Title of Invention	GARMENT HANGER HAVING A RELEASABLE SIZE INDICATOR.
Abstract	TITLE: A GARMENT HANGER HAVING A REMOVABLE SIZE INDICATOR. A GARMENT HANGER HAVING A RELEASABLE SIZE INDICATOR, THE GARMENT HANGER COMPRISING: A HANGING MEANS FOR SUSPENDING THE HANGER FROM A SUPPORT AND A BODY CONNECTED TO THE HANGING MEANS; THE HANGER HAVING A WEB FOR REMOVABLY SECURING A SIZE INDICATOR TO THE HANGER, THE WEB HAVING A FIXED LATCH AND A PIVOTING LATCH; AND A SIZE INDICATOR HAVING FINGER MEANS FOR ENGAGING THE FIXED AND PIVOTING LATCHES SUCH THAT THE SIZE INDICATOR IS SECURED ON THE WEB DURING NORMAL USE, BUT WHEREIN THE SIZE INDICATOR MAY BE RELEASED FROM THE WEB WHEN THE PIVOTING LATCH IS PIVOTED OUT OF ENGAGEMENT WITH THE FINGER MEANS OF THE SIZE INDICATOR.

Title of Invention

GARMENT HANGER HAVING A RELEASABLE SIZE INDICATOR.

Abstract

TITLE: A GARMENT HANGER HAVING A REMOVABLE SIZE INDICATOR. A GARMENT HANGER HAVING A RELEASABLE SIZE INDICATOR, THE GARMENT HANGER COMPRISING: A HANGING MEANS FOR SUSPENDING THE HANGER FROM A SUPPORT AND A BODY CONNECTED TO THE HANGING MEANS; THE HANGER HAVING A WEB FOR REMOVABLY SECURING A SIZE INDICATOR TO THE HANGER, THE WEB HAVING A FIXED LATCH AND A PIVOTING LATCH; AND A SIZE INDICATOR HAVING FINGER MEANS FOR ENGAGING THE FIXED AND PIVOTING LATCHES SUCH THAT THE SIZE INDICATOR IS SECURED ON THE WEB DURING NORMAL USE, BUT WHEREIN THE SIZE INDICATOR MAY BE RELEASED FROM THE WEB WHEN THE PIVOTING LATCH IS PIVOTED OUT OF ENGAGEMENT WITH THE FINGER MEANS OF THE SIZE INDICATOR.

Full Text	GARMENT HANGER HAVING A REMOVABLE SIZE INDICATOR The present invention relates generally to a garment hanger of the type having a removable size indicator and, more particularly, to a garment hanger having a size indicator which may be removed by way of a tool which engages a pivoting latch. U.S. Patent 3,949,914 illustrates a hanger with a modified hook which accepts a size indicator which clips onto one of the flunges which define the hook structure. U.S. Patent 4,115,940 illustrates a hanger having a size indicator or sizing tab which attaches to a tab mounting member mounted between the hanger hook and the hanger body. Hangers having size indicators mounted in this position are generally referred to in the trade as side sizers. U.S. Patent 4,322,902 illustrates a hanger having a display portion formed at the top of the hook which may accept two different types of size indicators. One type fastens to the display portion like a tie-tac, and the other slips over the top of the display portion. Hangers having size indicators; mountea in this position are generally referred to in the trade as top sizers. U.S. Patent 5,485,943 is typical of a number of patents ehich disclose one or more means to prevent inadvertent removal of the side sizer by blocking access to the edges of the side sizer, thereby preventing young children from obtaining "finger purchase" on the edge of the side sizer to pry it off. U.S. Patents 5,469,995; 5,778,575; 5,469,995; 5096,101; 5 950,883; 5,683,018; 5,642,840; 5,611,469; and 5,407,105" all illustrate hangers having various means to make the side sizer "substantially unremovable" or "irremovable" once the sizing tab engages the tab holder on the hanger. The intent is to make the hanger and sizing system "child proof", and thereby prrvent a clild from inadvertently removing the tab, and swallowing or choking on the side sizer. U.S. Patent 5,449,099 is one of several patents on a hanger and side sizer system that provides a tool for removing the side sizer if it is inadvertently applied, or if the hanger is later used to hang a garment of a different size. Multiple cuts are provided through the security rib and the attachment, member to enable a special tool to pry the indicator from the hanger. U.S. Patent 5,687,887 illustrates another design for a hanger and side sizer that enables a special tool to slide through cuts in the security rib and thereby remove the side sizer. U.S. Patent 5,794,363 illustrates a hanger hook adapted to top sizer, which hanger hook, has a resiliernt detent engagement means for securing the top sizer which erables the top sizer to be automatically removed for re-use of the hanger. It is an object of the present invention to provide a garment hanger with a novel size indicator and indicator attachment mechanism. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a garment hanger with a removable size indicator. rt ia yet a further object of the present invention to provide a garment manger with removable size indicator that may be mounted on the top of the hook or at the side of the hook. It is still yet a further object of the present invention to provide a garment hanger with a removable size indicator that is securely affixed to the hanger during use, and is thereby "child proof, yet which may be quickly and easily removed with a tool when it is desired to re-use the hanger with garment of a different size. Accordingly, a garment hanger having a removable size indicator is provided. The garment hanger comprises: a hanging leans for suspending the hanger on a support and a body contected to the hanging means,- the hanger having at least one web for removably securing a size indicator to the hanger, the web having a fixed latch and a pivoting latch; and a size indicator having finger means for engaging the fixed and pivcting latches such that the size indicator is secured on the web, wherein the size indicator is released from the web wher the pivoting latch is pivoted out of engagement with the finger means of the size indicator. In a preferred implementation of the garment hanger of the. present invention, the size indicator further comprises at least, one engagement abutment disposed on an inner surface of the size indicator More preferably, the at least one engagement abutment comprises a first engagement abutment disposed on a first inner surface of the size indicator and a second engagement abutment disposed on a second inner wall of the size indicator. In another preferred implementation of the garment hanger of the present invention, the hanging means is a hook and the web is located at either, a junction between the hook and the body, at a top portion of the hook, or at both locations. In yet another preferred implementation of the garment hanger of the present invention, the pivoting, latch is located st a central portion of the web and the fixed latch is located on at least one end of the pivoting latch. Preferably, the fixed latch is located on each end of the pivoting latch,, with the pivoting latch projecting from a first size of the web and the fixed latch projecting from an opposite side of the web. in still yet another preferred implementation of the garment ranger of the present invention, the pivoting latch is defined by a slot cut through the web, the slot having a shape defined by at least two sides, the pivoting latch being further defined by a living hinge closing the shape of the slot. Preferablv. the slot is two sided and the living hinge closes tne shape of the slot thereby forming a triangular shaped pivoting latch. The pivoting latch further having an engagement means for facilitating the pivoting of the pivoting latch. Preferably, the engagement means comprises a cantilevered end of the pivoting latch which when a releasing force is applied thereto provides a mechanical advantage for pivoting the pivoting latch out of engagement with at least one engagement .butment and finger means of the size indicator the wee rurther has a guard extending across the web and below the size indicator, the guard having a down- turned portion which follows the contours of the cantilevered end. The guard protects the cantilevered end from inadvertent actuatic The cantileveredend preferably has engagement means adapted to receive a tool used for application of the releasing force. The engagement means is preferably a dimple formed on a side of the cantilevered end. In a preferred implementation of the garment hanger of the present invention, the size indicator preferably has a face and two sides depending therefrom, each of the sides terminating in a foremost edge, the foremost edges being configured such that the cantilevered end of the pivoting latch is exposed when the size indicator is secured on the web. The finger means of the size indicator preferably comprises an inwardly facing ridge disposed at each of the foremost and projecting inwards towards the channel. The at least one engagement abutment is preferably disposed on each of an inner surface of the two sides between the face and the foremost edge. In yet another preferred implementation of the garment hanger of the present invention, the web further comprisess an outermost edge having an outermost portion of a predetermined cross-section, the size indicator having a pair of spaced projections projecting from an inner surface of the face and substantially configured to receive an outermost portion of the web therebetween for preventing a lateral movement of the size indicator when the size indicator is secured on the web. In still yet another preferred implementation of the garment hanger of the present invention, the web further comprises locating quides for locating the size indicator in a predetermined position on the web. The locating guides preferably comprise first and second guides disposed on each of the side edges of the size indicator and spaced apart to fit the size indicator therein to center the size indicator between the guides when it is applied. Preferably each of the first and second guides do not extend the full length of the side of the size indicator. still yet provided is a size indicator to be removabLy secured to a web of a garment hanger. The size indicator comprises a face and two sides depending therefrom defining a channel, each of the sides terminating in a foremost edge inner surface of the face having a pair of spaced projections substantially configured to receive an outermost, portion of the web therebetween for preventing a lateral movement of the size indicator when the size indicator is secured on the web. Each of the sides have at least one engagement amounted disposed between the face and foremost edge and an inwardly facing ridge disposed at each of the foremost edges and projecting inwards cowards the channel for engaging a fixed ridge and a pivoting ridge on the web. The cross section of the size indicator enables the size indicator to be extruded and then cut into sections. The indicators may be printed before or after cutting. This process substantially lowers the cost of producing size indicators as compared to the cost of producing indicators which muse be individually molded. In one embodiment of the invention, a hanger hook is provided which has provisions for receiving either a side sizer cr a top sizer as desiied. This reduces the inventory of hangers required for a garment manufacturer who ships to both types of: retail environments, i.e., retail stores which desire siide eizers, and those who desire top sizers. Alternetely if desired both could be affixed to the hook. In this embodiment, the top sizer is longer than the side sizer to provide greater visibility and visual harmony with other top sizer hangers, although the top web and the side web could be formed to receive the same length of size indicator, thereby allowing the manufacturer to use the same size indicator as either a side sizer or a top sizer. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the apparatus of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where; FIG. 1 ilustrates a first embodiment of a garment hanger of the present invention having a first web at a junction between the hook and body of the garment hanger. first and 2(c) illustrate an end view of a first and second version, respectively, of a first embodiment of a size indicator of the present invention for engaging the first web of PIG. 1. FIG, 2(b) illustrates a top view of the size indicators of FIGS. 2(a) and 2 (c) . FIG. 3 (a) illustrates an enlarged view of the first web of fIg. i. FIG. 3(b) illustrates the enlarged view of the web of PIG, 3a with a si2e indicator secured thereon. FIG. 4 illustrates a partial sectional view of the first web of PIG. 3 as taken along line 4-4 thereof. FIG. 5 illustrates a partial sectional view of the web of FIG. 3. as taken along line 5-5 thereof, the movement of the pivoting latch illustrated therein by a broken line. FIG. 6(a) illustrates a partial sectional view of the web of PIG. 3 as taken along line 5-5 thereof and additionally having the first version of the size indicator secured thereon. FIG. (a) illustrates the first web and first version of the first embodiment of the size indicator of PIG. 6(a) wherein the pivoting latch is being pivoted to release the size indicator therefrom. FIG. 6 (b) illustrates a partial sectional view of the web of PIG. 3 as taken along line 5-5 thereof and additionally having the second version of the size indicator secured thereon. FIG. 7(b> illustrates the first web and second version of the first embodiment of the size indicator of FIG. 6 (b) wherein the pivoting latch is being pivoted to release the size indicator therefrom. FIG. 8 illustrates a second embodiment of a garment hanger cf the present invention having the first web at a junction between the hook and body of the garment hanger and a second web at a top portion of the hook. FIGS. 9(a) and 9(c) illustrate an end view of a first and second version, respectively, of a second embodiment of a size iindication of the the present invention for engaging the second web of FIG. l, FIG. 9(b) illustrates a side view of the size indicators of FIGS. 9 (a) and 9(c). FIG. 10 illustrates an enlarged view of the second web of FIG. 1. FIG. 11 illustrates a third embodiment of a garment hanger of the present invention having the second web at the top portion of the hook. Although this invention is applicable to numerous and various types of hangers, it has been found particularly useful in the environment of garment hangers having a hook for suspending the garment hanger from a display. Therefore, without Limiting the applicability of the invention to these types of hangers, the invention will be described in such environment. Referring now to FIG. 1, there is illustrated a first embodiment: of the garment hanger of the present invention, generally referred to by reference numeral 100a. The garment hanger 100a has a hanging means, such as a hook 102, for supporting the hanger 100a on a display (not shown). The hanger 100a lurcher having a body 104 connected to the hook 102 The body has at least one web 106a for removably securing a first version of a first embodiment of a size indicates 108a (PIG. 2a) to the body 104. In a first- embodiment of the garment hanger of the present invention, illustrated in FIG l, the web 106a is located at a junction between the hook 102 and the body 104. As will be discussed below with regard to PIG. 8, in a second embodiment of the garment hanger of the present invention, generally referred to by reference numeral 100b, the web 106b can be alternatively located at a top portion 102a of the hook 102. Furthermore, as will be discussed below with regard to FIG. 11, in a third embodiment of the garment hanger of the present invention, generally referred to by reference numeral 100c, the web 106b can be alternatively located at both the junction between the hook 102 and the body 104 and at the top portion 102a of the hook 102. Referring Now to FIG. 3a, the web has a fixed latch 110 and a pivoting latch 112. The pivoting latch 112 is preferably located at a central portion of the web 106a and the fixed latch 110 is located on at least one end of the pivoting latch 112. Preferably, the fixed latch no, as shown in FIG. 3 comprises two abutments 110a, 110b located on each end of the pivoting latch 112. As illustrated in FIGS. 4-7, and most clearly in FIGS. 6a and 6b, it is also preferable that the pivoting latch 112 projects from a first side 114 of the web 106a and the fixed latch 110 projects from an opposite side 116 of the web 106a. Referring back to FIG. 3a, the pivoting latch 112 is preferably defined by a slot 118 cut through the web 106a. The slot preferably has a shape defined by at least two sides 118a, 113b. The pivoting latch 112 is further defined by a living hange about by dotted line 120 closing the shape of the slot 118. As shown in FIG. 3a, the slot 118 is preferably substantially two sided 118a, 118b and the living hinge 120 closes the shape of the slot 118 thereby forming a triangular shaped prvoting latch 112. It should be apparent to those skilled in the pivoting latch and the slot defining the shape thereof, can have a variety of shapes, such as rectangular, without departing from the scope or spirit of the presect. invention. Referring now to PIGS. 3a, 3b, and 6a in combination, the pivoting latch 112 preferably has an engagement, means for facilitating movement of the pivoting latch about; arrow A shown in PIGS. 7a and 7b, The engagement means preferably comprises a cantilevered end 122 of the pivoting latch 112 which when a releasing force (F) is applied thereto provides a mechanical advantage for movement of the pivoting latch 112 out of engagement with the size indicator. Simultaneously, the opposite side of the pivoting latch 112 displaces the size indicator such that it no longer engages the fixec. latch 110. Referring now to FIGS. 2a, 2b, and 6a in combination, a first version of the size indicator 108a of the first embodiment generally has a face 124 and two sides 126, 128 depending therefrom to form a generally C-shaped channel 109. Each of the sides 126, 128 terminate in a foremost edge 130, 132 The foremost edges 130, 132 are preferably configured such that the cantilevered end 122 of the pivoting latch 112 is exposed when the size indicator 108a is secured on the web 106a. The size indicator 108a further having finger means 134 for engaging the fixed and pivoting latches 110, 112, respectively/ such that the size indicator 108a is secured on the web during normal use. However, the size indicator 108a is releasabl, ensured on the web 106a such that it may be released from the web 106a when the pivoting latch 112 is pivoted out of engagement with the finger means 134 of the size indicator 108a when the release force (F) is applied. The finger means 134 preferably comprises an inwardly facing ridge 134a., 134b disposed at each of the foremost edges 130, 132 and projecting inwards towards the channel 109 of the size indicator 108a. in an alternative version, a second size indicator of the first embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 2c in which like reference numerals refer to similar features, the second size indicator being referred to generally by reference numeral 111a- The second size indicator 111a has engagement abutment 3 126a and 128a which protrude from the inside of the sides 12 5, 128, respectively, to touch the side walls of the fixed and pivoting latches 110, 112 when secured to the web 106a. As will be discussed below, the size indicator llla further has a pair of spaced projections 124a, 124b projecting from an inner surface of the face 124. Referring back to FIGS. 3a and 6a in combination, the web prereably also has a guard 136 extending across the web 106a and below the size indicator 108a. In a preferred implementation, the guard 136 has a down-turned portion 138 which follows the contours of the cantilevered end 122 to thereby enable access to the edges of the size indicator and the engagement means 122 but prevents inadvertent actuation of the pivoting latch 112. The cantilevered end and engagement means 122 are preferably configured to engage a tool (not shown) used for application of the releasing force (F). The engagement means is preferably a dimple 140 formed on a side of the cantilevered end 122. The tool having a tip substantially conforming to the shape of the dimple 14 0 and having a width such that it is not prevented from engaging the dimple 140 by the guard 136. The web preferably also has an outermost edge 14 2 having an outermost portion 142a of a predetermined cross- • section. The first version of the size indicator 108a having a trough 144 (FIG. 2a) with a mating cross-section substantially configured to receive the outermost portion 142a therein for preventing a lateral movement of the size indicator alonq direction B-B when the size indicator 108a is secured on the web 106a. The preferable predetermined cross- section of both the outermost portion 142a and the trough 144 is substantially rectangular. The second version of the size indicator 111a having first and second spaced projections 124a and 124b, respectively, which project from the inner surface of the face 124. The first and second projections 124a, 124b are space 3 such that the outermost portion 142a is accepted therein when the size indicator 111a is secured on the web 106a to prevent lateral movement of the size indicator 111a along direction B-B (illustrated in FIG. 6a and 6b. The engagement abutments 126a, 128a cooperate with the trough 141 on thefirst and second spaced projections 124a, 124b to prevent side to side movement of the size indicator on the web and contribute to a secure and solid attachment of the size indicator bot the hanger. Referring to FIG. 3b, the web 106a further comprises locating neans for locating the size indicator 108a, 111a in a predetermined position on the web 106a. The locating means preferably comprises first and second guides 146a, 146b disposed adjacent each side edge 148a, 148b of the size indicator 108a, 111a and spaced apart to align the size indicator l08a, 111a therebetween and to center the size indicator 108a, 111a during application thereof on the web 106a. Preferably, the first and second guides 146a, 146b do not extend the full length of the side edges 146a, 148b of the size indicator but define elongate openings 150a, 150b which expose the side edges 148a, 148b of the size indicator. Referring now to FIGS. 6a and 7a, the operation of the garment hanger 100a of the present invention will be explained with regard to size indicator 108a. Size indicator 108a is mounted on the web 106a by sliding it over web 106a in the direction of arrow C. While being mounted in the direction of arrow C, the pivoting latch 112 pivots in the direction of arrow A until the inwardly facing ridges 134a, 134b of finger means 134 pass over the fixed and pivoting ridges ll0, 112a which, the inwardly facing fingers 134a, 134b snap into place in an area defined by the guide 136 and a bottom edge of the fixed and pivoting ridges 110, 112, the area being referenced by reference numeral 152 (illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5). As such, the size indicator 108a is releasably secured on the web 106a. Referring now to FIGS. 6b and 7b, the operation of the ganue it hanger 100a of the present invention will be explained with regard to second version of the first embodiment: of the size indicator 111a. Similar to the manner in which size indicator 108a is mounted, size indicator 111a is mounted on the web 106a by sliding it in the direction of arrow C over web 106b. While being mounted in the direction of arrow C, the pivoting latch 112 pivots in the direction of arrow A until the inwardly facing ridges 134a, 134b of finger means 134 pass over the fixed and pivoting ridges 110, 112. After which, the facing fingers 134a, 134b snap into place in an area defined by the guide 136 and a bottom edge of the fixed and pivoting ridges 110, 112, the area being referenced by reference numeral 152 {illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5) . Simultaneously, the engagement abutments 126a and 128a touch and engage with a face of the fixed and pivoting latches, 110, 112, respectively. As such, the size indicator 11a is releasably secured on the web 106a, To release the size indicators 108a, 111a from the web 106a, a releasing force (F) is applied to the cantilevered end 122 of the pivoting latch 112, preferably by engaging the dimple 140 thereon with a release tool (not shown) . The release force of results in the pivoting latch 112 to pivot about the living hinge 120 in the direction of arrow A. As can be seen in FIGS. 7a and 7b planar side wall of the pivoting Latch 112 causes the inner ridge 134a of the finger means 134 of size indicators 108a, 111a to extend past the furthest extending portion of the fixed latch 110. At this point, the size indicator 108a, 111a may be manually removed from the web 106a. Preferably the size indicators 108a, 111a are fabricated from a resilient material and thereby the sides 126, 12 8 may be slightly biased towards each other. Thus, when the side 126 of the size indicator 108a, 111a extends past the furthest extending portion of the fixed latch 110 the resilient bias of the size indicator 108a, 111a pops the size indicator off of the web automatically, without further manual intervention. Preliminary testing of the releasable size indicators 108a, 111a of the present invention has indicated that a ferce of approximately 25-30 pounds is needed to pull the size indicators from the latches of the web. Thus, the size indicators 111a of the present invention are considered to be child-proof, since industry standards require a minimun force of 15 pounds to pull off a size indicator from a hanger for the size indicator to be considered child-proof. Referring now to FIGS. 8, 9a, 9b. and 10, there is illustrated a second embodiment of the garment hanger of the present invention, generally referred to by reference numeral 100b and in which like reference humeral denote like elements as previously discussed. The garment hanger 100b differs from garment hanger 100a illustrated in FIG. 1 in that a second web 106b is disposed at a top portion 102a of the hook 102. Generally, the second web 106b differs from the first web 106a by the inclusion or first and second pivoting latches 212a, 212b. Referring Now to FIG. 10, the web 106b has a fixed latch 210 and first and second pivoting latches 212a, 212b. The fixed latch 210 is preferably located at a central portion of the web 106b and each of the pivoting latches 212a, 212b is located each end of the fixed latch 210. As with hanger 100a it is preferable that the pivoting latches 212a, 212b project from a first size or thee web 106b and the fixed lateh -210 project from an opposite side of the web 106b. Referring back to FIG. 10, each pivoting latch 212a, 212b is preferrably defined by a slot 218a, 218b cut through the web 106b. Each slot preferably has a triangular shape as discussed above with regard to hanger 100a. Each slot 218a, 218b is deifined by a living hinge, shown by dotted lines 220a, 220b closinq the shape of each slot 218a, 218b. As discussed above with regard to hanger 100a, each pivoting latch 212a, 212b preferably has an engagement means for facilitating movement of the pivoting latch. The engagerment means preferably comprises a cantilevered end 222a, 222b of the pivoting latch 212a, 212b which when the releasing force (F) is applied thereto provides a mechanical advantage for movement of each pivoting latch 212a, 212b out of engagement with a first or second version of a second embodiment of a size indicator 108b, lllb, respectively. Referring now to FIGS. 9a and 9b, in combination, the first vension of the second embodiment of the size indicator 108b generally has a face 224 and two sides 226, 228 depending therefrom to form a. generally C-shaped channel 209. Each of the sides 226, 228 terminate in a foremost edge 230, 232. The foremost edges 230, 232 are preferably configured such that the cantilevered end 222a, 222b of each of the pivoting latches 212a, 212b are exposed when the size indicator 108b is secured on the web 106b. In an alternative version, a second size indicator of the second embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 9c in which like reference numerals refer to similar features, the second size indicator of the second embodiment being referred to generally by referange numeral lllb. The second size indicator lllb has engagement abutments 226a and 22 8a which protrude from the inside of the sides 226, 228, respectively. The first and second size indicators 108b, lllb of the second embodiment further have finger means 234 for engaging the fixed and pivoting latches 210, 212a, and 212b, respectively, such that the size indicators 108b, lllb are secured on the web 106b during normal use. However, the size indicators 108b, lllb are releasably secured on the web 106b such that they may be released from the web 106b when both of the pivoting latches 212a, 212b are pivoted out of engagement with the finger means 234 of the size indicators 108b, lllb when a release force is applied. The finger means 234 preferably comprises inwardly facing ridges 234a, 234b disposed at each of the foremost edges 230, 232 and projecting inwards towards the channel 209 of the size indicators 108b, lllb. Although a size indication can be disposed on either the top or side surfaces of the second size indicators 108b, lllb of the second embodiment, it is preferable that the size indicators 108a, 111a of the first embodiment have the size indication 107 disposed on the face 124 of the size indicator •108a, 111a, and the size indicators 108b, lllb of the second embodiment have the size indication 207 on both sides 226, 228 of the size indicator 108b. lllb. Referring to FIG. 10, the web 106b preferably also has a mounting hedge 236 extending partially across the web 106b and below the size indicator 108b to provide external support for the edges 230, 232 of the size indicator. Each of the cantilevered ends and engagement means 222a, 222b are preferably configured to engage a tool (not shown) used for application of the releasing force (F). The engagement means is preferably a dimple 240a, 240b formed on a side of each of the cantilevered ends 222a, 222b. The tool being configured as described above with regard to hanger 100a. Tne web 106b preferably also has an outermost edge 242 having an outermost portion as described with regard to hanger 100a. The si2e indicator 108b having a trough 244 (PIG. 9a) with a mating cross-section substantially configured to receving the almost portion therein for preventing a lateral movement of the size indicator when the size indicator 108b is secured on the web 106b. The preferable predetermined cross-section of both the outermost portion and the trough 244 ig substantially rectangular. The second version of the second embodiment of the size indicator 111b has first and second spaced projections 224a and 224b, respectively, which project from the inner surface of the face 224. The first and second projections 224a, 224b are spaced such that the outermost portion is accepted cherein when the size indicator 111b is secured on the web 106a to prevent lateral movement of the size indicator lllb along direction B-8. The web 106b further comprises locating means for locating the size indicators 108b, lllb in a predetermined position on the web 106b. The locating means are formed from reenforcing webs of the hanger hook and preferably comprises first and second auides 246a, 246b disposed adjacent each side edge 246a, 248b of the size indicators 108b, lllb and spaced apart to align the size indicators 108b, lllb therebetween and to center the size indicators 108b, lllb during application thereof on the web 106b. The operation of the hanger 100b of the second embodiment of the present invention operates substantially eguivalently to that of the hanger 100a of the first embodiment. It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that both pivoting latches 212a, 212b are pivoted by application of the release force to release the size indicators 108b, lllb from the web 106b. FIG. 11 illustrates a hanger of a third embodiment of the present invention generally referred to by reference numeral 3 00c. The hanger 100c of the third embodiment of the present invention is similar to that of the second embodiment (hanger 10b) with cne exception of the elimination of side sizer weh 106a. While there has been shown and described what is considered to be preferred embodiments of the invention, it will, of course, be understood that various modifications and changes form or detail could readily be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. It is therefore intended that the invention be not limited to the exact forms described and illustrated, but should be constructed to cover all modifications that may fall within the scope of the appended claims. We Claim: 1. A garment hanger having a releasabie size indicator, the garment hanger comprising. a hanging means (102) for suspending the hanger from a support and a body (104) connected to the hanging means; the hanger having a web (106a) for removably securing a size indicator to the hanger, the web having a fixed latch (110) and a pivoting latch (112); and a size indicator (108a, 111a) having finger means (134) for engaging the fixed and pivoting latches such that the size indicator is secured on the web during normal use, but wherein the size indicator may be released from the web when the pivoting latch is pivoted out of engagement with the finger means of the size indicator. 2. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the size indicator comprises an engagement abutment (126a) disposed on an inner surface of the size indicator. 3. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the engagement abutment comprises a first engagement abutment (126a) disposed on a first inner surface of the size indicator and a second engagement abutment (128a) disposed on a second inner wall of the size indicator. 4. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hanging means is a hook and the web is located at a junction between the hook and the body. 5. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hanging means is a hook and the web is located at a top portion of the hook. 6. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pivoting latch is located at a central portion of the web and the fixed latch is located on one end of the pivoting latch. 7. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fixed latch comprises two abutments (110a, 110b) located on each end of the pivoting latch. 8. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 6, wherein the pivoting latch projects from a first side of the web and the fixed latch projects from an opposite side of the web. 9. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pivoting latch is defined by a slot (118) cut through the web, the slot having a shape defined by two sides, the pivoting latch being also defined by a living hinge (120) closing the shape of the slot. 10. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 9, wherein the slot is two sided and the living hinge closes the shape of the slot thereby forming a triangular shaped pivoting latch. 11. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 9, also comprising an engagement means (122) for facilitating movement of the pivoting latch. 12. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 11, wherein the engagement means comprises a cantilevered end of the pivoting latch which when a releasing force is applied thereto provides a mechanical advantage for pivoting the pivoting latch out of engagement with the finger means of the size indicator. 13. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 12, wherein the size indicator has a face (124) and two sides (126, 128) depending therefrom, each of the sides terminating in a foremost edge (130, 132), the foremost edges being configured such that the cantilevered end of the pivoting latch is exposed when the size indicator is secured on the web. 14. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 13, wherein the web also comprises a guard (136) extending across the web and below the size indicator, the guard having a down-turned portion which follows the contours of the cantilevered end to thereby prevent inadvertent access to the engagement means. 15. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 12, wherein the cantilevered end and engagement means are configured to engage a tool used for application of the releasing force. 16. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 15, wherein the engagement means is a dimple (140) formed on a side of the cantilevered end. 17. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the size indicator has a face (124) and two sides depending therefrom (126), 128) defining a channel (109), each of the sides terminating in a foremost edge (130,132). 18. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 17, also comprising an engagement abutment (126a, 128a) disposed on each of an inner surface of the two sides between the face and the foremost edge. 19. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 17, wherein the finger means comprises an inwardly facing ridge (134a, 134b) disposed at each of the foremost edges and projecting inwards towards the channel. . 20, The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the web also comprises locating means (146a, 146b) for locating the size indicator in a predetermined position on the web. 21. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 20, wherein the locating means comprises first and second guides disposed adjacent each side edge of the size indicator and spaced apart to align the size indicator therebetween to center the size indicator during application thereof on the web. 22. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 21, wherein the first and second guides do not extend the full length of the side edge of the size indicator. 23. A size indicator (108, 111a) to be removably secured to a web (106a) of a garment hanger, the size indicator comprising a face (124) and two sides depending therefrom defining a channel (109), each of the sides terminating in a foremost edge (130, 132) the face having a pair of spaced projections (124a, 124b) configured to receive an outermost portion of the web therebetween for preventing a lateral movement of the size indicator when the size indicator is secured on the web, each of the sides having an engagement abutment (126a, 128a) disposed between the face and foremost edge and an inwardly facing ridge (134a, 134b) disposed at each of the foremost edges and projecting inwards towards the channel for engaging a fixed ridge (110) and a pivoting ridge (112) on the web. 24. A garment hanger having a releasable size indicator, the garment hanger comprising: a hanging means (102) for suspending the banger on a support and a body (104) connected to the hanging means; the hanger having a web (106b) for removably securing a size indicator to the hanger, the web having a fixed latch (210) and two pivoting latches (212a, 212b); and a size indicator (108a, 111a) having finger means (134a, 134b) for engaging the fixed and pivoting latches such that the size indicator is secured on the web during normal use, but wherein the size indicator may be released from the web when the pivoting latch is pivoted out of engagement with the finger means of the size indicator. 25. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, also comprising a second pivoting latch (212b). 26. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 24, wherein the size indicator also comprises an engagement abutment (126a, 128a) disposed on an inner surface of the size indicator. 27. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 24, wherein the engagement abutment comprises a first engagement abutment (126a) disposed on a first inner surface of the size indicator and a second engagement abutment (128a) disposed on a second inner wall of the size indicator. 28. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 24, wherein the hanging means is a hook and the web is located at a top portion of the hook. 29. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 24, wherein the fixed latch is located at a central portion of the web and each of the pivoting latches is located on each end of the fixed latch. 30. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 29, wherein each of the pivoting latches project from a first side of the web and the fixed latch projects from an opposite side of the web. 31. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 24, wherein each of the pivoting latches is defined by a slot (218a, 218b) cut through the web, the slot having a shape defined by two sides, each of the pivoting latches being also defined by a living hinge (220a, 220b) closing the shape of the slot, 32. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 31, wherein each slot is two sided and each respective living hinge closes the shape of the slot thereby forming two triangular shaped pivoting latches. 33. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 31, also comprising an engagement means (222a, 222b) for facilitating movement of each of the pivoting latches. A garment hanger having a releasable size indicator, the garment hanger comprising: a hanging means (102) for suspending the hanger from a support and a body (104) connected to the hanging means; the hanger having a web (106a) for removably securing a size indicator to the hanger, the web having a fixed latch (110) and a pivoting latch (112); and a size indicator (108a, 111a) having finger means (134) for engaging the fixed and pivoting latches such that the size indicator is secured on the web during normal use, but wherein the size indicator may be released from the web when the pivoting latch is pivoted out of engagement with the finger means of the size indicator.

Full Text

GARMENT HANGER HAVING A REMOVABLE SIZE INDICATOR
The present invention relates generally to a garment
hanger of the type having a removable size indicator and, more
particularly, to a garment hanger having a size indicator
which may be removed by way of a tool which engages a pivoting
latch.
U.S. Patent 3,949,914 illustrates a hanger with a
modified hook which accepts a size indicator which clips onto
one of the flunges which define the hook structure.
U.S. Patent 4,115,940 illustrates a hanger having a
size indicator or sizing tab which attaches to a tab mounting
member mounted between the hanger hook and the hanger body.
Hangers having size indicators mounted in this position are
generally referred to in the trade as side sizers.
U.S. Patent 4,322,902 illustrates a hanger having a
display portion formed at the top of the hook which may accept
two different types of size indicators. One type fastens to
the display portion like a tie-tac, and the other slips over
the top of the display portion. Hangers having size
indicators; mountea in this position are generally referred to
in the trade as top sizers.
U.S. Patent 5,485,943 is typical of a number of
patents ehich disclose one or more means to prevent
inadvertent removal of the side sizer by blocking access to
the edges of the side sizer, thereby preventing young children
from obtaining "finger purchase" on the edge of the side sizer
to pry it off.
U.S. Patents 5,469,995; 5,778,575; 5,469,995;
5096,101; 5 950,883; 5,683,018; 5,642,840; 5,611,469; and
5,407,105" all illustrate hangers having various means to make
the side sizer "substantially unremovable" or "irremovable"
once the sizing tab engages the tab holder on the hanger. The
intent is to make the hanger and sizing system "child proof",
and thereby prrvent a clild from inadvertently removing the
tab, and swallowing or choking on the side sizer.
U.S. Patent 5,449,099 is one of several patents on a
hanger and side sizer system that provides a tool for removing
the side sizer if it is inadvertently applied, or if the
hanger is later used to hang a garment of a different size.
Multiple cuts are provided through the security rib and the
attachment, member to enable a special tool to pry the
indicator from the hanger.
U.S. Patent 5,687,887 illustrates another design for
a hanger and side sizer that enables a special tool to slide
through cuts in the security rib and thereby remove the side
sizer.
U.S. Patent 5,794,363 illustrates a hanger hook
adapted to top sizer, which hanger hook, has a
resiliernt detent engagement means for securing the top sizer
which erables the top sizer to be automatically removed for
re-use of the hanger.
It is an object of the present invention to provide
a garment hanger with a novel size indicator and indicator
attachment mechanism.
It is a further object of the present invention to
provide a garment hanger with a removable size indicator.
rt ia yet a further object of the present invention
to provide a garment manger with removable size indicator

that may be mounted on the top of the hook or at the side of
the hook.
It is still yet a further object of the present
invention to provide a garment hanger with a removable size
indicator that is securely affixed to the hanger during use,
and is thereby "child proof, yet which may be quickly and
easily removed with a tool when it is desired to re-use the
hanger with garment of a different size.
Accordingly, a garment hanger having a removable
size indicator is provided. The garment hanger comprises: a
hanging leans for suspending the hanger on a support and a
body contected to the hanging means,- the hanger having at
least one web for removably securing a size indicator to the
hanger, the web having a fixed latch and a pivoting latch; and
a size indicator having finger means for engaging the fixed
and pivcting latches such that the size indicator is secured
on the web, wherein the size indicator is released from the
web wher the pivoting latch is pivoted out of engagement with
the finger means of the size indicator.
In a preferred implementation of the garment hanger
of the. present invention, the size indicator further comprises
at least, one engagement abutment disposed on an inner surface
of the size indicator More preferably, the at least one
engagement abutment comprises a first engagement abutment
disposed on a first inner surface of the size indicator and a
second engagement abutment disposed on a second inner wall of
the size indicator.
In another preferred implementation of the garment
hanger of the present invention, the hanging means is a hook
and the web is located at either, a junction between the hook
and the body, at a top portion of the hook, or at both
locations.
In yet another preferred implementation of the
garment hanger of the present invention, the pivoting, latch is
located st a central portion of the web and the fixed latch is
located on at least one end of the pivoting latch.
Preferably, the fixed latch is located on each end of the
pivoting latch,, with the pivoting latch projecting from a
first size of the web and the fixed latch projecting from an
opposite side of the web.
in still yet another preferred implementation of the
garment ranger of the present invention, the pivoting latch is
defined by a slot cut through the web, the slot having a shape
defined by at least two sides, the pivoting latch being
further defined by a living hinge closing the shape of the
slot. Preferablv. the slot is two sided and the living hinge
closes tne shape of the slot thereby forming a triangular
shaped pivoting latch. The pivoting latch further having an
engagement means for facilitating the pivoting of the pivoting
latch. Preferably, the engagement means comprises a
cantilevered end of the pivoting latch which when a releasing
force is applied thereto provides a mechanical advantage for
pivoting the pivoting latch out of engagement with at least
one engagement .butment and finger means of the size
indicator the wee rurther has a guard extending across the
web and below the size indicator, the guard having a down-
turned portion which follows the contours of the cantilevered
end. The guard protects the cantilevered end from inadvertent
actuatic The cantileveredend preferably has engagement
means adapted to receive a tool used for application of the
releasing force. The engagement means is preferably a dimple
formed on a side of the cantilevered end.
In a preferred implementation of the garment hanger
of the present invention, the size indicator preferably has a
face and two sides depending therefrom, each of the sides
terminating in a foremost edge, the foremost edges being
configured such that the cantilevered end of the pivoting

latch is exposed when the size indicator is secured on the
web. The finger means of the size indicator preferably
comprises an inwardly facing ridge disposed at each of the
foremost and projecting inwards towards the channel.
The at least one engagement abutment is preferably disposed on
each of an inner surface of the two sides between the face and
the foremost edge.
In yet another preferred implementation of the
garment hanger of the present invention, the web further
comprisess an outermost edge having an outermost portion of a
predetermined cross-section, the size indicator having a pair
of spaced projections projecting from an inner surface of the
face and substantially configured to receive an outermost
portion of the web therebetween for preventing a lateral
movement of the size indicator when the size indicator is
secured on the web.
In still yet another preferred implementation of the
garment hanger of the present invention, the web further
comprises locating quides for locating the size indicator in a
predetermined position on the web. The locating guides
preferably comprise first and second guides disposed on each
of the side edges of the size indicator and spaced apart to
fit the size indicator therein to center the size indicator
between the guides when it is applied. Preferably each of the
first and second guides do not extend the full length of the
side of the size indicator.
still yet provided is a size indicator to be
removabLy secured to a web of a garment hanger. The size
indicator comprises a face and two sides depending therefrom
defining a channel, each of the sides terminating in a
foremost edge inner surface of the face having a pair of
spaced projections substantially configured to receive an
outermost, portion of the web therebetween for preventing a
lateral movement of the size indicator when the size indicator
is secured on the web. Each of the sides have at least one
engagement amounted disposed between the face and foremost
edge and an inwardly facing ridge disposed at each of the
foremost edges and projecting inwards cowards the channel for
engaging a fixed ridge and a pivoting ridge on the web. The
cross section of the size indicator enables the size indicator
to be extruded and then cut into sections. The indicators may
be printed before or after cutting. This process
substantially lowers the cost of producing size indicators as
compared to the cost of producing indicators which muse be
individually molded.
In one embodiment of the invention, a hanger hook is
provided which has provisions for receiving either a side
sizer cr a top sizer as desiied. This reduces the inventory
of hangers required for a garment manufacturer who ships to
both types of: retail environments, i.e., retail stores which
desire siide eizers, and those who desire top sizers.
Alternetely if desired both could be affixed to the hook.
In this embodiment, the top sizer is longer than the side
sizer to provide greater visibility and visual harmony with
other top sizer hangers, although the top web and the side web
could be formed to receive the same length of size indicator,
thereby allowing the manufacturer to use the same size
indicator as either a side sizer or a top sizer.
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of
the apparatus of the present invention will become better
understood with regard to the following description, appended
claims, and accompanying drawings where;
FIG. 1 ilustrates a first embodiment of a garment
hanger of the present invention having a first web at a
junction between the hook and body of the garment hanger.
first and 2(c) illustrate an end view of a
first and second version, respectively, of a first embodiment

of a size indicator of the present invention for engaging the
first web of PIG. 1.
FIG, 2(b) illustrates a top view of the size
indicators of FIGS. 2(a) and 2 (c) .
FIG. 3 (a) illustrates an enlarged view of the first
web of fIg. i.
FIG. 3(b) illustrates the enlarged view of the web
of PIG, 3a with a si2e indicator secured thereon.
FIG. 4 illustrates a partial sectional view of the
first web of PIG. 3 as taken along line 4-4 thereof.
FIG. 5 illustrates a partial sectional view of the
web of FIG. 3. as taken along line 5-5 thereof, the movement
of the pivoting latch illustrated therein by a broken line.
FIG. 6(a) illustrates a partial sectional view of
the web of PIG. 3 as taken along line 5-5 thereof and
additionally having the first version of the size indicator
secured thereon.
FIG. (a) illustrates the first web and first
version of the first embodiment of the size indicator of PIG.
6(a) wherein the pivoting latch is being pivoted to release
the size indicator therefrom.
FIG. 6 (b) illustrates a partial sectional view of
the web of PIG. 3 as taken along line 5-5 thereof and
additionally having the second version of the size indicator
secured thereon.
FIG. 7(b> illustrates the first web and second
version of the first embodiment of the size indicator of FIG.
6 (b) wherein the pivoting latch is being pivoted to release
the size indicator therefrom.
FIG. 8 illustrates a second embodiment of a garment
hanger cf the present invention having the first web at a
junction between the hook and body of the garment hanger and a
second web at a top portion of the hook.
FIGS. 9(a) and 9(c) illustrate an end view of a
first and second version, respectively, of a second embodiment
of a size iindication of the the present invention for engaging the
second web of FIG. l,
FIG. 9(b) illustrates a side view of the size
indicators of FIGS. 9 (a) and 9(c).
FIG. 10 illustrates an enlarged view of the second
web of FIG. 1.
FIG. 11 illustrates a third embodiment of a garment
hanger of the present invention having the second web at the
top portion of the hook.
Although this invention is applicable to numerous
and various types of hangers, it has been found particularly
useful in the environment of garment hangers having a hook for
suspending the garment hanger from a display. Therefore,
without Limiting the applicability of the invention to these
types of hangers, the invention will be described in such
environment.
Referring now to FIG. 1, there is illustrated a
first embodiment: of the garment hanger of the present
invention, generally referred to by reference numeral 100a.
The garment hanger 100a has a hanging means, such as a hook
102, for supporting the hanger 100a on a display (not shown).
The hanger 100a lurcher having a body 104 connected to the
hook 102 The body has at least one web 106a for removably
securing a first version of a first embodiment of a size
indicates 108a (PIG. 2a) to the body 104. In a first-
embodiment of the garment hanger of the present invention,
illustrated in FIG l, the web 106a is located at a junction
between the hook 102 and the body 104. As will be discussed
below with regard to PIG. 8, in a second embodiment of the
garment hanger of the present invention, generally referred to
by reference numeral 100b, the web 106b can be alternatively
located at a top portion 102a of the hook 102. Furthermore,
as will be discussed below with regard to FIG. 11, in a third
embodiment of the garment hanger of the present invention,
generally referred to by reference numeral 100c, the web 106b
can be alternatively located at both the junction between the
hook 102 and the body 104 and at the top portion 102a of the
hook 102.
Referring Now to FIG. 3a, the web has a fixed latch
110 and a pivoting latch 112. The pivoting latch 112 is
preferably located at a central portion of the web 106a and
the fixed latch 110 is located on at least one end of the
pivoting latch 112. Preferably, the fixed latch no, as shown
in FIG. 3 comprises two abutments 110a, 110b located on each
end of the pivoting latch 112. As illustrated in FIGS. 4-7,
and most clearly in FIGS. 6a and 6b, it is also preferable
that the pivoting latch 112 projects from a first side 114 of
the web 106a and the fixed latch 110 projects from an opposite
side 116 of the web 106a.
Referring back to FIG. 3a, the pivoting latch 112 is
preferably defined by a slot 118 cut through the web 106a.
The slot preferably has a shape defined by at least two sides
118a, 113b. The pivoting latch 112 is further defined by a
living hange about by dotted line 120 closing the shape of
the slot 118. As shown in FIG. 3a, the slot 118 is preferably
substantially two sided 118a, 118b and the living hinge 120
closes the shape of the slot 118 thereby forming a triangular
shaped prvoting latch 112. It should be apparent to those
skilled in the pivoting latch and the slot
defining the shape thereof, can have a variety of shapes, such
as rectangular, without departing from the scope or spirit of
the presect. invention.
Referring now to PIGS. 3a, 3b, and 6a in
combination, the pivoting latch 112 preferably has an
engagement, means for facilitating movement of the pivoting
latch about; arrow A shown in PIGS. 7a and 7b, The engagement
means preferably comprises a cantilevered end 122 of the
pivoting latch 112 which when a releasing force (F) is applied
thereto provides a mechanical advantage for movement of the
pivoting latch 112 out of engagement with the size indicator.
Simultaneously, the opposite side of the pivoting latch 112
displaces the size indicator such that it no longer engages
the fixec. latch 110.
Referring now to FIGS. 2a, 2b, and 6a in
combination, a first version of the size indicator 108a of the
first embodiment generally has a face 124 and two sides 126,
128 depending therefrom to form a generally C-shaped channel
109. Each of the sides 126, 128 terminate in a foremost edge
130, 132 The foremost edges 130, 132 are preferably
configured such that the cantilevered end 122 of the pivoting
latch 112 is exposed when the size indicator 108a is secured
on the web 106a.
The size indicator 108a further having finger means 134 for
engaging the fixed and pivoting latches 110, 112,
respectively/ such that the size indicator 108a is secured on
the web during normal use. However, the size indicator 108a
is releasabl, ensured on the web 106a such that it may be
released from the web 106a when the pivoting latch 112 is
pivoted out of engagement with the finger means 134 of the
size indicator 108a when the release force (F) is applied.
The finger means 134 preferably comprises an inwardly facing
ridge 134a., 134b disposed at each of the foremost edges 130,
132 and projecting inwards towards the channel 109 of the size
indicator 108a.
in an alternative version, a second size indicator
of the first embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 2c in which
like reference numerals refer to similar features, the second
size indicator being referred to generally by reference
numeral 111a- The second size indicator 111a has engagement
abutment 3 126a and 128a which protrude from the inside of the
sides 12 5, 128, respectively, to touch the side walls of the
fixed and pivoting latches 110, 112 when secured to the web
106a. As will be discussed below, the size indicator llla
further has a pair of spaced projections 124a, 124b projecting
from an inner surface of the face 124.
Referring back to FIGS. 3a and 6a in combination,
the web prereably also has a guard 136 extending across the
web 106a and below the size indicator 108a. In a preferred
implementation, the guard 136 has a down-turned portion 138
which follows the contours of the cantilevered end 122 to
thereby enable access to the edges of the size indicator and
the engagement means 122 but prevents inadvertent actuation of
the pivoting latch 112. The cantilevered end and engagement
means 122 are preferably configured to engage a tool (not
shown) used for application of the releasing force (F). The
engagement means is preferably a dimple 140 formed on a side
of the cantilevered end 122. The tool having a tip
substantially conforming to the shape of the dimple 14 0 and
having a width such that it is not prevented from engaging the
dimple 140 by the guard 136.
The web preferably also has an outermost edge 14 2
having an outermost portion 142a of a predetermined cross- •
section. The first version of the size indicator 108a having
a trough 144 (FIG. 2a) with a mating cross-section
substantially configured to receive the outermost portion 142a
therein for preventing a lateral movement of the size
indicator alonq direction B-B when the size indicator 108a is
secured on the web 106a. The preferable predetermined cross-
section of both the outermost portion 142a and the trough 144
is substantially rectangular. The second version of the size
indicator 111a having first and second spaced projections 124a
and 124b, respectively, which project from the inner surface
of the face 124. The first and second projections 124a, 124b
are space 3 such that the outermost portion 142a is accepted
therein when the size indicator 111a is secured on the web
106a to prevent lateral movement of the size indicator 111a
along direction B-B (illustrated in FIG. 6a and 6b.
The engagement abutments 126a, 128a cooperate with
the trough 141 on thefirst and second spaced projections
124a, 124b to prevent side to side movement of the size
indicator on the web and contribute to a secure and solid
attachment of the size indicator bot the hanger.
Referring to FIG. 3b, the web 106a further comprises
locating neans for locating the size indicator 108a, 111a in a
predetermined position on the web 106a. The locating means
preferably comprises first and second guides 146a, 146b
disposed adjacent each side edge 148a, 148b of the size
indicator 108a, 111a and spaced apart to align the size
indicator l08a, 111a therebetween and to center the size
indicator 108a, 111a during application thereof on the web
106a. Preferably, the first and second guides 146a, 146b do
not extend the full length of the side edges 146a, 148b of the
size indicator but define elongate openings 150a, 150b which
expose the side edges 148a, 148b of the size indicator.
Referring now to FIGS. 6a and 7a, the operation of
the garment hanger 100a of the present invention will be
explained with regard to size indicator 108a. Size indicator
108a is mounted on the web 106a by sliding it over web 106a in
the direction of arrow C. While being mounted in the
direction of arrow C, the pivoting latch 112 pivots in the
direction of arrow A until the inwardly facing ridges 134a,
134b of finger means 134 pass over the fixed and pivoting
ridges ll0, 112a which, the inwardly facing fingers
134a, 134b snap into place in an area defined by the guide 136
and a bottom edge of the fixed and pivoting ridges 110, 112,
the area being referenced by reference numeral 152
(illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5). As such, the size indicator
108a is releasably secured on the web 106a.
Referring now to FIGS. 6b and 7b, the operation of
the ganue it hanger 100a of the present invention will be
explained with regard to second version of the first
embodiment: of the size indicator 111a. Similar to the manner
in which size indicator 108a is mounted, size indicator 111a
is mounted on the web 106a by sliding it in the direction of
arrow C over web 106b. While being mounted in the direction
of arrow C, the pivoting latch 112 pivots in the direction of
arrow A until the inwardly facing ridges 134a, 134b of finger
means 134 pass over the fixed and pivoting ridges 110, 112.
After which, the facing fingers 134a, 134b snap into
place in an area defined by the guide 136 and a bottom edge of
the fixed and pivoting ridges 110, 112, the area being
referenced by reference numeral 152 {illustrated in FIGS. 4
and 5) . Simultaneously, the engagement abutments 126a and
128a touch and engage with a face of the fixed and pivoting
latches, 110, 112, respectively. As such, the size indicator
11a is releasably secured on the web 106a,
To release the size indicators 108a, 111a from the
web 106a, a releasing force (F) is applied to the cantilevered
end 122 of the pivoting latch 112, preferably by engaging the
dimple 140 thereon with a release tool (not shown) . The
release force of results in the pivoting latch 112 to pivot
about the living hinge 120 in the direction of arrow A. As
can be seen in FIGS. 7a and 7b planar side wall of the
pivoting Latch 112 causes the inner ridge 134a of the finger
means 134 of size indicators 108a, 111a to extend past the
furthest extending portion of the fixed latch 110. At this
point, the size indicator 108a, 111a may be manually removed
from the web 106a.
Preferably the size indicators 108a, 111a are
fabricated from a resilient material and thereby the sides
126, 12 8 may be slightly biased towards each other. Thus,
when the side 126 of the size indicator 108a, 111a extends
past the furthest extending portion of the fixed latch 110 the
resilient bias of the size indicator 108a, 111a pops the size
indicator off of the web automatically, without further manual
intervention.
Preliminary testing of the releasable size
indicators 108a, 111a of the present invention has indicated
that a ferce of approximately 25-30 pounds is needed to pull
the size indicators from the latches of the web. Thus, the
size indicators 111a of the present invention are
considered to be child-proof, since industry standards require
a minimun force of 15 pounds to pull off a size indicator from
a hanger for the size indicator to be considered child-proof.
Referring now to FIGS. 8, 9a, 9b. and 10, there is
illustrated a second embodiment of the garment hanger of the
present invention, generally referred to by reference numeral
100b and in which like reference humeral denote like elements
as previously discussed. The garment hanger 100b differs from
garment hanger 100a illustrated in FIG. 1 in that a second web
106b is disposed at a top portion 102a of the hook 102.
Generally, the second web 106b differs from the first web 106a
by the inclusion or first and second pivoting latches 212a,
212b.
Referring Now to FIG. 10, the web 106b has a fixed
latch 210 and first and second pivoting latches 212a, 212b.
The fixed latch 210 is preferably located at a central portion
of the web 106b and each of the pivoting latches 212a, 212b is
located each end of the fixed latch 210. As with hanger 100a
it is preferable that the pivoting latches 212a, 212b project
from a first size or thee web 106b and the fixed lateh -210
project from an opposite side of the web 106b.
Referring back to FIG. 10, each pivoting latch 212a,
212b is preferrably defined by a slot 218a, 218b cut through
the web 106b. Each slot preferably has a triangular shape as
discussed above with regard to hanger 100a. Each slot 218a,
218b is deifined by a living hinge, shown by dotted lines 220a,
220b closinq the shape of each slot 218a, 218b.
As discussed above with regard to hanger 100a, each
pivoting latch 212a, 212b preferably has an engagement means
for facilitating movement of the pivoting latch. The
engagerment means preferably comprises a cantilevered end 222a,
222b of the pivoting latch 212a, 212b which when the releasing
force (F) is applied thereto provides a mechanical advantage
for movement of each pivoting latch 212a, 212b out of
engagement with a first or second version of a second
embodiment of a size indicator 108b, lllb, respectively.
Referring now to FIGS. 9a and 9b, in combination,
the first vension of the second embodiment of the size
indicator 108b generally has a face 224 and two sides 226, 228
depending therefrom to form a. generally C-shaped channel 209.
Each of the sides 226, 228 terminate in a foremost edge 230,
232. The foremost edges 230, 232 are preferably configured
such that the cantilevered end 222a, 222b of each of the
pivoting latches 212a, 212b are exposed when the size
indicator 108b is secured on the web 106b.
In an alternative version, a second size indicator
of the second embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 9c in which
like reference numerals refer to similar features, the second
size indicator of the second embodiment being referred to
generally by referange numeral lllb. The second size
indicator lllb has engagement abutments 226a and 22 8a which
protrude from the inside of the sides 226, 228, respectively.
The first and second size indicators 108b, lllb of
the second embodiment further have finger means 234 for
engaging the fixed and pivoting latches 210, 212a, and 212b,
respectively, such that the size indicators 108b, lllb are
secured on the web 106b during normal use. However, the size
indicators 108b, lllb are releasably secured on the web 106b
such that they may be released from the web 106b when both of
the pivoting latches 212a, 212b are pivoted out of engagement
with the finger means 234 of the size indicators 108b, lllb
when a release force is applied. The finger means 234
preferably comprises inwardly facing ridges 234a, 234b
disposed at each of the foremost edges 230, 232 and projecting
inwards towards the channel 209 of the size indicators 108b,
lllb.
Although a size indication can be disposed on either
the top or side surfaces of the second size indicators 108b,
lllb of the second embodiment, it is preferable that the size
indicators 108a, 111a of the first embodiment have the size
indication 107 disposed on the face 124 of the size indicator
•108a, 111a, and the size indicators 108b, lllb of the second
embodiment have the size indication 207 on both sides 226, 228
of the size indicator 108b. lllb.
Referring to FIG. 10, the web 106b preferably also
has a mounting hedge 236 extending partially across the web
106b and below the size indicator 108b to provide external
support for the edges 230, 232 of the size indicator. Each of
the cantilevered ends and engagement means 222a, 222b are
preferably configured to engage a tool (not shown) used for
application of the releasing force (F). The engagement means
is preferably a dimple 240a, 240b formed on a side of each of
the cantilevered ends 222a, 222b. The tool being configured
as described above with regard to hanger 100a.
Tne web 106b preferably also has an outermost edge
242 having an outermost portion as described with regard to
hanger 100a. The si2e indicator 108b having a trough 244
(PIG. 9a) with a mating cross-section substantially configured
to receving the almost portion therein for preventing a
lateral movement of the size indicator when the size indicator
108b is secured on the web 106b. The preferable predetermined
cross-section of both the outermost portion and the trough 244
ig substantially rectangular. The second version of the
second embodiment of the size indicator 111b has first and
second spaced projections 224a and 224b, respectively, which
project from the inner surface of the face 224. The first and
second projections 224a, 224b are spaced such that the
outermost portion is accepted cherein when the size indicator
111b is secured on the web 106a to prevent lateral movement of
the size indicator lllb along direction B-8.
The web 106b further comprises locating means for
locating the size indicators 108b, lllb in a predetermined
position on the web 106b. The locating means are formed from
reenforcing webs of the hanger hook and preferably comprises
first and second auides 246a, 246b disposed adjacent each side
edge 246a, 248b of the size indicators 108b, lllb and spaced
apart to align the size indicators 108b, lllb therebetween and
to center the size indicators 108b, lllb during application
thereof on the web 106b.
The operation of the hanger 100b of the second
embodiment of the present invention operates substantially
eguivalently to that of the hanger 100a of the first
embodiment. It should be apparent to those skilled in the art
that both pivoting latches 212a, 212b are pivoted by
application of the release force to release the size
indicators 108b, lllb from the web 106b.
FIG. 11 illustrates a hanger of a third embodiment
of the present invention generally referred to by reference
numeral 3 00c. The hanger 100c of the third embodiment of the
present invention is similar to that of the second embodiment
(hanger 10b) with cne exception of the elimination of side
sizer weh 106a.
While there has been shown and described what is
considered to be preferred embodiments of the invention, it
will, of course, be understood that various modifications and
changes form or detail could readily be made without
departing from the spirit of the invention. It is therefore
intended that the invention be not limited to the exact forms
described and illustrated, but should be constructed to cover
all modifications that may fall within the scope of the
appended claims.
We Claim:
1. A garment hanger having a releasabie size indicator, the garment
hanger comprising.
a hanging means (102) for suspending the hanger from a support
and a body (104) connected to the hanging means;
the hanger having a web (106a) for removably securing a size
indicator to the hanger, the web having a fixed latch (110) and a
pivoting latch (112); and
a size indicator (108a, 111a) having finger means (134) for
engaging the fixed and pivoting latches such that the size indicator
is secured on the web during normal use, but wherein the size
indicator may be released from the web when the pivoting latch is
pivoted out of engagement with the finger means of the size
indicator.
2. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the size
indicator comprises an engagement abutment (126a) disposed on
an inner surface of the size indicator.
3. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the
engagement abutment comprises a first engagement abutment
(126a) disposed on a first inner surface of the size indicator and a
second engagement abutment (128a) disposed on a second inner
wall of the size indicator.
4. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hanging
means is a hook and the web is located at a junction between the
hook and the body.
5. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the hanging
means is a hook and the web is located at a top portion of the hook.
6. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pivoting
latch is located at a central portion of the web and the fixed latch is
located on one end of the pivoting latch.
7. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fixed latch
comprises two abutments (110a, 110b) located on each end of the
pivoting latch.
8. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 6, wherein the pivoting
latch projects from a first side of the web and the fixed latch
projects from an opposite side of the web.
9. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pivoting
latch is defined by a slot (118) cut through the web, the slot having
a shape defined by two sides, the pivoting latch being also defined
by a living hinge (120) closing the shape of the slot.
10. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 9, wherein the slot is two
sided and the living hinge closes the shape of the slot thereby
forming a triangular shaped pivoting latch.
11. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 9, also comprising an
engagement means (122) for facilitating movement of the pivoting
latch.
12. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 11, wherein the
engagement means comprises a cantilevered end of the pivoting
latch which when a releasing force is applied thereto provides a
mechanical advantage for pivoting the pivoting latch out of
engagement with the finger means of the size indicator.
13. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 12, wherein the size
indicator has a face (124) and two sides (126, 128) depending
therefrom, each of the sides terminating in a foremost edge (130,
132), the foremost edges being configured such that the
cantilevered end of the pivoting latch is exposed when the size
indicator is secured on the web.
14. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 13, wherein the web also
comprises a guard (136) extending across the web and below the
size indicator, the guard having a down-turned portion which
follows the contours of the cantilevered end to thereby prevent
inadvertent access to the engagement means.
15. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 12, wherein the
cantilevered end and engagement means are configured to engage
a tool used for application of the releasing force.
16. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 15, wherein the
engagement means is a dimple (140) formed on a side of the
cantilevered end.
17. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the size
indicator has a face (124) and two sides depending therefrom
(126), 128) defining a channel (109), each of the sides terminating
in a foremost edge (130,132).
18. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 17, also comprising an
engagement abutment (126a, 128a) disposed on each of an inner
surface of the two sides between the face and the foremost edge.
19. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 17, wherein the finger
means comprises an inwardly facing ridge (134a, 134b) disposed at
each of the foremost edges and projecting inwards towards the
channel.
. 20, The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, wherein the web also
comprises locating means (146a, 146b) for locating the size
indicator in a predetermined position on the web.
21. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 20, wherein the locating
means comprises first and second guides disposed adjacent each
side edge of the size indicator and spaced apart to align the size
indicator therebetween to center the size indicator during
application thereof on the web.
22. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 21, wherein the first and
second guides do not extend the full length of the side edge of the
size indicator.
23. A size indicator (108, 111a) to be removably secured to a web
(106a) of a garment hanger, the size indicator comprising a face
(124) and two sides depending therefrom defining a channel (109),
each of the sides terminating in a foremost edge (130, 132) the face
having a pair of spaced projections (124a, 124b) configured to
receive an outermost portion of the web therebetween for
preventing a lateral movement of the size indicator when the size
indicator is secured on the web, each of the sides having an
engagement abutment (126a, 128a) disposed between the face and
foremost edge and an inwardly facing ridge (134a, 134b) disposed
at each of the foremost edges and projecting inwards towards the
channel for engaging a fixed ridge (110) and a pivoting ridge (112)
on the web.
24. A garment hanger having a releasable size indicator, the garment
hanger comprising:
a hanging means (102) for suspending the banger on a support and
a body (104) connected to the hanging means;
the hanger having a web (106b) for removably securing a size
indicator to the hanger, the web having a fixed latch (210) and two
pivoting latches (212a, 212b); and
a size indicator (108a, 111a) having finger means (134a, 134b) for
engaging the fixed and pivoting latches such that the size indicator
is secured on the web during normal use, but wherein the size
indicator may be released from the web when the pivoting latch is
pivoted out of engagement with the finger means of the size
indicator.
25. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 1, also comprising a
second pivoting latch (212b).
26. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 24, wherein the size
indicator also comprises an engagement abutment (126a, 128a)
disposed on an inner surface of the size indicator.
27. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 24, wherein the
engagement abutment comprises a first engagement abutment
(126a) disposed on a first inner surface of the size indicator and a
second engagement abutment (128a) disposed on a second inner
wall of the size indicator.
28. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 24, wherein the hanging
means is a hook and the web is located at a top portion of the hook.
29. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 24, wherein the fixed latch
is located at a central portion of the web and each of the pivoting
latches is located on each end of the fixed latch.
30. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 29, wherein each of the
pivoting latches project from a first side of the web and the fixed
latch projects from an opposite side of the web.
31. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 24, wherein each of the
pivoting latches is defined by a slot (218a, 218b) cut through the
web, the slot having a shape defined by two sides, each of the
pivoting latches being also defined by a living hinge (220a, 220b)
closing the shape of the slot,
32. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 31, wherein each slot is
two sided and each respective living hinge closes the shape of the
slot thereby forming two triangular shaped pivoting latches.
33. The garment hanger as claimed in claim 31, also comprising an
engagement means (222a, 222b) for facilitating movement of each
of the pivoting latches.
A garment hanger having a releasable size indicator, the garment hanger
comprising: a hanging means (102) for suspending the hanger from a
support and a body (104) connected to the hanging means; the hanger
having a web (106a) for removably securing a size indicator to the
hanger, the web having a fixed latch (110) and a pivoting latch (112); and
a size indicator (108a, 111a) having finger means (134) for engaging the
fixed and pivoting latches such that the size indicator is secured on the
web during normal use, but wherein the size indicator may be released
from the web when the pivoting latch is pivoted out of engagement with
the finger means of the size indicator.

Documents:

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-abstract.pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-claims.pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-correspondence.pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-description (complete).pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-examination report.pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-form 1.pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-form 18.pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-form 2.pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-form 26.pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-form 3.pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-form 5.pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-letter patent.pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-reply to examination report.pdf

in-pct-2002-887-kol-granted-specification.pdf

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Patent Number

214287

Indian Patent Application Number

IN/PCT/2002/887/KOL

PG Journal Number

06/2008

Publication Date

08-Feb-2008

Grant Date

07-Feb-2008

Date of Filing

02-Jul-2002

Name of Patentee

SPOTLESS PLASTICS PTY. LTD.,

Applicant Address

20-26, SULLIVAN STREET, MOORABBIN, VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA, AN AUSTRALIAN COMPANY.

Inventors:

#	Inventor's Name	Inventor's Address
1	GOULDSON STANLEY F	10 HARBOUR POINT DRIVE, NORTHPORT, N.Y.11768, U.S.A
2	OLK OLAF	729 HOFFMAN LANE, HAUPPAUGE, N.Y.11788, U.S.A.

PCT International Classification Number

A47G 25/14

PCT International Application Number

PCT/US00/13357

PCT International Filing date

2000-05-15

PCT Conventions:

#	PCT Application Number	Date of Convention	Priority Country
1	09/479,170	2000-01-07	U.S.A.