CA2794910A1 - Drying rack - Google Patents
Drying rack Download PDFInfo
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- CA2794910A1 CA2794910A1 CA 2794910 CA2794910A CA2794910A1 CA 2794910 A1 CA2794910 A1 CA 2794910A1 CA 2794910 CA2794910 CA 2794910 CA 2794910 A CA2794910 A CA 2794910A CA 2794910 A1 CA2794910 A1 CA 2794910A1
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- collar
- drying rack
- extension rods
- connector
- support arms
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Abstract
The present invention relates to methods and devices for drying harvested crops, plants or otherwise. In one aspect, the present invention provides a drying rack including a plurality of extension rods configured for releasable connection to one another. One of the plurality of extension rods includes a collar mount. The rack further includes at least one collar including a connector for attachment to one of the plurality of extension rods. The at least one collar further includes a plurality of support arm connectors configured for releasable connection and cantilevered support of one or more support arms. The rack further includes a plurality of support arms connected to the at least one collar through the plurality of support arm connectors, wherein upon connection to the at least one collar the support arms extend cantilevered from the collar. The rack further includes a connector configured for connection to a corresponding member.
Description
DRYING RACK
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
The present application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/641,264, filed May 1, 2012, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to methods and devices for drying harvested crops, plants or otherwise.
BACKGROUND / DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART
Certain consumable vegetation, such as crops, plants or otherwise, require drying prior to use. With smaller yields, such as with indoor or outdoor gardens, it may be desirous to dry such vegetation within a home or small building.
In these instances, the vegetation is draped or hung about a room to allow airflow through the vegetation. However, with indoor drying it can be difficult to dedicate suitable drying space without negatively effecting air flow and hence drying time.
Prior drying devices provide the ability to drape and hang vegetation, but the majority are configured to be used outside. Accordingly, such devices are typically bulky, difficult to store and do no efficiently utilize space.
Accordingly, there is a need for improved methods and devices for drying harvested crops, plants or otherwise. Further, there is a need for such methods and devices to be utilized indoors, in small areas and which efficiently utilizes small places while maintaining optimal air flow and minimizing drying time.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to improved methods and devices for drying harvested crops. The present invention provides a portable drying rack that is configured for disassembly and easy storage. Further, the drying rack is configured for linkage with to drying racks and in particular another portable drying rack of the present invention. The drying rack of the present invention provides the ability to =
maximize airflow through the plants while minimizing drying times. More so, the features of the present invention provide the ability to increase drying space, particularly in small indoor drying spaces, by effectively utilizing space from ceiling to floor by modularly connecting sections of the drying rack and/or by linking drying racks together.
In greater detail, in one aspect, the present invention provides a drying rack. The rack includes a plurality of extension rods configured for releasable connection to one another. One of the plurality of extension rods includes a collar mount. The rack further includes at least one collar including a connector for attachment to one of the plurality of extension rods. The at least one collar further includes a plurality of support arm connectors configured for releasable connection and cantilevered support of one or more support arms. The rack further includes a plurality of support arms connected to the at least one collar through the plurality of support arm connectors, wherein upon connection to the at least one collar the support arms extend cantilevered from the collar. The rack further includes a connector attached to at least one of the plurality of extension rods. The connector is configured for connection to a corresponding member and being suitable in strength for providing hanging support of the drying rack.
In another aspect, the present invention provides a portable drying rack. The rack includes a plurality of extension rods threadably attached to one another, each of the plurality of extension rods include a collar mount formed about and extending along a length of a respective extension rod. The rack further includes a plurality of collars each including a connector comprising an opening formed through a center portion of the collar for releasable attachment to one of the collar mounts through a friction fit. The at least one collar further includes a plurality of support arm connectors radially disposed about the center portion of the collar configured for releasable connection and cantilevered support of one or more support arms. The plurality of support arm connectors comprising openings and grooves formed through a surface of each of the plurality of collars. The rack further includes a plurality of support arms connected to the at least one collar through the plurality of support arm connectors, wherein upon connection to the at least one collar each support arm is seated in one of the openings and grooves and extends cantilevered from the collar. The rack further includes a hanging connector attached to at least one of the plurality of extension rods and configured for connection to a corresponding member. The hanging connector being suitable in strength for providing support of the drying rack.
The above-described and other features and advantages of the present invention will be appreciated and understood by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, drawings, and appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Other objects, features, advantages and details of the present invention appear, by way of example only, in the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention, the detailed description referring to the drawings in which:
Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary drying rack according to the teachings of the present invention.
Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary extension rod according to the teachings of the present invention.
Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary collar according to the teachings of the present invention.
Figure 4 illustrates a partial side elevational view of an exemplary support arm according to the teachings of the present invention.
Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view taken through the exemplary drying rack shown in Figure 1.
Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view taken through lines 6-6 of the exemplary drying rack shown in Figure 5.
Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary storage and carrying bag according to the teachings of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring to Figs. 1 through 3, an exemplary embodiment of a portable drying rack 10 of the present invention is shown. The drying rack 10 includes a .= =
plurality of extension rods 12 releasably connected to one another. The connected extension rods 12 extend along an axis 'A' and between an first end 14 and second end 16 of the drying rack 10 to establish and overall height 'H' of the drying rack 10. The extension rods 12 include a plurality of collar mounts 18 for releasable attachment to a plurality of collars 20. The collars 20 includes support arm connectors 22 for releasable attachment of a plurality of support arms 24. The support arms extend radially outward from the axis 'A' and are suitable in strength for supporting harvested plants 25, such as herbs or otherwise. The drying rack 10 further includes a hanging connector 26 for hanging the drying rack from a corresponding member, such as another hook, nail, tubing, another drying rack 10 or otherwise. Through the configurations of the present invention, the drying rack is suitable in strength for supporting, storing and expediting drying of harvested plants 25, particularly in limited areas, such as small rooms or otherwise.
In greater detail, referring to Figures 1 and 2, the drying rack 10 includes one or more, preferably a plurality, of extension rods 12 that are releasably connected to one another. In the configuration shown, the drying rack 10 includes three extension rods 12, an upper extension rod 28, lower extension rod 30 and intermediate extension rod 32. However, through the configuration of the drying rack, a user can add or subtract more or less extension rods 12. For example, in one exemplary embodiment it is contemplated the drying rack 10 omits an intermediate extension rod 12 and merely utilizes the upper and lower extension rods 28, 30. In another exemplary embodiment, it is contemplated that the drying rack 10 includes a plurality of intermediate extension rods 32, such as 2, 3, 4 or more. As should be appreciated, the size and capacity of the drying rack can be changed to meet needs and size limitation. Further, the addition or subtraction of extension rods 12 would alter the overall height 'H' of the drying rack 10.
The extension rods 12 are connected to one another through a releasable attachment 34. In the configuration shown, referring to Figure 2, the releasable attachment 34 comprises a threaded engagement formed between corresponding components of two extension rods 12. In this configuration, a first end 36 of a first extension rod has a female portion of a threaded engagement and a second end 38 of another extension rod 12 has a male portion of the threaded engagement. The extension rods 12 further include hex clamping portions 40 for facilitating in attachment and detachment of a first extension rod 12 to a second extension rod 12. Other releasable attachments may be utilized, such as snaps, friction fits, hook and latch or otherwise, so long as the attachment is suitable in strength for supporting drying rack components and hanging plants therebelow.
In one exemplary embodiment, the releasable attachment utilized to connect the extension rods 12 are the same so as to selectively add or subtract the total number of extension rods used.
Referring to Figures 2, 5 and 6, as previously mentioned, the extension rods 12 include collar mounts 18 for releasable connection to collars 20, as described herein. With reference to Figures 1 and 2, as shown, each extension rod 12 includes a collar mount 18, which may be utilized to mount a collar 20, as desired by a user of the drying 10. However, it is contemplated that more or less collar mounts 18 may be utilized on a single extension rod. For example, it is contemplated that some extension rods 12 may have no collar mounts 18 and some extension rods may have multiple collar mounts, such as 2, 3, 4 or more. Advantageously, this allows a user to space out the collars 20 and hence support arms to help control the flow of air through the plants draped thereover. In one exemplary embodiment, it is contemplated that the collar mounts 18, and hence collars 20, are spaced approximate 12 inches apart.
However, other spacing's are contemplated as well such as 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 inches or otherwise.
A mentioned, the collar mount 18 is configured to engage the collar 20.
In one configuration, the collar mount18 is cylindrically shaped and extends along a length of the extension rod 12 in which it is attached or formed therewith. In this configuration, the collar mount 18 is formed of a friction material, such as rubber or otherwise, to limit axial and rotational movement of the collar mount 18 with respect to a collar 20. This limited movement assist in preventing spinning and possible misbalancing of the drying rack 10. It is contemplated that other configurations may be used to connect the extension rods 12 to the collar 20, in particular configurations that limit rotational movement of the collar 20 with respect to an extension rod 12.
Referring to Figures 3, 5 and 6, as previously mentioned, the drying rack 10 further includes one or more, and in one preferred embodiment a plurality, of collars 20. The collars 20 are mounted to the extension rods 12, via the collar mounts 18, through extension rod connectors 42. In one exemplary embodiment, the extension rod connectors 42 includes an extension rod opening 44 formed in a center portion of the collar and extending therethrough. The collar 20 further includes a channel 46 providing and side entrance to the extension rod opening 44. The extension rod opening 44 has a first diameter 'D1' that is sized to receive a collar mount 18. In one exemplary embodiment, the first diameter 'D1' is similar to an exterior diameter 'D ext' of the collar mount 18 to form a friction fit therebetween.
The opening 44 further includes a second diameter 'D2' that is smaller than the exterior diameter 'D ext' of the collar mount 18. The second diameter 'D2' limits movement of the collar 20 along the axis 'A' and more particularly towards the second end 16 of the drying rack.
The collar 20 includes a plurality of support arm connectors 22 for attachment of support arms 24, as described herein. In one exemplary embodiment, the collar 20 includes an upper surface 50, facing in the direction of the first end 14 of the drying rack 10, in which the plurality of support arm connectors 22 are formed. In one exemplary embodiment, the support arm connectors 22 includes a plurality of radially disposed openings 52 extending through the collars 20 in a direction generally parallel to axis 'A'. The openings 52 are configured to receive end portions of the support arms 24. The support arm connectors 22 further includes a plurality of grooves 54, formed through the upper surface 50, extending away from the axis 'A' in a direction generally perpendicular to the axis 'A'. The openings 52 and grooves 54 are aligned to be continuous. The grooves 54 are configured to receive portions of the support arm 24 to limit radial movement of the supports arms about the openings 52.
In one exemplary embodiment, the collar 20 includes a plurality of equally spaced support arm connectors 22, e.g. openings 52 and grooves 54, formed radially about extension rod opening 44. In one exemplary embodiment, the collar includes 8 support arm connectors 22, however, other configurations are contemplated such as 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more.
As previously mentioned, referring to Figures 1, 4, 5 and 6, the drying rack 10, includes a plurality of support arms 24 for supporting harvested plants. It is contemplated that each collar 20 and support arm connectors 22 includes a support arm 24. However, in certain embodiments, depending on the desires of the user, some collars 20 and/or support arm connectors 22 may not be used. In one exemplary embodiment, the support arms 24 are releasably connected to the collars 20.
The support arms 24 includes a first end 56 configured for engagement with the support arm connectors 22 and a second end 58 configured for preventing hanging plants from slipping off of the drying rack 10. The first end 56 of the support arm 24 includes a first finger 60 extending generally perpendicular to a main body 62 of the support arm. The first finger 60 is shaped, sized and orientated to fit within one of the radially disposed openings 52. The second end 58 of the support arm 24 includes a second finger 64 extending generally in an opposite direction to that of the first finger 60. The second finger 64 includes a bulb 66 for further assisting in the prevention of plant slippage.
The support arms 24 are releasably connected to the collars 20 by inserting the first finger 60 into the openings 52 until the support arm is completely seated. In one exemplary embodiment, the main body 62 of the support arm 24 is seated within groove 54, which as previously mentioned limits or substantially prevents rotational movement of the support arm 24 with respect to the opening and collar 20.
Referring again to Figure 1, as previously mentioned, the drying rack 10 further includes a hanging connector 26 for hanging the drying rack from a member, such as a corresponding components, e.g. nail, hook, another drying rack or otherwise. The hanging connector 26 is suitable in strength and shape for hanging of the drying rack from a ceiling member, another drying rack 10 or otherwise. In one exemplary embodiment, the first end 14 of the drying rack 10 includes the hanging connector 26. In one exemplary embodiment, the hanging connector comprises a hook that is rotatably mounted to the an upper extension rod 12. Other exemplary hanging connectors 26 comprises loops, hook and latch configurations, mechanical fastening devices such as clamps or otherwise, or otherwise.
In one exemplary embodiment, the drying rack 10 further includes an additional connector disposed at the second end 16 of the drying rack for connecting additional components, such as other drying racks or otherwise. Accordingly, the additional connector would be suitable in size and strength for supporting such components. The additional connector disposed at the second end 16 of the drying rack 10 may comprise any of the connectors of the hanging connectors 26 or otherwise. In another exemplary embodiment, the drying rack 10 may includes a cap 68 disposed at the second end 16 of the drying rack.
In one exemplary embodiment, referring to Figure 7, the drying rack further includes a portable carrying case, such as a bag 70, for storage and transportation of the components of the drying rack. For example, in one configuration it is contemplated that the support arms 24 are removed from the collars 20, the collars are removed from the extension rods 12 and the extension rods are 10 separated from one another. The components of the drying rack are then placed in the bag 70 and closed through a zipper or other closing means.
The components of the drying rack may be formed of any material suitable in strength and resiliency to provide support harvested plants and provide resistance to surrounding environmental conditions. Examples of suitable materials include plastics, metals, rubbers, composites or otherwise. In one exemplary embodiment, the extension rods 12 are formed plastic material, the collar mount 18 is formed of rubber and the hanging connector 26 is formed of metal and includes a plastic or rubber coating. Additionally, in one exemplary embodiment the collar 20 is formed of plastic and the support arms are formed of metal and include a plastic or rubber coating. Other suitable configurations are possible.
In one exemplary method of use, the components of the drying rack 10 are removed from bag 70 for assembly. The extension rods 12 are threadably attached to one another until the drying rack 10 reaches a desired height 'H'.
The desired number of collars 20 are then attached to the collar mounts 18 by inserting the extension rods 12 into the channels 46 and the collar mounts 18 are inserted into openings 44 until a top portion of the collar mounts abut the collars. A
desired number and configuration of support arms 24 are then attached to the collars 20 by inserting the first end 56 and more particularly the first finger 60 of the support arms into the openings 52 of the collars until the main body 62 of the support arms are seated into grooves 54. The drying rack 10 is then hung, via hanging connector 26, and harvested plants are draped over the support arms of the drying rack. It should be appreciated that disassembly could be achieved in an opposite manner than assembly.
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
The present application claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/641,264, filed May 1, 2012, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to methods and devices for drying harvested crops, plants or otherwise.
BACKGROUND / DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART
Certain consumable vegetation, such as crops, plants or otherwise, require drying prior to use. With smaller yields, such as with indoor or outdoor gardens, it may be desirous to dry such vegetation within a home or small building.
In these instances, the vegetation is draped or hung about a room to allow airflow through the vegetation. However, with indoor drying it can be difficult to dedicate suitable drying space without negatively effecting air flow and hence drying time.
Prior drying devices provide the ability to drape and hang vegetation, but the majority are configured to be used outside. Accordingly, such devices are typically bulky, difficult to store and do no efficiently utilize space.
Accordingly, there is a need for improved methods and devices for drying harvested crops, plants or otherwise. Further, there is a need for such methods and devices to be utilized indoors, in small areas and which efficiently utilizes small places while maintaining optimal air flow and minimizing drying time.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to improved methods and devices for drying harvested crops. The present invention provides a portable drying rack that is configured for disassembly and easy storage. Further, the drying rack is configured for linkage with to drying racks and in particular another portable drying rack of the present invention. The drying rack of the present invention provides the ability to =
maximize airflow through the plants while minimizing drying times. More so, the features of the present invention provide the ability to increase drying space, particularly in small indoor drying spaces, by effectively utilizing space from ceiling to floor by modularly connecting sections of the drying rack and/or by linking drying racks together.
In greater detail, in one aspect, the present invention provides a drying rack. The rack includes a plurality of extension rods configured for releasable connection to one another. One of the plurality of extension rods includes a collar mount. The rack further includes at least one collar including a connector for attachment to one of the plurality of extension rods. The at least one collar further includes a plurality of support arm connectors configured for releasable connection and cantilevered support of one or more support arms. The rack further includes a plurality of support arms connected to the at least one collar through the plurality of support arm connectors, wherein upon connection to the at least one collar the support arms extend cantilevered from the collar. The rack further includes a connector attached to at least one of the plurality of extension rods. The connector is configured for connection to a corresponding member and being suitable in strength for providing hanging support of the drying rack.
In another aspect, the present invention provides a portable drying rack. The rack includes a plurality of extension rods threadably attached to one another, each of the plurality of extension rods include a collar mount formed about and extending along a length of a respective extension rod. The rack further includes a plurality of collars each including a connector comprising an opening formed through a center portion of the collar for releasable attachment to one of the collar mounts through a friction fit. The at least one collar further includes a plurality of support arm connectors radially disposed about the center portion of the collar configured for releasable connection and cantilevered support of one or more support arms. The plurality of support arm connectors comprising openings and grooves formed through a surface of each of the plurality of collars. The rack further includes a plurality of support arms connected to the at least one collar through the plurality of support arm connectors, wherein upon connection to the at least one collar each support arm is seated in one of the openings and grooves and extends cantilevered from the collar. The rack further includes a hanging connector attached to at least one of the plurality of extension rods and configured for connection to a corresponding member. The hanging connector being suitable in strength for providing support of the drying rack.
The above-described and other features and advantages of the present invention will be appreciated and understood by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, drawings, and appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Other objects, features, advantages and details of the present invention appear, by way of example only, in the following detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention, the detailed description referring to the drawings in which:
Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary drying rack according to the teachings of the present invention.
Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary extension rod according to the teachings of the present invention.
Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary collar according to the teachings of the present invention.
Figure 4 illustrates a partial side elevational view of an exemplary support arm according to the teachings of the present invention.
Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view taken through the exemplary drying rack shown in Figure 1.
Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view taken through lines 6-6 of the exemplary drying rack shown in Figure 5.
Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary storage and carrying bag according to the teachings of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Referring to Figs. 1 through 3, an exemplary embodiment of a portable drying rack 10 of the present invention is shown. The drying rack 10 includes a .= =
plurality of extension rods 12 releasably connected to one another. The connected extension rods 12 extend along an axis 'A' and between an first end 14 and second end 16 of the drying rack 10 to establish and overall height 'H' of the drying rack 10. The extension rods 12 include a plurality of collar mounts 18 for releasable attachment to a plurality of collars 20. The collars 20 includes support arm connectors 22 for releasable attachment of a plurality of support arms 24. The support arms extend radially outward from the axis 'A' and are suitable in strength for supporting harvested plants 25, such as herbs or otherwise. The drying rack 10 further includes a hanging connector 26 for hanging the drying rack from a corresponding member, such as another hook, nail, tubing, another drying rack 10 or otherwise. Through the configurations of the present invention, the drying rack is suitable in strength for supporting, storing and expediting drying of harvested plants 25, particularly in limited areas, such as small rooms or otherwise.
In greater detail, referring to Figures 1 and 2, the drying rack 10 includes one or more, preferably a plurality, of extension rods 12 that are releasably connected to one another. In the configuration shown, the drying rack 10 includes three extension rods 12, an upper extension rod 28, lower extension rod 30 and intermediate extension rod 32. However, through the configuration of the drying rack, a user can add or subtract more or less extension rods 12. For example, in one exemplary embodiment it is contemplated the drying rack 10 omits an intermediate extension rod 12 and merely utilizes the upper and lower extension rods 28, 30. In another exemplary embodiment, it is contemplated that the drying rack 10 includes a plurality of intermediate extension rods 32, such as 2, 3, 4 or more. As should be appreciated, the size and capacity of the drying rack can be changed to meet needs and size limitation. Further, the addition or subtraction of extension rods 12 would alter the overall height 'H' of the drying rack 10.
The extension rods 12 are connected to one another through a releasable attachment 34. In the configuration shown, referring to Figure 2, the releasable attachment 34 comprises a threaded engagement formed between corresponding components of two extension rods 12. In this configuration, a first end 36 of a first extension rod has a female portion of a threaded engagement and a second end 38 of another extension rod 12 has a male portion of the threaded engagement. The extension rods 12 further include hex clamping portions 40 for facilitating in attachment and detachment of a first extension rod 12 to a second extension rod 12. Other releasable attachments may be utilized, such as snaps, friction fits, hook and latch or otherwise, so long as the attachment is suitable in strength for supporting drying rack components and hanging plants therebelow.
In one exemplary embodiment, the releasable attachment utilized to connect the extension rods 12 are the same so as to selectively add or subtract the total number of extension rods used.
Referring to Figures 2, 5 and 6, as previously mentioned, the extension rods 12 include collar mounts 18 for releasable connection to collars 20, as described herein. With reference to Figures 1 and 2, as shown, each extension rod 12 includes a collar mount 18, which may be utilized to mount a collar 20, as desired by a user of the drying 10. However, it is contemplated that more or less collar mounts 18 may be utilized on a single extension rod. For example, it is contemplated that some extension rods 12 may have no collar mounts 18 and some extension rods may have multiple collar mounts, such as 2, 3, 4 or more. Advantageously, this allows a user to space out the collars 20 and hence support arms to help control the flow of air through the plants draped thereover. In one exemplary embodiment, it is contemplated that the collar mounts 18, and hence collars 20, are spaced approximate 12 inches apart.
However, other spacing's are contemplated as well such as 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18 inches or otherwise.
A mentioned, the collar mount 18 is configured to engage the collar 20.
In one configuration, the collar mount18 is cylindrically shaped and extends along a length of the extension rod 12 in which it is attached or formed therewith. In this configuration, the collar mount 18 is formed of a friction material, such as rubber or otherwise, to limit axial and rotational movement of the collar mount 18 with respect to a collar 20. This limited movement assist in preventing spinning and possible misbalancing of the drying rack 10. It is contemplated that other configurations may be used to connect the extension rods 12 to the collar 20, in particular configurations that limit rotational movement of the collar 20 with respect to an extension rod 12.
Referring to Figures 3, 5 and 6, as previously mentioned, the drying rack 10 further includes one or more, and in one preferred embodiment a plurality, of collars 20. The collars 20 are mounted to the extension rods 12, via the collar mounts 18, through extension rod connectors 42. In one exemplary embodiment, the extension rod connectors 42 includes an extension rod opening 44 formed in a center portion of the collar and extending therethrough. The collar 20 further includes a channel 46 providing and side entrance to the extension rod opening 44. The extension rod opening 44 has a first diameter 'D1' that is sized to receive a collar mount 18. In one exemplary embodiment, the first diameter 'D1' is similar to an exterior diameter 'D ext' of the collar mount 18 to form a friction fit therebetween.
The opening 44 further includes a second diameter 'D2' that is smaller than the exterior diameter 'D ext' of the collar mount 18. The second diameter 'D2' limits movement of the collar 20 along the axis 'A' and more particularly towards the second end 16 of the drying rack.
The collar 20 includes a plurality of support arm connectors 22 for attachment of support arms 24, as described herein. In one exemplary embodiment, the collar 20 includes an upper surface 50, facing in the direction of the first end 14 of the drying rack 10, in which the plurality of support arm connectors 22 are formed. In one exemplary embodiment, the support arm connectors 22 includes a plurality of radially disposed openings 52 extending through the collars 20 in a direction generally parallel to axis 'A'. The openings 52 are configured to receive end portions of the support arms 24. The support arm connectors 22 further includes a plurality of grooves 54, formed through the upper surface 50, extending away from the axis 'A' in a direction generally perpendicular to the axis 'A'. The openings 52 and grooves 54 are aligned to be continuous. The grooves 54 are configured to receive portions of the support arm 24 to limit radial movement of the supports arms about the openings 52.
In one exemplary embodiment, the collar 20 includes a plurality of equally spaced support arm connectors 22, e.g. openings 52 and grooves 54, formed radially about extension rod opening 44. In one exemplary embodiment, the collar includes 8 support arm connectors 22, however, other configurations are contemplated such as 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more.
As previously mentioned, referring to Figures 1, 4, 5 and 6, the drying rack 10, includes a plurality of support arms 24 for supporting harvested plants. It is contemplated that each collar 20 and support arm connectors 22 includes a support arm 24. However, in certain embodiments, depending on the desires of the user, some collars 20 and/or support arm connectors 22 may not be used. In one exemplary embodiment, the support arms 24 are releasably connected to the collars 20.
The support arms 24 includes a first end 56 configured for engagement with the support arm connectors 22 and a second end 58 configured for preventing hanging plants from slipping off of the drying rack 10. The first end 56 of the support arm 24 includes a first finger 60 extending generally perpendicular to a main body 62 of the support arm. The first finger 60 is shaped, sized and orientated to fit within one of the radially disposed openings 52. The second end 58 of the support arm 24 includes a second finger 64 extending generally in an opposite direction to that of the first finger 60. The second finger 64 includes a bulb 66 for further assisting in the prevention of plant slippage.
The support arms 24 are releasably connected to the collars 20 by inserting the first finger 60 into the openings 52 until the support arm is completely seated. In one exemplary embodiment, the main body 62 of the support arm 24 is seated within groove 54, which as previously mentioned limits or substantially prevents rotational movement of the support arm 24 with respect to the opening and collar 20.
Referring again to Figure 1, as previously mentioned, the drying rack 10 further includes a hanging connector 26 for hanging the drying rack from a member, such as a corresponding components, e.g. nail, hook, another drying rack or otherwise. The hanging connector 26 is suitable in strength and shape for hanging of the drying rack from a ceiling member, another drying rack 10 or otherwise. In one exemplary embodiment, the first end 14 of the drying rack 10 includes the hanging connector 26. In one exemplary embodiment, the hanging connector comprises a hook that is rotatably mounted to the an upper extension rod 12. Other exemplary hanging connectors 26 comprises loops, hook and latch configurations, mechanical fastening devices such as clamps or otherwise, or otherwise.
In one exemplary embodiment, the drying rack 10 further includes an additional connector disposed at the second end 16 of the drying rack for connecting additional components, such as other drying racks or otherwise. Accordingly, the additional connector would be suitable in size and strength for supporting such components. The additional connector disposed at the second end 16 of the drying rack 10 may comprise any of the connectors of the hanging connectors 26 or otherwise. In another exemplary embodiment, the drying rack 10 may includes a cap 68 disposed at the second end 16 of the drying rack.
In one exemplary embodiment, referring to Figure 7, the drying rack further includes a portable carrying case, such as a bag 70, for storage and transportation of the components of the drying rack. For example, in one configuration it is contemplated that the support arms 24 are removed from the collars 20, the collars are removed from the extension rods 12 and the extension rods are 10 separated from one another. The components of the drying rack are then placed in the bag 70 and closed through a zipper or other closing means.
The components of the drying rack may be formed of any material suitable in strength and resiliency to provide support harvested plants and provide resistance to surrounding environmental conditions. Examples of suitable materials include plastics, metals, rubbers, composites or otherwise. In one exemplary embodiment, the extension rods 12 are formed plastic material, the collar mount 18 is formed of rubber and the hanging connector 26 is formed of metal and includes a plastic or rubber coating. Additionally, in one exemplary embodiment the collar 20 is formed of plastic and the support arms are formed of metal and include a plastic or rubber coating. Other suitable configurations are possible.
In one exemplary method of use, the components of the drying rack 10 are removed from bag 70 for assembly. The extension rods 12 are threadably attached to one another until the drying rack 10 reaches a desired height 'H'.
The desired number of collars 20 are then attached to the collar mounts 18 by inserting the extension rods 12 into the channels 46 and the collar mounts 18 are inserted into openings 44 until a top portion of the collar mounts abut the collars. A
desired number and configuration of support arms 24 are then attached to the collars 20 by inserting the first end 56 and more particularly the first finger 60 of the support arms into the openings 52 of the collars until the main body 62 of the support arms are seated into grooves 54. The drying rack 10 is then hung, via hanging connector 26, and harvested plants are draped over the support arms of the drying rack. It should be appreciated that disassembly could be achieved in an opposite manner than assembly.
While the invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (20)
1. A drying rack, comprising:
a plurality of extension rods configured for releasable connection to one another, at least one of the plurality of extension rods including a collar mount;
at least one collar including a connector for attachment to one of the plurality of extension rods, the at least one collar further includes a plurality of support arm connectors configured for releasable connection and cantilevered support of one or more support arms;
a plurality of support arms connected to the at least one collar through the plurality of support arm connectors, wherein upon connection to the at least one collar the support arms extend cantilevered from the collar; and a connector attached to at least one of the plurality of extension rods, the connector being configured for connection to a corresponding member and being suitable in strength for providing hanging support of the drying rack.
a plurality of extension rods configured for releasable connection to one another, at least one of the plurality of extension rods including a collar mount;
at least one collar including a connector for attachment to one of the plurality of extension rods, the at least one collar further includes a plurality of support arm connectors configured for releasable connection and cantilevered support of one or more support arms;
a plurality of support arms connected to the at least one collar through the plurality of support arm connectors, wherein upon connection to the at least one collar the support arms extend cantilevered from the collar; and a connector attached to at least one of the plurality of extension rods, the connector being configured for connection to a corresponding member and being suitable in strength for providing hanging support of the drying rack.
2. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein the plurality of extension rods are releasably connected to one another through threaded engagement.
3. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein the plurality of extension rods include a top extension rod having a first end connected to the connector and a second end connected to another of the plurality of extension rods.
4. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of extension rods include a collar mount.
5. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein the collar mount comprises a friction member disposed radially about and along a length of an extension rod.
6. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein a friction fit is formed between the at least one collar and one of the plurality of extension rods.
7. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein the at least one collar includes an opening suitable in size for forming a friction fit with an exterior portion of the collar mount.
8. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein the at least one collar includes a channel extending from a center portion of the collar to a periphery for receiving one of the plurality of extension rods.
9. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein the support arm connectors comprise openings formed through the collar configured for receiving an end portion of the plurality of support arms.
10. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein the collar further includes plurality of grooves formed in an upper surface of the collar, the plurality of grooves are suitable in shape and size for receiving at least a portion of one of the plurality of support arms.
11. The drying rack of claim 10, wherein the grooves prevent rotational movement of the support arms with respect to the collar.
12. The drying rack of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of collars, each of the plurality of collars being connected to a collar mount of one of the plurality of extension rods.
13. The drying rack of claim 12, wherein the plurality of collars are separated by at least 6 inches.
14. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of support arms include a first end having a first finger configured for insertion into an opening of collar.
15. The drying rack of claim 14, wherein each of the plurality of support arms include a second end having a second finger extending in an opposite direction of the first finger.
16. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein the drying rack includes at least four support arms extending from each collar.
17. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein the connector comprises a hook.
18. The drying rack of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of extension rods include a connector for engagement with a hanging connector of another drying rack.
19. The drying rack of claim 18, wherein the connector comprises a loop.
20. A portable drying rack, comprising:
a plurality of extension rods threadably attached to one another, each of the plurality of extension rods including a collar mount formed about and extending along a length of a respective extension rod;
a plurality of collars each including a connector comprising an opening formed through a center portion of the collar for releasable attachment to one of the collar mounts through a friction fit, the plurality of collars further include a plurality of support arm connectors radially disposed about the center portion of a respective collar configured for releasable connection and cantilevered support of one or more support arms, the plurality of support arm connectors comprising openings and grooves formed through a surface of each of the plurality of collars;
a plurality of support arms connected to the plurality of collars through the plurality of support arm connectors, wherein upon connection each support arm is seated in one of the openings and grooves and extends cantilevered from a respective collar; and a hanging connector attached to at least one of the plurality of extension rods and configured for connection to a corresponding member, the hanging connector being suitable in strength for providing support of the drying rack.
a plurality of extension rods threadably attached to one another, each of the plurality of extension rods including a collar mount formed about and extending along a length of a respective extension rod;
a plurality of collars each including a connector comprising an opening formed through a center portion of the collar for releasable attachment to one of the collar mounts through a friction fit, the plurality of collars further include a plurality of support arm connectors radially disposed about the center portion of a respective collar configured for releasable connection and cantilevered support of one or more support arms, the plurality of support arm connectors comprising openings and grooves formed through a surface of each of the plurality of collars;
a plurality of support arms connected to the plurality of collars through the plurality of support arm connectors, wherein upon connection each support arm is seated in one of the openings and grooves and extends cantilevered from a respective collar; and a hanging connector attached to at least one of the plurality of extension rods and configured for connection to a corresponding member, the hanging connector being suitable in strength for providing support of the drying rack.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US201261641264P | 2012-05-01 | 2012-05-01 | |
| US61/641,264 | 2012-05-01 | ||
| US201213669485A | 2012-11-06 | 2012-11-06 | |
| US13/669,485 | 2012-11-06 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2794910A1 true CA2794910A1 (en) | 2013-11-01 |
Family
ID=49510719
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2794910 Abandoned CA2794910A1 (en) | 2012-05-01 | 2012-11-07 | Drying rack |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2794910A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN107606895A (en) * | 2017-09-28 | 2018-01-19 | 贵州春羽田园生态农业科技开发有限公司 | Agricultural byproducts processing drying device |
| US10499731B2 (en) | 2018-03-05 | 2019-12-10 | The Flowr Cannabis Ulc | Apparatus for sorting of crop components |
-
2012
- 2012-11-07 CA CA 2794910 patent/CA2794910A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN107606895A (en) * | 2017-09-28 | 2018-01-19 | 贵州春羽田园生态农业科技开发有限公司 | Agricultural byproducts processing drying device |
| US10499731B2 (en) | 2018-03-05 | 2019-12-10 | The Flowr Cannabis Ulc | Apparatus for sorting of crop components |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |
Effective date: 20151109 |