Toilet Paper Holder Attachable Shelf Device

Abstract

A toilet paper holder attachable shelf device is provided. The device is configured to be removably affixed above an existing toilet paper roll holder using at least one deployable support arm and attachment mechanism. The device comprises a shelf connected to a pair of support arms via pivot points that allow the arms to rotate into either a deployed or stowed position. Each arm is further configured with an attachment mechanism designed to securely engage the horizontal arms of the toilet paper holder. An extendable section is integrated into the shelf and may be extended outward using a telescoping or sliding mechanism to expand the usable storage area. The device is designed for tool-free installation and removal, allowing for repeated use across different locations.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 763,344, which was filed on Feb. 26, 2025, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of restroom structures. More specifically, the present invention relates to a portable shelf that is attachable to an existing toilet paper roll to provide a temporary surface to store items while using the restroom. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.BACKGROUND

[0003] In many residential and commercial bathroom settings, users frequently bring personal items such as smartphones, tablets, magazines, or hygiene products with them for temporary use or storage. However, these spaces often lack appropriate or sanitary surfaces for placing such items during use of the facilities. Common practices include placing devices on the floor, which may expose them to physical damage from impact, or on sink areas that are wet or contaminated, leading to potential water ingress or bacterial exposure. These placement options present risks not only to the functionality of the devices but also to personal hygiene. Moreover, public restrooms typically lack secure or clean flat surfaces for holding personal items, which exacerbates the problem for individuals carrying multiple belongings. In high-traffic environments, users may feel rushed or distracted, further increasing the chance of items being dropped into toilets or left behind. The inconvenience and health risks associated with improper storage are therefore significant, prompting a demand for a better solution.

[0004] Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device that provides a stable and sanitary platform for temporarily storing personal items in a bathroom environment. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device that securely attaches to existing toilet paper holder structures without requiring permanent modification. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device that can be compactly stored or extended based on user needs and available space.

[0005] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device. The device is configured to be removably affixed above an existing toilet paper roll holder using at least one deployable support arm and attachment mechanism. The device comprises a shelf connected to a pair of support arms via pivot points that allow the arms to rotate into either a deployed or stowed position. Each arm is further configured with an attachment mechanism designed to securely engage the horizontal arms of the toilet paper holder. The inner surfaces of the attachment mechanisms include high-friction grip areas made from materials such as silicone or thermoplastic elastomers to enhance stability and prevent slippage or damage. The shelf comprises an upper surface fabricated from a friction-enhancing material and includes a perimeter lip to retain stored items. An extendable section is integrated into the shelf and may be extended outward using a telescoping or sliding mechanism to expand the usable storage area. Additional features include one or more molded depressions designed to retain specific items and one or more flip-down hooks integrated into the underside of the shelf to accommodate accessories such as keys or lanyards. The device is designed for tool-free installation and removal, allowing for repeated use across different locations.

[0006] In this manner, the toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of the present invention accomplishes all the foregoing objectives and provides a stable, sanitary platform for storing personal items, attaching securely to existing toilet paper holders without requiring modification, and providing flexible storage space through its extendable design. The pivoting support arms and adaptable attachment mechanisms allow the device to be universally compatible with a variety of toilet paper holder configurations. The inclusion of a high-friction surface, molded item depressions, and a raised perimeter lip ensures that stored objects remain secure and organized. The optional hooks provide additional utility, enhancing storage without increasing the device footprint. Collectively, these features address the core challenges of bathroom item storage, improving convenience and reducing the risk of contamination or damage.SUMMARY

[0007] The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key / critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0008] The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device. The device provides a stable platform that mounts above an existing toilet paper holder to support personal items such as smartphones, hygiene products, or small bags, particularly in environments with limited surface space. The device enhances user convenience and hygiene by preventing items from falling onto unsanitary surfaces.

[0009] The device is comprised of at least one support arm connected to a shelf through a pivot point that enables rotational movement for deployment or stowage. The pivot point may include various rotational couplings or hinges. When deployed, the support arms extend downward and outward from the shelf to engage with the horizontal arms of a toilet paper holder. Each support arm includes an attachment mechanism designed to removably secure the device to the holder without requiring hardware modification. Each attachment mechanism may include an internal surface featuring a non-slip grip area to enhance stability and prevent shifting.

[0010] During use, the shelf serves as the primary support platform and may be constructed from a high-friction material to reduce item slippage. In some embodiments, the shelf includes an extendable section that slides outward via a mechanism such as a telescoping track, groove system, or magnetic extension. A raised perimeter lip surrounds the shelf edge to contain stored items and reduce lateral movement caused by contact or vibration. The lip may be continuous or segmented and can be formed integrally or added as a separate component. The shelf may also include molded depressions shaped to retain specific items such as earbuds, rings, or cosmetic containers. Additionally, the shelf may incorporate one or more flip-down hooks on its underside or edges capable of supporting lightweight accessories such as keys or small bags.

[0011] The invention also includes a method for use, comprising steps to deploy the support arms, engage and secure the attachment mechanisms to a toilet paper holder, optionally extend the shelf, and place personal items on the surface. The method concludes with device removal and arm stowage.

[0012] Accordingly, the toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a stable, sanitary platform for storing personal items, attaching securely to existing toilet paper holders without requiring modification, and providing flexible storage space through its extendable design. The pivoting support arms and adaptable attachment mechanisms allow the device to be universally compatible with a variety of toilet paper holder configurations. The inclusion of a high-friction surface, molded item depressions, and a raised perimeter lip ensures that stored objects remain secure and organized. The optional hooks provide additional utility, enhancing storage without increasing the device footprint. Collectively, these features address the core challenges of bathroom item storage, improving convenience and reducing the risk of contamination or damage.

[0013] To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of the present invention with the extendable section of the shelf retracted in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of the present invention with the extendable section of the shelf extended in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of the present invention with the extendable section of the shelf extended and while attached around a toilet paper holder in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0019] The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

[0020] As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device that provides a stable and sanitary platform for temporarily storing personal items in a bathroom environment. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device that securely attaches to existing toilet paper holder structures without requiring permanent modification. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device that can be compactly stored or extended based on user needs and available space.

[0021] The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device. The platform mounts above a standard toilet paper holder to offer a stable surface for storing personal belongings such as smartphones, hygiene items, or small bags, especially in settings where surface space is constrained. By preventing items from contacting potentially unsanitary surfaces, the platform improves both user hygiene and convenience.

[0022] At least one support arm is connected to the shelf through a pivot point, which allows rotational motion for deployment or stowage. The pivot point may incorporate hinges or other types of rotational couplings. In the deployed configuration, the support arms extend outward and downward to engage with the horizontal arms of a toilet paper holder. Each arm includes an attachment mechanism that allows the platform to be removably secured without altering existing hardware. To improve stability and minimize movement, each attachment mechanism may feature a non-slip grip area on its internal surface.

[0023] The shelf operates as the main support surface and may be fabricated from materials that provide high surface friction to prevent items from sliding. In certain embodiments, an extendable section is integrated into the shelf and can be expanded using mechanisms such as telescoping tracks, groove systems, or magnetic extensions. A raised lip surrounds the shelf's perimeter, functioning to contain stored items and prevent lateral displacement from vibrations or incidental contact. The lip may be either continuous or segmented and may be formed integrally or as an attached component. Additionally, the shelf may include molded depressions designed to secure small items such as rings, earbuds, or cosmetic containers. Flip-down hooks may also be incorporated on the underside or sides of the shelf to support lightweight accessories, including keys or small bags.

[0024] The invention further comprises a method of operation that includes rotating the support arms to a deployed position, securing the attachment mechanisms to a toilet paper holder, optionally extending the shelf, placing items on the platform, and subsequently removing and stowing the device.

[0025] As a result, the toilet paper holder attachable shelf device provides a sanitary and stable surface for personal storage, securing easily to existing fixtures without requiring modification. The inclusion of extendable sections enhances storage flexibility, while pivoting support arms and versatile attachment mechanisms enable broad compatibility across different toilet paper holder designs. The high-friction surface, molded item-specific depressions, and raised edge lip maintain item organization and security. Optional hooks offer added storage options without enlarging the device footprint. Together, these elements address common challenges in bathroom storage, increasing convenience, and reducing contamination risk.

[0026] Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of one potential embodiment of a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device 100 of the present invention with the extendable section 107 of the shelf 104 retracted in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The device 100 is designed to provide users with a stable, convenient platform that may be securely positioned above an existing toilet paper roll holder 10 to enable temporary storage of personal items such as, but not limited to, smartphones, tablets, hygiene products, or small bags, particularly in environments lacking adequate space. As a result, the device improves user convenience and safety by preventing personal belongings from falling onto the floor or into the toilet, especially in public or high-traffic settings where surfaces may be limited or unsanitary.

[0027] The device 100 may be comprised of at least one, and preferably two, support arms 102. Each arm 102 may be connected to a shelf 104 via a pivot point 106 to allow rotational movement for stowage or deployment. The pivot point 106 may be comprised of, but is not limited to, a hinge, a rotational coupling, etc.

[0028] When deployed, the arms 102 extend downward and outward from the shelf 104 (preferably at a perpendicular angle with a top surface 105 of the shelf) and are positioned to engage with the horizontal arms 12 of the existing toilet paper holder 10, as seen in FIG. 3. Each arm 102 may include at least one attachment mechanism 103. The attachment mechanism 103 may provide secure, removable attachment with the horizontal arms 12 of an existing toilet paper holder 10 without requiring modification to existing bathroom hardware. The attachment mechanism 103 may be comprised of several engagement configurations in different embodiments that allow adaptability across toilet paper holders of varying dimensions and profiles. These configurations may include, but are not limited to, spring-loaded clips / adjustable spring-loaded clips that apply inward bias to create clamping pressure, threaded clamping assemblies, snap-fit channels shaped to match the cross-sectional geometry of common cylindrical or oval toilet paper holder arms, etc.

[0029] The internal surface 108 of the attachment mechanism 103 may be comprised of a non-slip grip area 110 that increases friction and minimizes movement once the arms 102 are installed in one embodiment. The grip area 110 may be comprised of rubber, thermoplastic elastomers, silicone, or polyurethane, applied as pads, inserts, or overmolded coatings. In alternative and / or additional embodiments, the grip area 110 may be comprised of a molded texture integrated into the structure of the surface 108. Such textures may include, but are not limited to, parallel ridges, intersecting grooves, stippled fields, or other micro-patterns designed to increase the coefficient of friction and provide stability without the need for additional padding. These features may also serve to prevent surface damage or scratching of the toilet paper holder arms 12.

[0030] During use of the device 100, the shelf 104 functions as the main platform for supporting personal items. In one embodiment, the top surface 105 of the shelf 104 may be comprised of a material with high surface friction, such as silicone or a textured thermoplastic, to reduce the likelihood of items sliding during use. The shelf 104 may be any size, shape, and dimension. In one embodiment, the shelf 104 is further comprised of an extendable section 107 designed to increase the usable depth or width of the shelf 104, as seen in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. In this embodiment, the extendable section 107 may be configured to slide outward from the main body of the shelf 104 along a mechanism 109. The mechanism 109 may be comprised of, but is not limited to, a telescoping track system, a self-locking groove system, a friction-based sliding assembly, a slide and latch mechanism, a magnetically assisted extension mechanism, etc.

[0031] To ensure that items placed on the shelf 104 remain secure, the shelf 104 may include a raised perimeter lip 112 formed along its outer edge. The lip 112 may be comprised of the same structural material as the shelf 104 or may be molded or bonded as a separate component. In some embodiments, the lip 112 may feature a continuous profile around the entire perimeter, while in others, the lip 112 may be segmented or may vary in height to provide access points for retrieving stored items. The raised lip 112 functions to contain items on the shelf 104, reducing the risk of lateral displacement due to user interaction, vibration, or external contact.

[0032] To further promote organized storage, the top surface 105 of the shelf 104 may include at least one molded indentation or depression 114 that are contoured to accommodate specific personal items. These depressions 114 may be shaped to retain small articles such as earbuds, rings, writing utensils, cosmetic containers, or hygiene implements. The contours of each depression 114 may be dimensioned to match typical object sizes and may include gently sloped walls or recesses that improve tactile accessibility. In certain embodiments, elastomeric liners or inserts may be placed within the depressions 114 to provide additional cushioning, grip, or hygiene protection.

[0033] The shelf 104 may additionally be comprised of one or more flip-down hooks 116 integrated into its underside or lateral edges. Each hook 116 may be pivotally connected to the shelf 104 via a recessed hinge or flex-joint that allows rotation between a retracted position, wherein the hook 116 is flush with or enclosed within the body of the shelf 104, and a deployed position extending downward for use. The hook 116 may be comprised of a durable plastic, metal alloy, or composite material capable of supporting lightweight accessories such as keys, wrist straps, masks, lanyards, or compact bags. In some embodiments, the hook 116 may be biased to return to the stowed position via a spring 117.

[0034] The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the device 100, as seen in FIG. 4. First, a device 100 is provided comprised of at least one shelf 104, at least one support arm 102 connected to the shelf 104 via at least one pivot point 106, and at least one attachment mechanism 103 disposed on each support arm 102 [Step 202]. Then, the support arms 102 are rotated about the pivot points 106 to a deployed position wherein the arms 102 extend downward and outward from the shelf 104 [Step 204]. Next, the support arms 102 are positioned such that the attachment mechanisms 103 engage with the horizontal arms 12 of an existing toilet paper holder 10 without requiring modification to the holder 10 [Step 206]. Then, the attachment mechanisms 103 are secured around the horizontal arms 12 to provide a stable and removable connection, wherein internal surfaces 108 of the attachment mechanisms 103 engage the arms 12 via a non-slip grip area 110 [Step 208]. Next, a user may optionally extend an extendable section 107 of the shelf 104 outward along a mechanism 109 to increase the usable surface area of the shelf 104 [Step 210]. Then, personal items may be placed on the top surface 105 of the shelf 104, wherein the surface 105 optionally includes molded depressions 114 and / or a high-friction material to stabilize the stored items [Step 212]. Finally, the device 100 may be removed from the toilet paper holder 10 by disengaging the attachment mechanisms 103 and folding the support arms 102 back toward the shelf 104 into a stowed position via the pivot points 106 [Step 214].

[0035] Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “toilet paper holder attachable shelf device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the toilet paper holder attachable shelf device 100 of the present invention.

[0036] Notwithstanding the foregoing, the toilet paper holder attachable shelf device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the toilet paper holder attachable shelf device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the toilet paper holder attachable shelf device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the toilet paper holder attachable shelf device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the toilet paper holder attachable shelf device 100 may be of any size, shape, and / or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and / or that suits the user's needs and / or preferences.

[0037] Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

[0038] What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

Claims

1. A toilet paper holder attachable shelf device comprising:a shelf having a top surface;a support arm connected to the shelf via a pivot point; andan attachment mechanism disposed on the support arm, the attachment mechanism configured to engage with a horizontal arm of a toilet paper holder.

2. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 1, wherein the pivot point is comprised of a hinge.

3. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 1, wherein the pivot point is comprised of a rotational coupling.

4. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 1, wherein the attachment mechanism is comprised of a spring-loaded clip.

5. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 1, wherein the attachment mechanism is comprised of a snap-fit channel.

6. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 1, wherein an internal surface of the attachment mechanism is comprised of a non-slip grip area.

7. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 1, wherein the non-slip grip area is comprised of a rubber or a thermoplastic elastomer.

8. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 1, wherein the top surface is comprised of a silicone or a textured thermoplastic.

9. A toilet paper holder attachable shelf device comprising:a shelf having a top surface and an extendable section;a support arm connected to the shelf via a pivot point; andan attachment mechanism disposed on the support arm, the attachment mechanism configured to engage with a horizontal arm of a toilet paper holder.

10. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 9, wherein the extendable section extends outwards from the shelf.

11. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 9, wherein the shelf is comprised of a raised perimeter lip.

12. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 9, wherein the shelf is comprised of a depression.

13. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 9 further comprised of a flip-down hook.

14. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 9, wherein the pivot point is comprised of a hinge.

15. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 9, wherein the pivot point is comprised of a rotational coupling.

16. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 9, wherein the attachment mechanism is comprised of a spring-loaded clip.

17. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 9, wherein the attachment mechanism is comprised of a snap-fit channel.

18. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 9, wherein an internal surface of the attachment mechanism is comprised of a non-slip grip area.

19. The toilet paper holder attachable shelf device of claim 9, wherein the non-slip grip area is comprised of a rubber or a thermoplastic elastomer.

20. A method of using a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device, the method comprising the following steps:providing a toilet paper holder attachable shelf device comprised of a shelf, a support arm connected to the shelf via a pivot point, and an attachment mechanism disposed on the support arm;rotating the support arm about the pivot point to a deployed position;positioning the support arm such that the attachment mechanism engages with a horizontal arm of a toilet paper holder;securing the attachment mechanism around the horizontal arm;placing personal items on a top surface of the shelf; andremoving the device from the toilet paper holder by disengaging the attachment mechanism and folding the support arm back toward the shelf.

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