Garment Hanger with Deformable Loop and Side Flange for Easy Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing garment hangers with releasably closable loops often have stiff snap-fit connectors that make it difficult to disconnect the hanger from a garment, leading to increased re-hanging time for staff and potential damage to fingernails.
Innovation Solution
A garment hanger featuring a deformable elongate member with a side flange that allows for easier engagement and disengagement of the connection mechanism, using a click-fit fastening system that is non-destructive and requires minimal force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a stiff snap-fit connector is used in the connection mechanism, then the closed loop structure is secure and maintains its shape, but it becomes difficult to disconnect the hanger from the garment
Solution Approach 1:
The elongate member is designed to be deformable rather than rigid, allowing it to dynamically change shape during engagement and disengagement. The member can be bent back upon itself to release the connection mechanism, providing ease of operation while maintaining structural integrity when closed
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical properties of the elongate member are optimized to allow controlled deformation. The material and cross-section are designed so the member can be easily bent for disconnection but maintains sufficient rigidity when closed to provide a stable loop structure
2Reliability
If a stiff connection mechanism is used, then the hanger holds garments securely, but it may damage user's fingernails during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The stiffness of the connection mechanism is optimized to provide sufficient holding force for garments while remaining safe for user interaction. The elongate member's material properties and geometry are designed to balance these competing requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The side flange acts as an intermediary element that distributes the force applied by the user during disengagement. This prevents concentrated stress on small areas like fingernails while still enabling effective release of the connection mechanism
3Reliability
If the connection mechanism requires significant force to disconnect, then the hanger remains securely attached, but the re-hanging time for staff is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism allows for dynamic force application - maintaining secure attachment under normal conditions but enabling quick release when force is applied to the side flange. This reduces re-hanging time while preserving attachment security
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables easy and secure attachment and detachment of the garment hanger from garments, reducing re-hanging time and minimizing the risk of damage to users' fingernails.
Implementation Method 1
the elongate member can be deformed back upon itself and connected to a second part of the connection mechanism of the hanger to form a closed loop
Implementation Method 2
The side flange comprises a section of material against which a user can provide a force, preferably using a finger or thumb and the pad thereof, to more readily release the connection mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A garment hanger (10) comprising a rail engaging portion (16) and garment supporting means in the form of a deformable elongate member (20). The end of the elongate member distal from the rail engaging portion comprises a first part (22) of a connection mechanism such that the elongate member (22) can be deformed back upon itself and connected to a second part (24) of the connection mechanism of the hanger to form a closed loop. The elongate member (20) comprises a side flange (32) along its length.