Bracket for hanging hoses and spray guns and tape

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/644,975, filed 2005 Jan. 18 by the present inventor.

	FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH	Not Applicable
	SEQUENCE LISTING OR PROGRAM	Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

This invention relates to wall hanging brackets for the storage of painting tools and equipment, specifically to a unique design that will hang a combination of hoses, spray guns, tape, and other miscellaneous items.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

2. Prior Art

The inventor has discovered multiple benefits that can be achieved with a specially designed bracket that will keep hoses, spray guns, tape and other items organized and easily accessible in painting areas and similar working environments. This bracket is intended for use in areas such as paint booths and painting rooms, although the bracket has other applications such as hanging electrical cords, pneumatic tools, and other items. In most automotive refinishing, industrial and other painting environments, there is a lack of devices that adequately hangs the commonly needed tools and equipment while painting. Other brackets and tool hangers exist, but no prior art provides the storage ability for the combination of hoses, spray guns, tape, and other items, as does my invention. My invention allows a painter to keep all of these commonly needed tools and equipment in one place, and nearby the working area. In addition, the prior art available must be bolted in place to a wall, therefore differentiating my invention further since mine offers the popular option of using powerful magnetic attachment to a metal paint booth wall.

U.S. Pat. Ser. No. 5,699,987 to Romaneschi (1997) shows a hose holder with a drawer. This device will indeed hold a hose, although it offers no positions to hold spray gun(s). Its drawer could provide a means of storage for roll(s) of tape, but it would not hang the tape in an upright position, creating a potential risk of dust and over spray to get imbedded on the sides of the roll. By keeping the tape upright, my invention will protect against most of the hazards of contamination from being imbedded on the sides and edges. The embodiment of this hose holder with a drawer is bolted to the wall, which differentiates it from my invention further, since magnetic holding capability is my preferred embodiment option. U.S. Pat. Ser. No. D322,746 to Sassano shows a hose holding platform with a flip open door that covers a storage compartment underneath the hose holding platform. This design also does not offer the added features of spray gun hangers, magnetic attachment and horizontal hook for holding tape.

U.S. Pat. Ser. No. 5,419,362 to Blacksby (1994), and similarly, U.S. Pat. Ser. No. 4,436,267 to Eads (1982) also show varying types of hose holders that attach permanently to the wall but, but both offer no magnetic holding capability. These also do not offer a place for spray guns or tape. U.S. Pat. Ser. No. D378,893 to Nordeen (1997) discloses a wall hanger for blow guns and spray guns. This design is intended as a bolt-on accessory for a paint booth wall or mixing room etc. It is limited in its ability to hold multiple spray guns since it is designed for holding just one spray gun at a time. And, it offers no positions for hoses. Other items such as tape or tools could possibly be placed on the bracket, although it is not intended specifically for these items. No magnetic holding option is offered with this design. Various other designs for holding air hoses, or spray guns or tape do exist, but with limitations in comparison to my invention. There have been no devices found that have the ability to hold a combination of hoses, multiple spray guns, tape and other items all in one. The advantages of my invention in relation to the prior art cited are as follows:

• a) This embodiment is a single structure that is capable of simultaneously hanging hoses, spray guns, tape and other items.
• b) This embodiment is strong enough to be magnetically held to the wall with all of the intended items hanging on it. The vertical design and length of its main body provides added strength and stability for the magnets to hold to the wall firmly.
• c) This embodiment can be moved from place to place due to its high power mounting magnets.
• d) This embodiment also has the option to be fastened in place with the use of mounting screws.
• e) The hose hanging flange provides a tapered platform for hoses to hang in a semi-circular way, avoiding damage and kinks to the hose.
• f) The hose hanging flange comprises an upward taper at the front of the flange for the purpose of holding the hose from falling or unraveling at the front of the flange.
• g) The horizontally extruding hook will hold tape and other items in an upright position, eliminating the risk of contamination and damage that is often caused by lying tape rolls on their sides.
• h) Edge guard on the spray gun hanging slots will protect spray gun cups and will assist in hanging spray guns in position. Reference list of prior art cited:
• U.S. Pat. Ser. No. 5,699,987 to Romaneschi (1997)
• U.S. Pat. Ser. No. D322,746 to Sassano
• U.S. Pat. Ser. No. 5,419,362 to Blacksby (1994)
• U.S. Pat. Ser. No. 4,436,267 to Eads (1982)
• U.S. Pat. Ser. No. D378,893 to Nordeen (1997)

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION OBJECTS AND ADVANTAGES

Accordingly, besides the objects and advantages of the bracket to hang variously needed hoses, tools and materials in my above patent, several other significant objects and advantages of the present invention are:

• (a) To provide a method of portability and easy removal of the bracket from the wall due to its vertical main body design that will hold its high-powered mounting magnets in place. The vertical shape of the main body, and the design in which the bracket holds the magnets in its main body, creates a strong, leveraged hold to a metal wall. This leverage is created by the vertically aligned magnets will help to prevent the bracket from sliding down a metal wall, or falling away from the wall.
• (b) Key importance is placed on the magnetically removable feature since it allows the user to accommodate for various positioning when working in different areas. Due to its magnetic mounting and removal, this allows for easier cleaning of the spray booth wall, and of the bracket itself.
• (c) The two spray gun slots are semi circle in shape. This allows for two ‘gravity’ type of spray guns to be hung by the bracket. The spray guns slide into the spray gun slots and rest in place by the gun's overhead paint holding cup. The upward taper of the spray gun slots secure the spray guns safely in position and prevent the spray gun from falling backwards. A gravity type of spray gun is positioned at the upper spray gun hanger flanges by hanging the spray gun in suspension at its cup. This bracket also provides for other methods of holding spray guns, one of which can be done by wedging the body of the spray gun over the outer edge of the spray gun hanger flange (between the spray gun's body and its trigger). Or, the spray gun can be hung by its hook, if so equipped, at the bracket's edge guard.
• (d) This bracket is not limited to hanging just gravity type of spray guns. Various other types of spray guns can also be hung by this bracket such as siphon feed, pressure pot and air brush spray guns. Each of these spray guns can also be hung with their hooks, or rested at the spray gun hanger flange in various ways. If the bracket is used to hang other types of tools such as pneumatic sanders, ratcheting tools, riveting or other equipment, the spray gun hanger flanges will accommodate most situations in various ways.
• (e) The edge guard is a soft rubber piece that slips onto the inside of the semi-circle of the spray gun hanging slots. This edge guard protects the spray gun, or spray gun cup, from scratches and other damage that can be caused by metal contact between the spray gun components and the hanging bracket. The edge guard also creates a holding stopper for the method of hanging the spray gun by its holding hook, if so equipped.
• (f) The upward tapered end of the hose hanging flange holds the air hose from unraveling and falling out of the hose hanger flange.
• (g) The downward tapers on the sides of the hose hanger flange allow the hose to taper downward, in a circular shape and to avoid any kinks and bends on the hose.
• (h) The elongated holes on the hose holding flange provide for a venting effect, in the event the bracket is used in a spray booth where downward air flow is an important part of the air movement and environment. This venting ability will allow for air to move freely through the bracket and to allow for a minimal amount of air turbulence caused by the bracket when in a spray booth. These holes also provide for a place to hang parts or tools from a wire or string that can be tied through the holes.
• (i) The protruding hook found at the center of the main body is intended to hold tape, and other items, in an upright position. This upright position will minimize the damage that can be caused by dirt and contamination that often occurs when tape is laid on its sides in a dirty and dusty environment.
• (j) The mounting holes in the main body are used in the event that the magnetic option is not desired. Fasteners/screws are inserted through the mounting holes and attached to the wall or structure for permanent hanging.

In comparison to the prior art cited, many detailed advantages exist with my new style of hanging bracket for hanging hoses and spray guns and tape.

SUMMARY

In accordance with the present invention, a vertically designed metal bracket to hold a plurality of hoses, spray guns, tape and other items. The unit is intended to fit conveniently into a paint booth or other area where hoses, spray guns, tape and other related painting items are to be used. The vertical main body acts as the encasement for its high powered magnets that attaches the bracket to a metal wall. The vertical main body's height separates the spray gun holding flange, and the hose holding flange at a proper distance so the spray guns, hoses, tape and other items held by the bracket do not interfere with one another. The vertical height of the bracket is also closely related to the size of the mounting magnets that are used. Mounting of the bracket is primarily done via highly powered magnets for quick and easy movement, although the bracket can be permanently fastened to a wall with screws.

The upper spray gun hanging flange is designed to hold multiple spray guns of all types. The lower air hose hanging flange is designed to hold hoses such as air hose, garden or pneumatic, cords and other types of hose. A horizontal hook is equipped at the center of the main body for holding tape and other related items.

The construction of the bracket is comprised of metal, although the bracket can also be made of stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, fiberglass and other materials.

DRAWINGS

FIG. 1: shows a flattened out view of the entire device and its components. The reference numbers depict the individual sections of the metal, its flanges and components for this, and all of the following drawings

FIG. 2: shows a side view of the device to depict the shape and angles of the flanges and tapers/bends

FIG. 3: shows a front view of the device

FIG. 4: shows a rear view of the device with the magnets in place

FIG. 5: depicts the device, with spray guns, hoses and tape hanging in their intended places

FIG. 5a: depicts a diagram of the top of the spray gun hanging flange with placements of two gravity spray guns hanging in their intended positions

FIG. 6: shows a flattened view of the alternative embodiment of the dual spray gun holding flanges (upper and lower spray gun hanging flanges, with no hose hanger flange)

FIG. 6a: shows a side view of the alternative embodiment of the dual spray gun holding flanges

FIG. 7: depicts the alternative embodiment of the dual spray gun holding flanges with spray guns and tape hanging in their intended places

DRAWINGS—Reference Numerals:

• 1. Vertical main body channel
• 2. Magnet holding flange
• 3. Upper spray gun hanger flange
• 4. Hose hanger flange
• 5. Spray gun holding slot
• 6. Edge guard
• 7. Gun holding upward taper
• 8. Hose hanger side flange
• 9. Hose retaining flange
• 10. Vent hole
• 11. Mounting fastener holes
• 12. Tape hook holes
• 13. Tape hook
• 14. Mounting magnets
• 15. Mounting screws Alternative Embodiment (Double Gun Hanging Flanges)
• 16. Lower Spray gun hanger flange

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EBODIMENT—FIGS. 1, 2, 4, 5, 5a

FIG. 1 shows a flattened out view of the bracket to hold spray guns, hoses and tape. The preferred embodiment is constructed of 13 gauge steel, although other thickness of steel and other types of metals can be used. This device may also be comprised of other materials such as plastics, fiberglass and wood. The center section, referred to as the vertical main body channel 1 is a vertical section, extending the distance between the upper spray gun hanger flange 3 above, and the hose hanger flange 4, below. At the center of said vertical main body channel 1 is two tape hook holes 12, distanced one inch apart. Said tape hook 13 fits into tape hook holes 12. Said tape hook 13 protrudes horizontally forward from vertical main body channel 1. Positioned above and below tape hook holes 12, are the mounting fastener holes 11. Four of said mounting fastener holes 11 in all, are provided on vertical main body channel 1.

Said upper spray gun hanger flange 3 is bent at a 90° angle in relation to vertical main body channel 1, as shown on FIGS. 2, and 5. Said upper spray gun hanger flange 3 comprises a pair of spray gun holding slots 5, shown on FIGS. 1 and 5a. Fitted tightly on the inner end of each of spray gun holding slots 5, is the edge guard 6, shown on FIG. 1. Said upper spray gun hanger flange 3 comprises a bend that tapers the mid section forward of spray gun holding slots 5 upward, referred to as the gun holding upward taper 7, best depicted on FIGS. 2 and 5.

At the lower end of vertical main body channel 1 is said hose hanger flange 4, best shown on FIGS. 1 and 2. Said hose hanger flange 4 is bent at a 90° angle in relation to vertical main body channel 1, depicted on FIG. 2. FIGS. 1 and 2 further show the details that are described: At the front part of hose hanger flange 4, is the hose retaining flange 9. Said hose retaining flange 9 is bent upwardly at approximately 45°. At both sides of hose hanger flange 4 are the hose hanger side flanges 8. Both of said hose hanger side flanges 8 are bent downwardly at an approximate 45° angle. Across the center section area of hose hanger flange 4 are three sets of elongated holes. These holes are the vent holes 10. Said vent holes 10 may vary in size, length, width and quantity. As shown, the preferred embodiment consists of three vent holes 10.

Said vertical main body channel 1 comprises rear facing bends along each side that extends its entire vertical height, as shown on FIGS. 1, 2, and 5a. These rear facing bends are referred to as the magnet holding flanges 2. Said magnet holding flanges 2 face to the rear at a 90 degree angle, or perpendicularly of vertical main body channel 1.

Two mounting magnets 14 fit within the rear of vertical main body channel 1 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4. Said mounting magnets 14 are supported in place by magnet holding flanges 2. The preferred embodiment consists of two of mounting magnets 14, although one, two or more can be used depending on magnet sizes and holding strength required.

In the event mounting magnets 14 are not used, then mounting screws 15 are bolted through said mounting fastener holes 11, and into a wall or other vertical surface.

OPERATION—FIGS. 1, 2, 4, 5, 5a,

Vertical main body 1 provides the connection of all the key flange components for hanging tools, and for the embodiment to be mounted to a vertical surface. Said vertical main body 1 is narrow and vertically shaped, distancing said upper spray gun hanger flange 3 from hose hanger flange 4, and attaching tape hook 13 at a proper distance, as shown in FIG. 2. When the intended tools and materials are stored on this embodiment, adequate space is provided to avoid overlap and obstructions of hanging space from one another, as shown in FIG. 5. Added strength and durability to vertical main body 1 is achieved due to the perpendicular bends from magnet holding flanges 2. Said magnet holding flanges 2 creates reinforcement of vertical main body 1, making the bending of said vertical main body 1 is impossible.

Mounting of the embodiment to a wall is achieved by magnetic attachment to a metal wall by its mounting magnets 14. Or the device can be fastened to a wall with mounting screws 15. Said mounting magnets 14 fit at the rear side of vertical main body 1, and in between magnet holding flanges 2, as show on FIGS. 2, 4, and 5a. Two mounting magnets 14 are commonly used with the preferred embodiment, although varying quantities of mounting magnets 14 may be used depending on the size and holding strength desired. The preferred embodiment is most successful with two rectangular ceramic block type of magnets, sized at 6″×2″×½ ″, with an MGO grade of 8. Said mounting magnets 14 may be glued, riveted, or fastened into place at the rear of vertical main body 1, although the magnetic force is usually adequate to allow for no need of glue, rivets or fasteners.

If the bracket is not to be attached to a wall magnetically, then mounting screws 15 are fitted through mounting fastener holes 11, and driven into the wall for attachment. Depending on the type of wall the bracket is to be attached to, various types of mounting screws 15 may be used such as sheet metal screws, wood screws, drywall screws, masonry and other types of screws and fasteners that will properly attach the bracket to the wall.

The upper portion of the bracket consists of said upper spray gun hanger flange 3. Upper spray gun hanger flange 3 is capable of storing up to two gravity type spray guns as shown on FIGS. 5 and 5a. Varying types of spray guns, and other equipment, can also be held by said upper spray gun hanger flange 3, although, the most common type of spray gun to be used with this embodiment is a gravity type of gun. Common alternatives of spray guns to be hung by this bracket are siphon, pressure pot, air brush, among other tools and equipment. FIGS. 5 and 5a show gravity types of guns being held by upper spray gun hanger flange 3. A gravity gun is held into position by inserting the gun into spray gun holding slots 5 between the gun's body, and its paint cup, as shown in FIG. 5. The spray gun is held into position with added stability due to the assistance of gun holding upward taper 7. Said gun holding upward taper 7 holds the spray gun from falling or leaning backwards, and potentially sliding its way out of upper spray gun hanger flange 3. Said edge guard 6 also assists in holding spray guns in place by its soft rubber, textured grip. Additionally, edge guard 6 serves another purpose of preventing scratches from occurring due to metal to metal contact between the spray gun cups and the bracket. Said edge guard 6 provides a final means of holding certain types of spray guns in place by the spray gun's hook, if so equipped.

The lower portion of the embodiment consists of hose hanger flange 4. Said hose hanger flange 4 is perpendicular to vertical main body 1, as shown in FIG. 2. Complete rolled up hoses, or sections of hoses, can be draped over hose hanger flange 4 for safe storage of the hose, as shown in FIG. 5. Said hose hanger side flanges 8, on each side of hose hanger flange 4, are tapered downward at an approximate 45 degree angle to avoid distortion to the air hose, as shown in FIG. 3. Said hose retaining flange 9 is tapered upward at an approximate 45 degree angle, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, serving to avoid hoses from rolling or sliding forward and off of hose hanger flange 4. Said vent holes 10 allow air, over spray and dust to travel through hose hanger flange 4 in an air moving environment such as a down draft type of spray booth.

Tape and other needed items can be hung by tape hook 13, as shown on FIG. 5. Said tape hook 13 extends horizontally forward from vertical main body 1, as shown in FIG. 2. Various lengths of tape hooks 13 are available, but the preferred embodiment uses a 3 ″ hook. This is a standard pegboard type of hook, constructed of galvanized metal. Said tape hook 13 fits into tape hook holes 12 at the center area of vertical main body channel 1.

ALTERNATIVE EMBODIMENTS: FIGS. 6, 6a, 7

The alternative embodiment is similar to the preferred embodiment in all ways, except for the lower portion of the device. The alternative embodiment has no hose holding flange at the bottom section. In its place, is the differentiating, lower spray gun holding flange 16, as shown on FIGS. 6 and 7. Said lower spray gun holding flange 16 enables the embodiment to hang two extra spray guns. A hose can also be suspended from lower spray gun holding flange 16, although this does not offer the benefits of hose retention and anti-distortion, such as hose holding flange 4 and its hose retaining flange 9 hose hanger side flanges 8.

CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE

Accordingly, the reader will see that a hanging bracket for hoses and spray guns and tape of the type described will improve organization where these types of equipment and materials are used. The magnetic design creates a convenient method of mounting to a metal wall, although fastener mounting can also be achieved. Other benefits are as follows:

• It allows a painter to keep necessary items close by the work area, and in one location
• It allows a place for tools and materials to be kept off of the floor, avoiding damage and loss
• It provides an easy method of mounting when using it magnetically. Magnetic mounting also allows for easy movement to various areas by simple removal from the wall
• Hoses can be stored on the bracket without damage or falling
• Multiple spray guns can be held by the bracket in several different ways. No matter the model or type of spray gun. Just about any type of spray gun can be hung on this style of bracket.
• Metal to metal contact is avoided between spray guns and the bracket due to the edge guard
• Tape can be held in an upright position, avoiding damage due to imbedded dirt and contamination caused by laying on its sides in a dirty environment
• Durability of the entire bracket is due in parts by the gauge of metal, the design of various flanges, and the overall size of the bracket in relation to the items intended for storage with it

Although the description above contains many specificities these should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but as merely providing illustrations of some of the presently preferred embodiments of this invention. For example, the overall bracket can have other shapes, lengths and sizes. The attachment to the wall can be in forms such as with magnets, mounting hooks and brackets such as zee channel, hooks and various other forms. Thus the scope of the invention should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the examples given.