EP3420128B1 - Foldable drying rack - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to the general field of folding clothes lines.

It relates more specifically to a clothes line, folding, of the type which can be in one of two extreme states - folded clean for its storage and deployed clean for its use, having a median plane and comprising a linen support frame having a main plane, and a kickstand having a main plane.

In known manner, the support frame is mounted with a hinge around a direction orthogonal to the median plane on a support means; the stand frame is mounted with a hinge around the same direction on the support means; the two joints of the support frame and the stand frame are spaced from each other; the stand frame and the support frame are arranged so that, in the deployed state, they cooperate with mechanical fastening in an area of the stand frame and in an area of the support frame, both spaced from their respective articulation at support means, so that the stand frame keeps the support frame in position.

In a manner also known, the support frame and the crutch frame each have an outer contour of generally quadrangular shape with two longitudinal edges and two transverse edges. They include linen support threads stretched between their longitudinal edges. They are arranged relative to each other, in their zones where the support frame and the crutch frame cooperate with mechanical fastening, so that the inner face of the longitudinal edge of the support frame is adjacent to the outer face of the longitudinal edge of the stand frame.

Frequently, such a drying rack comprises two support frames and two crutch frames arranged on either side of the support means, which is an integral part of the drying rack and comprises two frame legs with a direct or indirect articulation, one to the other, so as to form in the deployed state a kind of trestle in inverted V. In addition, a pulling element is mounted between the two frame frames so as to prevent an untimely separation of the two frame frames when they form in the deployed state the sort of trestle in inverted V shape.

Such a folding clothes line is commonly known in France as "Tancarville", by analogy with the shape of this bridge.

• chaque cadre support et chaque cadre béquille correspondant sont agencés de sorte à coopérer avec solidarisation mécanique permanente à pivotement,
• chaque cadre béquille et chaque cadre piètement correspondant sont agencés de sorte à coopérer avec solidarisation mécanique amovible au moyen d'un agencement à fourche,
• l'élément formant tirant est agencé de sorte à coopérer avec solidarisation mécanique permanente à pivotement avec l'un des cadres piètement et à coopérer avec solidarisation mécanique amovible avec l'autre cadre piètement au moyen d'un agencement à fourche.

The document FR 1137981 describes an embodiment of such a drying rack in which:

• each support frame and each corresponding stand frame are arranged so as to cooperate with permanent mechanical fastening with pivoting,
• each crutch frame and each corresponding base frame are arranged so as to cooperate with removable mechanical fastening by means of a fork arrangement,
• the tie-forming element is arranged so as to cooperate with permanent mechanical fastening with pivoting with one of the base frames and to cooperate with removable mechanical fastening with the other base frame by means of a fork arrangement.

• chaque cadre support et chaque cadre béquille correspondant sont agencés de sorte à coopérer avec solidarisation mécanique amovible au moyen d'un agencement à fourche,
• chaque cadre béquille et chaque cadre piètement correspondant sont agencés de sorte à coopérer avec solidarisation mécanique permanente à pivotement.

Another very commonly used embodiment has a structure opposite to the previous one, in that:

• each support frame and each corresponding stand frame are arranged so as to cooperate with removable mechanical fastening by means of a fork arrangement,
• each crutch frame and each corresponding base frame are arranged so as to cooperate with permanent mechanical fastening with pivoting.

These two embodiments have the disadvantage that the deployment and folding of the drying rack are laborious because they require a sequence of long and complicated gestures on the part of the user.

• chaque cadre support et chaque cadre béquille correspondant sont agencés de sorte à coopérer avec solidarisation mécanique permanente à pivotement,
• chaque cadre béquille et chaque cadre piètement correspondant sont agencés de sorte à coopérer avec solidarisation mécanique permanente à pivotement,
• l'élément formant tirant et chaque cadre piètement correspondant sont agencés de sorte à coopérer avec solidarisation mécanique permanente à pivotement,
• chaque cadre béquille et l'élément formant tirant sont agencés en deux parties articulées.

The document EP1 0440003 describes another embodiment of such a drying rack in which:

• each support frame and each corresponding stand frame are arranged so as to cooperate with permanent mechanical fastening with pivoting,
• each crutch frame and each corresponding base frame are arranged so as to cooperate with permanent mechanical fastening with pivoting,
• the tie-forming element and each corresponding base frame are arranged so as to cooperate with permanent mechanical fastening with pivoting,
• each stand frame and the pulling element are arranged in two articulated parts.

This embodiment has the drawback that the articulations of each crutch frame and of the tie-forming element are complex and that their operation is long and complicated.

The document GB 2 451 256 A describes a clothesline disclosing the features of the preamble of claim 1.

The invention therefore aims to solve the problems of drying clothes, folding, known.

Below is a description of the invention as characterized in the claims.

• le cadre support est monté avec une articulation autour d'une direction D1 orthogonale au plan médian P1 sur un moyen d'appui,
• le cadre béquille est monté avec une articulation autour de la direction D1 sur le moyen d'appui,
• les deux articulations du cadre support et du cadre béquille sont distantes l'une de l'autre,
• le cadre béquille et le cadre support sont agencés de sorte que, à l'état déployé, ils coopèrent avec solidarisation mécanique dans une zone du cadre béquille et dans une zone du cadre support l'une et l'autre écartées de leur articulation respective au moyen d'appui, de sorte que le cadre béquille maintienne en position le cadre support.

According to a first aspect, the subject of the invention is a folding clothes horse, of the type which can be in one of two extreme states - folded clean for its storage and deployed suitable for its use -, having a median plane P1 and comprising a linen support frame having a main plane, and a stand frame having a main plane, in which:

• the support frame is mounted with an articulation around a direction D1 orthogonal to the median plane P1 on a support means,
• the stand frame is mounted with an articulation around the direction D1 on the support means,
• the two articulations of the support frame and the stand frame are spaced from each other,
• the stand frame and the support frame are arranged so that, in the deployed state, they cooperate with mechanical fastening in an area of the stand frame and in an area of the support frame, both spaced from their respective articulation at support means, so that the stand frame keeps the support frame in position.

Such a drying rack is such that, in the two deployed and folded states and in any intermediate state, the stand frame and the support frame cooperate by means of a permanent mechanical fastening means with groove / notch / stud, comprising, on the one hand, an elongated groove having, laterally, a notch with bottom, divergent and localized, formed on the support frame, on the other hand, a stud formed on the crutch frame.

• la rainure, qui comporte une partie extrême distale et une partie extrême proximale par rapport à l'articulation du cadre support, d'une part s'étend dans une direction générale D2 globalement orthogonale à D1, d'autre part est située dans l'enveloppe du cadre support,
• le téton, de direction générale D1, est monté dans la rainure de sorte à pouvoir y coulisser,
• à l'état plié, le téton est situé vers la partie extrême distale,
• par rapport à la rainure, l'encoche s'étend du côté du cadre support où se trouve le cadre béquille et elle est située vers la partie extrême proximale,
• à l'état déployé, le téton est logé et bloqué unidirectionnellement dans l'encoche,
• lors du déploiement de l'étendoir, le téton, coulisse dans la rainure dans le sens allant de la partie extrême distale vers la partie extrême proximale et pénètre par gravité dans l'encoche, de sorte à s'y loger et se bloquer unidirectionnellement sur le fond de celle-ci,
• lors du pliage de l'étendoir, le téton, coulisse dans la rainure dans le sens allant de la partie extrême proximale vers la partie extrême distale et dépasse l'encoche, sans y pénétrer,
• la course de coulissement du téton dans la rainure correspond à la course de pivotement du cadre support et du cadre béquille entre l'état plié et l'état déployé.

The groove / notch / nipple means is arranged so that:

• the groove, which has an extreme distal part and an extreme proximal part relative to the articulation of the support frame, on the one hand extends in a general direction D2 generally orthogonal to D1, on the other hand is located in the support frame envelope,
• the stud, of general direction D1, is mounted in the groove so that it can slide there,
• in the folded state, the nipple is situated towards the extreme distal part,
• relative to the groove, the notch extends on the side of the support frame where the crutch frame is located and it is located towards the extreme proximal part,
• in the deployed state, the stud is housed and locked unidirectionally in the notch,
• during the deployment of the drying rack, the nipple slides in the groove in the direction from the extreme distal part towards the extreme proximal part and enters by gravity into the notch, so as to lodge there and lock unidirectionally on the bottom of it,
• during the folding of the drying rack, the nipple slides in the groove in the direction going from the extreme proximal part towards the extreme distal part and exceeds the notch, without entering it,
• the sliding stroke of the stud in the groove corresponds to the pivoting stroke of the support frame and the stand frame between the folded state and the deployed state.

According to one embodiment, the groove has either a single notch or two notches corresponding to two deployed states or a number n of notches, the number n being greater than two corresponding to n deployed states, such that, when it has a plurality notches, the plurality of deployed states are differentiated by the angular position of the support frame relative to its articulation, by the angle between the support frame and the crutch frame, and finally by the angle of inclination of the support frame on the horizontal, the angle between the support frame and the crutch frame being greater for a distal notch and, conversely, smaller for a proximal notch.

• la rainure et l'encoche ont des largeurs identiques ou proches de sorte à permettre la coopération et le déplacement sans jeu excessif du téton,
• la longueur de l'encoche entre son ouverture ménagée latéralement dans la rainure et le fond est de l'ordre de une à trois fois sa largeur.

According to an embodiment:

• the groove and the notch have identical or close widths so as to allow cooperation and movement without excessive play of the stud,
• the length of the notch between its opening formed laterally in the groove and the bottom is of the order of one to three times its width.

According to one embodiment, the groove and the notch are completely integrated into the thickness of the support frame.

According to one embodiment, the notch and the adjoining zone of the groove have a general form of pseudo V - for a terminal notch towards the extreme proximal part - or a general form of pseudo Y - for a non-terminal notch -, where the one of the branches of the pseudo V or of the pseudo Y, and if necessary the shaft of the pseudo Y, belongs to the groove and where the other of the branches of the pseudo V or of the pseudo Y forms the notch, while the two branches of the pseudo V or pseudo Y are tightened, close to each other.

According to one embodiment, with a non-terminal notch having with the adjoining zone of the groove a general shape of pseudo Y, the section of the groove adjoining the opening of the notch and located towards the extreme proximal part and forming the shaft of the pseudo Y is curved or forms an angle, concavity or opening turned on the side of the support frame opposite the crutch frame, so as to form, for the nipple and during the folding of the drying rack, a kind of springboard such as the nipple sliding in the groove in the direction going from the extreme proximal part towards the extreme distal part and jumps over the notch, passing it without penetrating it.

According to one embodiment, the part of the groove adjacent to a notch and extending towards the distal end part is slightly inclined relative to the main plane of the support frame, on the side of the support frame where the crutch frame is located.

According to one embodiment, the part of the groove adjacent to a notch and extending towards the proximal end part is generally slightly inclined relative to the main plane of the support frame, on the side of the support frame where the crutch frame is located.

According to one embodiment, the groove forms at the extreme distal part a step towards the side of the support frame opposite to the stand frame and / or in which the extreme distal part is adjoining or close to the distal transverse edge of general direction D1 of the support frame.

According to one embodiment, the terminal notch is spaced from the articulation of the support frame.

According to one embodiment, the drying rack has a notch located in the middle part of the support frame between its two transverse edges of general direction D1.

According to one embodiment, a notch is located, starting from the articulation of the support frame, approximately one third of the length of the support frame between its two transverse edges of general direction D1.

• le cadre support et le cadre béquille ont chacun un contour extérieur de forme générale quadrangulaire avec deux bords longitudinaux de direction générale D2 et deux bords transversaux de direction générale D1,
• le cadre support et le cadre béquille sont disposés l'un par rapport à l'autre, dans leurs zones où le cadre support et le cadre béquille coopèrent avec solidarisation mécanique, de sorte que la face intérieure du bord longitudinal du cadre support est adjacente à la face extérieure du bord longitudinal du cadre béquille,
• la rainure est ouverte, accessible et creusée dans la face intérieure du bord longitudinal du cadre support,
• le téton saille vers l'extérieur de la face extérieure du bord longitudinal du cadre béquille.

According to an embodiment:

• the support frame and the crutch frame each have an outer contour of generally quadrangular shape with two longitudinal edges of general direction D2 and two transverse edges of general direction D1,
• the support frame and the stand frame are arranged relative to each other, in their zones where the support frame and the stand frame cooperate with mechanical fastening, so that the inner face of the longitudinal edge of the support frame is adjacent to the outer face of the longitudinal edge of the stand frame,
• the groove is open, accessible and hollowed out in the inner face of the longitudinal edge of the support frame,
• the stud protrudes outward from the outer face of the longitudinal edge of the kickstand frame.

According to one embodiment, the drying rack comprises two groove / notch / stud means on the two longitudinal edges of the support frame and on the two longitudinal edges of the crutch frame.

According to one embodiment, the drying rack comprises two support frames and two stand frames arranged on either side of the support means.

According to one embodiment, the support means is an integral part of the drying rack.

According to one embodiment, the support means comprises two frame legs with a direct or indirect articulation to each other around the direction D1, so as to form in the deployed state a sort of trestle in inverted V shape.

According to one embodiment, the articulation of the support frame by means of support and the articulation of the two base frames are coincident or adjacent.

According to one embodiment, the drying rack further comprises a pulling element mounted between the two frame frames so as to prevent an untimely separation of the two frame frames when they form in the deployed state a sort of inverted V-shaped trestle, the element pulling can also play a gripping function to allow movement of the drying rack by carrying it by its transport bar.

According to one embodiment, the pulling element is on the one hand mounted on one of the two frame frames with articulation around the direction D1, on the other hand mounted on the other of the two frame frames, either with a securing means removable mechanical, the pulling element being rigid, either with an articulation around the direction D1, the pulling element in two parts articulated to one another with removable blocking in the substantially coplanar position.

According to one embodiment, the groove is smooth, if necessary filled with an anti-friction material.

According to one embodiment, a support frame and if necessary a crutch frame, comprises support, hooking or hanging elements for laundry - such as threads or a sheet - fixed to their edges or to some of their edges, in particular at two opposite edges, like the two longitudinal edges.

The invention also relates to such a clotheshorse being in the folded state in which a linen support frame and a crutch frame associated, are arranged one against the other, the stud being located towards the end part distal.

The invention also relates to such a clotheshorse being in the deployed state in which a linen support frame and an associated stand frame, are disposed inclined relative to each other.

• La figure 1 est une vue en élévation d'une réalisation particulière d'un étendoir à linge selon l'invention, à l'état plié, laquelle réalisation particulière étant telle que le moyen d'appui fait partie intégrante de l'étendoir et comporte deux cadres piètement avec une articulation, et disposés de part et d'autre, deux cadres support et deux cadres béquille pourvus d'organes de support, d'accrochage ou de suspension de linge, lequel état plié étant tel que les cadres piètements sont rabattus l'un contre l'autre, de même que les cadres support et les cadres béquille,
• La figure 2 est une vue de côté de l'étendoir selon la figure 1, à l'état plié, illustrant que dans cet état, l'étendoir s'inscrit dans une enveloppe extérieure de forme générale parallélépipédique de faible épaisseur.
• La figure 3 est une vue en perspective de l'étendoir, de trois quart et de dessus, selon la réalisation particulière des figures 1 et 2, dans un état déployé dans lequel les cadres piètements sont érigés vers le haut et forment une sorte de tréteau en V renversé, étant associée avec articulation à leurs deux bords transversaux supérieurs, tandis que les deux cadres support s'étendent latéralement, plus ou moins horizontalement et que les deux cadres béquille s'étendent en étant inclinés vers le haut.
• Les figures 4A, 4B et 4C sont trois schémas de l'étendoir selon la réalisation particulière des figures 1 à 3, selon des vues de côté, à l'instar de la figure 2, illustrant la cinématique de passage de l'état plié (figure 4A) à un état déployé (figure 4C) en passant par un état intermédiaire (figure 4B).
• La figure 5 est une vue en perspective, partielle, de l'étendoir, de trois quart et de dessous, selon la réalisation particulière des figures 1 à 3, dans un état déployé illustrant un cadre béquille et un cadre support coopérant avec solidarisation mécanique dans une zone du cadre béquille et dans une zone du cadre support, de sorte que le cadre béquille maintienne en position le cadre support et ce grâce à un moyen à rainure / encoche / téton, la rainure, ouverte, accessible et creusée dans la face intérieure du bord longitudinal du cadre support, ayant deux encoches avec fond, divergentes et localisées, alors que le téton, ménagé sur le cadre béquille saille vers l'extérieur de la face extérieure de son bord longitudinal et est monté dans la rainure et ici logé dans une encoche en forme générale de pseudo Y, sur son fond.
• La figure 6 est une vue en élévation perspective, partielle, montrant le bord longitudinal du cadre support et la rainure, comportant ici deux encoches correspondant à deux états déployés, se différentiant par l'inclinaison de leurs cadres support.
• Les figures 7A et 7B sont des vues schématiques de côté illustrant les deux états déployés correspondant aux deux encoches représentées sur la figure 6.
• Les figures 8A, 8B et 8C sont trois vues partielles, à plus grande échelle, de la figure 6, la figure 8B prolongeant vers la droite la figure 8A et la figure 8C prolongeant vers la droite la figure 8B.
• Les figures 9A et 9B sont deux vues partielles, à plus grande échelle de la figure 8A, illustrant deux réalisations d'encoches, à savoir une forme générale de pseudo V pour la figure 9A et une encoche en forme générale de pseudo Y pour la figure 9B.

The figures of the drawings are now briefly described.

• The figure 1 is a view in elevation of a particular embodiment of a drying rack according to the invention, in the folded state, which particular embodiment being such that the support means is an integral part of the drying rack and comprises two frame legs with a hinge, and arranged on either side, two support frames and two crutch frames provided with support, hanging or linen hanging members, which folded state being such that the frame frames are folded down one against the other, as well as the support frames and the stand frames,
• The figure 2 is a side view of the drying rack according to the figure 1 , in the folded state, illustrating that in this state, the drying rack is part of an outer envelope of generally parallelepiped shape of small thickness.
• The figure 3 is a perspective view of the drying rack, three-quarters and from above, according to the particular embodiment of the Figures 1 and 2 , in a deployed state in which the frame frames are erected upwards and form a sort of inverted V-shaped trestle, being associated with articulation at their two upper transverse edges, while the two support frames extend laterally, more or less horizontally and that the two crutch frames extend by being inclined upwards.
• The Figures 4A, 4B and 4C are three diagrams of the drying rack according to the particular embodiment of the Figures 1 to 3 , according to side views, like the figure 2 , illustrating the kinematics of passage of the folded state ( figure 4A ) in a deployed state ( figure 4C ) through an intermediate state ( figure 4B ).
• The figure 5 is a perspective view, partial, of the drying rack, three-quarters and from below, according to the particular embodiment of the Figures 1 to 3 , in a deployed state illustrating a crutch frame and a support frame cooperating with mechanical fastening in an area of the crutch frame and in an area of the support frame, so that the crutch frame maintains the support frame in position by means of groove / notch / nipple, the groove, open, accessible and hollowed out in the inner face of the longitudinal edge of the support frame, having two notches with bottom, divergent and localized, while the nipple, formed on the crutch frame protrudes outwards of the outer face of its longitudinal edge and is mounted in the groove and here housed in a notch in the general form of pseudo Y, on its bottom.
• The figure 6 is a perspective elevational view, partial, showing the longitudinal edge of the support frame and the groove, here comprising two notches corresponding to two deployed states, differentiated by the inclination of their support frames.
• The Figures 7A and 7B are schematic side views illustrating the two deployed states corresponding to the two notches shown on the figure 6 .
• The Figures 8A, 8B and 8C are three partial views, on a larger scale, of the figure 6 , the figure 8B extending to the right the figure 8A and the figure 8C extending to the right the figure 8B .
• The Figures 9A and 9B are two partial, larger-scale views of the figure 8A , illustrating two realizations of notches, namely a general form of pseudo V for the figure 9A and a notch in the general form of pseudo Y for the figure 9B .

Below is a detailed description of several embodiments of the invention with examples and reference to the drawings.

The clotheshorse 1, folding around steering axes D1, is of the type which can be in one of two extreme states, namely a folded state suitable for its storage and a deployed state suitable for its use. The transition from the folded state to the deployed state is obtained by a deployment maneuver while the transition from the deployed state to the folded state is obtained by a folding maneuver.

In the simplest embodiment, the drying rack 1 has a single deployed state. In a particular embodiment more specifically described, the drying rack 1 has two deployed states, which allows more flexibility in the drying of the laundry. In other embodiments, the drying rack 1 has n states deployed, the number n being greater than two.

Clotheshorse 1 has a first median plane P1, which in this case is a first plane of symmetry between a front side and a rear side (if one refers for example to the figure 3 ).

The first median plane P1 is located in the plane of the figures 2 , 4A, 4B, 4C , 6, 7A, 7B , 8A, 8B, 8C , 9A and 9B . The first median plane P1 is perpendicular to the plane of the figure 1 .

The drying rack 1 comprises a linen support frame 2 and a crutch frame 3 each having an overall rigidity.

The support frame 2 and the stand frame 3 are each between two parallel envelope planes, not far apart from each other and which define the thickness of the corresponding frame, which can be of the order of a few centimeters, for example of the order of 3 cm for the support frame 2, the crutch frame 3 being able to be thinner, for example of the order of less than one centimeter.

Thus, the support frame 2 has a main plane Q and the stand frame 3 has a main plane R ( figure 3 ).

The support frame 2 has an outer contour of generally quadrangular shape with two longitudinal edges 4 and two transverse edges 5 ( figures 3 , 4A, 4B, 4C and 5 ).

Where appropriate, the support frame 2 is associated with one or more extension frames, also a linen support, mounted on the support frame 2 in an articulated manner so that it can be folded or deployed or in a sliding manner so that it can be retracted or protruding.

The crutch frame 3 has an outer contour of generally quadrangular shape with two longitudinal edges 6 and two transverse edges 7 ( figures 3 , 4A, 4B, 4C and 5 ).

The transverse edges 5 and 7 of the support frame 2 and crutch frame 3 extend parallel to the direction D1.

The longitudinal edges 4 of the support frame 2 extend parallel to a direction D2.

Direction D1 is located in the plane of the figure 1 and it is perpendicular to the plane of figures 2 , 4A, 4B, 4C , 6, 7A, 7B , 8A, 8B, 8C , 9A and 9B .

Direction D2 is located in the plane of figures 1, 2 , 4A, 4B , 4C , 6, 7A, 7B , 8A, 8B, 8C , 9A and 9B .

The directions D1 and D2 are orthogonal. Relative to the first median plane P1, the direction D1 is orthogonal and the direction D2 is parallel.

The support frame 2 is mounted by one of its transverse edges 5, described as "proximal", with an articulation 8 (with axial pivoting), around the direction D1, on a support means 9.

The direction D1 can be qualified as pivoting direction, insofar as those of the constituent elements of the drying rack 1 which are arranged so as to be able to pivot, do so around an axis parallel to D1.

The direction D2 can be qualified as the direction of extension insofar as it is in this direction that the drying rack 1 extends laterally and more especially the support frame 2.

Similarly, the crutch frame 3 is mounted by one of its transverse edges 7, also qualified as "proximal", with an articulation 10 (with axial pivoting), around the direction D1, on the support means 9 .

The two joints 8, 10, respectively of the support frame 2 and of the stand frame 3, are parallel to each other and spaced from each other.

In a particular embodiment, the support frame 2 comprises, located on one side of its main plane Q, adapted members 11, for supporting, hanging or hanging laundry - such as threads or a sheet - fixed to their edges 4, 5 or at some of their edges, in particular at two opposite edges, such as the two longitudinal edges 4.

Likewise, if necessary, the crutch frame 3 includes such members 11 for supporting, hanging or hanging laundry fixed at their edges 6, 7, or at some of their edges, in particular at two opposite edges, such as the two longitudinal edges 6.

In a particular realization ( figure 3 ), the members 11 are a plurality of wires or rods having an overall rigidity, arranged apart from one another, parallel to each other and to the direction D1, rigidly fixed at their ends, as previously indicated, in particular on one side of the main plane Q for the support frame 2.

With such an embodiment, the transverse edges 5 and 7 of the support frame 2 and of the stand frame 3 can be formed by the members 11 in the form of wires or rods which are located on the transverse edges of the respective frames 2, 3.

The edges 4 of the support frame 2 are qualified as “longitudinal” insofar as they are the longest. The other edges 5 of the support frame 2 are therefore qualified as "transverse" and are the shortest. For example, the longitudinal edges 4 can have a length of the order of a meter and the transverse edges 5 a length of the order of 60 cm to 70 cm.

Regarding the crutch frame 3, we can adopt the same terminology “longitudinal” and “transverse” for the edges having an arrangement similar to those of the support frame 2, even if the longitudinal edges 6 are not longer than the transverse edges 7. For example, the longitudinal edges 6 can have a length of the order of 50 cm and the transverse edges 4 a length of the order of 60 cm to 70 cm.

Thus, the support frame 2 and the stand frame 3 have in this case similar widths, the lengths of their transverse edges 5, 7 being close, as will be explained later.

However, it is understood that the edges 5 could be those which have the longest length and the edges 4 the shortest length.
Consequently, the terms “longitudinal”, “longitudinal”, “transverse” and “transverse” are not limiting.

More generally, the dimensions and angle values given are only exemplary and therefore in no way limitative.

The qualifier “proximal” must be understood as meaning close or closest to the support means 9, and more specifically, respectively, of the articulation 8 with regard to the support frame 2 and of the articulation 10 with regard to the crutch frame 3. The qualifier "distal" must be understood as meaning distant or the most distant from the support means 9, and more specifically, respectively, from the articulation 8 with regard to the support frame 2 and the articulation 10 for the stand frame 3.

In a particular embodiment and in a first aspect, the support means 9 is an integral part of the drying rack 1 and it comprises two frame frames 9a, 9b, each having an overall rigidity, with a direct or indirect articulation 12 ( axially pivoted) to each other around direction D1.

In a particular embodiment and in a second aspect, the drying rack 1 comprises two support frames 2 and two stand frames 3 arranged symmetrically on either side of the support means 9.

In a particular embodiment combining the two aspects, the drying rack 1 comprises two support frames 2 and two crutch frames 3 arranged symmetrically on either side of the support means 9 formed of the two frame frames 9a, 9b, it being specified that the two sets 2 + 3 (comprising a support frame 2 and the crutch frame 3 associated) are independent in movement from one another, one set being able to be in the folded state and the other in the deployed state.

Thus, in this particular embodiment, the drying rack 1 has a second median plane P2, orthogonal to the first median plane P1, and which, in this case is a second plane of symmetry between a right side and a left side (if the we refer for example to the figure 3 ), if at least the user wants to give the two sets 2 + 3 the same arrangement with respect to the support means 9, which is not however compulsory, since the two sets 2 + 3 are independent, as already indicated .

The second median plane P2 is located in the plane of the figure 1 . It is perpendicular to the plane of figures 2 , 4A, 4B, 4C , 6, 7A, 7B , 8A, 8B, 8C , 9A and 9B .

Such a drying rack 1 is of the type commonly known in France as "Tancarville", by analogy with the shape of the bridge known by this name.

However, the invention is not limited to this embodiment. Thus, the drying rack 1 may not have an integrated support means, the support means then being exogenous to the drying rack 1. Similarly, the drying rack 1 may have only one support frame 2 and a only crutch frame 3. In this case, it does not have a second median plane of symmetry.

The following description is made with reference to the particular embodiment where the support means 9 forming an integral part of the drying rack 1 comprises two sets 2 + 3 (each comprising a support frame 2 and the crutch frame 3 associated).

Each frame frame 9a, 9b, fits between two parallel envelope planes, little spaced from each other and which define the thickness of the corresponding frame, which can be of the order of less than a centimeter to a few centimeters and has an outer outline of generally quadrangular shape with two longitudinal edges 13 and two transverse edges 14. Each frame frame 9a, 9b, has, like the support frame (s) 2 and the crutch frame (s) 3, a plane principal S.

The S plane is located in the plane of the figure 1 . It is perpendicular to the plane of figures 2 , 4A, 4B and 4C .

Reference being made to the particular embodiment previously defined (support means 9 forming an integral part of the drying rack 1 with two frame frames 9a, 9b and two sets 2 + 3), when in the following description there is question "of support frame 2 "or" of the stand frame 3 ", it is necessary to understand" each of the two support frames 2 "or" each of the two stand frame 3 ", respectively. And, when it is a question of "the support means 9", it is necessary to understand "support means 9 with two frame legs 9a, 9b". It should also be understood that one of the two support frames 2 and one of the two stand frames 3 are articulated to one of the base frames 9a, while the other of the two support frames 2 and the other of the two frames stand 3 are articulated to the other of the frame legs 9b.

In the particular embodiment, the articulation 8 of the support frame 2 by means of support 9 and the articulation 12 of the two frame frames 9a, 9b are merged or adjacent, or not very distant. As for the articulation 10 of the crutch frame 3 to the corresponding base frame 9a, 9b, it is spaced from the articulations 8 and 12 and situated between the two transverse edges 14 of the base frame 9a, 9b, for example in a more or less central location. .

In the particular embodiment, the drying rack 1 may further comprise a pulling element 15 (or spacer) mounted between the two frame frames 9a, 9b, so as to prevent their untimely separation in the deployed state.

In addition to its spacing maintenance function, the pulling element 15 can also play a gripping function to allow the displacement of the drying rack 1 by carrying it by a transport bar.

In a possible realization ( figures 3 , 4A, 4B and 4C ), the drawing element 15 is in two rigid parts 16, with articulation 17 around the direction D1, and removable blocking in a substantially coplanar position. These two parts 16 of the pulling element 15 are mounted, respectively, on the two frame frames 9a, 9b with articulation 18 around the direction D1.

In another possible embodiment, the pulling element 15 is in a single rigid part, with an articulation around the direction D1 with one of the frame legs 9a and a removable mechanical fastening means such as a hook, with the other of the frame frames 9b.

Where appropriate, the pulling element 15 may include support, hooking or hanging elements for laundry.

If necessary, the drying rack 1 may also include other support, hooking or hanging elements for laundry, such as for example a deformable sheet laid between the two frame frames 9a, 9b.

In the particular embodiment and according to normal use, when the drying rack 1 is in the deployed state or in one of its deployed states when there are several possible ( figures 3 , 4C , 5 , 7A, 7B ), the support means 9 rests on a surface such as the ground, by the two lower transverse edges 14a of the two frame frames 9a, 9b. The frame frames 9a, 9b, are erected upwards and form a sort of inverted V-shaped trestle, the main planes S of the two frame frames 9a, 9b, being converging and intersecting at the top towards the joint 12 of the two frame frames 9a, 9b. This articulation 12 is associated with the two upper transverse edges 14b of the two frame frames 9a, 9b. The direction D1 of this articulation 12 is then disposed more or less horizontally. The main planes S are inclined to the vertical - for example of the order of 30 °, this value however not being limiting - so that the drying rack 1 has a sufficient base preventing any overturning, when it is responsible for laundry.

In this deployed state, the support frame 2 extends laterally, its main plane Q being, in a typical embodiment, more or less horizontal ( figure 7B ). In another deployed state ( figure 7A ) - the drying rack 1 being here of an embodiment with two deployed states - the support frame 2 and its main plane Q are inclined more or less sharply upwards - for example of the order of 30 ° relative to the horizontal, this value however not being limiting - from the proximal transverse edge 5 and the articulation 8 and this, to have another configuration for spreading linen of great length.

In this deployed state, the stand frame 13 is essentially arranged below the support frame 2. The stand frame 13 extends laterally, its main plane R being inclined more or less sharply upwards - for example of the order of 45 ° to 60 ° relative to the horizontal, this value however not being limiting - from the proximal transverse edge 7 and from the articulation 10, so that the crutch frame 13 performs its function in good conditions support and support for the support frame 2 with which it cooperates.

In this deployed state, the articulation 8 with the support frame 2 is located higher than the articulation 10 with the stand frame 3.

In this deployed state, the support frame 2 and the stand frame 3 are arranged so that they cooperate with permanent mechanical fastening in an area 19a of the support frame 2 and in an area 19b of the stand frame 3 both spaced from their respective articulation 8, 10, by means of support 9, 9a, 9b, so that the stand frame 3 maintains the support frame 2 in position.

It is in relation to the arrangement and configuration of the drying rack 1 in this deployed state that the terms qualifying position (and their variations) must be understood, such as "above", "below", " top "," bottom "," upper "," lower "," vertical "," horizontal ".

In the particular embodiment, when the drying rack 1 is, however, in the folded state ( figures 1, 2 , 4A ), the frame frames 9a, 9b, are folded against each other, as are the support frames 2 and the crutch frames 3. The drying rack 1 then fits into an outer envelope of generally parallelepiped shape of low thickness. The drying rack 1, thus folded, can be stored, vertically, horizontally or otherwise. Its greatest length is that of the frame frames 9a, 9b, the transverse edges 5 of the support frames 2 being located set back from the lower transverse edges 14a, and in particular fairly close to them (see Figures 1 and 2 ).

According to the invention, not only in the deployed state, as previously indicated, but also in the folded state and in any intermediate state, the support frame 2 and the crutch frame 3 cooperate with permanent mechanical fastening in the respective zones 19a, 19b and are arranged relative to each other in these areas 19a, 19b, so that the inner face 24 of the longitudinal edge 4 of the support frame 2 is adjacent - outwardly - to the outer face 25 of the edge longitudinal 6 corresponding to the crutch frame 3.

By “cooperation”, with regard to the support frame 2 and the crutch frame 3, it is necessary to understand both that the two frames 2, 3 are structurally and functionally associated with each other and not independent one on the other, and that they participate jointly and contribute so that the drying rack 1 can be in the deployed state when desired.

By cooperation "with mechanical connection", it should be understood that the structural association of the two frames 2, 3 is mechanical thanks to a means 20 with groove / notch / stud detailed subsequently.

By cooperation with “permanent” mechanical joining, it should be understood that the two frames 2, 3 cooperate with mechanical association both in the deployed state and in the folded state and in any intermediate state, that is to say that the medium 20 with groove / notch / nipple exists and is permanently active, in all states of the drying rack 1.

By “inner face”, being the longitudinal edge 4 of the support frame 2, it is necessary to understand the face of the longitudinal edge 4 which is turned towards the inside of the drying rack 1, that is to say turned towards the foreground median of symmetry P1, that is to say still facing the other longitudinal edge 4 of the support frame 2.

By “external face”, as regards the longitudinal edge 6 of the crutch frame 3, it is necessary to understand the face of the longitudinal edge 6 which is turned towards the outside of the drying rack 1, ie turned towards the opposite of the first median plane of symmetry P1, that is to say also facing the opposite of the other longitudinal edge 6 of the crutch frame 3.

By "outward", with regard to the arrangement of the inner face 24 of the longitudinal edge 4 of the support frame 2 is adjacent to the outer face 25 of the corresponding longitudinal edge 6 of the crutch frame 3, it should be understood that the support frame 2 is located outside of the stand frame 3. Therefore, if, as has been explained above, the lengths of the transverse edges 5, 7, of the support frame 2 and of the stand frame 3 are close, because the frames 2, 3, themselves have similar widths, the length of the transverse edges 5 of the support frame 2 is greater than that of the transverse edges 7 of the crutch frame 3, and the width of the support frame 2 is greater than that of the crutch frame 3. This will be explained later.

By “respective areas 19a, 19b” of the support frame 2 and of the stand frame 3, it is necessary to understand the structural parts of these respective frames 2, 3, where their cooperation is ensured with permanent mechanical fastening.

By "adjacent", with regard to the inner face 24 of the longitudinal edge 4 of the support frame 2 and the outer face 25 of the longitudinal edge 6 corresponding to the crutch frame 3, it should be understood that in the respective zones 19a, 19b of the frame support 2 and of the crutch frame 3, the faces 24 and 25 are opposite one another and close so as to be separated from one another with a play avoiding untimely friction during deployment maneuvers and folding, while being not far apart, for example a few millimeters or about a centimeter. Consequently, the length of the transverse edges 5 of the support frame 2 is slightly greater than that of the transverse edges 7 of the stand frame 3, and the width of the support frame 2 is slightly larger than that of the stand frame 3.

As it is a drying rack 1 having a limited degree of constructive precision and a certain propensity to be able to be deformed in the event of high stress, it cannot be excluded that the internal face 24 of the longitudinal edge 4 of the support frame 2 and the face 25 of the longitudinal edge 6 interfere with each other with some unwanted, but more or less inevitable friction. It is understood that this situation is included in the context of the invention.

The support frame 2 and the stand frame 3 cooperate with permanent mechanical connection in the respective zones 19a, 19b by means 20 of groove / notch / stud, comprising a groove 21, a notch 22 and a stud 23.

The groove 21, elongated and extended in the direction D2, is formed in a fixed position on the support frame 2, and more precisely in the inner face 24 of its longitudinal edge 4 where it is opened by a notch, on the side of the plane Q opposite to that where the adapted organs 11 are located, for support, attachment or suspension, so as not to interfere with them and so that the stud 23 does not interfere with them.

The notch 22, located, is formed laterally in the groove 21 diverging from it. It extends on the side of the support frame 2 where the crutch frame is located 3, that is to say on the side of the plane Q opposite to that where the adapted organs 11 are located, for support, attachment or suspension. , also so as not to interfere with them and so that the stud 23 does not interfere with them either. The notch 22, or at least one notch 22, is situated towards the proximal end portion 27 of the groove 21.

In the deployed state, the adapted members 11, for support, attachment or suspension, are located on the side of the upper face of the support frame 2 and the groove 21 and the notch 22 are located on the side of its face lower ( figures 3 , 5 , 6 ). Or, in other words, the groove 21 and the notch 22 are located below the members 21.

The stud 23, of direction D1, is formed in a fixed position on the stand frame 3, on its longitudinal edge 6, and more precisely protrudes from the outer face 25 of its longitudinal edge 6, and being located on the distal transverse lateral edge 7 of the stand frame 3.

The stud 23 is mounted in the groove 21 so that it can slide there and can be housed in the notch 22.

With the arrangement of the invention, the area 19a of cooperation with permanent mechanical attachment of the support frame 2 is a movable area along the groove 1, including the notch 22.

The area 19b of cooperation with permanent mechanical attachment of the stand frame 3 is the fixed area of the outer face 25 of the longitudinal edge 6 of the stand frame 3 where the stud 23 is located.

Thus, the support frame 2 and the stand frame 3 cooperate with permanent mechanical association, the stud 23 being subject to the groove 21, permanently, in all states and between two states of the drying rack 1, and being subject to the notch 22 when the drying rack 1 is in a deployed state.

In the particular embodiment described and represented on the figures 5 , 7A , 7B , 8A, 8B, 8C , 9A and 9B , it is expected that the groove 21 has two notches 22, namely a proximal notch 22a and a distal notch 22b, corresponding to two separate deployed states.

The proximal notch 22a can also be called a terminal notch 22a while the distal notch 22b can be called a non-terminal notch.

The qualifiers "distal" and "proximal" must be understood as meaning, respectively, the most distant and the closest to the support means 9 and the articulation 8 of the support frame 2.

The qualifier "terminal" must be understood as meaning that the corresponding notch 22a is located in the terminal part of the groove 21, namely its extreme proximal part 27. Conversely, the qualifier "non-terminal" must be understood as meaning that the corresponding notch 22b is not located in the proximal end portion 27 or in the distal end portion 26 of the groove 21.

The particular embodiment described and shown with two notches, proximal 22a and distal 22b, is not exclusive of other embodiments.

In another embodiment, it is expected that the groove 21 has a single notch which corresponds to a single deployed state.

In another embodiment, it is expected that the groove 21 has a number n of notches, the number n being greater than two, which correspond to n deployed states.

When the drying rack 1 comprises a plurality of notches 22, the corresponding plurality of deployed states are differentiated by the angular position of the support frame 2 relative to its articulation 8, by the angle between the support frame 2 and the crutch frame 3, and finally by the angle of inclination of the support frame 2 on the horizontal. The angle between the support frame 2 and the stand frame 3 is greater for a distal notch 22 and, conversely, smaller for a proximal notch 22.

In the particular embodiment described, it is provided, for reasons of symmetry and holding, that the drying rack 1 comprises, for one or for each set 2 + 3, two means 20 with groove 21 / notch 22 / stud 23 on the two longitudinal edges 4 facing the support frame 2 and on the two opposite longitudinal edges 6 of the stand frame 3.

This particular embodiment with two means 20 with groove 21 / notch 22 / stud 23 is not exclusive of another in which for one or for each set 2 + 3, there is provided a single means 20 with groove 21 / notch 22 / stud 23 on one of the two longitudinal edges 4 facing the support frame 2 and on the longitudinal edge 6, adjacent, of the stand frame 3.

The groove 21 is elongated and extended in the direction D2 over a substantial part of the support frame 2 and its longitudinal edge 4.

The groove 21 has an extreme distal part 26 and an extreme proximal part 27 (relative to the articulation 8) and, between them, an intermediate part 28.

In the particular embodiment, the distal end part 26 is adjacent to or close to the distal transverse edge 5 of the support frame 2, while the proximal end part 27 is spaced from the proximal transverse edge and the articulation 8 of the support frame 2.

The groove 21 with the notch 22 is located in the envelope of the support frame 2 whose thickness is therefore accordingly. Thus, the groove 21 with the notch 22 are completely integrated into the thickness of the support frame 2.

The functional parts of the groove 21 are on the one hand its notch, on the other hand its depth, both of which must allow the passage and the desired permanent cooperation with the stud 23.

The notch 22 is located, that is to say that it is located in a defined position along the groove 21, without extending too much in the direction D2, as shown in the figures 5 , 6 , 8A, 8B and 8C .

The notch 22 has an opening 29, formed laterally in the notch of the groove 21.

The notch 22 has a bottom 30, opposite the opening 29.

The length of the notch 22 between its opening 29 and the bottom 30 is of the order of one to three times its width, so that when the stud 23 enters the notch via its opening 29 to come against the bottom 30 , it cannot unexpectedly come out of the notch 22.

The groove 21 and the notch 22 have identical or close widths and these widths are in correspondence with the diameter of the stud 23, so as to allow the cooperation and the movement without excessive play of the stud 23 in the groove 21 and the housing of the stud 23 in notch 22.

The notch 22 is arranged in a diverging manner relative to the groove 21, that is to say that the direction of penetration of the stud 23 in the notch diverges from the direction of sliding of the stud 23 in the groove 21, as shown the figures 5 , 6 , 8A , 9A and 9B to which we should refer.

This divergence notch 22 / groove 21 is explained by the fact that the notch 22 and the zone 31 of the groove 21 adjoining the notch 22, have a general form of pseudo V - for a terminal notch 22a towards the extreme part proximal 27 (see especially the figure 9A ) - or a general form of pseudo Y - for a non-terminal notch 22b - (see especially the figure 9B ).

The expression "pseudo V" and the expression "pseudo Y" must be understood to mean a form - in this case a general form - having, respectively, two inclined branches as is the case for the form of V and three inclined branches as is the case for the form of Y, whether this form is strictly identical to a V or a Y or that while being different from that of a V or a Y it resembles it.

One of the branches 32a of the pseudo V or of the pseudo Y, and where appropriate the shaft of the pseudo Y, belongs to the groove 21.

The other of the branches 32b of the pseudo V or the pseudo Y forms the notch 22.

And the two branches 32a, 32b, of the pseudo V or the pseudo Y are tightened and close to each other.

We now refer more specifically to the figure 9B . As already indicated, the non-terminal notch 22b has, with the adjoining zone 31 of the groove 21, a general form of pseudo Y. In addition, the section 33 of the groove 21 adjoining the opening 29 of the notch 22b and located towards the extreme proximal part 27, and forming the shaft of the pseudo Y, is curved or forms an angle, concavity or opening turned on the side of the support frame opposite the crutch frame 3, so as to form, for the stud 23 and during of the folding of the drying rack 1, a sort of springboard such as the stud 23 sliding in the groove 21 in the direction going from the extreme proximal part 27 towards the extreme distal part 26 jumps above the notch 22b, in the protruding without entering it.

We now refer more specifically to figures 6 , 8A, 8B and 8C .

In the particular embodiment shown, the terminal notch 22a is spaced from the articulation 8 of the support frame 2, being located, starting from this articulation 8, approximately one third of the length of the support frame 2 between its two transverse edges 5. For its part, the non-terminal notch 22b is located in the middle part of the support frame 2 between its two transverse edges 5, towards the middle of the length of the support frame 2, that is to say even more or less in the intermediate part 28 of the groove 21

In one possible embodiment, the groove 21 with its, or its, notches 22, 22a, 22b, forms a rail shaped for this purpose, attached to the remaining part of the support frame 2. Such a rail can be made of metal or of material plastic.

In the particular embodiment, the part 34 of the groove 21 adjacent to a notch 22 and extending towards the distal end part 26 is slightly inclined relative to the main plane Q of the support frame 2, on the side of the support frame 2 where is located the crutch frame 3 ( figures 6 , 8A , 9A and 9B ). In other words, the part 34 of the groove 21 is inclined on the side opposite to the members 11, for support, attachment or suspension. With the drying rack 1 in the deployed state, the part 34 of the groove 21 is slightly inclined downwards from the notch 22.

In the particular embodiment, the part 35 of the groove 21 adjacent to a notch 22 and extending towards the proximal end part 27 is generally slightly inclined relative to the main plane Q of the support frame 2, on the side of the support frame 2 where find the crutch frame 3 ( figures 6 , 8A and 9A ).

In the particular embodiment, the groove 21 forms, at the distal end portion 26, a recess 36 towards the side of the support frame 2 opposite the stand frame 3 ( figures 6 and 8C ). In other words, the recess 36 is directed towards the side of the members 11, of support, attachment or suspension. With the drying rack 1 in the deployed state, the step 36 is directed upwards.

The groove 21 is smooth so as not to hinder the sliding of the stud 23. In one embodiment, it is lined with an anti-friction material.

The stud 23 is located in the envelope of the crutch frame 3, thus being completely integrated into the thickness of the crutch frame 3.

When the drying rack 1 is in the folded state, the stud 23 is located towards the distal end portion 26 of the groove 21, in particular in the recess 36.

When the drying rack is in the deployed state, the stud 23 is housed and blocked unidirectionally in the notch 22 bearing on its bottom 30.

During the deployment maneuver of the drying rack 1, the stud 23 slides in the groove 21 in the direction from the distal end part 26 towards the proximal end part 27 and penetrates by gravity into the notch 22, via the opening 29, so as to lodge there and block unidirectionally on the bottom 30 thereof.

During the folding maneuver of the drying rack 1, the stud 23 slides in the groove 21 in the direction going from the proximal end part 27 towards the distal end part 26 and exceeds the notch 22, without penetrating therein, thanks to the shape given to section 33.

The sliding stroke of the stud 23 in the groove 21 corresponds to the pivoting stroke of the support frame 2 and of the stand frame 3 between the folded state and the deployed state.

As a result of the preceding constructive arrangements, the folding and deployment maneuvers of the drying rack 1 are both easy and require only a limited number of operations.

The invention also relates to the drying rack 1 being in the folded state in which the support frame 2 and the associated crutch frame 3 are arranged one against the other, the stud 23 being located towards the distal end part 26 of groove 21.

1 :

étendoir à linge

P1 :

premier plan médian P1

2 :

cadre support

Q :

plan principal cadre support 2

3 :

cadre béquille

R :

plan principal R cadre béquille 3

4 :

bords longitudinaux du cadre support 2

5 :

bords transversaux du cadre support 2

6 :

bords longitudinaux du cadre béquille 3

7 :

bords transversaux du cadre béquille 3

8 :

articulation cadre support 2 / moyen d'appui 9

D1 :

direction de pivotement

9 :

moyen d'appui

9a, 9b :

cadres piètement

10 :

articulation cadre béquille 3 / moyen d'appui 9

11 :

organes de support, d'accrochage ou de suspension de linge cadre support 2

12 :

articulation des deux cadres piètement 9a, 9b

P2 :

second plan médian P2

13 :

bords longitudinaux du cadre piètement 9a, 9b

14 :

bords transversaux du cadre piètement 9a, 9b

14a :

bords transversaux inférieurs 14a des deux cadres piètement 9a, 9b

14b :

bords transversaux supérieurs 14b des deux cadres piètement 9a, 9b

S :

plan principal cadre piètement 9a, 9b

15 :

élément tirant

16 :

parties rigides de l'élément tirant 15

17 :

articulation des parties rigides 16

18 :

articulation des parties 16 sur les cadres piètement 9a, 9b

19a :

zone association cadre béquille 3

19b :

zone association cadre support 2

20 :

moyen rainure/encoche/téton

21 :

rainure

22 :

encoche

22a :

encoche proximale

22b :

encoche distale 22b

23 :

téton

24 :

face intérieure du bord longitudinal 4 du cadre support 2

25 :

face extérieure 25 du bord longitudinal 6 du cadre béquille 3

26 :

partie extrême distale rainure 21

27 :

partie extrême proximale rainure 21

28 :

partie intermédiaire rainure 21

29 :

ouverture encoche

30 :

fond encoche

31 :

zone rainure attenante encoche

32a :

branche ou hampe du V ou du Y ==> rainure 21

32b :

branche du V ou du Y ==> encoche 22

33 :

tronçon de la rainure 21 attenant à l'ouverture 29 de l'encoche 22, 22b et situé vers la partie extrême proximale 27

34 :

partie de la rainure 21 adjacente à une encoche 22 et s'étendant vers la partie extrême distale 26

35 :

partie de la rainure 21 adjacente à une encoche 22 et s'étendant vers la partie extrême proximale 27

36 :

décrochement

The invention also relates to the drying rack 1 being in the deployed state in which the support frame 2 and the associated crutch frame 3 are arranged inclined relative to one another, as previously described.

1:

drying rack

P1:

P1 foreground

2:

support frame

Q:

main plane support frame 2

3:

crutch frame

A:

main plan R crutch frame 3

4:

longitudinal edges of the support frame 2

5:

transverse edges of the support frame 2

6:

longitudinal edges of the crutch frame 3

7:

transverse edges of the crutch frame 3

8:

support frame articulation 2 / support means 9

D1:

swivel direction

9:

support

9a, 9b:

frame frames

10:

support frame articulation 3 / support means 9

11:

support, hooking or hanging members for linen, support frame 2

12:

articulation of the two frame frames 9a, 9b

P2:

second middle plane P2

13:

longitudinal edges of the frame frame 9a, 9b

14:

transverse edges of the frame frame 9a, 9b

14a:

lower transverse edges 14a of the two frame frames 9a, 9b

14b:

upper transverse edges 14b of the two frame frames 9a, 9b

S:

main frame frame base 9a, 9b

15:

pulling element

16:

rigid parts of the drawing element 15

17:

articulation of rigid parts 16

18:

articulation of the parts 16 on the frame frames 9a, 9b

19a:

crutch frame association area 3

19b:

support frame association area 2

20:

medium groove / notch / nipple

21:

groove

22:

nick

22a:

proximal notch

22b:

distal notch 22b

23:

stud

24:

inner face of the longitudinal edge 4 of the support frame 2

25:

outer face 25 of the longitudinal edge 6 of the stand frame 3

26:

distal end part groove 21

27:

extreme proximal groove 21

28:

intermediate part groove 21

29:

notch opening

30 :

notch bottom

31:

notched groove area

32a:

branch or stem of V or Y ==> groove 21

32b:

branch of V or Y ==> notch 22

33:

section of the groove 21 adjoining the opening 29 of the notch 22, 22b and located towards the proximal end portion 27

34:

part of the groove 21 adjacent to a notch 22 and extending towards the distal end part 26

35:

part of the groove 21 adjacent to a notch 22 and extending towards the proximal end part 27

36:

recess

Claims (24)

1. A clothes drying rack (1), folding, of the type which can be in one of two extreme states - folded for storage or deployed ready for use, having a median plane (P1) and comprising a clothes hanger frame (2) with a main plane (Q), and a prop frame (3) with main plane (R), wherein:

   - The hanger frame (2) is mounted on a hinge (8) rotating around a direction (D1) which is orthogonal to the median plane (P1) on a means of support (9) which is either an integral part of the drying rack (1) or exogenous to it.

   - The prop frame (3) is mounted on a hinge (10) rotating around the direction (D1) on the means of support (9).

   - The two hinges (8, 10) of the hanger frame (2) and the prop frame (3) are separate from each other.

   - The prop frame (3) and the hanger frame (2) are arranged such that, in the deployed state, they cooperate through mechanical attachment in zones (19a, 19b) being respective structural parts, away from their hinges (8, 10) with regards to the means of support (9), in such a way that the prop frame (3) holds the hanger frame (2) in position.

   - The prop frame (3) and the hanger frame (2) cooperate in both the deployed and folded states and in all intermediate states, by a means (20) of permanent mechanical attachment comprising a pin (23) mounted on the prop frame (3), fitted so as to be able to slide along an elongated groove (21) formed in the hanger frame (2) inside its envelope, in its longitudinal edge (4), which has a distal end (26) and a proximal end (27) with respect to the hinge (8) and which extends in a general direction (D2) orthogonal to (D1).

   - In the folded state, the pin (23) is located near the distal end (26), in the deployed state the pin (23) is blocked, during deployment the pin (23) slides along the groove (21) in the direction from the distal end (26) to the proximal end (27), during folding the pin (23) slides along the groove (21) in the direction going from the proximal end (27) to the distal end (26), the sliding stroke of the pin (23) corresponding to the pivoting stroke of the hanger frame (2) and the prop frame (3) between the folded state and the deployed state.

   Characterised in that:

   - The groove (21), formed in the inner face (24) of the longitudinal edge (4) has, laterally, a notch (22) with a bottom (30), divergent and localized, formed in the hanger frame (2), which, relative to the groove (21), extends from the side of the hanger frame (2) where the prop frame (3) and is located near the proximal part (27).

   - The pin (23), with general direction (D1), protrudes from the outer face (25) of the longitudinal edge (6) of the prop frame (3),

   - during deployment the pin (23) slides along the groove (21) and, in the deployed state, penetrates into the notch due to gravity (22) so as to lodge therein and lock unidirectionally on the bottom (30) thereof.

   - During folding, the pin (23) slides along the groove (21) and passes the notch (22) without entering it.
2. A clothes drying rack (1) according to claim 1, wherein the groove (21) has either a single notch (22) or two notches (22) corresponding to two deployed states, or a number n of notches (22), the number n being greater than two and corresponding to n deployed states, such that, when it has a plurality of notches (22), the plurality of deployed states are differentiated by the angular position of the hanger frame (2) relative to its hinge (8), by the angle between the hanger frame (2) and the prop frame (3), and finally by the angle of inclination of the hanger frame (2) relative to horizontal, the angle between the hanger frame (2) and the prop frame (3) being larger for a distal notch (22, 22b) and, conversely, smaller for a proximal notch (22, 22a).
3. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 and 2, wherein:

   - The groove (21) and the notch (22) have identical or similar widths so as to allow cooperation and movement without excessive play of the pin (23).

   - The length of the notch (22) between its opening formed laterally in the groove (21) and the bottom (30) is in the order of one to three times its width.
4. A clothes drying rack (1) according to claims 1 to 3, wherein the groove (21) and the notch (22) are fully integrated within the thickness of the hanger frame (2).
5. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the notch (22) and the zone (31) adjoining the groove (21) have a general pseudo V shape, i.e. a shape with two inclined branches, for a terminal notch (22) near the proximal end (27), or a general pseudo Y shape, i.e. a shape with three inclined branches, for a non-terminal notch (22), wherein one of the branches of the pseudo V or the pseudo Y, and where appropriate the stem of the pseudo Y, belong to the groove (21) and where the other of the branches of the pseudo V or the pseudo Y forms the notch (22), while the two branches of the pseudo V or the pseudo Y are constricted and close to each other.
6. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein with a non-terminal notch (22), presenting with the zone (31) adjoining the groove (21) a general pseudo Y shape, the section (33) of the groove (21) adjoining the opening (26) of the notch (22) and located near the proximal end (27) and forming the stem of the pseudo Y, is curved or forms an angle, has a concavity or a turned opening on the side of the hanger frame (2) opposite the prop frame (3), so as to form, for the pin (23) and during the folding of the drying rack (1), a kind of springboard such that the pin (23) sliding along the groove (21) in the direction from the proximal end (27) to the distal end (26) jumps over the notch (22), passing over it without entering it.
7. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the part (34) of the groove (21) adjacent to a notch (22) and extending towards the distal end (26) is slightly inclined relative to the main plane of the hanger frame (2), on the side of the hanger frame (2) on which the prop frame (3) is located.
8. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the part (35) of the groove (21) adjacent to a notch (22) and extending towards the proximal end (27) is slightly inclined relative to the main plane of the hanger frame (2), on the side of the hanger frame (2) on which the prop frame (3) is located.
9. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the groove (21) forms a recess (36) at the distal end (26) towards the side of the hanger frame (2) opposite the prop frame (3) and/or wherein the distal end (26) is adjacent or close to the transverse distal edge (5), with general direction (D1), of the hanger frame (2).
10. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the terminal notch (22) is separated from the hinge (8) of the hanger frame (2).
11. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, which has a notch (22) located in the median part of the hanger frame (2) between its two transverse edges (5) with general direction (D1).
12. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, which has a notch (22) starting from the hinge (8) of the hanger frame (2), running approximately one third of the length of the hanger frame (2) between its two transverse edges (5) with general direction (D1).
13. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 and 12, wherein:

    - The hanger frame (2) and the prop frame (3) each have an outline which is generally quadrangular in shape with two longitudinal edges (4) in general direction (D2) and two transverse edges (5) in general direction (D1).

    - The hanger frame (2) and the prop frame (3) are arranged relative to each other, in their zones (19a, 19b) where the hanger frame (2) and the prop frame (3) cooperate through permanent mechanical attachment, such that the inner face (24) of the longitudinal edge (4) of the hanger frame (2) is adjacent to the outer face (25) of the longitudinal edge (6) of the prop frame (3).

    - The groove (21) is open, accessible and hollowed out in the inner face (24) of the longitudinal edge (4) of the hanger frame (2).

    - The pin (23) protrudes towards the outside of the external face (25) of the longitudinal edge (6) of the prop frame (3).
14. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13, which comprises two means with a groove (21), notch (22), pin (23) on the two longitudinal edges (4) of the hanger frame (2) and on the two longitudinal edges (6) of the prop frame (3).
15. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14, which comprises two hanger frames (2) and two prop frames (3) arranged on either side of the means of support (9).
16. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the means of support (9) is an integral part of the drying rack (1).
17. A clothes drying rack (1) according to claim 16, wherein the means of support (9) comprises two stand frames (9a, 9b) with direct or indirect articulation (12) to each other around direction (D1), such as to form a sort of inverted V-shaped trestle when in the deployed state.
18. A clothes drying rack (1) according to claim 17, wherein the hinge (8) of the hanger frame (2) on the means of support (9) and the hinge (12) of the two stand frames (9a, 9b) are the same or adjacent to each other.
19. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 17 and 18, which further comprises a tie element (15) mounted between the two stand frames (9a, 9b), so as to prevent inadvertent separation of the two stand frames (9a, 9b) when they form a sort of trestle with an inverted V shape in the deployed state, the tie element (15) may also form a type of grip handle when moving the drying rack (1) using the carrying bar.
20. A clothes drying rack (1) according to claim 19, wherein the tie element (15) is attached to one of the two stand frames (9a, 9b) hinging around direction (D1), and also mounted on the other two stand frames (9b, 9a), either using a removable mechanical welding method, the tie element (15) being rigid, or a hinge rotating around direction (D1), the tie element (15) being in two parts which are hinged together and having a removable locking piece in a roughly coplanar position.
21. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the groove (21) is smooth and made of anti-friction material if necessary.
22. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 21, wherein a hanger frame (2) and a prop frame (3) if applicable, include members (11) for supporting, attaching or hanging clothes, such as wires or a sheet, attached at their edges or some of their edges, in particular at two opposite edges, such as the two longitudinal edges (4, 6).
23. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 22, in the folded state wherein a coupled clothes hanger frame (2) and prop frame (3) are arranged one against the other, the pin (23) being located towards the distal end (26).
24. A clothes drying rack (1) according to one of claims 1 to 22, in the deployed state wherein a coupled clothes hanger frame (2) and prop frame (3) are arranged at an inclination to each other.

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