A sensor-based retractable clothes drying system

Abstract

ABSTRACT “A SENSOR-BASED RETRACTABLE CLOTHES DRYING SYSTEM” The present invention pertains to a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system (200) designed to address the challenges of outdoor clothes drying in urban, monsoon-prone environments. Said system (200) features an automated mechanism with drying rods (102) which are retractable, having a telescopic configuration, and a smart articulation mechanism. Said system (200) further comprise a rain-detection sensor (108) and a receiver sensor (109), which trigger the automatic retraction of drying rods (102) and simultaneous window opening upon detecting precipitation. The system minimizes manual effort, optimizes outdoor space, and ensures clothes don’t get drenched during unpredictable weather. The system is powered by a rechargeable battery (113), and offers an energy-efficient, user-friendly, and reliable solution for modern urban living. Figure 2a.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:The present invention relates to the field of clothes drying solutions. More particularly, the present invention relates to sensor-based retractable clothes drying system that streamlines the process of the setup and takedown processes of clothes on a drying line. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONIn today's fast-paced world, metropolitan regions with limited space availability face the common practice of line-drying clothes on balconies. However, this method is effective only during dry weather but becomes problematic during the monsoon season, posing significant challenges to residents and working professionals with the arrival of sudden rain showers. Commonly used traditional outdoor clotheslines and drying racks suffer from severely reduced efficacy due to unpredictable weather conditions, especially during periods of heavy rainfall, leading to various problems including extended drying times, dampness, and unpleasant odors.Furthermore, such situations are not only insufficient but also stressful, as constant vigilance is required for taking out clothes from the balconies due to unexpected downpours, and this situation is impractical for many working professionals and residents as they are mostly absent from home due to their work or personal errands. In addition to that, the problem is further exacerbated in densely populated urban settings where indoor drying space is limited, and due to this problem, residents have to depend on traditional outdoor drying methods that are unreliable during the monsoon season, resulting in a perpetual cycle of wet clothes and inefficient drying, that creates a negative impact on the hygiene of the outdoor clothes.To address the aforementioned issue, there is a clear need for developing innovative effective drying techniques or solutions that are tailored to monsoon-prone urban environments wherein residents can efficiently protect clothes drying outdoors from unexpected rainfall while making optimal use of available space. These solutions should be engineered to protect clothes from unexpected rainfall, optimize space utilization, and minimize manual effort. By developing such technologies, we can alleviate the stress and inconvenience associated with traditional drying methods, promoting a healthier and more convenient lifestyle for urban residents. Furthermore, these solutions would not only significantly reduce manual effort and time associated with conventional line drying methods but also ensure widespread adoption due to their practicality and ease of integration into existing household routines.PRIOR ART AND ITS DISADVANTAGESA Chinese patent application no. CN201320752648U discloses automatic clothes collecting rack in rain. The automatic clothes collecting rack in rain comprises a clothes airing platform, wherein an outdoor induction frame, an outdoor fixed frame, and an indoor fixed frame are arranged on the clothes airing platform in sequence; the two sides of the outdoor fixed frame are mutually connected with the two sides of the indoor fixed frame through slide bars arranged obliquely; a clothes airing bar capable of sliding along the slide bars is arranged on the slide bars; hangers used for supporting and airing clothes are arranged on the clothes airing bar; a conduction bar is arranged between an outdoor induction frame and the clothes airing bar; the induction bar is divided into a movable section and a contact terminal section mutually fastened, wherein one end of the movable section is connected with the clothes airing bar; one end of the contact terminal section is connected with a rain inductor; the butted joint of the movablesection and the contact terminal section is arranged on the outdoor induction frame; a fixed pull ring is positioned in the center of the bottom of the indoor fixed frame on the clothes airing platform; an elastic loop is connected in the middle of the fixed pull ring and the laundry airing bar. The device is simple in structure, rational in design and can collect clothes to rooms automatically once raining, so the inconvenience brought by wetted clothes in rain can be avoided.However, while both the cited prior art and the present invention are triggered by rainfall, the prior art is severely limited in its overall responsiveness, precision, and functional integration. Specifically, it lacks intelligent control logic, automated angular retraction, and programmable coordination with connected components such as window actuators. The retraction mechanism of the prior art is based on a rudimentary sliding system utilizing oblique slide bars and elastic loops, resulting in a crude, mechanically constrained, and structurally inflexible design. Consequently, the system disclosed in said prior art is not space-efficient, lacks directional adaptability, and is particularly inadequate during monsoon season when a responsive and dependable solution is essential. In addition, the cited system does not detail the use of high-performance materials such as UV-stabilized polymers (e.g., polycarbonate or HDPE) or weather-resistant alloys, nor does it indicate measures to ensure long-term durability in harsh environmental conditions. The system further lacks an energy-efficient power architecture, such as integration of a low-voltage DC motor with rechargeable battery support, suitable for intermittent or off-grid power scenarios.Another patent application no. CN105908457A discloses an intelligent rainproof laundry rack for an urban house and belongs to the field ofintelligent homes. The intelligent rainproof laundry rack comprises an intelligent rainproof laundry rack body. The intelligent rainproof laundry rack body is installed in an indoor balcony and comprises a base balance weight, rubber pads, supporting rods, indoor clothesline poles, cross-shaped buttons, electric telescopic rods, an illumination sensor, a humidity sensor, outdoor clothesline poles and a motor controller. In practical use, detection is precise, control is stable, clothes are put away in time, intelligent clothes putting-away can be completely achieved, and the intelligent rainproof laundry rack for the urban house is suitable for being applied and popularized to the urban house. While the cited prior art discloses an intelligent rainproof laundry rack with integrated sensors and automated control, the system is fundamentally limited in terms of structural adaptability, environmental robustness, and real-world operability, particularly for typical urban Indian balcony or window installations. Furthermore, the cited system is restricted to indoor balcony installation and is dependent on a base weight and rubber pad stabilization mechanism, which is unsuitable for externally mounted or cantilevered clotheslines. Additionally, the prior art employs electric telescopic rods, which although effective in linear extension, may fail to provide a precise inward movement of rods followed by a tilt-assisted clothes drop, thereby failing to ensure that the clothes are pulled indoors efficiently and without tangling, even when wet and heavy.DISADVANTAGES OF THE PRIOR ARTAll of the prior arts suffer from all or at least one of the following disadvantages:- Most of the prior arts fail to consider the manual effort and time spent outdoors to hang and retrieve clothes which can be very inconvenient, especially in extreme weather conditions.- Many of the prior arts consume significant amount of electricity, leading to increased utility bills and increased greenhouse gas emission.- Most of the prior arts require high initial investment, thereby failing to be cost-effective.- Most of the conventional system fail to be space-efficient, lacks directional adaptability, and are particularly inadequate during monsoon season.- Many of the prior arts require constant monitoring and pose inconvenience to professionals and residents who leave homes for work or personal errands.- Most of the prior arts are fundamentally limited in terms of structural adaptability, environmental robustness, and real-world operability, particularly for typical urban Indian balcony or window installations.- Most of the prior arts fail to optimize the use of outdoor spaces in urban settings. - Many of the prior arts fail to utilize weather-resistant construction materials or design for UV stabilization, which are critical for ensuring structural durability in continuous outdoor exposure.- Most of the prior arts fail to provide an efficient mechanism for pulling clothes indoors efficiently and without tangling. - Most of the conventional system have a rudimentary sliding system for a retraction mechanism, which utilizes oblique slide bars and elastic loops, resulting in a crude, mechanically constrained, and structurally inflexible design.OBJECTS OF THE INVENTIONThe main object of the present invention is to provide a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system. Another object of the present invention is to provide a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system that is weather responsive and adaptable.Another object of the present invention is to provide a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system for outdoor window, or balcony-frame installation.A further object of the present invention is to provide a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system that utilizes a suspended and retractable main frame with adjustable rods and load-bearing support structures capable of reliable outdoor deployment. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system that is powered by a rechargeable battery, thereby being environment friendly and sustainable.Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system that utilizes advanced sensors and a central control unit, thereby providing real-time monitoring and adjustment of the system based on weather conditions.Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system that optimizes outdoor space utilization, thereby offering a compact and visually unobtrusive solution.Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system that provides an option for automated operation mode and manual override mode.A further object of the present invention is to provide a user-friendly and selectable interface designed to toggle between automated and manual operational modes.Yet another object of the present invention is to use high-performance materials such as UV-stabilized polymers or weather-resistant alloys to ensure long-term durability in harsh environmental conditions.Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system that allows users to choose between automated and manual operation based on their preferences.Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system that reduces manual labour and time spent on hanging and retrieving clothes by offering hands-free convenience.Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system that contains high quality, durable weather-resistant raw materials for a prolonged lifespan performance and resilience against harsh weather conditions.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGSVarious other objects, features, and attendant advantages of the present invention will become fully appreciated as the same becomes better understood when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate the same or similar parts throughout the several views, and wherein: Figure 1 : Shows the isometric view of the retractable drying rods assembly of a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system.Figure 2a : Shows the front view of the retractable drying rods assembly of a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system in fully extended (original) configuration.Figure 2b : Shows the front view of retractable drying rods assembly of a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system in fully retracted configuration.Figure 2c : Shows the automatic rod retraction mechanism of a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system in response to rainfall.Figure 2d : Shows the tilting angled retraction of the drying rods of a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system.Figure 2e : Shows the re-extension of drying rods of a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system at an inward angle for indoor transfer of clothes.Figure 2f : Shows re-extension of drying rods of a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system to its original configuration.Figure 3a : Shows the working sequence of the operational steps of a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system.Figure 3b : Shows the block diagram of a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system.List of Reference Numerals(200) A sensor-based retractable clothes drying system (100) Retractable drying rods assembly(101) Track guides(102) Retractable drying rods(103) Support frame(104) Tension support cable (105) Horizontal suspension shaft(106) Ball joint connectors(107) Overhead frame(108) Sensor housing unit comprising of rain-detection sensor(109) Receiver sensor (110) Latch mechanism(111) Control unit(112) DC motor(113) Rechargeable battery(114) ClothesSUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONThis present invention is of a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system (200) that addresses the challenges of outdoor clothes drying in urban, monsoon-prone environments. The system features a drying rods assembly (100) comprising telescopically retractable rods (102) mounted in parallel on a sub-frame, configured within the track guides (101) and supported by tension support cables (104) suspended from a horizontal suspension shaft (105) via ball-joint connectors (106). Environmental monitoring is achieved through a rain-detection sensor (108) and a receiver sensor (109). The rain-detection sensor (108) transmits real-time rain data to a central control unit (111). Simultaneously, the receiver sensor (109), integrated with a window latch mechanism (110), receives signals from the rain-detection sensor (108) and actuates the opening of the corresponding window or door.The control unit (111), preferably a microcontroller, processes sensor inputs and commands a DC motor (112) to actuate the retraction mechanism of the drying rods assembly (100). The DC motor (112) is powered by a rechargeable battery (113). Upon retraction, the rods (102) are designed with a pre-configured downward tilt (102) to facilitate gravity-assisted indoor transfer of garments. The system supports reversible automation, re-extending the rods to their original configuration once adverse weather subsides. Material selection emphasizes durability and weather resistance, utilizing corrosion-resistant metal alloys with UV-stabilized coatings and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) components, ensuring robust long-term performance in outdoor environments.In addition to this, the sensor-based retractable clothes drying system (200) comprises a user-friendly and selectable interface configured to alternate between automated and manual operational modes. Said interface may be implemented as a physical switch, touch-sensitive button, or wireless control panel via a mobile app, which can be either integrated into the housing of the central control unit (111) or positioned at a convenient location on an indoor wall surface.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTIONThe following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention and is provided in the context of a particular application and its requirements. Various modifications to the disclosed embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.It is to be understood that the term "comprising" or "comprises" used in the specification and claims refers to the element of the invention which comprises X, Y, and Z, which means that the invention might have other elements in addition to X, Y, and Z. For example, their invention could include A, B, and / or C as long as it also has X, Y, and Z.The present invention pertains to a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system (200). The system incorporates weather-responsivetechnology, featuring advanced sensors capable of detecting changes in environmental conditions. These sensors facilitate the automatic retraction of clotheslines through the deployment of automated retractable rods, ensuring that washed clothes are well-maintained even during bad weather. Furthermore, the system eliminates the need for constant monitoring and manual intervention associated with traditional outdoor clothes drying methods and facilitates outdoor-space optimization.Referring to embodiments depicted in Figures 1 and 2a - 2f, the present invention of a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system (200) comprises:- a retractable drying rod assembly (100) comprising one or more telescopically retractable rods (102), mounted in a parallel configuration on a sub-frame, said rods (102) capable of moving between an extended drying position and a retracted position (102); - a plurality of sensors comprising:- at least one rain-detection sensor (108), positioned at the base end of the sub-frame to detect rainfall, and- at least one receiver sensor (109) integrated with a window or balcony frame (103), configured to initiate the opening of the corresponding window / door upon receiving signals from the rain-detection sensor (108);- a control unit (111) operatively configured with the sensors (108, 109) and a DC motor (112), adapted to receive the signals from the sensors and initiate the retraction mechanism; - a rechargeable battery (113) configured with the control unit (111) and the DC motor (112) to power the system actuate the motorized retraction mechanism of the drying rod assembly (100), wherein the motor (112) and the battery (113) are housed within a protectiveenclosure placed in proximity to the window frame, within the interior of the household.The retractable drying rods assembly (100), as illustrated in the accompanying Figures 1 to 2e, is configured to as a support structure for suspending garments in an outdoor setting. Said rod assembly (100) incorporates a sub-frame assembly constructed to support and guide one or more telescopically extendable drying rods (102), mounted in parallel on said sub-frame.The sub-frame assembly further consists of two track guides (101), having a semi-circular configuration, positioned respectively on the left and right sides, to facilitate and constrain the movement of the retractable rods (102). Said rods (102) are securely mounted within the curvature of the track guides (101). Each track guide (101) is mechanically configured with a support frame (103), such as a window sill structure, via a set of jointed link arms. Said link arms maintain the relative orientation of the drying rods (102) during telescopic extension and retraction, thus ensuring synchronized movement across the sub-frame.It is to be understood that the track guides described herein are not confined to the geometric configurations explicitly illustrated in the application. Alternative arrangements of guiding tracks may be employed, including but not limited to linear, semi-circular, rectangular, or parallel-sided geometries, depending upon installation parameters and the specific requirements of actuation mechanics. All such potential variations are intended to be encompassed within the scope and intent of the present invention, and no limitations should be construed on the scope of the invention based on the aforementioned configurations.Further, to enhance structural integrity and enable vertical or angular displacement of the sub-frame assembly, each guide track (101) is reinforced by dual tension support cables (104). Said tension cables (104) are configured in a triangular arrangement on each side of the assembly (100), effectively distributing load and minimizing structural deformation during operation.Referring to another embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2a, the tension support cables (104) are suspended from the lateral ends of a horizontal suspension shaft (105) through ball-joint connectors (106) that are integrated with the shaft (105) at each of end. The suspension shaft (105) spans across the width of the window or balcony, ensuring alignment between the left and the right sub-frame assemblies, while the ball-joint connectors (106) facilitate rotational movement, thereby allowing for the seamless retraction and extraction of the rods (102).Additionally, each joint connector (106) is further configured with an overhead frame (107) or a wall-mounted fixture, thereby enabling a pivoting motion and ensuring that the retraction mechanism operates with minimal friction and misalignment.The sensor-based retractable clothes drying system (200) is attached to the balcony or window frame (103) through a mounting hardware. Said mounting hardware comprises a plurality of support brackets and fastening elements, preferably fabricated from corrosion-resistant stainless steel to ensure mechanical integrity and long-term durability in outdoor environments.According to the above-mentioned embodiments, the drying rod assembly (100) comprises a plurality of retractable rods (102) engineered with a telescopic extension mechanism. Each rod includes multiple interlocking tubular sections that slide within each other, thereby allowing smooth extension and retraction of the rods (102). Said particular configuration allows for variable adjustment in rod length and tension.With reference to the embodiments shown in Figures 2d and 2e, to further facilitate the automated retraction process, the drying rods (102) are engineered with a slight downward bend / tilt, which permits gravity-assisted, indoor transfer of garments during the retraction phase, thereby accommodating various drying needs and catering to diverse user requirements.The retractable rod drying assembly (100) is preferably constructed from high-grade, weather-resistant materials such as corrosion-resistant metal alloys, including, but not limited to, aluminum or aluminum-based alloys. These materials are selected for their inherent properties of lightweight construction, mechanical robustness, and corrosion resistance, rendering them suitable for long-term outdoor deployment. Moreover, the sub-frame and retractable rods are further finished with a UV-stabilized protective coating, which may comprise of an architectural-grade powder coating or an anodized finish, both of which are adapted to inhibit surface degradation due to ultraviolet radiation, minimize color fading, and prevent oxidation, thus minimizing colour fading, and extending the overall lifespan of the metal parts exposed to outdoor weather conditions.Furthermore, the bushings and end caps of the retractable rods are made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE). The bushings allow the interlocking rod sections to extend and retract smoothly while minimizing friction and wear. Said HDPE may also be used for cable insulation and protective sleeves for wiring or sensor cables connecting sensors to the central control unit and motor assembly.Figures 1 to 3b depict a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system equipped with plurality of advanced, weather-responsive sensors. Said sensors include:- at least one rain detection sensor enclosed inside a sensor housing unit (108) positioned on the base end of the track guides (101) to detect rainfall, and- at least one receiver sensor (109) integrated with a latch mechanism (110) on the inner window ledger balcony frame, configured to initiate the opening of the corresponding window / door upon receiving signals from the rain detection sensor.Said sensors are operatively configured with the control unit (111) to respond in real time to varying weather conditions. The control unit (110) is programmed to receive and process signals transmitted by the sensors.The rain detection sensor (108) is configured to detect changes in weather conditions, specifically the onset of moderate to heavy rainfall. Upon detecting rainfall, the rain detection sensor transmits real-time signals to a central control unit.The receiver sensor (109) works in conjunction with the rain detection sensor (108). Said sensor (109) is configured with the latch mechanism (110) of the window to actuate its displacement and initiate the opening of the corresponding window or door. The activation of the receiver sensor (109) occurs upon receiving signals from the rain detection sensor (108), ensuring a coordinated response to impending rainfall.According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, the rain detection sensor (108) and the receiver sensor (109) are housed within covers or housings comprising of polycarbonate, as it has high impact resistance, optical clarity, and inherent UV stability, making it ideal for prolonged outdoor exposure. With reference to Figures 3a and 3b, the control unit (111) is operatively configured with the DC motor (112) and the sensors (108,109), wherein said control unit (111), upon receiving signals from the rain-detection sensor (108), activates the DC motor (112) that is operatively coupled to the retractable rod mechanism (102).Said DC motor (112) converts the received electrical input into a corresponding mechanical output, causing the rods to extend or retract. The retraction of the rods (102) pulls the clothes (114) into the sheltered indoor area, which is guided by gravity and a pre-designed downward angle, protecting them from the rain. This conversion of real-time electrical inputs into automated mechanical movement constitutes a key functional feature of the present invention, ensuring that the system operates autonomously, efficiently, and reliably under variable weather conditions.In a preferred embodiment, the control unit (111) comprises a microcontroller that functions as the central processing component, receiving input signals from the weather-responsive sensors (108) and executing programmed instructions to operate the DC motor (112) and associated retraction mechanism in real time. Said microcontroller may be selected from, but not limited to, microcontrollers from families such as Atmel AVR, Microchip PIC, or ARM Cortex-M series.It is to be understood that the microcontroller is selected based on factors including low energy consumption, sufficient input / output (I / O)ports for sensor integration, compatibility with DC motor (112) control circuits, and the ability to store and execute the embedded program logic required for automated operation. It is further understood that the control unit (111) may alternatively be implemented using an equivalent microprocessor-based system or programmable logic controller (PLC), provided such a variation achieves the same technical function of real-time sensor monitoring and motor actuation within the scope of the invention.In a preferred configuration, the central control unit (111), which encompasses the microcontroller and the battery (113), are enclosed within a weather-resistant housing, situated in close proximity to the drying rod assembly (100), within the interior of the household and adjacent to the window frame. This placement ensures that the control system is protected from external weather conditions, allows safe and convenient user access, and facilitates maintenance and future upgrades.In accordance with one embodiment, the DC motor (112) is operatively powered by a rechargeable battery (113) configured to deliver a DC output within the range of approximately 12 to 24 volts. This voltage range is selected to ensure efficient and reliable operation of the retractable rod mechanism, while concurrently promoting energy conservation and operational safety. The rechargeable battery (113) is further configured to supply continuous DC power to both the control unit and the motor, thereby facilitating autonomous functionality of the system in the absence of an external power source. Additionally, the battery (113) can be easily recharged through a standard household outlet which may be situated either indoors or outdoors, using an appropriate charging interface, which maximizes operational convenience and user flexibility.This configuration provides an effective balance between environmental durability and operational accessibility, supporting user-selectable modes for both manual override and automated retraction through the integrated interface.In an embodiment, said present invention may incorporate a solar-panel for charging the battery (113), thereby minimising energy-consumption and reducing reliance on external power sources, which contributes to a more sustainable househod system. Further referring to another embodiment, the sensor-based retractable clothes drying system (200) comprises a user-friendly and selectable interface configured to alternate between automated and manual operational modes. Said interface may be implemented as a physical switch, touch-sensitive button, or wireless control panel via a mobile app, which can be either integrated into the housing of the central control unit (111) or positioned at a convenient location on an indoor wall surface.With reference to Figure 2f, the control unit (111) can be programmed to extend the rods (102) back to their original configuration once the rain subsides. In the automated operational mode, the system autonomously processes real-time environmental inputs received from the detector rain sensor (108) and receiver sensor (109) through the microcontroller-based control unit (111), subsequently commanding the DC motor (112) to facilitate the extension or retraction of the drying rods assembly (100).Conversely, in the manual operational mode, the automated response to environmental inputs is temporarily disabled, allowing the users to manually control the movement of the drying rods via the designated interface. The inclusion of said dual-mode feature enhances the adaptability, user autonomy, and fail-safe operability of the drying system, ensuring that the system remains functional even if one or more sensors are compromised or deliberately bypassed. The selection interface is further connected to the control logic embedded in the microcontroller (111), which interprets the selected operational mode and adjusts motor command protocols accordingly, ensuring smooth transitions between control modes without affecting safety or mechanical reliability.Thus, said present invention stands out as an innovative, reliable, energy-efficient and user-centric solution for drying clothes in both, outdoors as well as indoor settings in urban environments due to its harmonious fusion of automated technology, sophisticated weather responsive controls, and sufficient space optimization for the limited available area.According to Figures 2c - 3a, said sensor-based retractable clothes drying system (200) is further configured to: 1. initiate initial retraction of the rods (102) upon detection of rain by the rain-detection sensor (108) and transmission of said signals to the control unit and the receiver sensor (109);2. enable simultaneous activation of the DC motor to retract the rods and actuation of the latch mechanism (110) to open the windows; 3. facilitate angular adjustment of the retracted rods (102) with respect to the horizontal suspension shaft (105), directing the rods toward the interior of the room;4. extend the rods back into the room upon completion of the retraction, allow garments to drop indoors, followed by re-adjustment and re-extension of the rods to their original outdoor configuration.Referring to Figure 2a, original configuration of the sensor-based retractable clothes drying system (200) is shown, wherein the retractable rods (102) are fully extended along track guides for the purpose of drying clothes. Now, with reference to Figure 2c and Figure 2d, in response to rain, the rain-detection sensor (108) transmits signals to the receiver sensor (109) positioned on the window frame. This communication engages the latch mechanism (110), transitioning it from a locked state to a neutral state, thereby enabling the windows to open. Simultaneously, the rain-detection sensor (108) also triggers the control unit (111), which activates the DC motor (112) configured with the drying rods (102) to facilitate automatic retraction of the drying rods (102) via the DC motor (112). The rods are comprised of a series of interlocking sections that slide concentrically to achieve said retraction.In further reference to the retraction mechanism shown in the accompanying Figure 2d, the rods are configured to undergo angular adjustments, wherein the rods tilt downwards relative to a horizontal suspension shaft (105), towards the room interior. This tilted rod configuration (102) is crucial for positioning the clothes (114) directly above the interior floor area. The smart articulation capability of the retractable rods (102) enables precise angular adjustments. Further referring to Figure 2e, once fully retracted and aligned with the room's interior floor, the rods are then re-extended at this downward angle into the room. This angled orientation facilitates a smooth, gravity-assisted transfer of clothes (114) into the indoor space, thereby shielding them from rain exposure without any manual intervention.Following the successful indoor transfer of clothes (114), the system ensures reversible automation. In accordance to the embodiments shown in Figure 2f, once the rainfall has ceased, the retracted rods (102) are re-extended and re-adjusted to their original, outward-facing drying configuration (102). This autonomous restoration confirms the system's ability to protect clothes (114) during adverse weather and subsequently resume its primary function when conditions are again suitable for outdoor drying. The entire mechanism relies on synchronized actuation between sensor inputs, the retraction mechanism, rod tilt, and window control. ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention of a sensor-based retractable clothes drying system has the following advantages:- offers an innovative and reliable drying techniques for outdoor clothes in monsoon-prone urban environments.- facilitates an automated retraction mechanism.- enables automated, weather response technology for more responsive and adaptable drying during unpredictable weather conditions. - Provides a user-friendly, space-efficient system for all age group users in urban living constraints.- contains high quality, durable weather-resistant raw materials for a prolonged lifespan performance and resilience against harsh weather conditions. - eliminates the need for continuous monitoring for unforeseen weather conditions.- energy efficient operation and promotes environmental sustainability while reducing the risk of high energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions through external power sources.- encloses enhanced safety features for all moving parts based on unpredictable weather conditions while minimizing the risk of injury during the operation.

Claims

1. A sensor-based retractable clothes drying system (200), wherein said system comprises: - a retractable drying rod assembly (100) configured to provide a support structure for suspending garments in an outdoor setting, wherein said assembly (100) comprises: - a sub-frame assembly having two track guides (101), positioned respectively on the left and right sides, and configured with a support frame (103), - one or more drying rods (102) which are telescopically retractable, securely mounted in a parallel configuration within the curvature of the track guides (101), - dual tension support cables (104) configured in a triangular arrangement on each side of the track guides (101), - a horizontal suspension shaft (105), configured to suspend said dual tension support cables (104) from its lateral ends through a ball joint connector (106) configured on either side of the shaft (105); - at least one rain-detection sensor (108), placed at the base end of the sub-frame to detect rainfall; - at least one receiver sensor (109) integrated with a window or balcony frame (103), configured to receive signals from the rain-detection sensor (108); - a control unit (111), operatively configured with the sensors (108,109) and a DC motor (112), to receive signals from the sensors and activate DC motor (112) to actuate the motorized retraction mechanism of the rods (102) upon receiving signals from the control unit (111); - a rechargeable battery (113) configured to deliver a DC output to the system; characterized in that, said drying rods (102) having an articulation mechanism, allow angular adjustment of said rods (102) by pivoting the rods relative to the horizontal shaft (105) and tilting said rods (102) in downward direction toward the room interior to facilitate the transfer of clothes (114) into the indoor space during rainfall.

2. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said track guides (101) may have varied geometric configurations, including but not limited to, linear, semi-circular, rectangular, or parallel-sided geometries, depending upon installation parameters and the specific requirements of actuation mechanics3. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each track guide (101) is mechanically configured with a support frame (103), as a window sill structure, via a set of jointed link arms.

4. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each joint connector (106) is further configured with an overhead frame (107) or a wall-mounted fixture, configured to enable a pivoting motion and ensuring minimal friction and misalignment.

5. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said drying rods (102) include multiple interlocking tubular sections that slide within each other, thereby allowing for variable adjustment in rod length and tension, and a smooth retraction mechanism.

6. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the retractable rod drying assembly (100) is preferably made from high-grade, weather- resistant materials such as corrosion-resistant metal alloys, including but not limited to aluminum or aluminum-based alloys.

7. The system (200) as claimed in claims 1 and 5, wherein the retractable drying rod assembly (100) is further finished with a UV-stabilized protective coating, comprise an architectural-grade powder coating or an anodized.

8. The system (200) as claimed in claims 1 and 5, wherein the bushings and end caps of the drying rods (102) are made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE).

9. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the receiver sensor (109) is configured with a latch mechanism (110) of the window and actuates its displacement from a locked state to a neutral state, to initiate the opening of the corresponding window or door, upon receiving signals from the rain-detection sensor (108).

10. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said rain detection sensor (108) and the receiver sensor (109) are housed within covers or housings comprising of polycarbonate.

11. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (111) microcontroller configured as a central processing component, said microcontroller is selected from, but not limited to, microcontrollers from families such as Atmel AVR, Microchip PIC, or ARM Cortex-M series.

12. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (111) is programmed to extend the rods (102) back to their original configuration once the rain subsides.

13. A system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the central control unit (111) comprising a microcontroller and a battery (113), is housed within a weather-resistant enclosure positioned near the drying rod assembly (100), located within the interior of a household and adjacent to the window frame.

14. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said system (200) further consists of a solar panel for charging the battery (113).

15. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said system (200) comprises an interface configured to enable users to alternate between automated and manual operational modes.

16. The system (200) as claimed in claim 15, wherein said interface is implemented as a physical switch, touch-sensitive button, or a wireless control panel via a mobile application.

17. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (111) further comprises a microcontroller as the central processing component of the system, to receive input signals from the receiver sensors (108) and execute programmed instructions to operate the DC motor (112) and retraction mechanism in real time.

18. The system (200) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system is further configured to: - initiate initial retraction of the rods (102) upon detection of rain by a rain-detection sensor (108) and transmission of said signals to a control unit (111) and a receiver sensor (109); - enable simultaneous activation of a DC motor (112) to retract the rods and actuation of a latch mechanism (110) to open the windows; - facilitate angular adjustment of the retracted rods (102) with respect to a horizontal suspension shaft (105), directing the rods toward the interior of the room; - extend the rods back into the room upon completion of the retraction, allowing clothes (114) to drop indoors; and - re-adjust and re-extend the rods to their original outdoor configuration once the rainfall has ceased.