Textile mounting rack and a textile mounting assembly for airing textile items

Abstract

A textile mounting rack (10) for airing textile items (1). The textile mounting rack comprising a rack arm (20) for hanging textile items, and a first (21) and a second arm section (22) connected by a first section joint for adjustment of the horizontal angle (v) which a lock allows temporarily maintaining. The mounting rack comprises a main bracket (50) with top (60) and bottom width adjusters (70) for clamping to a fixture such as a rail on a balcony (7). The mounting rack comprises a connection joint (80) connecting the main bracket and first arm section. The mounting rack may comprise a third arm section (23) and a second section joint, for adjustment of the horizontal angle between the second and third arm sections. The arm sections may comprise one or more throughgoing holes (30) for receiving hangers. The mounting assembly may comprise clamping means (90) for fixing textile items to the rack arm.

Description

[0001] TEXTILE MOUNTING RACK AND A TEXTILE MOUNTING ASSEMBLY FOR AIRING

[0002] TEXTILE ITEMS

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present invention relates to the field of textile mounting racks for the hanging of textiles for airing and / or drying in particular racks that may be mounted to extend from a rail having a vertical surface, such as a balcony.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] The drying or airing of textiles is an essential task in private households, where the efficient management of space and cleanliness are crucial considerations. In this context, racks designed to hold textiles have become a staple solution for many homeowners seeking to dry their clothes without occupying too much space.

[0007] Traditionally, standing drying racks have been employed to achieve this goal. While effective in providing ample surface area for hanging garments, these racks often occupy a significant amount of floor space, making them less than ideal for smaller homes or apartments.

[0008] Another common approach has been the use of clotheslines, which involve suspending clothes from a fixed point using ropes or strings. This method allows for efficient drying and can be particularly useful in areas with limited indoor space. However, it is not without its drawbacks as cloths hung outdoors are susceptible to dirt, dust, and other environmental contaminants that can transfer onto the textiles themselves.

[0009] Lacking other options, some homeowners have opted to hang their textiles directly on the rail of a balcony or railing. This approach eliminates the need for additional equipment. However, textiles hung in this manner are still exposed to the elements and may become dirty or damaged.

[0010] Racks that hang loosely on a rail or the top edge of a door are another type of solution available in the market. However, they may not provide sufficient support for heavier or bulkier textiles and can easily fall off due to wind gusts or other external factors. Additionally, these racks are often nonadjustable making their uses limited and as they typically hang the textile items parallel to a wall or similar surface air flow around the hung textile item is limited making the drying and airing of the cloth less efficient.

[0011] Furthermore, all these solutions share another common shortcoming - they can be prone to accidents. Standing racks have been known to topple over if overloaded or placed on uneven surfaces, while clotheslines can come loose due to wind, or wear and tear. Similarly, textiles hung directly from a railing may fall off or become tangled.

[0012] In light of these shortcomings, there is an ongoing need for a versatile textile mounting rack that may be securely mounted to fixtures such as railings of balconies, windowsills, or radiators and support many different types of textiles by being configured for the particular use. Such a solution would provide users with greater flexibility, convenience, and peace of mind when it comes to drying or airing their textiles.

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Numerous objects and advantages, which will be evident from the description of the present invention, are according to a first aspect of the present invention obtained by:

[0015] A textile mounting rack for airing textile items from a fixture, the textile mounting rack comprising a rack arm for supporting one or more textile items to be hung on the textile mounting rack, the rack arm comprising a first arm section and a second arm section, the first arm section and the second arm section are connected by a first section joint, the first section joint is configured to allow the adjustment of the horizontal angle between the first arm section and the second arm section, a first section lock for releasably fixing of the first section joint such that the angle between the first arm and the second arm is temporarily maintained; and mounting means for mounting the textile supporting means to the fixture, the mounting means comprising a main bracket, a top width adjuster, for attaching the mounting means to an upper region of the fixture, a bottom width adjuster, for contacting a lower point on the fixture; a connection joint, the connection joint connecting the main bracket of the mounting means and the first arm section of the rack arm, the connection joint being configured to allow the adjustment of the horizontal angle between the mounting means and the rack arm.

[0016] By a textile item is understood any article made from natural or synthetic fibres, such as clothing, towels, blankets, bedding, and other fabrics.

[0017] By a fixture is understood a structure being permanently integrated in a larger structure such as a building or a vehicle. The fixture may be designed to support or hold something in place or to provide support. The fixture may include rails, bars, boards, or any other type of mounting system.

[0018] The fixture comprises an upper region and a lower point. In the context of a fixture, it is understood that upper and lower refers to position relative to the ground and thus in relation to gravity. Hence the upper region is further from the ground than the lower point. It is preferrable that the fixture comprises a vertical section arranged below the upper region such that the lower point is part of the vertical section. Preferably the fixture is a rail such as the rail around the edge of a balcony or the rail of a ship. In such variants of the fixture the upper region is thus the uppermost part of the rail while the vertical section of the rail, where the lower point is, may be one or more bars, a board, or planks. In some cases the fixture may be adapted for use with the textile mounting rack e.g., by a vertical section being added or widened. The fixture may also be a windowsill or the fixture may be a radiator if the textile mounting rack is to be hung indoors.

[0019] The textile mounting rack comprises the two main parts being a mounting bracket enabling the mounting of the textile mounting rack to a fixture and a rack arm for supporting the one or more textile items to be aired or dried from the textile mounting rack, the one or more textile items may for example be supported by the rack arm by draping them across the upper surface of the rack arm by hanging textile items on hangers which may in turn be hung on the rack arm. By mounting means is understood the clamping structure enabling the mounting of the textile mounting rack, allowing secure attachment to a fixture. The mounting means comprises a main bracket, a top width adjuster, and a bottom width adjuster. By a top width adjuster is understood a mechanism that allows for adjustment of the width of the mounting means at the upper part of the mounting means, by the upper part is understood the gravitationally highest part, when the mounting means is connected to the fixture. Similarly, by a bottom width adjuster is understood a mechanism that allows for adjustment of width at the bottom part of the mounting means, by the bottom part being understood the gravitationally lowest part, when the mounting means is mounted to the fixture. By enabling adjustment of the width of the mounting means at both the top part and the bottom part it is possible for the user to adjust these parts to securely attach the mounting means to the fixture.

[0020] In a preferred variant the top width adjuster may engage the upper region of the fixture clamping the top part of the mounting means to the upper region. Simultaneously the bottom width adjuster will be configured to contact the lower point of the fixture, such that the mounting means contact the fixture at multiple points. Preferably the fixture will be clamped between part of the top width adjuster and the main bracket and between part of the bottom width adjuster and the main bracket. By having multiple clamping points, the clamping means ensures a stable mounting of the textile rack mount which allows it to stay in place on the fixture even when heavy textile items are hung on the rack arm or in windy weather conditions where additional forces may be applied to the textile mounting rack.

[0021] One advantage of having the mounting means comprise a top width adjuster and a bottom width adjuster is that the mounting means may be adapted for use with different fixtures, i.e. fixtures having different dimensions and shapes. This allows for more versatile use of the textile mounting rack. Furthermore, the possibility of adjusting the width of the mounting means both at the top part and the bottom part of the mounting means allows adjustment to have the preferred tilt of the mounting means where it is connected to the fixture, thereby allowing a secure connection to the fixture.

[0022] According to a further variant of the first aspect of the invention, the main bracket comprises a vertical bracket part and a horizontal bracket part arranged perpendicularly to each other. The vertical bracket part and the horizontal bracket part may be formed from a single piece, such as a piece of metal or they may be connected from two plates. In a preferred variant the vertical bracket part is longer than the horizontal bracket part, more preferably the vertical bracket part and the horizontal bracket part have the same width.

[0023] The top width adjuster may comprise multiple components, in some preferred variants part of the top width adjuster is an integrated part of the main bracket.

[0024] According to a further variant of the first aspect of the invention the top width adjuster comprises a top adjuster plate, a throughgoing slit being part of the main bracket, and a top lock. In a more preferred variant, the thoroughgoing slit is a cut out of the horizontal bracket part. The top lock may for example be a screw extending through the top adjuster plate and the slit in the main bracket such that the screw guides the top adjuster plate along the length of the slit and the top adjuster plate may be locked in place relative to the main bracket by tightening the screw.

[0025] In a preferred variant the main bracket comprises a plurality of slits, preferably three slits. In such a configuration having multiple slits, one slit may be engaged with a top lock such as a screw while the remaining slits may be loosely connected with guiding pins that ensure that the top adjuster plate can translate but cannot rotate relative to the main bracket. Hence, in a preferred variant the top width adjuster comprises a central top slit and one or more top guiding slits, such as two top guiding slits arranged on either side and parallel with the central top slit.

[0026] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the top central slit and the top guiding slits comprise a plurality of notches extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of each of said top slits

[0027] These notches enable the top lock to guide the top adjuster plate along the length of the slit and into the notches. The top adjuster plate may be locked in place relative to the main bracket. The notches assist in maintaining the lock position and help prevent loosening over time due to increased contact force in the direction in which force would be applied due to tension when the textile mounting rack is in use.

[0028] Preferably, the notches of the central top slit and the notches of the guiding top slits are aligned such that a notch of each slit is arranged at the same perpendicular distance from the edge of said top bracket. Hence, in preferred variants the number of notches of the top central slit and the number of notches of each of the top guiding slits is the same.

[0029] In some variants all notches may extend in the same direction, e.g. from the same side of the slit. In other variants notches may alternate between extending from one side and the opposite side of the slit. Notches of the various slits extend in the same direction by which is understood perpendicularly closer to the same side of the horizontal bracket part.

[0030] Embodiments having only a central top slit may comprise notches. Embodiments having one or more top guiding slits may comprise notches. Preferably, all parallelly arranged slits comprise notches.

[0031] The top slits may comprise notches without the bottom slits comprising notches or both the top slits and the bottom slits may comprise notches.

[0032] According to a further variant of the first aspect of the invention, the bottom width adjuster comprises a bottom adjuster plate, a throughgoing bottom slit being part of the bottom adjuster plate and a bottom lock. The bottom lock may for example be a screw extending through the bottom adjuster plate and entering a threaded channel in the main bracket, preferably the vertical bracket part of the main bracket, such that the screw guides the bottom adjuster plate along the length of the bottom slit and such that the bottom adjuster plate may be locked in place relative to the main bracket by tightening the screw of the bottom lock.

[0033] In a preferred variant the bottom adjuster plate comprises a plurality of slits, preferably three slits. In such a configuration having multiple slits, one slit may be engaged with a bottom lock such as a screw while the remaining slits may be connected with guiding pins that ensure that the top adjuster plate can translate but cannot rotate relative to the main bracket. Hence, in a preferred variant the bottom width adjuster comprises a central bottom slit and one or more bottom guiding slits, such as two bottom guiding slits arrange on either side and parallel with the central bottom slit.

[0034] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the bottom adjuster plate comprises a bottom central slit and one or more bottom guiding slits, the bottom central slit and the one or more bottom guiding slits comprising a plurality of notches extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of each of the bottom slits.

[0035] These notches enable the top lock to guide the top adjuster plate along the length of the slit and into the notches. The top adjuster plate may be locked in place relative to the main bracket. The notches assist in maintaining the lock position and help prevent loosening over time.

[0036] Similarly to the notches of the top slits, the notches are aligned to maintain the parallel arrangement of neighboring slits. The notches may extend in the same direction or in alternating direction. Notches are preferably present in all.

[0037] Embodiments having only a central top slit may comprise notches. Embodiments having one or more top guiding slits may comprise notches. The bottom slits may comprise notches without the top slits comprising notches or both the top slits and the bottom slits may comprise notches.

[0038] A further benefit of having a top width adjuster and a bottom width adjuster is that attaching and releasing the textile mounting rack from the fixture can be done securely and easily as there are only two places where the user needs to adjust part of the mounting means. Therefore, it is also preferrable that the top lock and the bottom lock each only have a single activation mechanism, such as a finger screw, for the user to interact with.

[0039] The rack arm comprises two or more arm sections. The first arm section is connected to the mounting means via a connection joint having a joint lock. By a connection joint is understood a mechanism that allows for adjustment of the angle between the first arm section and the surface of the main bracket, which the rack arm is attached to, in preferred embodiments the connection joint will be connected with the vertical bracket part. The connection joint may be any known structure such as a ball joint or a hinge. The joint lock ensures that the position of the rack arm relative to the main bracket may releasably be fixed, such that the rack arm will remain in that position until the joint lock is released by the user. In a preferred variant the connection joint is configured to allow for adjustment of the horizontal angle between the vertical bracket part and the rack arm.

[0040] By the horizontal angle is understood the angle in a single plane such that the angle may be adjusted in that particular plane. The horizontal angle is called thusly as in preferred use cases the textile mounting rack is attached to the fixture such that the angle adjustment may be in the place which is substantially parallel to the ground as the rack arm extends horizontally away from a vertical section of the fixture. However, it is to be understood that the textile mounting rack Is not limited to being used where it can be mounted such that the horizontal plane of the adjustable angle is parallel to the ground for example, the textile mounting rack may be attached to the rail of a staircase such that it is placed at an angle to the ground while still being perfectly suitable for the hanging of textile items, or where the textile mounting rack is mounted to the railing of a ship movement of the waves will cause the angling of the horizontal plane to change.

[0041] A benefit of the rack arm being connected to a mounting means via the connection joint is that it provides flexibility in terms of adjusting the position of the rack arm and thereby the textile items relative to the fixture, this both allows for optimal airflow and drying as well as ease of access for the user. The possibility of moving the rack arm depending on the intended use e.g., the rack arm may be moved to be extending normal to the fixture to provide maximum airflow, angled to be positioned in direct sunlight or maintained in shade or it may be folded to be along a surface of the fixture such as along the rail for storage or to place the rack arm close to the user while textile items are being hung, and the rack arm with the textile items may subsequently be swung further from the fixture.

[0042] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the rack arm comprises a third arm section, a second section joint and a second section lock, the second section joint is configured to allow the adjustment of the horizontal angle between the second arm section and the third arm section, while the second section lock is configured to releasably fix the second section joint.

[0043] One benefit of this feature is that it enables the user to fine-tune the positioning of textile items hung on the rack arm relative to each other, allowing for optimal airflow and drying. This flexibility also further increases the versatility of the textile items which the rack arm may support. For example, the rack arm may be extended to have all of the arm sections end to end in a linear fashion to support a large textile item such as bedding or a blanket. In other use cases the arm sections may be at smaller angles relative to each other, such as 45 degrees angles to have the textile items be easily within reach for the user standing next to the fixture while the textile items may still be arranged sufficiently spaced apart to allow suitable airflow.

[0044] Another benefit of this feature is that it allows for easy repositioning or rearrangement of textile items on the rack without having to adjust the entire structure. Having multiple arm sections increases the versatility. Furthermore, by having multiple arm sections the angular moment during rearrangement may be increased as it is possible to rearrange one section at a time. Three arm sections provide a good compromise between flexibility and ease of adjustment.

[0045] An additional benefit of this feature is that it allows for a versatile use of the textile mounting rack in different applications and environments as the arm sections may be angled to enable the use of the textile mounting rack in a location with limited space e.g., if the rack arm is arranged to extend over the area of a balcony or is used indoors mounted on a radiator.

[0046] According to a further variant of the first aspect of the invention, the rack arm has a length ranging from 100 cm to 200 cm, more preferably 135 cm to 150 cm, when each arm section is extendedly arranged.

[0047] One benefit of this feature is that it allows for a versatile use of the textile mounting rack in different applications and environments. For example, the length of the rack arm can be adjusted to accommodate various types of fixtures or textile items being hung on the rack. In particular, the rack arm is adapted to be able to accommodate larger textile items such as covers or blankets when all arm sections are extendedly arranged. Simultaneously, the possibility of folding the rack arm at the section joints ensures that the textile mounting rack does not need to take up as much space, when not in use for the hanging of a larger textile item.

[0048] According to a further variant of the first aspect of the invention, each arm section has substantially the same length. By each arm section having the same length may be understood a characteristic where all sections of the rack arm have identical dimensions along their longitudinal axis. In preferred variants each arm section will have identical dimensions along all axes. One benefit of this feature is that it allows for easier and more precise adjustment of the textile mounting rack, as there are no differences in size or shape between the various parts to consider when making adjustments. This simplicity also facilitates manufacturing and assembly processes, reducing production costs and complexity.

[0049] Another key aspect of each arm section having the same length is that it enables a uniform distribution of load along the entire length of the rack arm, which can help prevent damage or stress concentration at specific points where longer sections might be more prone to bending or flexing. This feature contributes to improved stability and overall structural integrity of the textile mounting rack.

[0050] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the rack arm comprises integrated clamping means.

[0051] By integrated clamping means may be understood a configuration where said rack arm comprises one or more mechanisms for securely holding textile items onto the mounting rack.

[0052] In a preferred variant integrated clamping means are located at least at the distal end of the arm section furthest from the mounting means, such as the second arm section or the third arm section. In other variants each arm section may comprise integrated clamping means at a distal end or at both ends.

[0053] In a preferred variant the integrated clamping means comprises a clip being a longitudinal piece of metal being attached to the end of a rack section at a first end and being biased towards the surface of the arm section at the second end, such that a textile item may be wedged under the second end of the integrated clamping means.

[0054] A benefit of an integrated clamping means is that it allows for efficient and secure attachment of textile items, thereby preventing them from falling off during airing. The integrated clamping means provide a mechanical means for holding the textiles in place, eliminating the need for additional fastening devices or manual adjustments. Having the clamping means be an integrated part of the rack arm has the further benefit of ensuring that it is readily available and will not be lost during storage or fall of when not mounted to hold a textile item in place.

[0055] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, at least one of the arm sections comprise one or more throughgoing holes for receiving a hanger.

[0056] By a throughgoing hole may be understood a bore which provides passage from one outer surface of the rack arm to the opposite outer surface of the rack arm. It is to be understood that the rack arm may be a hollow structure e.g. a hollow cylinder or a hollow extruded square, in which case the thoroughgoing hole may consist of a cutout on two surfaces of the rack arm aligned to have a shared axis normal to the surface of the rack arm.

[0057] In some embodiments one or more of the thoroughgoing holes have a circular circumference. In other embodiments one or more of the thoroughgoing holes may be elongated, such as oval.

[0058] In a preferred variant at least one throughgoing hole is arranged to be parallel to the ground when the textile mounting rack is attached to a fixture, in other words the throughgoing holes are arranged through surfaces of the rack arm not facing the ground. Such an arrangement of the thoroughgoing holes means that the inside of the holes provide a surface which the hook of a hanger may contact.

[0059] One benefit of having these throughgoing holes is that it simplifies the process of hanging textiles, making it quicker and easier to prepare garments for airing. Furthermore, the number of textile items that may be hung on the rack arm is increased by allowing them to be attached via hangers rather than only by draping them across the surface of the rack arm. This also increases the versatility of types of textile items that may be hung to dry on the mounting rack.

[0060] Another advantage of this design is that it reduces the risk of damaging or creasing delicate textile items caused by using clips or from hanging by draping. The throughgoing holes provide a secure and stable attachment point for the hangers, minimizing the likelihood of accidental detachment during use. Furthermore, having multiple arm sections with throughgoing holes allows users to hang multiple textiles simultaneously, making it an efficient solution for airing large quantities of garments. This feature also enables users to adjust the spacing between hung items according to their specific needs and preferences. The throughgoing holes provide a flexible attachment system that can accommodate various hanger configurations, making it an adaptable solution for diverse textile airing applications.

[0061] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect of the invention each of the arm sections comprise one or more throughgoing holes, the throughgoing holes being arranged to align when the arm sections are adjacently arranged.

[0062] By two or more arm sections being adjacently arranged is understood that they are arranged substantially parallel such that the surface of one arm section is flush with the surface of another, neighbouring arm section. This may be considered the most folded configurations of the rack arm, and it allows a compact arrangement, which may be suitable when fewer textile items are to be hung than may be supported by the textile mounting rack when it is extendedly arranged e.g., when it is not of interest to hang one textile item per thoroughgoing hole.

[0063] By the thoroughgoing holes being arranged to align when the arm sections are adjacently arranged is understood that when the arm sections are adjacently arranged the surface area of one thoroughgoing hole will project onto the aligned thoroughgoing hole of the adjacent arm section. In a preferred variant, substantially the full area of the thoroughgoing hole will align. In other variants, the alignment of the thoroughgoing holes may be partial, which may be sufficient to receive the hook of a hanger.

[0064] One benefit of this arrangement is that it facilitates a smooth and continuous attachment process for textile items, as hangers can be easily inserted into aligned holes without any obstruction or interference. Hence, it is possible to use the holes when the rack arm is partially folded to take up less space. This also makes the rack arm more convenient as the user does not need to unfold it before it can be used.

[0065] In some variants each throughgoing holes is arranged to align, in other variants some of the thoroughgoing holes are arranged to align while additional holes may be arranged in a staggered manner to provide more versatility of hanger configurations while maintaining structural integrity and providing the necessary strength of the rack arm.

[0066] According to a further variant of the first aspect of the invention, each arm section comprises a plurality of thoroughgoing holes being evenly spaced along the length of the arm section.

[0067] One benefit of even spacing of the thoroughgoing holes is to ensure sufficient spacing between textile items hung on the mounting rack via the thoroughgoing holes.

[0068] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the mounting rack comprises a pin lock at one or more of the throughgoing holes.

[0069] By a pin lock is understood a locking means for preventing the hook of a hanger inserted through a thoroughgoing hole being removed from the thoroughgoing hole without the user releasing the pin lock. This further increases the security of the mooting of the textile items, such that they may not fall down if the wind catches the textile item hung to air and accidentally pulls the hanger from the thoroughgoing hole.

[0070] One benefit of this feature is that it provides a reliable and adjustable way to fix textile items in place. The pin lock also reduces the risk of accidental dislodgement or damage to the textile items during handling or adjustment of the configuration of the rack arm e.g., when swinging the rack arm away from the fixture after having hung the textile times.

[0071] According to a further variant of the first aspect of the invention, the pin lock may be a detachable pin lock such as a backing plate. The backing plate may be configured for receiving the distal ends of the hook of the hangers providing a stop on one side of the rack arm. In some variants the backing plate may be made form a resiliently compressible material such as a foam or rubber. In some variants the backing plate may be suitable for receiving the hook of a single hanger. In another variant the backing plate may be suitable for locking the hooks of multiple hangers simultaneously e.g., by the backing plate having the same length as the arm section and being adapted to receive the pins of the hooks at each of the thoroughgoing holes.

[0072] According to a further variant of the first aspect of the invention, the pin lock may be an integrated pin lock, such as a sliding plate or a latch. In a variant where the arm sections are hollow the latch may be arranged inside the hollow of each arm section. In such a variant the latch may be arranged to lock or release all throughgoing holes simultaneously such that the user only needs to activate the pin lock at a single location and may open all of them at once.

[0073] In another variant the integrated pin lock may be a bar including hook shapes that may engage the hooks of the hangers the integrated pin lock being rotatable and / or slidable between a locked position and an open position.

[0074] According to a preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention the top width adjuster comprises a top adjuster plate, the top adjuster plate being perpendicularly arranged to the adjacently connected part of the main bracket, a central top slit, the central top slits being part of the main bracket of the mounting means, and a top lock, the top lock connecting the top adjuster plate and the main bracket via the central top slit.

[0075] According to a preferred embodiment of the first aspect of the invention the bottom width adjuster comprises a bottom adjuster plate, the bottom adjuster plate being perpendicularly arranged to the adjacently connected part of the main bracket, a central bottom slit, the central bottom slits being part of the bottom adjuster plate of the mounting means, and a bottom lock, the bottom lock connecting the bottom adjuster plate and the main bracket via the central bottom slit.

[0076] By a central top slit for adjustment of the top width adjuster may be understood that the top width adjuster comprises a recessed area or preferably an elongated thoroughgoing opening defined within said mounting means. In a preferred variant the central top slit is part of the main bracket of the mounting means. By engagement of other parts of the top width adjuster the engaging position of the top width adjuster with the fixture may be adjusted along the length of the central top slit.

[0077] One benefit of this feature is that it allows for precise control over the positioning of the textile mounting rack on the fixture, thereby ensuring secure mounting and adjustment of the textile mounting rack. The presence of this central top slit also enables easy adjustment of the top width adjuster to accommodate different types or sizes of fixtures, without requiring any additional components or tools. This flexibility is particularly useful in situations where multiple textile items need to be mounted on a single fixture, as it allows for efficient and space-saving use of the available mounting area.

[0078] By a central bottom slit for adjustment of the bottom width adjuster may be understood another recessed or throughgoing area defined within said mounting means. In a preferred variant the central bottom slit is part of a bottom adjuster plate. One benefit of this feature is that it provides similar flexibility, security, and precision in adjusting the positioning of the textile mounting rack on the fixture.

[0079] The combination of these two central slits allows for a high degree of adjustability and customization when mounting the textile supporting means to the fixture. By allowing the adjustment at two point based on these two central slits, securing and angling may be done precisely while the handling is simple requiring only two points of contact. It is possible to adjust the clamping at one slit at a time making it easy for the user to operate.

[0080] By a top plate being perpendicularly arranged to the adjacently connected part of said main bracket may be understood a structure of the clamping means, which may be translated relative to the main bracket and, which may engage with a fixture to contribute to for a secure and adjustable attachment. In a preferred variant the top plate is of the same width as the adjacently connected part of the main bracket.

[0081] One benefit of this feature is that it allows for precise control over the positioning of the textile mounting rack on the fixture, thereby ensuring proper alignment and stability. As a result, the textile mounting rack can be reliably fixed in place without compromising its adjustability or stability.

[0082] By a bottom plate being perpendicularly arranged to the adjacently connected part of said main bracket may also be understood a structure of the clamping means, which may be translated relative to the main bracket and, which may engage with a fixture to contribute to for a secure and adjustable attachment. In a preferred variant, the bottom adjuster plate is of the same width as the adjacently connected part of the main bracket. In a preferred variant, the bottom adjuster plate is connected to a vertical bracket part. A benefit of having both a top adjuster plate and a bottom adjuster plate is that it enables the textile mounting rack to be securely fastened to the fixture at multiple points, thereby ensuring maximum stability and preventing unwanted movement or vibration. Clamping the mounting means at multiple points ensures stability regarding the application of force to the textile mounting rack in multiple directions.

[0083] According to a further variant of the first aspect of the invention, the mounting means comprises a central top slit for adjustment of the top width adjuster, and the mounting means comprises a central bottom slit for adjustment of the bottom width adjuster.

[0084] According to a further embodiment, the top width adjuster comprises a top plate being perpendicularly arranged to the adjacently connected part of the main bracket and the bottom width adjuster comprises a bottom plate being perpendicularly arranged to the adjacently connected part of the main bracket.

[0085] According to a preferred embodiment, the top width adjuster comprises a top adjuster plate, a top lock, a central top slit and a top guiding slit, the top slits being part of the main bracket of the mounting means and the top lock connecting the top adjuster plate and the main bracket via the central top slit.

[0086] According to a preferred embodiment, the bottom width adjuster comprises a bottom adjuster plate, a bottom lock, a central bottom slit and a bottom guiding slit, the bottom slits being part of the bottom adjuster plate and the bottom lock connecting the bottom adjuster plate and the main bracket via the central bottom slit.

[0087] According to a further embodiment of the first aspect of the invention, the mounting means comprises one or more top guiding slits arranged parallel to the central top slit, preferably one on each side of the central top slit and / or one or more bottom guiding slits arranged parallel to the central bottom slit, preferably one on each side of the central bottom slit.

[0088] By having multiple parallel slits, i.e. both a central slit and one or two guiding slits, it is ensured that the width adjuster, i.e. the top width adjuster and / or the bottom width adjuster, will be translated in a linear fashion and rotation is avoided. This makes it simpler for the user to operate the mounting means as the user does not need to concern themselves with the rotation of the top width adjuster or the bottom width adjuster.

[0089] According to a preferred embodiment, the mounting means has a vertically adjustable length. In a preferred variant the vertically adjustable length is achieved through a telescopic configuration of the vertical bracket part of the main bracket, the telescopic configuration being lockable. In another equally preferred variant, the vertical adjustment is achieved by an adjustable spacing between the vertical bracket part of the main bracket and the bottom adjuster plate such that the bottom width adjuster may be translated in two perpendicular directions.

[0090] By a vertically adjustable length may be understood an ability to modify the overall height of the mounting means of the textile mounting rack. One benefit of this feature is that it allows for easy adaptation to different types and sizes of fixtures, thereby increasing the versatility and practicality of the textile mounting rack.

[0091] In particular, the vertically adjustable length enables the user to adjust the position of the main bracket relative to the fixture, which can be particularly useful when dealing with varying heights or shapes of fixtures. This feature also allows for easy reconfiguration of the textile mounting rack from one type of fixture to another, without requiring any additional components or modifications.

[0092] By increasing the adjustability of the attachment of the mounting means the adjustment so the angling of the rack arm is also increased, thus more different arrangements and positions of attachment to the fixture is accommodated.

[0093] In addition, this feature also allows for easy storage or transportation of the textile mounting rack when not in use, by allowing it to be compactly arranged or folded. This reduces the overall size of the device, making it more convenient to handle and store.

[0094] According to a preferred embodiment, the majority of the textile mounting rack will be made from metal, such as steel. More preferably the surfaces will be zinc coated.

[0095] Metal, such as preferably iron, will provide the necessary strength for the rack arm to support textile items and the mounting means to securely support the rack arm. By the majority of the textile mounting rack being made from metal is understood that the main components such as the rack arm and the main bracket and optionally adapter plates are made from metal. However, some components such as turn knobs or other activation means, which the user is to interact with, may be made form metal or may alternatively be made from plastic. The majority may thus be considered a volumetric majority.

[0096] According to a second aspect of the invention is provided a textile mounting assembly for airing textile items from a fixture, the textile mounting assembly comprising a textile mounting rack according to any of the preceding embodiments, and clamping means for pointwise fixing of one or more textile items to the rack arm.

[0097] By a textile mounting assembly may be understood the combination of the mounting rack and the clamping means which may be separate components specifically adapted for use with the tactile mounting rack in such a manner that the dimensions of the clamping means allows for the attachment of the clamping means to the rack arm in a manner such that the pointwise fixing of a textile item to the rack arm may be facilitated by interposing the textile item between the rack arm and the clamping means.

[0098] By clamping means for pointwise fixing may be understood an arrangement enabling secure attachment and release of textile items as needed. By having pointwise attachment, the use of the textile mounting rack may be suitable for many different types of textile items. This adaptability is particularly useful in settings where different types of textiles need to be aired at various times.

[0099] According to a further variant, the clamping means are separable clamping means.

[0100] By a separable clamping means is understood that the clamping means may be a separate component, which may be put onto the rack arm and holding a textile item in place by interposing the textile item between the clamping means and the separable clamp. The separable clamp may be detached form the textile mounting rack when not in use and may be removed completely when detaching a textile item from the rack arm. One benefit of the separable clamping means is that it may be used to clamp textile items anywhere along the length of the rack arm, thereby providing maximum flexibility regarding how the textile items are hung.

[0101] As previously described, the rack arm may be configured in multiple ways by adjusting the angle between neighbouring arm sections via the sections joints, hence having the clamping means be separate parts, ensures that they may be placed where needed regardless of how the arm sections of the rack arm are configured, thereby ensuring adaptability to the need of the user and versatility in placement and types of textile items aired on the textile mounting rack.

[0102] According to a further variant, the clamping means are integrated clamping means.

[0103] By an integrated clamping means is understood clamping means being an integrated part of the rack arm, such that it may not be detached. In some variants the integrated clamping means may be a longitudinal structure attached to an arm section at a first end and being free at the other end such that a textile item may be interposed between the second end of the integrated clamping means and the rack arm. One benefit of having an integrated clamping means is that it will always be readily available at the textile mounting rack and that there is no risk of the integrated clamping means being lost.

[0104] According to a further variant, the clamping means and the pin lock is an integrated component. By the clamping means and the pin lock being an integrated component is understood that it may be used either as a clamping means or as a pin lock. In a preferred variant the clamping means thus comprise a pin hole, which may engage the hook of a hanger having been mounted via a thoroughgoing hole of the rack arm, the pin hole being arranged to bias the hook to keep it from detaching form the rack arm without the user first detaching the clamping. In a preferred variant, the pin hole is arranged in the middle surface of the clamping means, i.e. the surface, which is not biased inwards.

[0105] When the clamping means is used to keep in place a textile item draped across the rack arm, the pin hole will simply be adjacent to the textile item and will not affect the mounted textile item. SHORT LIST OF THE DRAWINGS

[0106] In the following, examples of embodiments are described according to the invention, where:

[0107] Figs. 1a and 1b show use case of different embodiments of textile mounting racks according to the invention.

[0108] Figs. 2a-2c shows top views of the textile mounting rack in different configurations.

[0109] Figs. 3 shows a top view of a rack arm being in a parallel configuration.

[0110] Figs. 4a and 4b show an embodiment of a textile mounting rack in a side view and a perspective view, respectively.

[0111] Figs. 5a and 5b illustrate mounting means of the mounting rack in a side view and a cross-sectional view respectively.

[0112] Figs. 6a-6d shows an embodiment of mounting means in perspective as well as separate components of that embodiment.

[0113] Fig. 7 illustrates the mounting of mounting means of an embodiment of the textile rack mount to a fixture.

[0114] Figs. 8a and 8b illustrate ways in which a textile item may be clamped to the rack arm.

[0115] Figs. 9a-9c illustrate an embodiment of the horizontal bracket part and embodiments of the bottom adjuster plate, respectively.

[0116] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0117] The invention will now be explained in more detail below by means of examples with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0118] The invention may, however, be embodied in different forms than depicted below, and should not be construed as limited to any examples set forth herein. Rather, any examples are provided so that the disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. Like elements will, thus, not be described in detail with respect to the description of each figure.

[0119] Figs. 1a and 1b show typical use case of different embodiments of the textile mounting rack 10 according to the invention.

[0120] In Fig. 1a the textile mounting rack 10 is mounted to a fixture 3, the fixture 3 being the rail of a balcony 7. The fixture 3 has a rail top 4 defining an upper edge which the mounting means 40 engages and the top width adjuster (see Figs. 4a-4b) clamps against. The fixture 3 further includes a vertical section 5 which the bottom width adjuster engages.

[0121] A textile item 1 in the form of a blanket is mounted to the textile mounting rack 10 by hanging the textile item 1 across the rack arm 20. In the illustrated image the arm sections of the rack arm 20 are extendedly arranged such that the rack arm 20 forms an elongated structure, akin to a long rod, being suited for supporting a wide blanket or a cover. The rack arm is arranged such that it extends away from the fixture to which the textile mounting rack is clamped, in other words the rack arm 20 is perpendicular to the plane of the plate of the mounting means 40 from which it extends. Such an arrangement may be ideal for air circulation around the textile item.

[0122] The locking means of the textile rack mount ensures that the rack arm 20 will stay in place until the user unlocks it. The locking means include are the one or more joint locks and the connection lock. By having the arrangement of the rack arm 20 releasably locked, it is possible for the user to unlock the rack arm to alter the angle e.g. to swing the rack arm 20 closer to the balcony 7 to allow the user to more easily reach the one or more textile items 1 hung on the rack arm 20 or to fold the rack arm 20 to take up less space for storage of the textile mounting rack 10.

[0123] Fig. 1b shows the textile mounting rack 10 mounted to a fixture 3 on a boat 8. The fixture 3 is in the shown embodiment the rail of a boat 8 and it has a rail top 4 over which the mounting means may be arranged. Not all boats have fixtures comprising vertical structures 5 in which case it may be relevant for the user to adapt the fixture 3 to have a vertical structure 5, such as by installing a board. In some cases, the fixture may comprise dispersed vertical structures such as poles which may be sufficient for the mounting of the textile mounting rack 10 depending on the dimensions of the fixture 3.

[0124] In the configuration shown in Fig. 1b the rack arm 20 of the textile mounting rack 10 comprises two arm sections each of which has throughgoing holes 30 for hanging textile items 1, such as shirts, on hangers. The textile mounting rack may in some embodiments further comprise a pin lock for locking the pins of the hangers in the thoroughgoing holes 30 to minimise the risk of the hangers falling out of the throughgoing holes 30.

[0125] Figs. 2a-2c show top views of an embodiment of the textile mounting rack 10 having three arm sections 21,22,23, the subfigures show different exemplary configurations of the arm sections.

[0126] The textile mounting rack 10 of the shown embodiment has a first arm section 21 , a second arm section 22 and a third arm section 23. The first arm section 21 and the second arm section 22 are mechanically connected by a first arm joint 25. The first arm joint 25 has a first section lock 26. The second arm section 22 and the third arm section 23 are mechanically connected by a second arm joint 28. The second arm joint 28 comprises a second section lock 29. Each of the arm joints 25,28 are configured to enable the adjustment of the horizontal angle v,v’ between the neighbouring arm sections. Each of the section locks 26,29 are configured to releasably fix the position of the neighbouring arm sections relative to each other, such that the chosen horizontal angle v,v' is maintained until the user unlocks the respective section lock 26,29.

[0127] The rack arm 20 is mechanically connected to the main bracket 50 of the mounting means via a connection joint 80 having a joint lock 85. The connection joint 80 may be any structure capable of connecting the rack arm 20 to the main bracket 50 in an adjustable manner. In an embodiment the connection joint 80 may be a ball joint allowing adjustment of the angle w in three dimensions such that the rack arm 20 may be tilted relative horizontal positioning. In a preferred embodiment, the connection joint 80 may be a hinge allowing adjustment of the horizontal angle w of the rack arm 20 relative to the main bracket 50 in the same plane as the horizontal angle v,v’ of the arm sections 21 ,22,23. In some embodiments the arm joints 25,28 and the connection joint may be the same type of lockable hinge mechanism. In the embodiment shown in Figs. 2a-2c the top width adjuster comprises a slit 65 in the main bracket, namely in the horizontal bracket part. The top width adjuster further comprises a top lock 63 that may releasably fix the position of the top adjuster plate 62 (see Figs. 4a-4b) relative to the main bracket 50. In other embodiments (see Figs. 4b and 6a-d), the top width adjuster may comprise multiple slits, such as a central top slit 50 and two parallel guiding top guiding slits. It is to be understood that the various embodiments of the rack arm 20 may be combined with various embodiments of the mounting means 50.

[0128] Figs. 2b and 2c show top views of the textile mounting rack 10 having the three arm sections 21,22,23 arranged in different configurations, i.e. with different angles v,v’ between neighbouring arm sections 21 ,22,23. It is to be understood that the configurations of Figs. 2a-2c are simply exemplary configurations and the user may adjust the angles w,v,v’ freely adapting the rack arm to the need of the user.

[0129] In Fig. 2b the angle v is smaller than the angle v’ providing a compact configuration where multiple textile items may be hung draped across the arm sections 21 ,22,23 or hung via thoroughgoing holes (see Figs. 4a and 4b). Having a compact configuration as shown in Fig. 2b allows the user to easily reach the rack arm to hang textile items and it allows textile items to be hung in multiple ways e.g., draping a textile item across the first arm section 21 and the second arm section 22 to spread the textile item, while hanging multiple textile items from the third arm section 23. In contrast, the extendedly arrangement of the arm sections 21,22,23 of the example of Fig. 2a is particularly useful for the hanging of larger textile items such as covers the width of which may be spread across the length of the textile arm 20. The arm sections 21,22,23 may be locked in place relative to each other to avoid movement of the arm sections during the airing of textile times, such that there is nor risk of the rack arm hitting the fixture or other structures.

[0130] In Fig. 2c, the textile mounting rack 10 has a more compact configuration where all three arm sections 21,22,23 are folded to be arranged adjacently such that each section is close to being parallel to the neighbouring arm section. This allows for the textile mounting rack to be used where space is limited, e.g. across a balcony or may be preferrable when small or few textile items are to be hung on the rack arm. This compact arrangement of the rack arm 20 also allows for efficient storage or transportation of the textile mounting rack.

[0131] The adjustment of the horizontal angle v,v’ between the neighbouring arm sections is enabled through the mechanical connection of each arm joint. The locking mechanisms 26,29 ensure that the adjusted positions are temporarily maintained, allowing for easy reconfiguration of the textile mounting rack to accommodate different types or quantities of textiles to be hung.

[0132] The figures illustrate an embodiment of the invention where the textile mounting rack has two or three arm sections, but it is also possible to have more arm sections.

[0133] Fig. 3 shows a top view of an embodiment of a rack arm having a first 21 , a second 22, and a third 23 arm section. Each neighbouring arm section is connected by a section joint 25,28. In the shown illustration, the three arm sections 21 ,22,23 are parallelly arranged. Such arrangement may be preferrable for storage or when hanging smaller textile items. Textile items may also be hung via thoroughgoing holes (see Figs. 4a-4b) when the rack arm 20 is arranged as shown in Fig. 3. The rack arm may be connected to a bracket (see Figs. 6a-6d) via the connection joint 80.

[0134] Figs. 4a and 4b show an embodiment of the textile mounting rack 10 having throughgoing holes 30 for receiving hangers. Fig. 4a shows the textile mounting rack 10 in a side view. Fig. 4b shows a perspective view of the textile mounting rack 10.

[0135] Figs. 4a-4b show a textile mounting rack 10 comprising a rack arm 20, which is composed of three sections: a first arm section 21 , a second arm section 22, and a third arm section 23. The first arm section 21 and the second arm section 22 are connected by a first arm joint 25, while the second arm section 22 and the third arm section 23 are connected by a second arm joint 28. Each of these joints is configured to allow adjustment of the horizontal angle between the respective sections. The rack arm 20 also includes two locks: a first section lock 26 for releasably fixing the first arm joint, and a second section lock 29 for releasably fixing the second arm joint.

[0136] Figs. 4a-4b further illustrate how throughgoing holes 30 may be arranged in each of the arm sections 21,22,23. The thoroughgoing holes 30 may be circular as shown. In a preferrable embodiment as shown, each of the arm sections comprise a plurality of thoroughgoing holes evenly spaced along the length of the arm section. In other embodiments, one or more, but not all, of the arm sections may comprise thoroughgoing holes.

[0137] The textile mounting rack is mounted on a fixture via a main bracket 50. The figure also shows a connection joint 80 that connects the main bracket of the mounting means to the first arm section 21 of the rack arm 20. This joint is configured to allow adjustment of the horizontal angle between the mounting means 40 and the rack arm 20.

[0138] In preferred embodiments, as the ones shown, the arm section 21,22,23 are of the same length. In other embodiments, the arm sections may have differing lengths, e.g. two arm sections may be of the same length while a third arm section is shorter.

[0139] The perspective view of Fig. 4b show additional details of the mounting means showing how a top adjuster plate 62 may be connected to the main bracket 50 using a top lock 63 enabling the adjustment of the top width.

[0140] In preferred embodiment, as shown in Figs. 4a and 4b, the section locks 26,29 as well as the joint lock 85 comprises a screw having a finger knob allowing the user to easily release and tighten the lock to adjust the position of each arm section 21,22,23. For such embodiment it is preferable that the finger knobs are arranged gravitationally above the arm sections when the textile mounting rack 10 is mounted to a fixture. Such arrangement provides easy access to the finger knobs, and it decreases the risk of the screw being dropped or falling out. Furthermore, such arrangement places the finger knob such that it protects the threaded bores for the screws from dirt and rainwater when the textile mounting rack 10 is subjected to outdoors environments.

[0141] In other embodiments, the finger knobs may be arranged gravitationally below the arm sections when the textile mounting rack 10 is mounted on a fixture such that the finger knobs will not be contacting textile items if they are draped across the section joints 26,29.

[0142] Figs. 4a-4b show a rack arm having thoroughgoing holes 30. As shown in the embodiment of Figs. 4a-4b the rack arm may be a solid piece of material being rectangular in shape. The throughgoing holes 30 may be cut-out cylinders perpendicular to the surface of the rack arm 20. Preferably the throughgoing holes 30 are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of each arm section and are evenly spaced apart in the longitudinal direction.

[0143] As may be seen from the preferrable embodiment of Figs. 4a-4b, the throughgoing holes may be arranged such that when each arm section 21 ,22,23 are adjacently arranged, such that they are substantially parallel to the neighbouring arm section, at least a subset of the thoroughgoing holes 30 of the neighbouring arm section will align allowing the hook of a hanger to pass through multiple thoroughgoing holes simultaneously.

[0144] Figs. 5a and 5b show an exemplary embodiment of the mounting means 40 of the invention. Fig. 5a shows a side view while Fig. 5b illustrates a cross-sectional view.

[0145] The mounting means 40 includes a main bracket 50 as well as a top width adjuster including a top adjuster plate 62 and a top lock 63 as well as a bottom width adjuster comprising a bottom adjuster plate 72 and a bottom lock 73. The main bracket 50 has a vertical bracket part 51 and a horizontal bracket part 52 connected at a normal angle.

[0146] The main bracket 40 is both part of the adjustment means, i.e. the top width adjuster and the bottom width adjuster, and it provides support for the connection to a rack arm (not shown in Figs. 5a-5b).

[0147] The configuration of the main bracket forming a normal angle and the top adjuster plate 62 and the bottom adjuster plate 72 similarly being arranged perpendicular to the respective adjacent parts of the main bracket 40 such that the mounting means forms an open square with adjustable dimensions ensures that gravity will also contribute the secure attachment of the mounting means 40 to the fixture as the main bracket will contact and rest on top of a top part of a fixture as will be discussed in more detail in relation with Fig. 7.

[0148] Fig. 5b illustrates a cross-sectional view of the mounting means 40, revealing the central top slit 65 in the main bracket and the central bottom slit 75 of the bottom adjuster plate 72. In the illustrated embodiment the top lock 63 is a screw that extends through the central top slit 65 of the main bracket 50 and into a threaded bore of the top adjuster plate 62. The top lock 63 may be released or tightened by a user e.g. by turning a finger knob. In the released configuration of the top lock 63, the position of the top adjuster plate 62 may be chosen by the translation of the top adjuster plate along the longitudinal direction of the central top slit 65. In the locked configuration of the top lock 63, the position of the top adjuster plate 62 will be fixed relative to the main bracket 50.

[0149] Similarly, the illustrated embodiment the bottom lock 73 is a screw that extends through the central bottom slit 75 of the bottom adjuster plate 72 and into a threaded bore of the main bracket 50. The bottom lock 73 may be released or tightened by a user e.g. by turning a finger knob. In the released configuration of the bottom lock 73, the position of the bottom adjuster plate 72 may be chosen by the translation of the bottom adjuster plate along the longitudinal direction of the central bottom slit 75. In the locked configuration of the bottom lock 73, the position of the bottom adjuster plate 72 will be fixed relative to the main bracket 50.

[0150] Figs. 6a-6b show components of the mounting means 40 assembled and as separate parts in various views.

[0151] Fig. 6a illustrates a preferred embodiment of mounting means 40 shown in a perspective view. The mounting means 40 comprise a main bracket 50, having a vertical bracket part 51 and a horizontal bracket part 52. The horizontal bracket part 52 contributes to the top width adjuster by comprising a central top slit 65 and two top guiding slits 66,66’ the guiding slits 66,66’ being arranged parallel to the central top slit 65 on either side of the central top slit 65. The main bracket 50 further comprises features for allowing connection of the main bracket to a rack arm as well as for receiving a bottom lock 73. The main bracket 50 is also shown on its own in Fig. 6b.

[0152] A top width adjuster plate 62 is arranged perpendicular to the horizontal bracket part 52 in a manner such that the top adjuster plate 62 may translate along the direction of the central top slit 65 when the top lock 63 is loosened. In the embodiment shown having top guiding slits 66,66’ top guiding pins (not visible) may also be present to ensure that the top adjuster plate 62 will not rotate relative to the main bracket 50. A cross-sectional view of this embodiment of the top adjuster plate 62 is shown in Fig. 6c. The top adjuster plate 62 may comprise a top through bore 68 for receiving a top lock 63 in the form of a screw. The top adjuster plate 62 may comprise two top blind channels 69,69’ for receiving guiding pins. In some embodiments the top through bore 68 may be threaded. In some embodiments the top through bore 68 need not be threaded rather a not may be arranged to keep the screw of the top lock 63 in place.

[0153] The mounting means 40 comprise a bottom adjuster plate 72 having a central bottom slit 75 connected to the main bracket 50 via a bottom lock 73 which for the illustrated embodiment takes the form of a screw having a finger knob for the user to tighten and loosen the locking of the bottom width adjuster. The bottom adjuster plate 72 further comprise two bottom guiding slits 76,76’ arranged parallel to the central bottom slit 75 on either side of the central bottom list 75, bottom guiding pins may connect the vertical bracket part 51 to the guiding bottom slits 76,76’ to ensure that the bottom adjuster plate 72 cannot rotate relative to the main bracket 50. The bottom adjuster plate 75 may translate relative to the main bracket 50 along the central bottom slit 75 when the bottom lock 73 is loosened. A top view of the bottom adjuster plate 72 is shown in Fig. 6d.

[0154] Fig. 7 shows the mounting of the mounting means 40 of the textile rack mount 10 to a fixture 3, the illustration is a cut-out view of the region of the fixture 3 and the textile mounting rack 10 around the place where the mounting means 40 connects to the fixture 3.

[0155] The figure shows part of the first section arm 21, which is connected to the main bracket 50. The main bracket 50 comprises vertical bracket part 51 and horizontal bracket part 52. The main bracket 50 also features a central top slit 65 being part of the top width adjuster. The top width adjuster includes a top adjuster plate 62 with a top lock 63 to secure it in place.

[0156] The figure further illustrates the mounting means 40 of the textile rack mount attached to the fixture, which is connected to the first arm section of the rack arm 20 via a connection joint 80 and locked by a joint lock 85. The connection joint allows for adjustment of the horizontal angle between the main bracket and the first arm section 21.

[0157] The fixture 3 may for example be the railing of a balcony or of a ship. The shown fixture 3 has a rail top 4 and a vertical section 5, in the shown embodiment there is a gap between the rail top 4 and the vertical structure 5. The mounting means 40 comprises a main bracket 50. The main bracket 40 has a vertical bracket part 51 and a horizontal bracket part 52 arranged perpendicularly to each other. The main bracket 40 may be formed of a single piece e.g. by being a cast piece preferably cast in metal or the vertical bracket part 51 and the horizontal bracket part 52 may be fixedly connected.

[0158] Preferably when the mounting means are to be attached to a fixture both the top lock 63 and the bottom lock 73 will start by being in a released position. The mounting means 40 may then be arranged such that the face of the horizontal bracket part 52 facing the bottom width adjuster contacts the rail top of the fixture. Once the main bracket is in place, the top adjuster plate 62 may be moved until it contacts the rail top whereupon the top lock 63 may be activated to lock the top adjuster plate 62 in place. Once the top lock 63 is locked the bottom adjuster plate 72 may be adjuster until it contacts the vertical section of the fixture providing additional security and allowing the finetuning of the angling of the mounting means whereupon the bottom lock 73 may be activated to lock the bottom adjuster plate 73.

[0159] It is to be understood that this same method of connection may be used for preferred embodiments of the invention comprising both a central top slit and top guiding slits and / or bottom guiding slits in addition to a central bottom slit 75. In such embodiments, it is preferrable that a single top lock 63 and a single bottom lock 73 are used such that the user will only need to adjust the mounting means 40 at two positions in the same manner as described here.

[0160] A benefit of the illustrated type of mounting means 40 having a main bracket 50 and a top adjuster plate 62 and a bottom adjuster plate 72 is the multiple points of contact with the fixture accounting for the direction in which fore will be applied to the mounting means as textile items are hung onto the rack arm 20. An increase of force to the rack arm 20 will cause downward rotation, i.e. in the gravitational direction in this case both the top width adjuster plate will provide security from clamping to the rail top 4 and the bottom plate will provide additional security by contacting the vertical section 5 of the fixture 3. While the edge at the top of the vertical section 5 in the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 5 may provide additional security for upward rotation, however it will be understood by a person skilled in the art, that such a structure is not necessary for the bottom adjuster plate 72 to improve the secure connection of the mounting means 40 as long as there is a vertical section 5 of the fixture 3 for the bottom width adjuster to contact as it will distribute the forces applied to the mounting means and avoiding twisting and undue forces at the connection to the top rail 4.

[0161] The connection joint 80 may be a hinge as shown in Fig. 5. In some embodiments, the connection lock (not visible in the view of Fig. 5) may be arranged on the opposite side of the vertical section 51 of the main bracket 50 than the rack arm 20.

[0162] Figs. 8a-8b illustrate various embodiments of clamping means, including an embodiment of a separate clamp 90 and integrated clamping means 95.

[0163] Fig. 8a illustrates a way in which a textile item 1 may be clamped to the rack arm 20 of the textile mounting rack using a separate clamp 90. The separate clamp 90 may be released and removed from the rack arm 20.

[0164] The exemplary embodiment of the separate clamp 90 of Fig. 8a comprises two biased walls 92 (only one visible in the perspective of the illustration biased towards the rack arm 20 such that force must be applied to press the clamp 90 over the rack arm 20 and the textile item 1 may be clamped by the force provided to the sides. Further, the separate clamp 90 may comprise a pin lock 35 being part of the biased wall 92 of the separate clamp 90. The pin lock 35 may be a through-bore which may be aligned with a thoroughgoing hole of the rack arm 20 and through which the hook of a hanger may be arranged. In other variants the pin lock 35 integrated in the separate clamp 90 may be a structure such as an indent or ridge on the part of the biased wall 92 facing the rack arm 20 when the separate clamp 90 is attached to the rack arm 20. The pin lock 35 may thus be placed over a hanger at a thoroughgoing hole of the rack arm to ensure that the hanger cannot fall out until the pin lock 35 is released.

[0165] Fig. 8b illustrates an alternative embodiment of how a textile item 1 may be clamped to the rack arm 20 of the textile mounting rack using integrated clamping means 95. The integrated clamping means 95 may be temporarily pulled away from the rack arm to allow the textile item 1 to be released from the integrated clamping means 95, while the integrated clamping means 95 will remain attached to the rack arm 20. In a preferred variant the integrated clamping means 95 may be arranged at an end of the rack arm 20 distal to the mounting means (not shown in Figs. 8a-8b). Integrated clamping means may be arranged at each end of each arm section. Integrated clamping means may be arranged along the length of each arm section to provide multiple fixation points for hanging multiple textile items.

[0166] In both variants, the textile item 1 is securely held interposed between part of the rack arm 20 and the clamping means 90,95. This configuration allows for efficient and adjustable fixation of a single or multiple textile items 1 on the rack arm 20. It is to be understood that both separate and integrated clamping means 90,95 may be used simultaneously to provide pointwise fixation of the textile item 1 relative to the rack arm 20 at multiple points along the length of the rack arm 20 and / or to provide fixation of various textile items 1 along the rack arm 20.

[0167] Fig. 9a illustrates a preferred embodiment of a top horizontal bracket part 52 for the mounting means. The top adjuster plate comprises a main bracket 50, having horizontal bracket part 52. The horizontal bracket part 52 comprising a central top slit 65 and two top guiding slits 66,66’ the guiding slits 66,66’ being arranged parallel to the central top slit 65 on either side of the central top slit 65. The slits 65, 66, 66’ are each provided with notches extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the slits 65, 66, 66’. In some preferred variants such as the one shown in Fig. 9a, the notches extend perpendicularly to the longitudinal extent along one side of each respective slit. These notches enable the top lock to guide the top adjuster plate along the length of the slit and into the notches, assisting in maintaining the lock position and helping to prevent loss of tension over time.

[0168] By the notch extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the slits 65,66, 66’ may also be understood that a local increase of the width of the slit occurs at the position of the notches 67. In some variants as shown in Figs. 9a-9b the notches may be triangular. For other embodiments the notches 67 may take other shapes, such as but not limited to square or semi-circular.

[0169] In preferred variants the top lock may translate along the central top slit 65 in a longitudinal direction to adjust the size of the gap of the mounting means, then once the intended position has been reached a transverse or perpendicular movement to enter one of the notches before locking ensures a more secure positioning of the top lock. For other embodiments the top lock may be extracted to be moved from one fixed notch position to another rather than continuously translating between the positions. In other variants notches may be formed by a zigzagging structure such that the slit has the same width along the entirety of its length while still providing changes in direction of movement, such that increased contact force and resistance is applied and the risk of loss of tension over time is decreased.

[0170] Fig. 9b illustrates a bottom adjuster plate 72 comprising a central bottom slit 75, and two bottom guiding slits 76,76’ arranged parallel on opposite sides of the central bottom slit 75. The bottom guiding slits 75, 76, 76’ are each provided with notches 67 extending perpendicularly to the respective slits.

[0171] These notches enable the bottom lock to guide the bottom adjuster plate along the length of the slit and into the notches, assisting in maintaining the lock position and help prevent loosening tension over time.

[0172] Fig. 9c illustrates a bottom adjuster plate 72 similar to that of Fig. 9c where the notches are square rather than triangular in shape.

[0173] LIST OF REFERENCES v,v’ horizontal angle w angle

[0174] 1 Textile to be hung

[0175] 3 Fixture

[0176] 4 Rail top

[0177] 5 Vertical section of the fixture

[0178] 7 Balcony

[0179] 8 Ship

[0180] 10 Textile mounting rack

[0181] 20 Rack arm

[0182] 21 First arm section

[0183] 22 Second arm section

[0184] 23 Third arm section

[0185] 25 First arm joint

[0186] 26 First section lock

[0187] 28 Second arm joint

[0188] 29 Second section lock

[0189] 30 Throughgoing holes

[0190] 35 Pin lock

[0191] 40 Mounting means

[0192] 50 Main bracket

[0193] 51 Vertical bracket part

[0194] 52 horizontal bracket part

[0195] 60 Top width adjuster

[0196] 62 Top adjuster plate

[0197] 63 Top lock

[0198] 65 Central top slit

[0199] 66,66’ Top guiding slit

[0200] 67 Notch Top through bore , 69’ Top blind channel

[0201] Bottom width adjuster

[0202] Bottom adjuster plate

[0203] Bottom lock

[0204] Central bottom slit,76’ Bottom guiding slits

[0205] Connection joint

[0206] Joint lock

[0207] Clamp

[0208] Biased wall

[0209] Integrated clamping means

Claims

CLAIMS1. A textile mounting rack for airing textile items from a fixture, said textile mounting rack comprising a rack arm for supporting one or more textile items to be hung on said textile mounting rack, said rack arm means comprising a first arm section and a second arm section, said first arm section and said second arm section being connected by a first section joint, said first section joint being configured to allow the adjustment of the horizontal angle between said first arm section and said second arm section, a first section lock for releasably fixing of the first section joint such that the angle between said first arm and said second arm is temporarily maintained; and mounting means for mounting said textile supporting means to said fixture, said mounting means comprising a main bracket, a top width adjuster, for attaching said mounting means to an upper region of said fixture, a bottom width adjuster, for contacting a lower point on said fixture; a connection joint and a connection lock, said connection joint connecting said main bracket of said mounting means and said first arm section of said rack arm, said connection joint being configured to allow the adjustment of the horizontal angle between said mounting means and said rack arm, said connection lock configured to releasable fixing of said first arm section and said main bracket.

2. The textile mounting rack according to claim 1, said rack arm comprising a third arm section, a second section joint and a second section lock, said second section joint being configured to allow the adjustment of the horizontal angle between said second arm section and said third arm section, while said second section lock is configured to releasably fix the second section joint.

3. The textile mounting rack according to any of the preceding claims, said rack arm comprising integrated clamping means.

4. The textile mounting rack according to any of the preceding claims, at least one of said arm sections comprising one or more throughgoing holes for receiving a hanger.

5. The textile mounting rack according to claim 4, each of said arm sections comprising one or more throughgoing holes, said throughgoing holes being arranged to align when said arm sections are adjacently arranged.

6. The textile mounting rack according to claims 4-5, said mounting rack comprising a pin lock at one or more of said throughgoing holes.

7. The textile mounting rack according to any of the preceding claims, said top width adjuster comprising: a top adjuster plate, said top adjuster plate being perpendicularly arranged to the adjacently connected part of said main bracket, a central top slit, said central top slits being part of said main bracket of said mounting means, and a top lock, said top lock connecting said top adjuster plate and said main bracket via said central top slit.

8. The textile mounting rack according to any of the preceding claims, said bottom width adjuster comprising: a bottom adjuster plate, said bottom adjuster plate being perpendicularly arranged to the adjacently connected part of said main bracket, a central bottom slit, said central bottom slits being part of said bottom adjuster plate, and a bottom lock, said bottom lock connecting said bottom adjuster plate and said main bracket via said central bottom slit.

9. The textile mounting rack according to claims 7-8, said mounting means comprising one or more top guiding slits arranged parallel to said central top slit, preferably one on each side of said central top slit and / or one or more bottom guiding slits arranged parallel to said central bottom slit, preferably one on each side of said central bottom slit.

10. The textile mounting rack according to claim 9, wherein the top central slit and the one or more top guiding slits comprise a plurality of notches extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of each of said top slits, and / or wherein the bottom central slit and the one or more bottom guiding slits comprise a plurality of notches extending perpendicularly to the longitudinal direction of each of said bottom slits.

11. A textile mounting assembly for airing textile items from a fixture, said textile mounting assembly comprising a textile mounting rack according to any of the preceding claims, and clamping means for pointwise fixing of one or more textile items to said rack arm.

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