Hanger Ring Assembly with Integrated Hook for Dual-Material Hanging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for hanging shower curtains do not allow for the simultaneous hanging of a waterproof liner without additional hardware or removal of the rod, and feature visible linear slits that are aesthetically unpleasing.
Innovation Solution
A hanger ring assembly with grommet backings and bases that form a split ring design, allowing for the attachment of a second hanging material like a liner without additional hardware, and featuring angled slits that are positioned to be obscured by the rod, providing a cleaner appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate hooks or clips are used to connect the curtain to the rod, then the curtain can be hung securely, but additional hardware is required which increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the curtain attachment function and liner attachment function into a single integrated hanger ring assembly. The grommet backing with integrated hook structure allows both the curtain and liner to be connected using one piece of hardware instead of separate hooks or clips, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining secure hanging capability
Solution Approach 2:
The hanger ring assembly serves multiple functions: it attaches the curtain to the rod, provides a secure connection point for the liner, and eliminates the need for additional hardware. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction by consolidating what would otherwise require multiple separate components into a single universal attachment device
2Ease of operation
If linear slits are formed in the curtain for hanging, then the curtain can be attached to the rod, but the slits are visible and create an unsightly appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the visible linear slits from the curtain's aesthetic field of view by positioning them at the top edge where they are obscured by the rod. The grommet backing system allows the slits to be located at the top rather than distributed along the curtain, effectively removing their visual impact while preserving the attachment function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent relocates the attachment slits from a vertically distributed pattern to a concentrated position at the top edge of the curtain. This dimensional repositioning moves the slits into a space (above the rod level) where they are no longer visible from the front, thus resolving the aesthetic issue while maintaining attachment capability
3Ease of operation
If hanger rings are used to hang the curtain, then the curtain can be suspended, but a second hanging material like a liner cannot be hung simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the curtain suspension function and liner attachment function into a single hanger ring assembly. The integrated design includes both a grommet backing for curtain attachment and an extended hook portion for liner attachment, allowing both materials to be hung simultaneously without requiring separate hanger rings or additional hardware
Data Source
AI summary
A product include an item for hanging. The item has a top edge and a plurality of spaced holes formed therein proximate the top edge. The plurality of spaced holes are arranged in pairs, wherein between each pair of holes, therein is a slit formed through the item. The slit is defined by a linear center portion and first and second angled end portions at respective ends of the linear center portion. A hanger ring assembly is also provided and includes grommet backings that mate to grommet bases so as to capture the item therebetween and are arranged about the holes at the first and second angled end portions of the slit.