JP6322641B2 - Clothing carrier and method of use thereof - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a garment carrier for containing garments and a method for using the same , and more particularly to a garment carrier for containing garments with sleeves and a method for using the garment carrier.

  Many garments wrinkle during travel (eg, when folded into a suitcase). Clothing bags exist to contain clothing within a suitcase, but are generally bulky and occupy a lot of space within the suitcase and do not adequately prevent wrinkling of the clothing.

  It would be desirable to provide a garment carrier that significantly prevents garment wrinkling.

The present invention is a garment carrier for housing garments with sleeves,
Clothing support,
A sleeve support that can be placed over the garment support in use, holding the garment between the garment support and the sleeve support, and maintaining the fold of the garment between the garment shoulders and the garment neck area As a result, a garment carrier is provided that includes a sleeve support with sleeve portions extending bifurcated from each shoulder.

  In some embodiments, the sleeve support comprises an edge that is where the outer portion of the sleeve can be folded over the sleeve support. Each edge of the sleeve support is bifurcated to be separated from each other so as to extend substantially orthogonal to each sleeve in use, and as a result, the sleeve can be folded and extended toward the shoulder with the edge as an axis. it can. At that time, the actual sleeve is folded over the sleeve itself around the edge of the sleeve support.

  In certain embodiments, the sleeve support comprises a central rim and a pair of bifurcated arms that define an edge.

  In certain embodiments, the sleeve support is hinged to the garment support. Thereby, for example, the sleeve support can be rotated from an open state in which clothing can be placed on the clothing support to a closed state in which the clothing is held between the sleeve support and the clothing support.

  In certain embodiments, the garment carrier further includes a trouser support that is positionable over the sleeve support and that retains the trouser between the sleeve support and the trouser support in use. The trouser support may be positionable so that the hem portion of the garment can be folded over the trouser so that the trouser can be retained in the folded garment.

The present invention is also a garment carrier for housing garments with sleeves,
Clothing support,
A sleeve support that can be placed over a garment support and includes a pair of arms that hold the garment between the garment support and the sleeve support, a central rim, and where the garment sleeve folds in use Including a garment carrier.

  In some embodiments of the invention, the fold of the garment sleeve is adjusted between the garment neck region and the shoulder so that there is no crease through the garment shoulder.

  Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of non-limiting illustration only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 2 shows the garment carrier of the present invention in an open state. It is an expanded view of the clothing carrier which does not have clothing and an opening / closing flap. It is a figure which shows the step process in the usage method of the clothing carrier of FIG. FIG. 6 is an exploded view of an alternative embodiment of a garment carrier. 18A-18F are views from various perspectives of the garment carrier of FIG. 17 in a closed state. 19A-19F are views from various perspectives of the garment carrier of FIG. 17 in an open state.

  The garment carrier described herein is intended to reduce or avoid wrinkles and creases formed in the garment during travel and storage. In certain embodiments, the garment carrier may include a heat resistant outer fabric sleeve (which may include a flap enclosing the garment in the garment carrier). In certain embodiments, a garment carrier may include a rigid floor (also referred to as a “garment support” or “base” or “planar sheet” of a garment support). In certain embodiments, the garment carrier may include a protective acrylic lid or “trouser support”. The trouser support may include a “transparent window” of polycarbonate. In some embodiments, the garment carrier includes a hinged T-shaped bar or “sleeve support”. In some embodiments, all of the associated surfaces are made to eliminate the situation of forming folds and wrinkles (including rounding all corners that can contact the garment when using the garment carrier). .

  Embodiments of a garment carrier 100 for housing a garment 10 with sleeves 12 are described herein. The garment carrier 100 includes a garment support 14 and a sleeve support 16 that can be disposed on the garment support 14. In use, the sleeve support 16 holds the garment 10 between the garment support 14 and the sleeve support 16.

  The sleeve support 16 maintains the folding of the garment 10 between each shoulder 18 of the garment 10 and the neckline region 20 of the garment 10. In this configuration, the portion 22 of the sleeve 12 extends from each shoulder 18 in a bifurcated direction. In other words, when the garment 10 is disposed on the garment support 14 and the sleeve support 16 is disposed on the garment support 14, the sleeve 12 extends in a bifurcated direction away from the shoulder 18.

  The sleeve 12 can then be folded over the sleeve support 16. The portion of each sleeve 12 extending in the cuff direction of each sleeve 12 is folded back and extended in the direction of each shoulder 18 of the garment 10 when folded over the sleeve support 16.

  FIG. 1 shows a garment carrier 100 for housing a suit jacket 10 and a pair of trousers 26. The garment carrier 100 includes a garment support 14 and a sleeve support 16. The garment carrier 100 further includes members (in the present embodiment, the flaps 28 and 30) for enclosing the folded garment.

  The garment carrier 100 is in an open state, and the garment 10 can be folded and stored in the garment carrier 100 in the open state. The garment carrier 100 may be in a closed state (see FIG. 14). In the closed state, the garment 10 is substantially enclosed in the garment carrier 100.

  The garment support 14 includes a generally rectangular and planar sheet 15 with an inner surface for placing the garment 10. The outer surface of the garment support 14 forms the back surface of the garment carrier 100 when the garment carrier 100 is in a closed state.

  The garment support 14 includes a crossbar or clip 32 for engagement with the trouser support 68. The crossbar or clip 32 is attached to the long side of the flat sheet 15. The crossbar or clip 32 protrudes substantially perpendicular to the inner direction of the flat sheet.

  The crossbar or clip 32 includes a distal end 34 and receives a portion of the trouser support 68 below the distal end to hold the trouser support 68 to the garment support 14. In order to facilitate the holding of the trouser support 68, the end 34 is concave.

  The concave end 34 of the crossbar or clip 32 includes an elongated tab 36 that ensures a tight engagement between the trouser support 68 and the sleeve support 16. The concave end 34 tapers toward the recess 38 inward of the elongated tab 36. The sleeve support 16 is hinged to the crossbar or clip 32 within the recess 38. It will be appreciated that the sleeve support 16 may be attached elsewhere on the garment support 14.

  Garment support 14, including crossbar or clip 32, can be formed from neoprene, but can also be formed from other rigid or semi-rigid plastics, and other materials can generally be used as appropriate.

  The sleeve support 16 includes a central rim 40 and a pair of bifurcated arms 42. The pair of arms 42 constitutes both ends of the bar 44. The bar 44 typically extends perpendicular to the top of the central rim 32. The sleeve support 16 is rotatable between an open state in which the garment 10 can be placed on the garment support 14 and a closed state (see FIG. 7). The sleeve support 16 is supported by a hinge pin 46 (see FIG. 2). The clothes support 14 is hinged.

  The central rim 40 is formed from a flat, wide piece of polycarbonate. The polycarbonate piece tapers from the wide location where the bar 44 intersects the rim 40 toward the narrow location where the polycarbonate piece is hinged to the garment support 14.

  The bar 44 includes a central straight portion 48 under which a trouser support 68 is supported. In particular, the wide hook 72 of the trouser support 68 is received under the central straight portion 48. The central straight portion 48 includes a recess 50. As will be discussed below, the indentation 50 can also be used to easily place the trouser support 68 under the sleeve support 16. The indented portion 50 is a handle, and may function as a handle for holding the sleeve support 16 and turning it to open.

  The arm 42 is formed integrally with the straight portion 48. The arm 42 extends at a predetermined angle with respect to the straight portion 48. As a result, when the sleeve support 16 is closed, the arm extends substantially perpendicular to the sleeve 12 of the garment 10. Since the sleeve 12 is bifurcated from both shoulders of the garment 10, the arm 42 is inclined slightly rearward (that is, in the direction of the crossbar 32) so as to lie perpendicular to the sleeve 12. Therefore, although the obtuse angle is used in the present embodiment, the arm 42 may be extended at an appropriate angle. The arm 42 can also be hinged to the central straight portion 48 such that the angle of the arm 42 relative to the central straight portion 48 is adjustable.

  The arm 42 is narrower than the straight portion 48 so that the arm 42 can be grasped when the sleeve support 16 is rotated to the closed state. The arm 42 is connected to the straight portion 48 with a gentle curved portion so that an angular edge is not directed to the garment 10 when the garment 10 is folded and stored in the garment carrier 100.

  The garment support 14 includes two pairs of flaps 52 and 54. The flaps 52 and 54 are folded on the garment 10 folded and stored in the garment carrier 100, and the garment 10 is enclosed. The flap 52 extends from opposite sides (long sides) of the garment support 14. As shown in FIG. 1, the flap 52 extends from the opposite side (long side) of the substantially flat sheet 15 of the garment support 14. The flap 52 is substantially rectangular. The flap 52 has substantially the same length as the length of the flat sheet 15. The long side of each rectangular flap 52 has the same spread as the corresponding long side of the flat sheet 15. The long side of each rectangular flap 52 is attached to the corresponding long side of the flat sheet 15. The long side on the opposite side of each flap 52 (that is, the long side not attached to the flat sheet 15) has rounded corners. When the garment carrier 100 is in the open state as shown, the flap 52 is folded so that it can lie on the ground surface with the flat sheet 15 in a substantially flat manner.

  Of the flaps 52, 54, the flap 52 is first folded on the garment 10 that is folded and stored in the garment carrier 100. One flap 52 can be folded over the garment neck region 20 and shoulder 18 in use.

  The flaps 52 are folded and engaged with each other. To that end, one flap 52 is provided with a tab 62 comprising hooks or loops of Velcro fasteners, and a corresponding hook or loop patch is provided on the outer surface of the other flap 52. The hook engages with the loop and holds the flaps in an engaged state.

  Other means or arrangements may be applied to secure the flaps 52 together. For example, the tab 62 need not be provided. Alternatively, the outer surface of the corresponding flap 52 can include a hook or loop similar patch. However, the use of the tabs 62 eliminates the need for extra material that would extend from either side of the tabs 62 in the long side area of the flap 52.

  Any suitable engagement method may be used instead of the velcro method, or there is no engagement method at all because the flap 54 is finally overlapped on the folded flap 52 and connected to the flap 52. It will be appreciated that it may be.

  Garment carrier 100 further includes one or more protective wings or tabs 56. Wings or tabs 56 are arranged at the corners of the flaps 52 where the flaps 52 are in contact with the flat sheet 15. Each wing or tab 56 is a rounded convex portion extending outward from the short side of the flap 52. Each wing or tab 56 is coplanar with the corresponding remaining, usually rectangular flap 52.

  When the garment 10 is folded within the garment carrier 100 and the flap 52 is overlaid on the garment 10, the wings or tabs 56 leave the corners of the folded garment 10 protruding from the garment carrier 100 and exposed in the transit. Make sure that it will not be.

  On one outer surface of each flap 52 is a zipper engagement tooth 60 on one side (shown in broken lines since FIG. 1 shows the inner surface, not the outer surface of the flap 52, details of the outer surface are described below. To explain). A zipper engagement tooth 60 is sewn and attached to each flap 52 and the seam is visible on the inner surface of the flap 52 as shown.

  The flaps 54 are substantially triangular and extend from opposite sides (short sides) of the garment support 14. As shown in FIG. 1, the flaps 54 extend from opposite sides (short sides) of the substantially flat sheet 15 of the garment support 14. The outer vertex of each flap 54 is rounded.

  The rows of zipper engagement teeth 66 extend from the corners of the flaps 54 where the flaps 54 meet the seat 15 to where the edges of each flap 54 begin to round around the outer vertex. A row of service teeth 66 is attached to the edge of each flap 54, but alternatively, a row of service teeth 66 may be attached to the inner surface of the flap 54 close to the edge of the flap 54.

  The row of service teeth 66 engages the row of service teeth 60 on the corresponding flap 52 and holds the flaps 52 and 54 together when the garment carrier 100 is closed (see FIG. 14).

  The row of service teeth 60, 66 typically extends vertically outward from the substantially planar sheet 15. In this case, the row of the engagement teeth 60 and 66 is curved inwardly and extends toward the center of the folded garment 10 as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 when the garment 10 is wrapped. When moving the zipper pull tab, the zipper pull tab advances up the corner edge of the folded garment 10. The pull tab then advances inward due to the curvature of the rows of zipper engagement teeth 60, 66, connecting the flaps 52, 54 to a point near each outer vertex of the generally triangular flap 54.

  The zipper pull tab may be located on either one of the flaps 52, 54, and the engagement teeth 60, 66 on one flap 52, 54 are placed in the standard zipper retainer box on the other flap 52, 54. It is possible to connect with the upper zipper service teeth 60 and 66. Alternatively, the zipper pull tab may be connected to both engagement teeth 60, 66. In this case, the corresponding standard zipper bottoms are usually arranged at the corners of the substantially planar sheet 15 when the garment carrier 100 is open.

  Although the flaps 52 and 54 are made of neoprene, any other material may be used as appropriate.

  It will be appreciated that various shapes of flaps may be used to enclose or wrap the garment 10. For this purpose, the garment carrier 100 can include one or more flaps that can be folded so that the folded garment 10 can be substantially encapsulated.

  With the exception of the crossbar or clip 32, the garment support 14 contacts a piece of substantially flat material (eg, neoprene or fabric or foam garment) that is thinly stamped and creased at the edges of the sheet 15. A combination of a molded EVA base or the like with a top or a multilayer material). It will be appreciated that any other manufacturing method can be used as appropriate.

  The garment carrier further includes a trouser support 68 that can be placed on the sleeve support 16 to hold the trouser 76 between the sleeve support 16 and the trouser support 68. The trouser support 68 includes a substantially flat upper panel 70. The panel 70 is generally rectangular and includes a wide hook 72 that can be received under the sleeve support 16 along the long side of the panel 70. A lip 74 (described below) is provided along the opposite long side.

  After the sleeve support 16 is closed and the sleeve 12 of the garment 10 is folded about the sleeve support 16 as discussed below, the trousers 76 are laid on the folded sleeve 12. The trouser support 68 then engages the sleeve support 16 and / or the crossbar or clip 32 as discussed below. By doing so, the trouser support 68 holds the trousers 76 against the sleeve 12 so that the trousers 76 can be folded over the trouser support 68.

  As described herein, by placing the trousers 76 and the trouser support 68 on the garment 10 and the sleeve support 16, the trouser support 68 causes the hem portion of the garment 10 to be folded back onto the trousers 76 and folded. The trousers 76 can be held in the clothes 10.

  The substantially flat upper panel 70 of the trouser support 68 includes a transparent window portion 101. The transparent window 101 is for aesthetic reasons only, but may include instructions, brands, warranty cards, and / or other information. The generally flat top panel 70 is typically rectangular, but those skilled in the art will recognize that other shapes can be used for the top panel 70.

  The wide hook 72 hooks under the sleeve support 16 and assists in holding the trouser support 68 on the sleeve support 16. The wide hook 72 also separates the sleeve support 16 from the planar sheet 15. This separation effect ensures that the sleeve support 16 does not wrinkle the body of the garment 10 after the garment 10 is folded and stored in the garment carrier 100.

  When the trouser support 68 is in place and the garment carrier 100 is closed, the trouser support 68 fixes the relative position of the seat 15, the sleeve support 16, and the trouser support 68. By doing so, a solid cavity is formed, which protects the part of the garment 10 contained therein (e.g., sleeve 12, shoulder 18 and pants waist region).

  After the wide hook 72 is engaged under the sleeve support 16, the trouser support 68 rotates about the hook 72 to engage the lip 74 with the crossbar or clip 32. By doing so, the trouser support 68 can be reliably engaged with one of the garment support 14 and the sleeve support 16. The lip 74 may simply be placed on the crossbar or the clip 32, but it is preferable to provide a protrusion on one end of the inner surface of the lip 74. In this case, the protrusion may be received at each concave end 34 of the crossbar or clip 32. Accordingly, the lip 74 includes a protrusion and forms a locking portion (clasp) for securely holding the trouser support 68 on the garment support 14 together with the crossbar or clip 32. Although the protrusions are not shown, those skilled in the art will know how protrusions can be formed on or in the lip 74 and the shape of the protrusions matches the shape of the concave end 34. It can be seen that it can be advantageous to have a shape (eg, convex).

  FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of the garment carrier 100 of FIG. 1 with the flaps 52 and 54 removed. The flaps 52, 54 may be formed using the flat sheet 15 as described above, or alternatively may be clipped to the sides of the flat sheet 15, or otherwise connected. It will be understood.

  A series of holes 78 spaced apart at equal intervals are provided along one long side of the flat sheet 15. A notch 80 is provided at or near one end of the series of holes 78 along each short side of the flat sheet 15. The holes 78 are for receiving small protrusions (not shown) on the lower surface of the crossbar or clip 32, thereby holding the crossbar or clip 32 in the flat sheet 15. The small protrusions can be attached to the planar sheet 15 within the holes 78 by gluing, ultrasonic welding, or other methods. Alternatively, a rivet may extend through the hole 78 and into the crossbar or clip 32 to hold the crossbar or clip 32 to the flat sheet 15. It will be appreciated that any other suitable connection scheme may be used.

  Protrusions (not shown) that can be received at the notches 80 for disposing the crossbar or clip 32 on the sheet 15 are provided at both ends of the crossbar or clip 32.

  The crossbar or clip 32 is formed from two parts or two halves as shown. One part includes a protrusion 81 received in the opening 82 of the other part and holds the two parts together.

  The central rim 40 of the sleeve support 16 is formed separately from the bar 44. The central rim 40 is formed from a transparent polycarbonate material, although any other material may be used. At the narrow end of the central rim 40, a polycarbonate material is folded to form a tunnel 84.

  A hinge pin 46 is received in the tunnel 84 of the central rim 40. The hinge pin 46 is slightly longer than the tunnel 84 so that both ends of the hinge pin extend out of both ends of the tunnel 84. Both ends of the hinge pin 46 are received in both openings 86 in the two halves of the crossbar or clip 32. When the two halves of the crossbar or clip 32 are joined as described above, the hinge pin 46 is confined between the two halves of the crossbar or clip 32, thereby allowing the sleeve support 16 to pivot. Hold on the crossbar or clip 32.

  The hinge pin 46 is formed from metal, but any other rigid material may be used.

  The bar 44 of the sleeve support 16 is formed from two longitudinal halves 88. Each half 88 includes a rising peripheral edge 90. The rising peripheral edge 90 extends to the entire peripheral edge excluding the gap 92 of each half body 88. When joining the two halves 88 of the bar 44, the gap 92 together forms an opening into which the wide end of the central rim 40 extends. Various protrusions are provided at the wide end of the central rim 40 to prevent the central rim 40 from being pulled out of the opening formed by the gap 92.

  The half 88 of the bar 44 also includes cooperating fasteners (in the present form, snap fasteners 94) to hold the two halves 88 together. One of the snap fasteners 94 is located in the middle of the central straight portion 48 of the bar 44 and connects the two halves 88 through the central opening 96 in the central rim 40. In this way, the central rim 40 is prevented from being pulled out between the two halves 88.

  The trouser support 68 is formed of three parts: a frame member 98, a transparent polycarbonate window 101, and a wide hook 72.

  The transparent polycarbonate window 101 is generally rectangular and planar and is clipped or glued or otherwise connected to the frame member 98.

  The frame member 98 includes a large central opening. When the transparent polycarbonate window 101 is attached to the frame member 98, a transparent window that penetrates the trouser support 68 is formed.

  The frame member 98 is pressed with a sheet-like material to form a frame surrounding the opening, through which the transparent polycarbonate window is visible, and the frame member 98 has rounded opposing longitudinal edges. ing. One longitudinal edge includes the lip 74 and has tabs 102 at both ends that prevent the trouser support 68 from sliding down from the crossbar or clip 32 in the longitudinal direction. The tab 102 extends substantially perpendicular to the transparent polycarbonate window 101 and the longitudinal direction of the extending lip 74.

  The other longitudinal edge of the frame member 98 is formed and arranged to be attached to the wide hook 72. In the present application, the wide hook 72 is attached to the frame member 98 by an adhesive, but any other means or connection method may be used.

  The wide hook 72 includes reinforcing ribs 104 that help to reinforce the wide hook 72. When the trouser support 68 is used, the rib 104 is supported by the central straight portion 48 of the bar 44. Tabs 106 similar to the tabs 102 of the lip 74 are provided at both ends of the wide hook 72 and both ends of the corresponding longitudinal edge of the frame member 98.

  Most or all parts of the garment carrier 100 can be formed from neoprene, soft or hard plastic, rigid or semi-rigid plastic, or any other suitable material. Thus, if a material (eg, rigid plastic) is identified, the function and purpose of the material is important, and the particular type of material described herein is not necessarily important and One skilled in the art will appreciate that other materials that can achieve the same purpose may be identifiable. Such other materials are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure.

  In this regard, neoprene has been cited as a desirable material for certain portions of the garment carrier 100. It will be appreciated that the type of material should be selected according to the application of the garment carrier 100 (eg, store storage or overseas shipping) and general environmental conditions. For example, neoprene is selected for its ability to reduce the effects of temperature changes and humidity on the internal cavity of the garment carrier 100 in which the garment 10 is placed.

  It will be appreciated that each of the portions of the garment carrier 100 given a particular shape in the embodiments described herein may in fact have alternative shapes, provided that the function of each portion is maintained. The merchant will understand. For example, the sleeve support 16 can be generally triangular (ie, not T-shaped) with a bulge or the like received on the shoulder. In this case, the bulge or the like can be adapted to the shape of the folded shoulder.

  A method of using the garment carrier 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIGS. 3 to 16 show the stages of folding the garment 10 in the garment carrier 100, wrapping the garment 10 in the garment carrier 100, and placing the folded assembly in the suitcase 108. Indicates.

  The garment carrier 100 in an open state is shown in FIG. In the present embodiment, an explanatory note for folding clothing (a suit jacket 10 in this specification) is printed on the inner surface of the flat sheet 15. This description serves as a user's guide when the user of the garment carrier 100 folds and stores the garment 10 in the garment carrier 100.

  The trouser support 68 is on the sleeve support 16 after unpacking the garment carrier 100, as when using the garment carrier 100 for the first time. As shown in FIG. 4, in order to remove the trouser support 68, the lip portion 74 is first removed from the crossbar or clip 32 by rotating the trouser support 68 in the direction of arrow A around the hook 72. Then, the hook 72 of the trouser support 68 slides out from the bottom of the bar 44 of the sleeve support 16 in the arrow B direction.

  Once the trouser support 68 is removed, the sleeve support 16 can be rotated away from the flat sheet 15 in the direction of arrow C shown in FIG.

  When the sleeve support 16 is separated, the garment 10 may be placed on the flat sheet 15 as shown in FIG. Since the garment 10 is currently a suit jacket, it must first be buttoned as shown by arrow D. Buttoning the garment 10 ensures that the garment 10 does not wrinkle before or during folding of the garment 10 in the garment carrier 100 and during wrapping the garment 10 with the garment carrier 100. Next, on the flat sheet 15 such that the neck region 20 is positioned near or adjacent to the narrow end of the central rim 40 of the sleeve support 16 or the crossbar or clip 32, as indicated by the arrow E. Lay clothing 10 on its back.

  Next, as indicated by the description on the flat sheet 15 and as indicated by the arrow F, the shoulder 18 of the garment 10 is folded inward. In this way, folding between the shoulder 18 and the neck region 20 as shown in FIG. 6 is performed. The fold typically reaches from the collar of the garment 10 or near the collar of the garment 10 to the junction between the sleeve 12 and the flank or side of the garment 10 (ie, the armpit of the jacket 10). The sleeve 12 extends in a bifurcated direction from the shoulder 18. The sleeve 12, along with the neck region 20, causes the garment 10 to have a delta-shaped fold shape (ie, the outer garment comprises a characteristic “Delta-fold”).

  Such a delta fold, as described herein, greatly reduces the likelihood that the shoulder area of the suit jacket will be wrinkled. The shoulder area of the suit's jacket is not possible unless it is worn during transit (often not possible. For example, it is not possible when it is in an overhead baggage rack in an airplane or in a suitcase. It is possible to avoid wrinkles in the past.

  The garment carrier 100 is specifically intended to maintain a delta fold by providing a sleeve support 16. As described above, the sleeve support 16 includes a central rim 40 that is pivotally connected to the garment support 14, and in the vicinity of the central rim 40, the neck region 20 of the garment 10 is disposed on the garment support 14. The Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 7, by rotating the sleeve support 16, the central rim 40 presses the neck region 20 against the flat sheet 15, holds it, or holds it in other ways. To that end, the sleeve support 16 also reaches the back of the garment 10 between the shoulders 18.

  In this position, the bar 44 of the sleeve support 16 extends across the back of the garment 10 and below the shoulder 18 and above the sleeve 12 to hold the sleeve so as to maintain a delta fold. Note that the sleeve support 16 lies orthogonal to the sleeve 12. As a result, the garment 10 is further folded to reduce size for transit, and the folded garment 10 is wrapped with a garment carrier 100, but formed by the neck region 20, shoulder 18 and sleeve 12 Is maintained.

  Once the sleeve support 16 is in the position shown in FIG. 7, the outer portion of the sleeve 12 can be folded over the sleeve support 16. To accomplish this, the sleeve 12 is folded about the edge 110 (see FIG. 2) of the sleeve support 16 as indicated by the arrow H shown in FIG.

  The edges 110 of the sleeve support 16 are bifurcated to be separated from each other so as to extend substantially orthogonal to the respective sleeves 12 when used, and as a result, the sleeves 12 are folded around the edges 110 to form the shoulders 18. Can be extended toward. In fact, the sleeve 12 can be folded in two. As shown in FIG. 8, even after the sleeve 12 is folded in two, the sleeve 12 maintains a delta folded shape. Greatly reducing the likelihood of wrinkling the garment 10 by maintaining a delta folded shape at or around the shoulder 18 and neck 20 and folding the sleeve 12 in two It will be appreciated that maintaining the delta shape is for reducing the size of the folded garment 10 rather than reducing wrinkling. Thus, in practice, the sleeve 12 can be folded in many different ways to obtain many different shapes.

  After folding the sleeve 12 about the main edge 110 of the bar 44, the trousers 76 can be laid on the sleeve 12 as shown by the arrow I in FIG. In this position, generally, the upper edge of the waist of the trousers 76 and the short side of the flat sheet 15 joined to the flap 54 are aligned. Accordingly, the legs of the pants 76 extend across the garment support 14.

  Next, the hook 72 of the trouser support 68 is engaged under the bar 44 of the sleeve support 16 as indicated by arrows J and K in FIGS. 10 and 11 respectively. By hooking the hook 72 under the bar 44, the bar 44 is separated from the flat sheet 15. Since the sleeve 12 is folded around the bar 44, the pressure by the sleeve 12 on the body of the garment 10 is small. In this way, the hook 72 reduces the likelihood that wrinkles will be formed between the body of the garment 10 and the sleeve 12.

  After engaging the hook 72 of the trouser support 68 under the bar 44, the lip 74 of the trouser support 68 is lowered onto the crossbar or clip 32 as indicated by the arrow L. As described above, the lip 74 may simply be supported by the crossbar or clip 32 and may prevent the hook 72 from sliding out under the bar 44 along the back of the garment 10. Alternatively, the lip 74 may positively engage the crossbar or clip 32, but positive engagement is unnecessary in most situations. As will be discussed below, the trouser support 68 is held in place when the flaps 52, 54 are bitten with a zipper.

  When the trouser support 68 is in place, the trouser support presses the trousers 76 against the garment 10 and holds the trousers 76 and the garment 10 in place on the garment support 14.

  Then, as indicated by the arrow M in FIG. 12, the legs of the trousers 76 can be folded over the trouser support 68, particularly across the short side of the trouser support 68. The width of the garment carrier 100 and / or the width of the trouser support 68 can be selected to match the specific length of the trouser 76 so that when the trouser 76 is folded along the trouser support 68, The leg hem is located at or near the waist of the pants 76. Although it will be appreciated that any width of garment carrier 100 and trouser support 68 may be used, the width of the trouser support 68 may be sufficient to fold the trouser 76 once in order to fit within the garment carrier 100. Is generally at least about half the length of the trousers 76.

  After the legs of the trousers 76 are folded onto the trouser supports 68, the hem portion 112 of the garment 10 can be folded back onto the trousers 76 as indicated by the arrow N in FIG. Thus, the trousers 76 are held together with the trouser support 68 in the folded garment 10.

  It will be appreciated that when the garment 10 is removed from the garment carrier 100, wrinkles should be avoided during folding so that the likelihood of wrinkling is reduced.

  Next, the flaps 52 are engaged with each other by folding the flaps 52 inward in the direction of arrow O shown in FIG. Next, the tab 62 on one flap 52 is pushed down in the direction of the arrow P, and the above-described Velcro fastener is engaged. One flap 52 extends over the shoulder 18 and neck 20 of the garment 10, and the other flap 52 extends over the hem portion 112 of the garment 10, so that the flap 52 is substantially garment. 10 is enclosed. In some cases, it may be desirable to avoid the use of velcro fasteners because some garments 10 may be entangled and damaged. As such, any other connection scheme (eg, one or more magnetic fasteners) may be used. Alternatively, as discussed below, the flap 54 is folded over the flap 52 and zipped into the flap 52, thus eliminating the need for a connection scheme between the flaps 52.

  In FIG. 14, a row of engagement teeth 60 can be seen on the outer surface of each flap 52.

  Next, the flap 54 is folded on the flap 52 in the direction of arrow Q shown in FIG. Then, as described above, the zipper 114 including the row of the engagement teeth 60 and 66 is engaged and closed. In this way, the flap 54 is held by the flap 52, and the folding of the garment carrier 100 is completed.

  As shown in FIG. 16, when the garment carrier 100 is in a folded shape, the garment carrier 100 is sized and shaped to fit snugly within the suitcase 108 as indicated by the arrow R. In the present configuration, the garment carrier 100 is sized and shaped to fit a standard size suitcase 108 suitable for carry-on luggage, but instead fits other (eg, larger) suitcases. Can be size.

  An alternative garment carrier 200 is shown in FIGS. The description of the features of the garment carrier 200 with functions similar to those of the garment carrier 100 has not been repeated, and instead, note the previous few pages of descriptions that identify the functions of such similar features. Prompt.

  The garment carrier shown in the developed view of FIG. 17 is also for housing a garment with sleeves (not shown). In the embodiment described above, the garment support 14 includes flaps 52 and 54 that enclose the garment 10 when the garment support 14 is in use. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 17, the garment support 202 includes a single large flap 204 that encloses the garment 10 by zippering on the upstanding peripheral side wall 206. A single large flap 204 touches both ends of the upstanding side wall 206 and bends around it to enclose the garment 10.

  The upstanding side wall 206 is joined to the base of the garment support 202 by rounded corners 207. The rounded corner 207 serves an aesthetic purpose (ie, provides a smooth transition between the side wall 206 and the garment support 202). The rounded corner 207 also reduces the number of sharp corners that the garment carrier 200 may have exhibited against the suitcase placed in transit, thereby reducing the possibility of damaging the suitcase. Let

  Along the upper edge of the side wall 206, a row of zipper engagement teeth 209 is provided. As described below, the row of zipper engagement teeth 209 is connected to the zipper engagement teeth of the flap 204.

  In order to be able to bend the flap 204 around the distal end of the upstanding side wall 206, the flap 204 must be formed of a flexible material at least in the areas that need to bend around the side wall 206. The portion of the flap 204 that does not need to bend around the sidewall 206 may be formed from a relatively stiffer material. Desirably, the upstanding sidewall 206 should be formed from a rigid material so that it does not collapse during use.

  A single large flap 204 is generally a plane with a rounded peripheral edge 208 extending substantially from one end of the side wall 206 to the other end of the side wall 206 along the outer periphery of the rectangular body. This is a rectangle. The rounded perimeter 208 serves an aesthetic purpose (ie, provides a smooth transition between the flap 204 and the upstanding sidewall 206 when the flap 204 is zipped into the upstanding sidewall 206). The rounded perimeter 208 also reduces the number of sharp corners that the garment carrier 200 may have exhibited against a suitcase placed in transit, resulting in the possibility of damaging the suitcase. Decrease.

  The outer edge of the peripheral edge 208 is provided with a row of zipper service teeth 211 connected to the zipper service teeth 209 of the upright side wall 206 as described above, and fixes the garment carrier 200 in a closed state.

  The cross bar or clip 32 of the previous embodiment has been replaced with a single mounting bar 210 that is attached to the upstanding sidewall 206 by a rivet 212. It will be appreciated that any other suitable means for attaching the mounting bar 210 to the upstanding sidewall 206 may be used.

  The mounting bar 210 is also held in place by a rivet 254 (discussed in connection with FIG. 18) that extends through the base of the garment support 202. A shroud 214 is provided to serve the purely aesthetic purpose of covering or hiding the rivet 254. The shroud 214 is fitted onto the mounting bar 210 under the sleeve support 216 at or near the location where the mounting bar 210 contacts the base of the garment support 202 and covers the rivet 254 from view. The shroud 214 includes a series of notches that fit over corresponding small ribs in the mounting bar 210. However, any other suitable means for fitting the shroud 214 to the mounting bar 210 may be used.

  The upper surface of the shroud is rounded to accommodate rotation of the axis of rotation 226 of the sleeve support 216 (discussed further below).

  The shape of the sleeve support 216 of the current embodiment is different from the shape of the sleeve support 16 of the above embodiment. The central rim 218 is substantially rectangular rather than tapered. At one end, the central rim 218 is received in an opening in the bar 220. An arm 222 extending from both sides of the opening in which the central rim 218 is received is provided with a rounded main edge that can be used to fold a garment (not shown) sleeve. This reduces or avoids wrinkling of the sleeve in the fold area around the sleeve support 216. The rear edge of the arm 222 may also be rounded, but in the present configuration it is usually flat.

  The opposite end of the central rim 218 is received in the hub 224. The hub 224 is attached to the rotation shaft 226, and the sleeve support 216 rotates about the rotation shaft in the same manner as described above with respect to the sleeve support 16.

  The hub 224 includes a protrusion 228 on the lower surface. The protrusion 228 is received in the neck area of the garment when in use. The protrusion 228 is a rounded valve-like shape to avoid wrinkling the garment, but any other suitable shape may be used. For example, if the protrusion 228 is formed from a flexible material, the protrusion of the protrusion 228 is angular with respect to the garment because the flexibility of the material substantially reduces the possibility of wrinkling the neck area of the garment. Can present a surface.

  A protrusion 228 may be used to separate the bar 220 from the garment support 202 so that the bar 220 does not wrinkle the garment when the garment sleeve is folded about the arm 222. However, the protrusion 228 shown in FIG. 17 is formed of a foam. The protrusion 228 ensures that the neck area of the garment 10 does not slip under the sleeve support 216. The opposite protrusion 229 compresses the trouser support when the trouser support 244 is in place on the sleeve support 216 and ensures that the trouser support 244 does not move.

  The rear surface 230 of the hub 224 is oriented forward. Correspondingly, the front surface of the mounting bar 210 is also oriented forward. When the sleeve support 216 is rotated and lowered onto the garment to hold the garment in place, the rear surface 230 of the hub 224 contacts the front surface of the mounting bar 210. This prevents the sleeve support 216 from rotating further toward the garment. As such, the angle of the front surface of the mounting bar 210 and the rear surface 230 of the hub 224 may be selected to define a particular desired spacing between the bar 220 of the sleeve support 216 and the garment support 202. Accordingly, the relative angle between the rear surface 230 of the hub 224 and the front surface of the mounting bar 210 may supplement or replace the protrusion 228 for spacing the bar 220 from the garment support 202.

  It will also be appreciated that various other means for defining the spacing between the bar 220 and the garment support 202 may be used. For example, the mounting bar 210 is one or more protrusions extending from the front surface of the mounting bar and abuts against the hub 224 and / or the central rim 218 so that the sleeve support 216 rotates further toward the garment support 202. The thing which prevents that may be included.

  As described above, the hub 224 is attached to the rotation shaft 226. In the present embodiment, the hub 224 and the rotating shaft 226 are integrated. Hub portions 232 are provided at both ends of the rotating shaft 226. Each hub portion 232 is aligned with the rotary shaft mounting opening 234 on the mounting bar 210. Next, the plug 236 is inserted into the mounting opening 234 and the hub portion 232, and the rotation shaft 226 is pivoted on the mounting bar 210. It will be appreciated that any other suitable means for securing the sleeve support 216 to the mounting bar 210 may be used.

  The current embodiment further includes a shoulder support 238. Shoulder support 238 is attached to garment support 202 by a strap 240. In the current configuration, the strap 240 is attached to the upstanding side wall 206. The shoulder support 238 is used to store the clothing by folding it in the clothing carrier 200, and to maintain the shape of each shoulder of the clothing when the clothing support 202 is closed and the clothing is wrapped. To that end, the shoulder support 238 includes a pad of material that can be inserted into the shoulder of the garment. The pad is ideally compressible so that it does not wrinkle the garment by pressing against the flap 204 during transit, and can be used for a variety of different garment shoulder shapes and sizes ( For example, formed from a foam). However, shoulder support 238 may be formed from or include any suitable material.

  Shoulder support 238 includes a convex surface or a rounded top surface. Shoulder support 238 further includes a flat base. The top surface conforms to the shape of the garment shoulder. The flat base is placed on the portion of the garment that should remain flat when the garment is folded and stored within the garment carrier 200.

  Shoulder support 238 is inserted into the garment shoulder region along the garment sleeve or through the garment neck into the garment shoulder region. The shoulder support 238 is shaped to maintain the shape of the garment shoulder when the garment is folded and stored in the garment carrier 200. In this way, wrinkling of the garment shoulder can be avoided or at least substantially reduced.

  Different sizes and shapes of shoulder supports 238 are provided for different types of clothing, different genders (often women are narrower than men), and different sizes of clothing It will be understood that this can be done.

  Each shoulder support 238 includes a rear fabric tab or rear fabric loop 242. In the current configuration, the fabric tabs 242 are an extension of each strap 240. Fabric tab 242 engages sleeve support 216. For example, a fabric tab 242 may be attached around the edge of each arm of the sleeve support 216. In this manner, the shoulder support 238 can be secured to the sleeve support 216 when the garment carrier 200 is not in use.

  Alternatively, a shoulder support shaped to be placed on the garment's shoulder at the location of the garment's shoulder may be provided. In this case, the sleeve and shoulder are folded to wrap the shoulder support and form the delta fold shape described above.

  A trouser support 244 is provided as in the embodiment described in FIGS. The trouser support 244 includes a wide hook 246 that hooks under the bar 220 as described above. The trouser support 244 also includes a rounded peripheral edge 248 that projects downward. The rounded protruding peripheral edge 248 extends along the outer periphery of the trouser support 244 from both ends of the wide hook 246. When the trouser support 244 is in place on the garment support 202, the rounded protruding peripheral edge 248 is disposed in the vicinity of the upright side wall 206 or in contact with the upright side wall 206.

  The rounded peripheral edge 248 has a gap 250 that straddles the mounting bar 210.

Once the sleeve support 216 is attached to the mounting bar 210 and the mounting bar 210 is riveted to the upstanding side wall 206, the garment carrier 200 is ready for use. The garment carrier 200 is then
-Placing the garment on the garment support 202;
-Insert shoulder support 238 through the sleeve of the clothing to the shoulder of the clothing;
-Folding the sleeves and shoulders of the garment as described above in connection with FIGS.
-Lower the sleeve support 216 onto the sleeve to hold the sleeve in place;
-Folding the sleeve around the sleeve support 216;
-Then place the pants on the folded sleeve,
-Trouser support 244 is placed over bar 220, fixed and rotated to lower position to a position where gap 250 straddles mounting bar 210;
-Folding the pants on the pants support 244;
Can be used by folding the flap 204 at the end of the side wall 206 and engaging the side wall 206 with a zipper.

  18 including FIGS. 18A-18F shows garment carrier 200 in a closed state. 18A to 18F are a plan view, a front view, a rear view, a left side view, a right side view, and a bottom view, respectively. As can be seen from each of FIGS. 18A-18F, most boundaries of the garment carrier 200 are defined by rounded corners. Thus, the garment carrier 200 is made with the intention of avoiding damage to the suitcase in which the garment carrier 200 may be placed during transit.

  Garment carrier 200 further includes a carry handle 252 attached to the outside of upstanding side wall 206. It will be appreciated that a variety of other carry handles may be used, may be attached to the garment support 202 in a variety of other ways, or such a carry handle may not be provided.

  The bottom view 18F shows that in addition to attaching the mounting bar 210 to the side wall 206 by rivets 212, the mounting bar 210 may be through the base of the garment support 202 by rivets 254, or other fasteners, adhesives, or any other suitable It can be fixed by any means.

  19 including FIGS. 19A-19F shows garment carrier 200 in an open state with trouser support 244 in place on bar 220. As can be appreciated from FIGS. 19D and 19E, the trouser support 244 slightly protrudes above the top of the side wall 206. When the flap 204 is put on the trouser support 244 and engaged with the upright side wall 206 with a zipper, the trouser support 244 presses the flap 204. Thus, one trouser folded along the trouser support 244 is held at a fixed position between the trouser support 244 and the flap 204.

  FIGS. 19D and 19E show that the upstanding side walls 206 taper from one end 256 toward the other end 258. Conversely, the rounded peripheral edge 208 of the flap 204 tapers toward the end 256. Thus, the rounded perimeter 208 is typically the smallest thickness in the region of the end 256. A rounded peripheral edge 208 can provide rigidity to the flap 204, and the flap 204 can bend along the end 256 by the peripheral edge 208 having a minimum thickness in the region of the end 256. At the opposite end, the rounded peripheral edge 208 has the maximum thickness, thus increasing the rigidity of the flap 204. By ensuring that the garment carrier is flexible where needed and rigid where needed, the current configuration reduces the likelihood that the garment in the garment carrier 200 will wrinkle during transit. .

  As can also be seen from FIGS. 19D and 19E, the fastener or rivet 212 provides a foot 262. Each fastener or rivet 212 extends through the foot 262 and the side wall 206 to secure the mounting bar 210 to the side wall 206. The foot 262 separates the garment carrier 200 from the ground surface and reduces damage that the garment carrier 200 can suffer during transit.

  19B and 19C show that the trouser support 244 is slightly spaced from the vertical sidewall 206 when the garment carrier 200 is in the open state. The spacing between the trouser support 244 and the vertical side wall 206 is reduced when the flap 204 bites onto the vertical side wall 206 with a zipper. It will be appreciated that when in the closed state as shown in FIG. 18, the gap between the vertical sidewall 206 and the trouser support 244 may be eliminated.

  In general, the parts of the garment carrier 100, 200 may be formed from any suitable material. In the embodiment described herein, the garment support 14,202 is formed from neoprene (neoprene of any thickness such as 3mm, 1.5mm, 0.8mm, etc.) and the sleeve support 16,216 is injection molded. Or one or more aluminum extrusions, and the trouser supports 68, 244 may be formed from neoprene or plastic. The main part of the trouser supports 68, 244 may alternatively be formed from a stretchy fabric or a mesh fabric.

  It will be understood that the present invention is not only usable during transit, but can also be used for supply and storage in a store from a clothing manufacturer or tailor.

  Those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains will recognize that many modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that features of the various embodiments described herein can be combined without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

  Therefore, the garment carrier 100 for housing the garment 10 with the sleeve 12 may not include all of the features of the illustrated embodiment. Rather, the garment carrier 100 simply includes a garment support 14 and a sleeve support 16 that can be placed on the garment support 14 to hold the garment 10 between the garment support 14 and the sleeve support 16. May be included. In such an embodiment, the sleeve support 16 successfully includes a central rim 40 and a pair of arms 42 where the sleeve 12 of the garment 10 is folded when the garment carrier 100 is used.

  Instructions and reproductions such as 3-16 folding instructions, and / or brands, warranty cards, and any other type of information may be printed on the surface of the garment carrier 100. For example, such information may be printed on the inner surfaces of the flaps 52,54.

  With regard to identifying materials such as neoprene, polycarbonate, molded EVA, and foam, it will be understood that such materials are used as examples only. Instead of such materials, any other suitable material can be used. For example, the garment carrier can be formed from cardboard. This can be useful when a single use of the garment carrier is desired. Also, in wet climates it may be necessary to form the garment carrier from a material that protects the garment from wrinkles, but in low humidity climates this may not be necessary.

  In the appended claims and in the specification of the invention set forth hereinabove, the term “comprise” or “comprises” or “comprising” and so on Written language or consequential implications, unless the context requires different interpretations (i.e. identifying the presence of the stated feature, but various embodiments of the invention To avoid the presence or addition of additional features).

  Where reference is made herein to prior art documents, it is to be understood that such references do not admit that such documents form part of the common general knowledge in Australia or other countries.

Claims (23)

A clothing carrier for housing clothing with sleeves,
Clothing support,
A sleeve support attached to and disposed on the garment support in use and holding the garment between the garment support and the sleeve support;
Including
The sleeve support has edges extending at right angles to the sleeve at a predetermined angle such that the sleeve portion extends in a bifurcated direction from each shoulder of the garment;
The outer portion of the sleeve is folded over the edge of the sleeve support and extends toward the shoulder so as to maintain a fold in the garment between each shoulder and the neckline region of the garment. Exist,
Clothing carrier. The sleeve support comprises a central rim and a pair of bifurcated arms defining the edge,
The garment carrier according to claim 1. The sleeve support is hinged to the garment support;
The garment carrier according to claim 1 or 2. Wherein it is positionable on the sleeve support, including pants support to hold the pants between the sleeve support and's Bonn support in use,
The garment carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The trouser support engages with the sleeve support in use so that the trouser can be folded over the trouser support, and a portion of the trouser is placed between the trouser support and the sleeve support of the garment. Arranged to hold against the sleeve,
The garment carrier according to claim 4. The sleeve support is attached to the garment support in use and has a generally rectangular central portion;
The garment carrier according to claim 1. The garment support includes one or more flaps that are foldable so that the folded garment is substantially enclosed.
The garment carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 6. One or more of the flaps include at least two first flaps that extend from opposite sides of the garment support and can be folded over the garment and engage each other in use.
The garment carrier according to claim 7. One of the first flaps can be folded over the neck area and the shoulder of the garment in use.
The garment carrier according to claim 8. Including a pair of additional flaps extending from further sides of the garment support;
10. A garment carrier according to claim 8 or 9. Further comprising a shoulder support with a surface shaped to fit over the shoulder of the garment;
The garment carrier according to any one of claims 1 to 10. The shoulder support includes a convex surface or a rounded top surface,
The garment carrier according to claim 11. The shoulder support includes a flat base,
The garment carrier according to claim 11 or 12. The shoulder support is connected to the garment support by a strap;
The garment carrier according to any one of claims 11 to 13. The shoulder support includes a loop or tab for engaging the sleeve support;
The garment carrier according to any one of claims 11 to 14. The shoulder support is positionable on the shoulder of the garment and maintains the shape of the shoulder during use of the garment carrier;
The garment carrier according to any one of claims 11 to 15. The shoulder support is insertable through the sleeve of the garment into the shoulder of the garment;
The garment carrier according to claim 16. The shoulder support is insertable into the shoulder of the garment through the neck area of the garment.
The garment carrier according to claim 16. The shoulder support can be disposed on an outer surface of the garment in use;
The folding Ritatami clothing is formed around said shoulder support,
The garment carrier according to claim 16. Including a shoulder support for each shoulder of the garment,
The garment carrier according to any one of claims 11 to 19. Placing the garment (10) on the garment support (14);
The sleeve (12) of the garment (10) branches from each other so as to extend in a bifurcated direction from each shoulder (18) of the garment (10), and extends perpendicularly to the sleeve (12). A sleeve support (16) having an edge (110) is disposed on said garment support (14);
While maintaining the crease of the garment (10) between each shoulder (18) and the neck area (20) of the garment (10), the outer portion of the sleeve (12) 18) folding the outer portion of the sleeve (12) over the edge (110) of the sleeve support (16) so as to extend toward the
How to use the clothing carrier (200). The garment (10) comprises trousers (76),
Placing the trouser support (68) on the sleeve support (16) to hold the trouser (76) between the sleeve support (16) and the trouser support (68);
Use of the garment carrier (200) according to claim 21. Folding the garment support (14) flaps (52, 54) over the garment (10) to enclose the garment (10);
Use of the garment carrier (200) according to claim 21 or 22.

Images