.
25
(
c
) shows a sleeveless dress folded onto a folding frame of the present invention, which is secured thereto by means of supporting a strut
440
and connecting straps
450
.
The above described embodiments of folding frame provided, for example, a simple means of packaging trousers or a suit for a retail outlet which also protects the clothing from creasing (for example when being carried home by the purchaser in the retailer's plastic bag). A retailer's bag would preferably be designed to fit tightly around the suit and frame so movement thereof is minimized.
A suitably shaped piece of material is preferably secured onto the upper and/or lower extensions of the vertical spacer bars/legs of a trouser folding frame, for example by the use of appropriately located eyelets in the material through which the extensions/legs may protrude.
FIG. 27
shows in accordance with the fifth aspect of the present invention and by way of example only, a shaped piece of material
164
having four holes
171
,
172
therein for looping the material onto the legs/extensions of a trouser folding frame. Strips of VELCRO (RTM)
174
are located at the periphery of the material for securing the meeting edges of material after the material has been wrapped around the clothing and frame. A window
173
of transparent plastics material is provided so that the clothing is visible after wrapping.
The material may also be attached by clamps to one end of the trousers/suit loaded onto the folding frame. This prevents the clothing falling off the frame and creasing, should the wrapped package be inverted during travel or storage. Furthermore, the use of clamps advantageously places tension on the clothing which assists in the removal or prevention of unwanted creases.
Referring to FIG.
27
(
a
) such clamps
176
may be mounted onto a bar
178
attached to an edge of the material using elasticated straps
170
.
The mode of operation of the material in combination with clamps for wrapping around a loaded trouser frame will now be described by way of example only with reference to the FIGS.
22
and
27
(
a
).
In use, the clamps
176
are attached, for example, to the bottoms and/or top of a pair of trousers folded onto the trouser frame
155
. The elastic straps
170
are stretched around the lower cross bar
157
and the lower eyelets
171
are hooked over the upper extensions
168
of the trouser frame. At this point the trousers are firmly secured onto the frame and accordingly no further material is required in a minimal embodiment of the invention.
However, most preferably further material having a further two upper eyelets
172
is provided as shown in FIG.
27
(
a
). In such an embodiment the two upper eyelets
172
are then hooked over the extensions
177
at the lower end of the trouser frame. The material is thus wrapped around the clothing and frame forming a snugly fitting package which may be retained closed using VELCRO (RTM) attachments.
FIG.
27
(
b
) and (
c
) show an alternative embodiment of the flexible wrapping material particularly suited as an enclosure for trousers folded onto the folding frame. Clips
500
are provided for securing to one end of the trousers and elasticated straps
502
are provided at the opposing end for securing to the frame. VELCRO RTM strips
503
for securing the wrap to itself are also provided.
FIG.
27
(
d
) and (
e
) show a flexible wrap particularly secured for enclosing a jacket. The wrap preferably has stiffened edges
506
into which a hook, loop, clip
507
or the like is mounted to which the flexible cord
508
is attached. With reference to FIG.
27
(
e
) in use a jacket
509
is laid onto the wrap
510
in a folded condition, with the cord
508
located along the fold of the jacket. The jacket is hooked into place on the hook/clip
507
. With reference to FIG.
27
(
f
) a folding frame
511
loaded with a pair of trousers/shirt etc
512
is placed over the jacket
509
so that the wrap
510
can be wrapped around the frame so enclosing in a tight compact package both the jacket and trousers.
A clamp according to the sixth aspect of the present invention is illustrated by way of example only in accompanying FIG.
28
.
FIG. 28
(
a
) shows a perspective view of the clamp and
FIG. 28
(
b
) shows a vertical section through the clamp along lines A—A indicated in FIG.
29
(
a
). The clamp consists of three panels
180
,
181
,
182
held together by a strong spring clip
186
. The clip may be composed of any suitable material such as a resilient plastics or a metal such as steel. The central panel
181
is configured so that it is substantially flat but defines a tubular channel
183
through which a bar
184
runs along which the clamp may slide so that the position of the clamp on the bar is adjustable. The outer two “butterfly” panels
180
and
182
are configured and positioned so that they may pivot around the tubular channel
183
. The clip
186
normally holds the upper parts
187
,
188
of the outer panels
180
and
182
closed against the upper part of the central panel
181
. To open the clamp the lower parts
189
and
190
of the outer panels are squeezed together which causes the upper parts to open out from the central panel creating two gaps on either side of the central panel into which two separate items (such as clothing) may be placed. Release of the lower parts of the outer panels causes the upper parts to close so clamping the two items against either side of the central panel.
Preferably when using the clamp for clamping clothing, the clamping surfaces of the panels are at least partially covered with a sponge-like material
185
to enhance the grip of the clamp on the clothing material.
Alternatively the grip of the clamps may be enhanced by providing raised ridges moulded into the clamping surfaces of the panels running at right angles to the direction of the grip. This is particularly convenient where the panels are composed of plastics.
FIG. 29
shows by way of example only a transverse section of a cord according to the present invention. The central core
194
composed of a rope-like material is surrounded by an outer section
195
of sponge-like material that provides a curved outer surface for smooth folding of clothing therearound in use.
Such a flexible cord has many applications and has particular use in combination with the other aspects of the present invention.
For example with reference to
FIG. 30
the cord may be used in combination with a jacket folding support. As shown in this Figure, by way of example only, the cord
191
is attached at one end to the base of the retainer
192
via a hook arrangement
193
. The cord is placed inside the jacket to lie along the line where the jacket is folded back on itself as illustrated diagrammatically in FIG.
31
. In this manner the cord assists in avoiding creasing at the point of folding.
It will be appreciated that the flexible cord has a wide variety of uses in luggage, wardrobes, drawers etc. to prevent creasing of all types of clothes at the point of folding. For example in a framed or solid-sided case or trunk the cord may be hooked between hooks provided on opposing walls of the case/trunk over which clothes may be folded. The flexible cord may advantageously be secured to the upper legs of a trouser folding frame, for example of the type shown in
FIG. 13
, after the trousers have been loaded thereon over which a jacket may then be folded.
FIG. 32
shows by way of example only such an item of luggage for packaging a suit in a minimum space and illustrates the method of folding the suit. With reference to FIG.
32
(
a
), the case
220
is provided with a flexible cord
222
which is attached with a hook
224
to a loop
226
that is slidably engaged in a track
228
secured to a side wall
230
of the case. A suspension hook
231
is provided that is also slidable engaged in the track
228
. A fixed hook and/or loop may be of course provided instead. However, the sliding track allows the hook(s)/loop(s) to be placed in the optimal position for a particular jacket or the like. The hook
224
, loop
226
and track
228
arrangement may of course be secured to another side wall of the case instead. In particular, it would also be convenient for that arrangement to be secured to the flap of the case. With reference to FIG.
32
(
b
) a jacket
232
is folded shoulder to shoulder and placed on a jacket support device (not visible) as earlier described and suspended from the suspension hook
230
provided in the case. The flexible cord
222
is drawn taut down the central fold of the jacket.
With reference to FIG.
32
(
c
) trousers
240
loaded onto a trouser folding frame as earlier described are placed on the lid
241
of the case. The lower part
242
of the jacket may then be folded over the trouser folding frame as shown in FIG.
32
(
d
) and then folded over again into the main body
243
of the case whereby the jacket and trousers are folded around the trouser frame in a tight package.
As an alternative to using a jacket folding support the hanging loop that is generally provided in suit jackets may be used to hang the jacket on the suspension hook provided in the case.
A further alternative would be to provide a clamp as shown by way of example in
FIG. 33
in place of or suspended from the hook. This clamp would preferably be provided with panels having rounded clamping surfaces
250
to grip the top of the collar of the jacket. The rounded surface would help to avoid creases forming in the collar. Most preferably the clamping surfaces are ribbed or covered with a sponge-like material to enhance their grip.
The above described method of folding may also be used to pack a suit in a slim light fabric case with the jacket supported from a support member such as a hook provided at one edge of such a case. The support member would most preferably be secured to a rigid support frame/bar provided across one side of the otherwise flexible, fabric case. Such a case can be conveniently placed in a brief case or other small case, being particularly convenient for use as hand luggage for air travel.
The case
70
shown in
FIG. 34
holds
4
shirts, each folded on a shirt-frame (not shown) for example as described International Patent Application No. PCT/GB 94/00880 each with it's own collar-case (not shown) for example as also described in that International Application having vertically rigid sides around 70% of it's circumference which allows them to be squeezed into smaller collar sizes while still giving protection against crushing. Ties, socks, underpants and other accessories may be stored between the two halves of the folded shirt-frames and in the collar-cases. The shirts
72
are arranged four square all facing in the same direction. They are retained in the case prior to closing either by straps or flaps (not shown) such that when one side is folded over the other, the upper set of two shirts loaded on their frames with collar-cases are not able to fall out. The shirts are arranged such that when folded over the two sets of collars are on the inside and at opposite ends of the case to use the least possible space.
A variation of this case is where one of the shirts has a separate case which may be utilised independently or left to be replaced by a shoe-bag.
The shirt case may be constructed as a separate section integral with a main case or may be detachably engaged with a main case.
An item of luggage
76
is shown in
FIG. 35
which consists of a combination of a suit and wash bag section
78
, holding a jacket carrying case and trouser folding device as hereinbefore described, and a shirt case section
70
as hereinbefore described. These two sections may be temporarily engaged with each other by means of zips, clips or the like or else may be permanently engaged by stitching, gluing or the like.
In order to be sure to meet travel weight restrictions means of measuring the weight of a case or at the very least of ensuring that the weight is at or below the permitted weight for a given form of transport is provided by the sixth aspect of the present invention.
In the most preferable embodiment the weight measuring device would comprise an electronic system where the weight on the handle is determined by strain gauges between the handle and case, driven by electricity with the weight being displayed by a liquid crystal display. In an alternative embodiment the weight of a case may be measured against a calibrated spring system as with normal scales or by a spring system calibrated to show red in a panel when the weight on the handle exceeds the permitted weight. This is proposed to overcome the weight restrictions on hand baggage that may be carried onto a plane, currently, 6kgs.
Alternatively the weight measuring device may function when resting on the ground with the weight of the case applied from above to the sensor rather than from underneath.
In a still further embodiment the weight measuring device may be built into a carrying strap that has hooks at either end to attach to any case.
The present invention accordingly provides a means of packing multiple shirts, jackets, trousers and skirts etc in a completely new manner using new folding frames in order to pack these items into a much smaller space than possible with present luggage while ensuring minimal creases. It also allows for a means of determining if the weight falls within levels allowed on commercial transport systems.
The invention may be presented as an integral item of luggage or as a series of modular packs all fitting inside outer cases.
The tie case of
FIGS. 36-38
is formed from a sheet of semi stiff polypropylene defining (in one piece) an elongate support strip
301
and two side flaps
302
,
303
with respective end tabs
304
,
305
.
The support strip
301
is rectangular and is divided into three rectangular equal-length parts
306
,
307
,
308
by means of two transverse hinge constructions
309
,
310
. The hinge constructions
309
,
310
comprise strips of the polypropylene sheet to which flexibility and a curved-bending property in imparted by means of multiple side-by-side, parallel lines of weakness or score lines (with or without a reduction in thickness).
One of the flaps
302
is hinged to one side edge of the middle part
307
of the support strip
301
. The other flap
303
is hinged to the opposite side edge of one of the end parts
306
of the support strip
301
. These hinges are defined by lines of weakness of the polypropylene sheeting.
The flaps
302
,
303
are of rectangular form of substantially the same dimensions as the parts
306
,
307
,
308
of the support strip
301
.
The end tabs
304
,
305
are rectangular portions hinged (by lines of weakness) to the flaps
302
,
303
. The two tabs
304
,
305
face in the same direction i.e. towards the end part
308
of the strip
301
.
The tabs
304
,
305
have press studs
311
,
312
thereon and at the opposite ends of the other sides of the flaps there are cooperable press stud parts
313
,
314
.
The free end region of the end part
308
, as shown in
FIGS. 36 and 38
, has an elongate transverse cut out
315
therein, and the end part
318
terminates in a captive circular cross-section rod
316
held in a formed loop of the strip material.
In use, a tie
317
is threaded through the cut out
315
and looped around the captive rod
316
so that the tie
317
lies over and along the support
311
folded in half about the captive rod
316
.
The support
301
can then be folded, with the tie
317
, about the hinges
309
,
310
into a compact package, as shown in FIG.
39
. The hinges
309
,
310
when folded define curved transitions about which the tie
317
is folded and this avoids the formation of creases.
The captive rod
316
holds the tie in position and also minimises crease formation.
As indicated in
FIG. 38
, there may be elasticated loops or straps
318
,
319
which hold the tie
317
to the support
301
.
When folded, the flaps
302
,
303
are wrapped around the opposite sides of the support
301
, and the tabs
304
,
305
are folded over and fixed in position by engagement of the studs
311
,
312
with the stud parts
313
,
314
, so as to define an enclosed case containing the folded tie
317
. The material used for the support
301
and flaps
302
,
303
may be transparent, or an opening
320
may be provided in one or both of the flaps
302
,
303
to permit inspection of the tie in the enclosed case.
With the modification of
FIGS. 39-41
, there is a foldable support strip
321
with two hinge constructions
322
,
323
, like the strip of
FIGS. 36-38
. Instead of two separate side flaps
302
,
303
there is one, double with side flap
324
which can wrap around the folded strip
321
and which has end tabs
325
,
326
which are folded over and held in position with studs.
The flap
324
is detachable from the support strip e.g. by means of a zip or other fastener along the line
327
. Instead of (or additional to) the flap
324
there may be a zipup wallet or other construction into which the folded strip can be inserted.
As shown in
FIGS. 39-41
, there may be an additional rod
328
spaced from the end rod
329
, with a gap
330
there between to receive the tie (like the cut out
315
of FIGS.
36
-
38
).
This rod
328
gives smooth reinforcement to the inward edge of the gap
330
.
There may also be a further rod
331
at the hinge joint
323
to prevent the strip
321
from collapsing (and creasing the tie) at this joint.
The second rod
328
may define a hinge joint as shown in
FIG. 41
to permit an extra fold thereby permitting reduction in the length of the folded package.
It is of course to be understood that the invention is not intended to be restricted to the details of the above embodiment which are described by way of example only.
Claims
- 1. A frame for folding clothing thereon, the frame comprising two opposing members wherein each member defines a curved transition for smooth folding therearound, the curved transitions extending substantially parallel to each other, and comprising two opposing separators connecting the members, the members and separators being substantially perpendicular to each other, and wherein the frame has a generally rectangular configuration and at least one holding device comprising an enclosure for the frame for releasably retaining clothing in position on the frame.
- 2. A frame according to claim 1 wherein each separator is adjustable in length.
- 3. A frame for folding clothing thereon, the frame comprising two opposing members wherein each member defines a curved transition for smooth folding therearound, and at least one member is rotatable about its longitudinal axis, the curved transitions extending substantially parallel to each other, and comprising two opposing separators connecting the members, the members and separators being substantially perpendicular to each other, wherein the frame has a generally rectangular configuration.
- 4. A frame according to claim 1, wherein the enclosure comprises a cover composed of flexible material.
- 5. A frame according to claim 1, wherein the enclosure comprises a case.
- 6. A frame according to claim 1, wherein the holding device comprises securing means for releasably attaching the clothing directly onto the frame.
- 7. A frame according to claim 6 wherein the securing means comprise at least one clip slidably mounted mountable on the frame.
- 8. A frame according to claim 6 wherein the securing means comprises a hanger connectable to the frame, the hanger being adapted to support an item of clothing and having connecting means associated therewith for releasably connecting the hanger to the frame.
- 9. A frame according to claim 6 wherein the securing means comprises is a transverse bar which extends across one end of the frame, the bar comprising two substantially parallel elements, the elements being hinged at one end of the bar and closable at the other end of the bar, between which elements clothing may be clamped in use.
- 10. A frame according to claim 1 wherein a member that defines the curved transitions has a sheet of flexible material attached thereto, the flexible material being wrappable around the frame to form a package.
- 11. A frame according to claim 1 having at least one flexible cord associated therewith, the flexible cord having a curved outer surface for smooth folding therearound.
- 12. A frame according to claim 11 wherein each flexible cord has attachment means secured thereto at at least one end thereof for releasably attaching each cord to the frame.
- 13. A frame for folding clothing thereon, the frame comprising two opposing members wherein each member defines a curved transition for smooth folding therearound, the curved transitions extending substantially parallel to each other, and comprising two opposing separators connecting the members, the members and separators being substantially perpendicular to each other, wherein the frame has a generally rectangular configuration, and comprising a suspension device for a jacket having shoulders, two projections extendable alongside each other and connected to the suspension device for supporting the shoulders of the jacket with the jacket centrally folded to bring said shoulders next to each other, and a retaining device for retaining the jacket on the said projections.
- 14. A frame according to claim 13 wherein the retaining device and retaining projections are provided as separate devices that are connectable together.
- 15. A frame according to claim 13 further comprising a seat secured thereto.
- 16. A frame according to claim 15 wherein the retaining device is secured to the seat, the remaining parts being releasably engageable with that part secured to the seat.
- 17. A frame for folding clothing thereon, the frame comprising two opposing members wherein each member defines a curved transition for smooth folding therearound, the curved transitions extending substantially parallel to each other, and comprising two opposing separators connecting the members, the members and separators being substantially perpendicular to each other, wherein the frame has a generally rectangular configuration and further comprising a flexible sheet of material and having temporary servicing means integral therewith, the material being wrappable and closable around said frame for folding clothes thereon.
- 18. A frame according to claim 1 in the form of a clamping device comprising openable jaw members having a fixed member therebetween against which each jaw member may clamp at least one item of clothing in use.
- 19. A frame according to claim 18 wherein said openable jaw members are biased in a closed position by a resilient tension member.
- 20. A frame according to claim 13 further comprising a flexible cord having a curved outer surface defining said curved transition.
- 21. A frame according to claim 20 wherein the outer surface of said cord is composed of a flexible resilient material.
- 22. A frame according to claim 20 wherein the cord has temporary attachment means secured at at least one end thereof.
- 23. A frame according to claim 20 wherein the cord comprises a central core composed of rope-like material surrounded by an outer substantially non-compressible sponge-like material.
- 24. A frame according to claim 1 and comprising two interconnected storage parts, each part adapted to store one or more folded shirts, each part incorporating transverse stiffening to resist crushing of the shirt, each part being at least partially open on one side, and the two parts being movable to a closed position at which the parts overlie each other to close the said open sides thereof.
Priority Claims (1)
Number |
Date |
Country |
Kind |
9525933 |
Dec 1995 |
GB |
|
PCT Information
Filing Document |
Filing Date |
Country |
Kind |
PCT/GB96/03143 |
|
WO |
00 |
Publishing Document |
Publishing Date |
Country |
Kind |
WO97/22276 |
6/26/1997 |
WO |
A |
US Referenced Citations (6)