Clothes drying rack

Abstract

The present invention relates to a clothes drying rack that can be deployed between a retracted position within a building, such as an apartment building, and a deployed position outside the building for hanging clothes to dry. The clothes drying rack comprises mounting means for mounting the rack to a building, preferably an exterior wall, a clothes drying device or clothes line, and support means for allowing the clothes line to be moved in a sliding manner to the deployed position, and further allowing the clothes drying device to be moved between an upper position, in which the clothes drying device is aligned with a window, thereby allowing the clothes drying device to be retracted into the window, and a lower position, in which the clothes drying device is located below the lower edge of the window, thereby allowing the window to be closed.

Description

[0001] This invention is a divisional application of Chinese patent application No. 201980057836.6, filed on September 5, 2019 (PCT application No. PCT / AU2019 / 050950, priority: AU2018903358, priority date: September 7, 2018), and the invention is named "Clothes Rack". Technical Field

[0002] The invention relates to a clothes drying rack, in particular to a clothes drying rack suitable for high-rise apartments.

[0003] The invention has been initially developed for use in / with high-rise apartments and will be described below. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use. Background Art

[0004] Currently, hanging laundry can be problematic in high-density residential areas, such as apartment buildings. In some areas, such as Singapore, many apartments have tubular support structures installed on the exterior walls and beneath the windows. Washed laundry is typically spaced apart on a hanging rod. This rod is then extended out the window and manually attached to the tubular support structure. However, tilting a loaded hanging rod out of an apartment window can be dangerous, especially for those with weaker bodies. There have been reports of people falling out of windows while performing this task.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a clothes drying rack that will overcome or substantially improve at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or at least provide an alternative solution.

[0006] It should be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the present invention may be considered as a clothes drying rack for hanging clothes from a building comprising a window and an exterior wall extending below the window, the clothes drying rack comprising:

[0008] a mounting device configured to securely mount the clothes drying rack on a fixed structure;

[0009] b. a supporting device, the supporting device being configured to support the elongated horizontal sliding member in a horizontal sliding manner;

[0010] c. A clothing hanging device for hanging clothing, wherein the hanging device comprises an elongated horizontal sliding member, and the elongated horizontal sliding member is configured to be supported by the supporting device in a sliding manner.

[0011] In one embodiment, the mounting device is configured for securely mounting the clothes drying rack to an exterior wall of a building.

[0012] In one embodiment, the mounting device is configured to securely mount the clothes drying rack to a ceiling inside a building.

[0013] In one embodiment, the support means is a support frame.

[0014] In one embodiment, the mounting means is a wall mount.

[0015] In one embodiment, the clothes hanging device comprises at least one or more clothes lines.

[0016] In one embodiment, the mounting device is configured for mounting to at least one or more tubular structures extending from an exterior wall.

[0017] In one embodiment, the mounting device includes a locking or safety mechanism to lock the mounting device to at least one or more tubular structures.

[0018] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a threaded screw that can be tightened or moved to securely engage the at least one or more tubular structures.

[0019] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises one or more U-bolts for coupling one or more tubular structures.

[0020] In one embodiment, the mounting device is configured to be bolted to an exterior wall.

[0021] In one embodiment, the support means comprises one or more selected from a hole and a groove to receive the elongate horizontal sliding member.

[0022] In one embodiment, the support means comprises a horizontal support means for supporting an elongated horizontal sliding member.

[0023] In one embodiment, the horizontal support device includes a horizontal support member that slidably supports the elongated horizontal sliding member.

[0024] In one embodiment, the horizontal support means comprises one or more selected from grooves and holes for receiving the elongated horizontal sliding member.

[0025] In one embodiment, the horizontal support means comprises at least one or more rollers for facilitating sliding of the elongated horizontal sliding member.

[0026] In one embodiment, the horizontal support means is a support frame.

[0027] In one embodiment, the rollers are bearings.

[0028] In one embodiment, the support structure includes one or more bushings to facilitate sliding of the elongated horizontal sliding member.

[0029] In one embodiment, the bushings include low friction sliding surfaces to facilitate easy sliding of the elongated horizontal sliding member.

[0030] In one embodiment, the support structure includes a vertical adjustment mechanism for varying the height of at least a portion of the support structure during use.

[0031] In one embodiment, the support means comprises a vertical support means for supporting the clothes drying rack for movement between its upper position and its lower position.

[0032] In one embodiment, the clothes drying rack includes a vertical adjustment device for partially changing the height of the clothes hanging device when in use, so that it moves between an upper position and a lower position.

[0033] In one embodiment, the clothes drying rack comprises a level adjustment device configured to adjust the movement of the clothes hanging device between the retracted position and the deployed position during use.

[0034] In one embodiment, the support structure is configured to support at least part of the horizontal support member in alignment with the window during use.

[0035] In one embodiment, the vertical adjustment mechanism comprises a foldable stand.

[0036] In one embodiment, the foldable stand is movable between an upper position and a lower position.

[0037] In one embodiment, the foldable stand is configured to support the horizontal support structure in a position in which the horizontally elongated slide member remains substantially horizontal as it moves between its upper and lower positions.

[0038] In one embodiment, the foldable frame is configured to maintain the horizontal support member horizontal as the horizontal support member moves between its upper and lower positions.

[0039] In one embodiment, the foldable frame includes an inner mounting frame and an outer mounting frame, the inner mounting frame and the outer mounting frame being rotatably connected by at least one pair of pivot struts.

[0040] In one embodiment, the interior mounting frame is configured for mounting to an exterior wall.

[0041] In one embodiment, the outer mounting frame is configured for mounting to a horizontal support member.

[0042] In one embodiment the collapsible stand comprises at least two pairs of rotatable struts.

[0043] In one embodiment, the internal mounting structure includes the mounting means.

[0044] In one embodiment, the vertical adjustment mechanism includes a damping device.

[0045] In one embodiment, the damping means comprises a piston and cylinder arrangement.

[0046] In one embodiment, the vertical adjustment mechanism includes a latch arrangement.

[0047] In one embodiment, the vertical adjustment mechanism includes a telescoping device.

[0048] In one embodiment, the retractable device comprises a plurality of retractable members.

[0049] In one embodiment, the support structure includes a height adjustment elongate member.

[0050] In one embodiment, the vertical adjustment mechanism includes a vertical support device.

[0051] In one embodiment, the vertical support means is used to support the vertically adjustable height elongated member.

[0052] In one embodiment, the vertical support means includes one or more apertures and recesses for receiving an adjustable height elongate member extending in a substantially vertical direction.

[0053] In one embodiment, the vertical support assembly includes a vertical load-bearing frame configured to receive the adjustable height elongate member.

[0054] In one embodiment, the vertical support structure comprises a plurality of frame members.

[0055] In one embodiment, the vertical support structure includes at least one or more threaded shafts for engagement with complementary threaded nuts.

[0056] In one embodiment, the vertical support structure includes one or more bearings and rollers to facilitate movement of the height-adjustable elongate member.

[0057] In one embodiment, one or more selected from bearings and rollers engage a plurality of opposing surfaces of the height-adjustable elongate member.

[0058] In one embodiment, the vertical support frame includes a fastening mechanism configured to fasten the vertical support frame to the adjustable height elongate member to ensure secure engagement with one or more selected from the group consisting of bearings and rollers.

[0059] In one embodiment, the fastening mechanism includes at least one or more threaded shafts configured to engage with a complementary threaded nut.

[0060] In one embodiment, the vertically adjustable mechanism includes a vertical support member.

[0061] In one embodiment, the vertical support structure includes one or more selected from a hole and a groove to receive the adjustable height elongate member extending from a substantially vertical direction.

[0062] In one embodiment, the vertically adjustable mechanism includes a locking device for locking the height adjustable extension member in place.

[0063] In one embodiment, the locking means comprises a locking pin receivable within aligned apertures in the height-adjustable elongate member and the vertical support member.

[0064] In one embodiment, the vertically adjustable mechanism comprises a gear mechanism:

[0065] In one embodiment, the vertical adjustment mechanism includes a chain arrangement.

[0066] In one embodiment, the vertically adjustable mechanism includes a movement mechanism for moving the garment hanging device between its upper and lower positions.

[0067] In one embodiment, the moving mechanism comprises a threaded shaft.

[0068] In one embodiment, the moving mechanism includes an internally threaded bushing for engaging the threaded shaft.

[0069] In one embodiment, the movement mechanism includes a mounting frame for rotatably mounting the threaded shaft to the mounting device.

[0070] In one embodiment, an internally threaded bushing is securely connected to the height-adjustable elongated member.

[0071] In one embodiment, the movable mechanism includes a worm gear meshing with the gear teeth.

[0072] In one embodiment, the gear teeth are configured to drive a rack and pinion mechanism.

[0073] In one embodiment, the movement mechanism includes a handle.

[0074] In one embodiment, the moving mechanism comprises a winch.

[0075] In one embodiment, the winch is a brake winch.

[0076] In one embodiment, the winch is mounted into the mounting arrangement.

[0077] In one embodiment, the winch comprises a winch drum and a draw line.

[0078] In one embodiment, the harness is paired with a height-adjustable elongate member.

[0079] In one embodiment, the harness is coupled to a lower portion of the height-adjustable elongate member.

[0080] In one embodiment, the winch drum is mounted above the lower portion of the height adjustable elongate member.

[0081] In one embodiment, the vertically adjustable mechanism includes a locking arrangement.

[0082] In one embodiment, the garment hanging device includes a plurality of transverse struts extending from an elongated horizontal sliding member.

[0083] In one embodiment, the clothes hanging device comprises a plurality of clothes lines.

[0084] In one embodiment, the clothesline extends in a direction parallel to the elongated horizontal sliding member.

[0085] In one embodiment, the movement mechanism comprises a motive force.

[0086] In one embodiment, the motive force is used to drive the vertical adjustment mechanism to move the clothes hanging device between the upper position and the lower position.

[0087] In one embodiment, the motive force includes at least one or more engines.

[0088] In one embodiment, the prime mover is an electric motor.

[0089] In one embodiment, the movement mechanism is configured to be connected to a power source.

[0090] In one embodiment, the movement mechanism includes a power source.

[0091] In one embodiment, the power source is a battery.

[0092] In one embodiment, the movement mechanism includes a generator.

[0093] In one embodiment, the generator is a solar panel.

[0094] In one embodiment, the solar panel is configured to charge the power source.

[0095] In one embodiment, the clothes drying rack includes a controller.

[0096] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to start the motor.

[0097] In one embodiment, the controller includes a processor.

[0098] In one embodiment, the controller includes a receiver.

[0099] In one embodiment, the controller includes a converter.

[0100] In one embodiment, the controller includes a digital storage medium for storing data and / or digital instructions.

[0101] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control the sequence to set up laundry out and / or bring laundry in.

[0102] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to manipulate the control signal remotely via a network.

[0103] In one embodiment, the control sequence is pre-programmed.

[0104] In another aspect, the present invention provides a clothes drying rack for hanging clothes from a building, the building comprising a window and an exterior wall extending from below the window, the clothes drying rack comprising:

[0105] a. a mounting device configured to securely mount the clothes drying rack to a fixed structure when in use,

[0106] b. a supporting device configured to support at least an elongated horizontal sliding member in a horizontal sliding manner;

[0107] c. a clothing hanging device for hanging clothing, the clothing hanging device being mounted on an electric support device, wherein the electric support device is configured to move the clothing hanging device at least between an extended position and a retracted position; and

[0108] d. A controller configured to control the operation of the electric support device.

[0109] In one embodiment, the controller is configured for remote control.

[0110] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to communicate over a network.

[0111] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to pre-program a sequence for moving the powered support device between the deployed position and the retracted position.

[0112] In another aspect, the present invention may be considered to provide a clothes drying rack for hanging clothes from a building including a window and an exterior wall extending from below the window, the clothes drying rack comprising:

[0113] a. a mounting device configured to securely mount the clothes drying rack to a fixed structure during use;

[0114] b. A clothing hanging device for hanging clothing, the clothing hanging device comprising an elongated horizontal sliding member; and

[0115] c. A supporting device configured to support said one elongated horizontal sliding member at least in a horizontal sliding manner.

[0116] In another aspect, the invention may be considered to comprise a clothes drying rack for hanging clothes from a building, said clothes drying rack comprising:

[0117] a. a mounting device configured to securely mount the clothes drying rack to a fixed structure during use;

[0118] b. a supporting device configured to support at least an elongated horizontal sliding member in a horizontal sliding manner;

[0119] c. A clothing hanging device for hanging clothing, the clothing hanging device comprising an elongated horizontal sliding member; the elongated horizontal sliding member is supported by the supporting device in a sliding manner.

[0120] In one embodiment, the support means comprises a horizontal support means for supporting the elongated horizontal sliding member for horizontal sliding movement.

[0121] In one embodiment, the support means comprises a vertical support means for supporting the garment hanging means for movement between an upper position and a lower position.

[0122] In one embodiment, the support means comprises at least one or more rollers to facilitate sliding of the elongated horizontal sliding member.

[0123] In one embodiment, the vertical support means includes a vertical adjustment mechanism such that the height of the garment hanging means can be adjusted during use.

[0124] In one embodiment, the vertical adjustment mechanism comprises a telescoping device.

[0125] In one embodiment, the retractable device comprises a plurality of retractable members.

[0126] In one embodiment, the vertical adjustment mechanism includes a height adjustable elongated member.

[0127] In one embodiment, the vertical support means comprises a vertical support member.

[0128] In one embodiment, the height-adjustable production member is connected to a garment hanging device.

[0129] In one embodiment, the vertical adjustment mechanism includes a clothes moth lock for locking the height adjustable elongate member in place.

[0130] In one embodiment, the vertical support arrangement is configured to support the height adjustment elongate member in a vertical direction.

[0131] In one embodiment, the vertical support means comprises one or more selected from a hole and a groove for receiving a height adjustable elongate member extending in a substantially vertical direction.

[0132] In one embodiment, the vertical support means comprises a vertical support frame for receiving the height adjustable elongate member.

[0133] In one embodiment, the vertical support structure includes one or more selected from bearings and rollers to facilitate movement of the height adjustable elongate member.

[0134] In one embodiment, the one or more selected from the group consisting of bearings and rollers are configured to engage opposing surfaces of the plurality of height adjustable elongate members.

[0135] In one embodiment, the vertical support arrangement includes a fastening mechanism for fastening the vertical support frame to the height adjustable elongate member to ensure a secure connection between one or more of the bearing and the roller.

[0136] In one embodiment, the vertical adjustment mechanism includes a movement mechanism for moving the garment hanging device between the upper position and the lower position.

[0137] In one embodiment, the movement mechanism comprises a threaded shaft.

[0138] In one embodiment, the movement mechanism includes an internally threaded bushing for engaging the threaded shaft.

[0139] In one embodiment, the internally threaded bushing is securely bonded to the height adjustable elongate member.

[0140] In one embodiment, the movement mechanism includes a handle.

[0141] In one embodiment, the movement mechanism comprises a motive force.

[0142] In one embodiment, the movement mechanism includes a power source.

[0143] In one embodiment, the movement mechanism comprises a generator.

[0144] In one embodiment, the clothes drying machine includes a controller.

[0145] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to initiate movement of the movement mechanism.

[0146] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to control a sequence of moving the garment hanging device between the extended position and the retracted position.

[0147] In one embodiment, the controller is configured to remotely control the activation controller signal via a network.

[0148] In another aspect, the invention may be considered to comprise a clothes drying rack for hanging clothes from a building, said clothes drying rack comprising:

[0149] a. A mounting device configured to securely mount the clothes drying rack to the building during use;

[0150] b. a clothing hanging device for hanging clothing, wherein the clothing hanging device is configured to move between an extended position and a retracted position;

[0151] c. a powered support device, the support device being configured to support the clothing hanging device to move between the extended position and the retracted position; and

[0152] d. A controller configured to control the operation of the electric support device.

[0153] The present invention may also be broadly considered to consist of the parts and features referred to or implied in the specification, or any or all of any two or more of the parts, elements or components, individually or collectively. For features known in the art to which the present invention relates and for specific integers having known equivalents mentioned herein, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0154] For those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs, many changes in the structure of the present invention and a wide variety of different embodiments and applications of the present invention are all part of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. The disclosure and description herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims in any sense.

[0155] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0156] Although any other forms may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0157] Figure 1 shows an upper right perspective view of a first embodiment of the clothes drying rack with the clothes line in an extended position and the vertical adjustment mechanism in a lowered position;

[0158] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 upper right perspective view of the center clothes drying rack with the clothesline in the retracted position and the vertically adjustable mechanism in the upper position;

[0159] Figure 3 shows an upper right perspective view of a second embodiment of a clothes drying rack with the clothes line in the extended position;

[0160] Figure 4 shows an upper right perspective view of a third embodiment of a clothes drying rack with the clothesline in an extended position and the vertical adjustment mechanism in an upper position;

[0161] Figure 5 showing a cross-sectional view of the mounting device connected to the tubular structure;

[0162] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional front view of a fourth embodiment of a clothes drying rack comprising a retractable support mechanism, wherein the support mechanism is in an extended position;

[0163] Figure 7 Shows Figure 6 a front view of the middle clothes drying rack with the support mechanism in the extended position;

[0164] Figure 8 Shows Figure 6 a cross-sectional front view of the clothes drying rack with the support means in a retracted position;

[0165] Figure 9 An upper right perspective cutaway view of a horizontal support member containing a roller is shown;

[0166] Figure 10 An upper right close-up perspective view of a second embodiment of the mounting device is shown;

[0167] Figure 11 Shows Figure 10 An upper right close-up perspective view of a second embodiment of the mounting device is shown;

[0168] Figure 12 Shows Figure 10An upper right perspective view of the mounting device;

[0169] Figure 13 An upper right close-up perspective view of a third embodiment of a mounting device is shown;

[0170] Figure 14 shows an upper right perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the clothes drying rack with the clothes line in an extended position and the vertical adjustment mechanism in a lowered position;

[0171] Figure 15 shows a right side view of a sixth embodiment of a clothes drying rack secured to an exterior wall of a building with the clothes line in an extended position and the vertical adjustment mechanism in a lowered position;

[0172] Figure 16 Shows Figure 15 - right side view of a clothesline fixed to an exterior wall of a building with the clothesline in the extended position and the vertical adjustment mechanism in the upper position;

[0173] Figure 17 A right side view of a seventh embodiment of a clothes drying rack is shown secured to the ceiling of an apartment building;

[0174] Figure 18 showing an upper left perspective view of an eighth embodiment of a clothes drying rack secured to an exterior wall of a building with the clothes line in an extended position and the vertical adjustment mechanism in an upper position;

[0175] Figure 19 Shows Figure 18 upper left perspective view of the center clothes drying rack with the clothesline in the retracted position and the vertical adjustment mechanism in the upper position;

[0176] Figure 20 show Figure 18 Upper left perspective view of the center clothes drying rack with the clothesline in the extended position and the vertical adjustment mechanism in the lowered position;

[0177] Figure 21 Shows Figure 19 A close-up view of the vertical adjustment mechanism is shown;

[0178] Figure 22 shows an upper left perspective view of a ninth embodiment of a clothes drying rack mounted on an exterior wall of a building with the clothes line in an extended position and the vertical adjustment mechanism in an upper position;

[0179] Figure 23 Shows Figure 20 a front left bottom close-up perspective view of the elongated horizontal slide member moving across the horizontal support assembly;

[0180] Figure 24 A schematic diagram of a controller for a clothes drying device is shown;

[0181] Figure 25 A flow chart showing the control sequence of the controller moving the clothesline to the deployed position is shown;

[0182] Figure 26 A schematic diagram of the control sequence flow of the controller moving the clothesline to the retracted position is shown;

[0183] Figure 27 A side view of a tenth embodiment of a clothes drying rack mounted to an exterior wall of a building is shown, including a brake winch as the movement mechanism. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0184] It should be noted in particular in the following description that the same reference numerals in different embodiments represent the same or similar features.

[0185] A clothes drying rack according to the first aspect of the present invention is generally indicated by the numeral 1000 .

[0186] In the embodiment described herein, a clothes drying rack 1000 is provided for hanging clothes from a building such as an apartment (not shown), the apartment including a window 2200 and an exterior wall 2000 extending below the window. The clothes drying rack 1000 includes a wall-mounted mounting device 1100, a supporting device 1200 in the form of a supporting frame structure, and a clothes hanging device 1300.

[0187] The clothing hanging device 1300 is configured to hang clothing and includes an elongated horizontal sliding member 1310 and a pair of cross members or cross struts 1330 extending laterally from each end of the elongated horizontal sliding member 1310. Preferably, a plurality of clotheslines 1320 extend between the cross members 1330 and are parallel to the elongated horizontal sliding member 1310.

[0188] The clothing hanging device 1300 can be arranged relative to the supporting device 1200. Figure 1 、 3 , wherein the preferred clothing hanging device 1300 extends outward from the surface of the building outer wall and slides between the extended position shown in FIG. Figure 2 As shown, the clothing hanging device 1300 is preferably accommodated in an area within the exterior wall of a building, for example, preferably accommodated within a window of a flat apartment.

[0189] The mounting device 1100, or wall mount, is configured to securely mount the clothes drying rack 1000 to an exterior wall 2000 of an apartment, preferably below a window 2200. More preferably, the mounting device 1100 is configured to mount to two tubular structures 2100 extending from the exterior wall, which may be quite common in Singapore. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the mounting device is configured to mount to one, three, or more tubular structures.

[0190] exist Figure 5 In the preferred embodiment shown, the mounting device 1100 includes a mounting structure in the form of U-bolts 1110 configured to be mounted on a pair of tubular structures 2100, and a cross-post 1120 extending between the tubular structures, to which the U-bolts are connected by nuts 1112. The support structure 1200 is also mounted to the cross-post 1120.

[0191] In another embodiment (not shown), the mounting frame 1110 includes a locking mechanism (not shown) for locking the mounting device 1100 to the tubular structure 2100. The locking mechanism includes one or more screws (not shown) that are threaded into complementary threaded holes in the mounting device 1100 to securely engage the tubular structure 2100, thereby preventing the mounting device 1100 from being removed from the tubular structure.

[0192] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), it is contemplated that the mounting frame may be configured to mount to the tubular frame 2100 .

[0193] Figure 10-12 In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting device 1100 includes a mounting plate 1130 that is mounted above and around the tubular structure 2100. The mounting device 1100 is configured to include a pair of cylindrical sleeves 1136 that can be slidably sleeved around the tubular structure 2100. Each cylindrical sleeve 1136 can be tightened onto the tubular structure 2100 by tightening a bolt 1139.

[0194] Provided are mounting washers that fit over the cylindrical sleeves and rotate relative to the wall. Each cylindrical sleeve 1136 is secured to the wall by a rotating bolt 1138 ( Figure 12 1130. The mounting plate 1130 is shown in close-up in FIG. 114 and is mounted to a mounting washer 1137. In use, the mounting washer 1137 rests tightly against the mounting plate 1130. In this way, variations in the angle of the tubular structures extending out from the building, as well as the distance between the tubular structures, can be taken into account.

[0195] Figure 13In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting structure is a mounting plate 1130 that is mounted directly to the exterior wall 2000 via bolts 1134, rather than to the tubular structure 2100, which, if present, would extend through holes 1132 into the exterior wall. Figure 13 In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting plate 1130 extends around the tubular structure 2100, although this is not required.

[0196] The support structure 1200 is configured to support the elongated horizontal sliding member in a substantially horizontal direction to allow it to move substantially horizontally in a sliding manner. Figure 1-4 As shown in Figures 6, 8, and 9, the support structure 1200 includes a horizontal support device 1240. The horizontal support device includes a horizontal support member 1244, which is preferably provided with a hole 1242. During use, the hole 1242 is used to receive the elongated horizontal sliding member 1310 horizontally therethrough. It is contemplated that the horizontal support member 1244 may also include a bearing (not shown) or a bushing (not shown) to facilitate the sliding of the elongated horizontal sliding member 1310 through the horizontal support member 1240.

[0197] exist Figure 9 In the illustrated embodiment, the support structure 1200 includes a series of rollers 1215 mounted on rollers 1217 for retaining and guiding the movement of the elongated horizontal slide member 1310. In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the support structure 1200 does not necessarily define a hole through which the elongated horizontal slide member extends, but may instead include a recess.

[0198] The support frame 1200 also includes a vertical support assembly 1205 that enables the clothes hanging assembly 1300 to move between an upper position and a lower position. The vertical support assembly includes a vertical adjustment mechanism 1220. The vertical adjustment mechanism 1200 allows the height to be adjusted so as to maintain the horizontal support member 1244 at this height. The vertical adjustment mechanism 1220 allows the horizontal support member 1244 to be maintained at a height aligned with the window 2200, for example, when the window is open, allowing the extended horizontal sliding member 1310 to be retracted inwardly through the window 2200 to facilitate loading items to be dried on the clothesline (not shown). Preferably, the vertical adjustment mechanism 1220 also allows the horizontal support member 1244 to be moved out of alignment with the window 2200, for example, to allow the window to be closed.

[0199] exist Figure 1 、 2In the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 5, the vertical adjustment mechanism 1220 includes a hollow vertical support structure 1224. The hollow vertical support structure 1224 defines a hole (not shown) through which the elongated height adjustable structure 1222 can be adjusted. Preferably, the elongated height adjustable structure 1222 includes a locking device (not shown) in the form of a hole that aligns with a complementary hole (not shown) in the vertical support structure 1224, and a locking pin (not shown) is inserted, thereby locking the position of the elongated height adjustable structure 1222.

[0200] Figure 3 In the depicted embodiment, the support structure 1200 does not include a vertical adjustment mechanism, but instead is provided with fixed elongated members 1210 to support the horizontal support structure 1244 at a constant height. However, this embodiment is not preferred because it does not allow for the opening and / or closing of windows mounted on the building, as will be described in detail below.

[0201] Figure 6-8 In the illustrated alternative embodiment, the vertical adjustment mechanism is a telescoping device or telescoping mechanism 1250. The telescoping mechanism 1250 includes a fixed member 1252 that is tightly mounted to the mounting device 1100, and a telescoping member 1254 that can be moved relative to the fixed member 1252. Figure 8 The retracted position shown and Figure 6-7 Move between the expanded positions shown.

[0202] Preferably, the fixing member 1252 includes an inner roller 1256 having a configuration similar to Figure 9 , the horizontal support structure 1244 is shown, and the internal rollers 1256 are used to facilitate smooth telescopic movement of the retractable member 1254 between the retracted position and the deployed position.

[0203] Figure 6 and Figure 8 The retractable mechanism is provided with a gas strut 1258, which is located inside the fixed member 1252 and the retractable member 1254 and extends between the fixed member 1252 and the retractable member 1254. Preferably, as is well known in the art, the gas strut includes a cylinder (not shown) containing a piston (not shown), a damping circuit (not shown), and an internal spring (not shown).

[0204] The preferred damping circuit prevents the retractable member 1254 from falling unrestrained to the retracted position. Preferably, an internal spring helps the retractable member 1254 to be raised to the deployed position simultaneously with the clothes hanging device 1300. This is particularly useful when the clothes hanging device 1300 has laundry (not shown) hanging from the clothes line 1320 and is very heavy to pull up from the window 2200 above. Figure 7 In the described embodiment, a pair of air columns are provided. Figure 15 and 16 Shown is another embodiment of a vertically adjustable mechanism 1220. In this embodiment, the vertically adjustable mechanism 1220 includes an external mounting structure in the form of a vertical support structure 1232, similar to Figure 1-5 The vertical support structure 1224 is shown, where the vertical support structure 1232 is configured to receive the height adjustable elongated member 1222, which can be used to adjust the height of the elongated member 1222 by Figure 15 The height of the horizontal support member 1240 can be adjusted by moving in the direction indicated by the arrow H.

[0205] However, the vertical support members 1224 are connected to and form part of the foldable frame 1230. Figure 15 and 16 When viewed from the side as shown, the foldable frame 1230 can be viewed as a foldable ladder-like structure 1230. In one embodiment, the foldable frame acts as a vertical adjustment mechanism 1220, and the height adjustable elongated member 1222 can be moved more through the vertical support members to better fine-tune the height of the clothing hanging device 1300.

[0206] The foldable frame 1230 is composed of a vertical support frame 1232, which is rotatably connected at the upper or lower end to a rotating column 1234. The rotating column 1234 is in turn rotatably connected to a mounting device in the form of a mounting plate 1233, which can be bolted to a wall or connected to a tubular structure in a similar manner as described above.

[0207] One end of the pivot post 1234 is pivotally connected to the vertical support member 1232 by a hinge 1236, and the other end is pivotally connected to the mounting plate 1233. In this way, the vertical adjustment mechanism 1220 can be used in various positions such as Figure 15 The lower position shown and Figure 16 Move between the upper positions shown, Figure 15 , the pivot support 1234 is substantially horizontal and is positioned along Figure 15. The vertical support member 1232 is held in a substantially vertical position (i.e., aligned horizontally) as the vertical adjustment mechanism 1220 moves between its upper and lower positions. In addition, in this embodiment, a buffer structure 1238 is provided to prevent the pivoting support 1234 from moving away from the horizontal when moving from the upper position to the lower position. An elastic elongate member 1237 in the form of a rope, chain, or the like is provided to the user to pull the vertical adjustment mechanism 1222 to raise it to its upper position. A latch structure 1239 is also provided for latching the vertical adjustment mechanism in its upper position so that the user can move the clothing hanging device between its extended and retracted positions.

[0208] It is envisaged that in an alternative embodiment (not shown) the vertical adjustment mechanism could utilize a gear and complementary chain arrangement whereby rotation of the gear with the chain winds and unwinds to raise or lower the vertical support member. Due to the complexity of such an arrangement this is not preferred.

[0209] exist Figure 17 In another embodiment shown in FIG, the clothes drying rack 1000 can be mounted inside a building, for example, on a ceiling 2300 or some other interior surface of a building wall, preferably by fasteners such as bolts (not shown). In the embodiment shown, the mounting device 1100 includes a mounting plate 1130, which is mounted to the ceiling 2300 inside the apartment. The support device 1200 includes a vertical adjustment mechanism 1220 in the form of a telescoping mechanism 1250 similar to that described above. The telescoping mechanism allows the clothes hanging device 1300 to be moved downward from a position near the ceiling 2300 ( Figure 17 As shown by arrow A in the figure, the clothes can be conveniently hung on the clothesline. Figure 17 As shown by arrow B in FIG, the adjacent suspension device 1300 can slide to an extended position outside the window.

[0210] In operation, it is envisioned that the clothes drying rack 1000 is mounted on the exterior wall of a building, such as an apartment building, with the vertical adjustment mechanism 1220 in the lower position and the clothes drying rack 1300 in the extended position. A user will open a window 2200 of the building (at Figure 15-17This is possible because the vertical adjustment mechanism allows the clothes drying rack 1000 to open outward without blocking the window 2200. The user will then operate the vertical adjustment mechanism 1220 to raise the clothes hanging device 1300 to a level aligned with the window 2200. The clothes hanging device 1300 will then be moved to its retracted position, in which it slides inward through the window and into the building. In this position, laundry to be dried can be conveniently hung on the clothes line 1320. Once the clothes are hung, the clothes hanging device 1300 will be manually moved to its extended position, outside the building's outer wall 2000. If the window is to be closed, the vertical adjustment mechanism 1220 can be moved to a level below the window 2200 as needed.

[0211] exist Figures 18 to 21 In another embodiment shown, the vertical adjustment mechanism 1220 is a vertical support device or vertical support frame 1229. The vertical support frame 1229 is configured to support a height-adjustable elongated member 1222 in a substantially vertical orientation while allowing the height-adjustable elongated member 1222 to move between an upper position and a lower position. The height-adjustable elongated member 1222 can pass through a channel or hole through the vertical support frame 1229. The vertical support frame 1229 is composed of four vertical frame members 1226, which are coupled together by threaded shafts 1227 and secured to opposite ends of the threaded shafts by nuts 1228. The vertical members 1226 are securely connected to the mounting device or ledge 1100 via transverse horizontal frame members 1221.

[0212] Some of the threaded shafts 1227 are provided with rollers 1225 to better contact the four opposing surfaces of the height-adjustable elongated member 1222. The rollers 1225 facilitate smooth movement of the height-adjustable elongated member 1222, moving the garment hanging device 1300 between the upper position and the lower position.

[0213] Some threaded shafts 1227 are not equipped with rollers. These threaded shafts function as a tightening mechanism in conjunction with complementary nuts 1228 to secure the rollers 1225 against the opposing surfaces of the height-adjustable elongated member 1222, thereby preventing the height-adjustable elongated member 1222 (and, by extension, the garment hanging device 1300) from moving or wiggling, such as in strong winds. Preferably, the threaded nuts 1228 engage the outer surfaces of the vertical frame members 1226 to push them tightly together.

[0214] exist Figures 18 to 21 In the illustrated embodiment, the vertical adjustment mechanism 1220 further includes a moving mechanism 1270. The moving mechanism 1270 is used to drive the movement of the clothing hanging device 1300 between its upper position and its lower position.

[0215] The movement mechanism 1270 includes a threaded shaft 1272 that can be engaged with a bushing 1274 having an internal thread structure (not shown) that is complementary to the thread structure of the threaded shaft. The internally threaded bushing 1274 is securely connected to the bottom end of the height-adjustable elongated member 1222 via a cross member 1276 and a plate 1277 so that when the internally threaded bushing 1274 moves upward and / or downward, the height-adjustable elongated member 1222 moves with it.

[0216] Threaded shaft 1272 is securely and rotatably mounted on mounting device 1100 of horizontal mounting rod 1260. A handle 1278 is mounted at the top end of threaded shaft 1272 to rotate with the shaft. Threaded shaft 1272 extends through a hole in horizontal mounting rod 1260. More preferably, threaded shaft 1272 includes a pair of threaded mounting nuts 1279 that are securely connected to the threaded shaft via grub screws (not shown) that pass through mounting nuts 1279 and are tightened onto threaded shaft 1272, allowing threaded mounting nuts 1279 to rotate with threaded shaft 1272.

[0217] The mounting nuts 1279 are spaced apart from one another and are located on the upper surface of the horizontal mounting rod 1260, thereby preventing the threaded shaft 1272 from moving further downward. The threaded shaft 1272 is free to move within the hole of the horizontal mounting rod 1260.

[0218] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), those skilled in the art will appreciate that various alternative configurations may be provided for the mounting nuts. For example, each mounting nut may be replaced with a flange. Such a flange may be integrally formed with the threaded shaft, or may alternatively be attached to the threaded shaft, such as by welding.

[0219] Rotational movement of handle 1278 will cause rotation of threaded shaft 1252. The threads of the threaded shaft will engage the internal threads of threaded bushing 1274. However, because threaded bushing 1274 is held in place by cross member 1276 and plate 1277, rotational movement of the threaded shaft will cause threaded bushing 1274 to move upward or downward, depending on the direction of rotation of the threaded shaft.

[0220] Upward or downward movement of the threaded bushing 1274 will cause the same upward or downward movement of the height adjustable extension member 1222 between the upper position and the lower position, thereby moving through the vertical support structure 1229. This in turn causes movement of the clothes hanging device 1300 between the upper position and the lower position.

[0221] An advantage of this configuration is that a small amount of force is required to rotate the threaded shaft, thereby allowing a relatively weak user to operate the moving mechanism 1270. The position of the handle 1278 remains constant, preferably just below the height of the window 2200 when in use, allowing the user to operate the moving mechanism without having to lean too far out of the window to a dangerous position. Preferably, the threaded shaft 1272 will have a relatively coarse thread, thereby allowing a relatively large movement of the garment hanging device with each rotation of the threaded shaft. In this way, the threaded shaft can be regarded as a worm gear type device.

[0222] Another advantage of this configuration is that accidental movement of the garment hanging device 1300 is impossible due to the leverage inherent in the configuration.

[0223] It would be obvious to those skilled in the art that a variety of alternative movement mechanisms could be provided. For example, the threaded shaft could be replaced with a worm gear mounted on a shaft. Rotating the shaft with a handle would activate the worm gear, which in turn would drive a gear, which in turn would be converted into linear upward or downward motion via a rack and pinion. However, this configuration was considered too complex and expensive.

[0224] exist Figure 22 In the embodiment shown, the handle is replaced by a prime mover of the type of electric motor 1275. The clothes drying rack 1000 is equipped with a solar panel 1410 and / or a wind turbine generator 1420 ( Figure 24 The motor 1275 is configured to operate as a self-generator in the form of a battery charger 1415, such as batteries 1273 and / or capacitors, which is charged to operate as a power source. Solar panels can be configured to charge the batteries as is known in the art. In an alternative embodiment, the motor 1275 can be configured to be connected to and receive power from a mains power source, such as the power provided within the apartment.

[0225] It is further contemplated that in another embodiment (not shown), a similar device including a movement mechanism may be provided to move the elongated horizontal sliding member 1310 between its extended position and its retracted position. For example, a motor may be provided that operates to rotate a threaded shaft to engage a threaded bushing on the garment hanging device 1300 to move the elongated horizontal sliding member 1310. Any other similar movement mechanism may be selected, such as a worm gear, a drive rack and pinion, or the like.

[0226] exist Figure 22 In the illustrated embodiment, the clothes drying machine 1000 further includes a controller 1400 configured to control the operation of the motor that controls the height-adjustable extension member 1222 and / or extends the horizontal sliding member 1310 and / or opens the window or window frame via an electric motor.

[0227] Mechanisms for opening and / or closing windows or window frames by means of electric motors are known and a description thereof is considered beyond the scope of the present description.

[0228] like Figure 24 As shown, the controller 1400 preferably has an associated processor 1430 and digital storage medium 1440 configured to control the operation of the processor to control the sequence to be executed. The operation of controllers for electric motors is well known and a discussion thereof is considered beyond the scope of this specification.

[0229] Preferably, the controller 1400 includes a transceiver 1450, preferably a wireless communication chip, such as a Wi-Fi chip, capable of communicating using any IEEE 802.11 protocol, and an associated antenna 1460. In alternative embodiments, more long-range network transceivers are contemplated, such as cellular network chips running on any of 3G, 4G, 5G, LTE, or similar protocols. Alternatively, it is contemplated that the controller can be connected directly to the Internet via a router via a wired connection, such as an Ethernet connection.

[0230] The preferred controller 1400 includes an input / output interface 1470 that can be connected to external devices, such as visual and / or audio outputs, preferably an LED light 1472, a display screen 1474, a speaker 1476, and an emergency stop button 1478. In addition, the controller 1400 can be equipped with sensors, including any one or more of the following:

[0231] a. Vibration sensor 1480,

[0232] b. Accelerometer 1490,

[0233] c. Pressure sensor 1500,

[0234] d. Humidity sensor 1510,

[0235] e. Temperature sensor 1520,

[0236] f. Ambient light sensor 1530,

[0237] g. Distance sensor 1560, and / or

[0238] h. Wind speed sensor 1540.

[0239] Preferably, the controller can be connected to data and / or power via a USB-C connector port 1550.

[0240] In addition, it is contemplated that the controller 1400 may be configured to control the operation of the window 2200 so that it moves between an open position and a closed position. It is further contemplated that the controller may be configured with a control sequence that, upon receiving the activation signal 10, places the clothes in the extended position to dry (e.g., Figure 25 ), for example, to open the window 20, 30 is to move the extended horizontal sliding member 1310 to the extended position. 40 is to move the height adjustable extension member 1222 to its lowered position; 50 is then selected to close the window.

[0241] Another sequence is used to bring the clothes back (e.g. Figure 26 As shown), after receiving the start signal 60, the clothes drying device 1000 is moved to the retracted position, for example, 65 is selected to open the window; 70 moves the height-adjustable extension member 1222 to its upper position; 75 moves the extended horizontal sliding member 1310 to its retracted position, thereby moving the clothes hanging device 1300 through the opened window.

[0242] It is contemplated that the controller will send a visual and audible warning alarm when initiating such a sequence. Furthermore, it is contemplated that an emergency stop button can be activated to stop any such sequence in an emergency. Furthermore, it is contemplated that one or more distance sensors 1560 can be positioned to detect whether movement of the garment hanging device 1300 between its extended and retracted positions and / or between its upper and lower positions is obstructed. Upon detection of such an obstruction, the control sequence can be canceled to stop all movement.

[0243] It is further contemplated that the controller could be equipped with a transceiver (not shown) for connecting to a network (wireless or wired), thereby enabling remote activation of various controller sequences. The activation of the control sequence could then be performed remotely by the user, for example, by entering commands on a remote mobile phone via a downloaded app. For example, if a user is away from home and receives a warning of rain, they could open the app on their mobile phone and initiate a control sequence for bringing in the laundry. This command would be forwarded to the controller, which would then move the laundry into the apartment.

[0244] exist Figure 18-20 22, another embodiment of the horizontal support device 1240 is shown, which includes a horizontal support frame 1246, the structure of the horizontal support frame 1246 is similar to Figure 18-21 The vertical support structure 1229 is similar to that shown in FIG. The horizontal support structure 1246 includes a roller mounted on a threaded rod, which can be tightened by a nut to ensure that the roller is close to the horizontal sliding member 1310.

[0245] Figure 27Another embodiment of a clothes drying rack 1000 is shown in FIG. In this embodiment, the moving mechanism 1270 includes a brake winch 1280. Brake winch 1280 includes a winch roller 1282 and a winch mechanism (not shown) enclosed within a housing, along with a housing, a catch rope 1284, and a winch handle 1286. One end of catch rope 1284 is coupled to the lower portion of the height-adjustable elongated member 1222, while the other end of catch rope 1284 is coupled to winch roller 1282. Preferably, winch roller 1282 is mounted high on mounting device 1100, above the bottom of height-adjustable elongated member 1222. When the catch rope is pulled upward during winching, brake winch 1280 moves the lower portion of height-adjustable elongated member 1222 upward. When winch 1280 is reversed, the weight of garment hanging device 1300 and height-adjustable elongated member 1222 causes it to move downward through the vertical support.

[0246] In an alternative embodiment (not shown), the winch handle may be replaced by a prime mover (eg, an electric motor) and controlled by a controller as described above.

[0247] Braking winches are well known in the art and preferably do not allow the winched item to move without corresponding movement of the winch handle (or prime mover, if a prime mover is present to drive the winch movement). A discussion of the internal mechanisms of the braking winch is considered beyond the scope of the present invention.

[0248] Notes

[0249] Markush Group

[0250] In addition, where features or aspects of the invention are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.

[0251] Chronological order

[0252] For purposes of the present invention, when method steps are described in a sequence, that sequence does not necessarily imply that the steps should be performed in that temporal order unless there is no other logical way to explain the sequence.

[0253] Example

[0254] References throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" appearing throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may be more than one embodiment. Furthermore, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments according to the present invention.

[0255] Similarly, it should be understood that in the exemplary embodiments of the invention described above, various features of the invention are sometimes combined in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof to simplify the disclosure of the invention and aid in understanding one or more of the inventive aspects of the invention. However, this method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. On the contrary, as reflected in the appended claims, the invention lies in no more than all the features of a single aforementioned disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description of particular embodiments are expressly incorporated into this detailed description of the specific embodiments, with each claim independently serving as a separate embodiment of the invention.

[0256] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that although some embodiments described herein include some features, and other embodiments include other features, combinations of features from different embodiments are also within the scope of the present invention and form different embodiments. For example, in the following claims, any claimed embodiment can be used in any combination.

[0257] Different embodiments of the article

[0258] As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, the use of ordinal adjectives "first," "second," "third," etc., to describe a common object merely indicates that different instances of similar objects are being referenced and is not intended to imply that the objects described must be in a given order in time, space, rank, or any other manner.

[0259] Specific details

[0260] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it should be understood that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques are not shown in detail to avoid obscuring an understanding of this specification.

[0261] the term

[0262] In describing the preferred embodiments of the present invention illustrated in the accompanying drawings, specific terminology will be employed for the sake of clarity. However, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terminology so selected, and it should be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to achieve a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward," "rearward," "radially," "peripherally," "upwardly," "downwardly," etc. are used to provide convenient reference points and should not be construed as limiting terms.

[0263] For the purposes of this specification, the term "plastic" should be interpreted as a general term denoting a broad range of synthetic or semi-synthetic polymeric products and generally consists of hydrocarbon-based polymers.

[0264] As used herein, the term "and / or" means "and" or "or" or both.

[0265] As used herein, "(s)" after a noun refers to the plural and / or singular form of the noun.

[0266] Contains and includes

[0267] In the appended claims and the preceding description of the invention, unless the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in the expressions in a broad sense, that is, in the various embodiments of the invention, the inclusive meaning refers to the presence of the specified features but does not exclude the presence or addition of other features.

[0268] Any of the terms: As used herein, including, or comprising, or including, is also an open term, which also means including at least the elements / features following the term, but not excluding other elements / features. Therefore, including is synonymous with including, meaning including.

[0269] Scope of the Invention

[0270] Thus, while there has been described what are considered to be preferred embodiments of the present invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended that all such changes and modifications be claimed as falling within the scope of the invention. For example, any formulas given above are merely representative of processes that may be used. Functionality may be added or deleted from the block diagrams, and operations may be interchanged between functional blocks. Steps may be added or deleted from the methods described within the scope of the invention.

[0271] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

[0272] Industrial use

[0273] As can be seen from the above, the described device is suitable for use in the household appliance and consumer goods industries.

Claims

1. A clothes drying rack for hanging clothes from a building, the building comprising an exterior surface, the exterior surface defining one selected from an aperture and a window, the clothes drying rack comprising: a mounting device configured to securely mount the clothes drying rack to the outer surface of the building when in use; b. A clothing hanging device configured for hanging clothing, the clothing hanging device comprising a longitudinal support member and a plurality of transverse support members, at least one or more clothing supporting members extending between the plurality of transverse support members; c. Support device, including i. A horizontal support device configured to support the clothes hanging device to move substantially horizontally between the following positions:

1. a retracted position in which the garment hanging device is at least partially receivable within one or more of a hole and a window; 2. an unfolded position, in which the clothing hanging device extends outwardly from the outer surface of the building and in which the hanging items to be dried are placed outside the outer surface of the building when in use; as well as d. A vertical support device configured to support the clothing hanging device between the following positions: i. a first position in which the horizontal support means is movable between its retracted position and its deployed position; as well as ii. A second position in which the clothes drying rack is aligned with one or more offset levels selected from a window and an aperture.

2. A clothes drying rack according to claim 1, wherein the vertical support device includes a height-adjustable extension member securely connected to the clothes hanging device, and wherein the vertical support device further includes a vertical support frame defining one or more selected from holes and grooves to receive the height-adjustable extension member to support the clothes hanging device to move between the first position and the second position.

3. The clothes drying rack according to claim 1, wherein the horizontal supporting device is a rolling device configured to support the clothes hanging device, and the rolling device includes one or more selected from a plurality of rollers and a plurality of bearings firmly coupled to opposite surfaces of an elongated horizontal sliding member. 4 . The clothes drying rack according to claim 1 , wherein the clothes hanging device comprises a horizontal sliding member configured to be supported by the supporting device in a horizontal sliding manner.

5. The clothes drying rack of claim 1, wherein the vertical support means comprises a retractable means.

6. The clothes drying rack of claim 1, wherein the vertical support means comprises a locking means to lock the height-adjustable elongate member in a certain position.

7. The clothes drying rack according to claim 1, wherein the vertical support device is configured to support the height-adjustable elongated member in a vertical direction.

8. The clothes drying rack of claim 1, wherein the vertical support means comprises one or more selected from a bearing and a roller to facilitate movement of the height-adjustable elongated member.

9. The clothes drying rack according to claim 8, wherein one or more selected from the group consisting of bearings and rollers are configured to engage with a plurality of opposite surfaces of the height-adjustable elongated member.

10. The clothes drying rack according to claim 8, wherein the vertical support device comprises a fastening mechanism configured to hold the vertical support frame against the height-adjustable elongated member to ensure a secure connection of one or more selected from the group consisting of a bearing and a roller.

11. The clothes drying rack of claim 1, wherein the vertical support device comprises a movement mechanism configured to move the clothes hanging device between the first position and the second position.

12. The clothes drying rack according to claim 11, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a bushing with an internal thread to be threadedly engaged with the threaded shaft.

13. The clothes drying rack according to claim 11, wherein the moving mechanism comprises one selected from the following a. handle; and b. Prime mover. The clothes drying rack according to claim 11 , wherein the moving mechanism comprises a power source.

15. The clothes drying rack of claim 11, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a generator.

16. The clothes drying rack of claim 11, wherein the clothes drying rack comprises a controller configured to initiate movement of one or more selected from the following mechanisms: a. Mobile mechanism; and b. Support device.

17. The clothes drying rack of claim 16, wherein the controller is configured with a control sequence for moving the clothes hanging device between the deployed position and the retracted position.

18. The clothes drying rack of claim 11, wherein the moving mechanism comprises a brake winch including a winch roller, a winch mechanism, and a draw rope.

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